Working with weather

A little snow didn't stop the people who carry out groceries at two local stores.

In fact, several said Thursday morning's snow didn't even bother them.

"It's just part of the job," said Tommy Firestone, a manager at S&S Supermarket.

Customer service is the name of the game.

"Pulling grocery carts up the hill in the snow is a little difficult, though, he added. "It's different all the time," said Ruby Leclear, a cashier at Stansell's Supermarket.

"Rain or wind is worse than snow." Randy Stansell, owner of Stansell's, also carries out groceries. "It's not bad," he said of the snow. Kenneth Moore, who is working at S&S to help pay for college, said he doesn't mind the snow but likes the rain better.

Jason Lopez, who has worked at S&S for more than three years, had a little different opinion.

"Of course we don't like it," he said. The most challenging times are when it rains or snow melts and fills the drainage dip that runs in front of the store.

The carry-out employees have to jump over the water, he said. "It's okay sometimes, when you get a nice customer who leaves you a tip," Lopez said.

Loma Hendricks, a customer at S&S on Thursday morning, said she appreciates the employees who carry out her groceries.

"They really help save our backs," she said. Cannon Air Force Base reported 1.5 inches of snow at 10 a.m. Thursday, according to the National Weather Service.

A few snow showers were expected Thursday night in eastern New Mexico. Drier, warmer weather was forecast for today and Saturday. Another storm could affect New Mexico Sunday through Monday, and a third one could hit the state Wednesday and Thursday.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.