Boot fund-raiser starts Thursday

The boot is back.

The Portales Fire Department is starting its annual “Filling the Boot” fund-raiser.

Starting today, members of the department will be on Avenue C at the intersections of First and Second Streets. The drive will run 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. today, Friday and Saturday.

That time is the heaviest for traffic along Portales’ two main roads, Community Affairs Coordinator Nicole Wilkening said.

Fire Chief John Bridges said six to seven firefighters will be available for the fundraising drive each day, depending on emergency calls received during each shift.

During the drive, firefighters will hold boots out to collect donations.

“We'd like to get $5,000,” Bridges said. “That’s a lofty goal, but it’s possible.”

Bridges said scheduling difficulties hurt last year’s efforts, but the department raised nearly $4,000.

“We've ranged up to $7,000,” Bridges said. “We've been consistent in the fives, low sixes.”

The department has aided in the national fund-raiser for more than 20 years.

Funds raised help the Muscular Dystrophy Association combat neuromuscular diseases through research, community services and education.

For information, contact the Portales Fire Department at 356-4406.