Recap: Rattlesnakes & Roots — A Wild Welcome to Altus

Recap: Rattlesnakes & Roots — A Wild Welcome to Altus

On April 21, 2025, the Committee of 100 rolled out a warm and wild welcome at Hangar 36 with our Rattlesnakes & Roots event—created to help newcomers experience the heart of Southwest Oklahoma. From rodeo horses to rattlesnake demonstrations, walking tacos to snow cones, it was a fun-filled night of learning, laughter, and connection.

The event also marked the official public launch of our Adopt an Airman program—an effort to connect Altus Air Force Base personnel with local residents who want to show support and hospitality. We’re proud to say this initiative is growing, and events like this one help spark meaningful bonds across our community.

And we didn’t let anything go to waste—thanks to the generosity and coordination of our volunteers, leftover food was donated to The Salvation Army of Altus to help feed those in need right here in our hometown.

We extend our deepest thanks to our Committee of 100 members and to the following individuals, businesses, and organizations who went above and beyond to make this event a success:

• Sophie Melton – cookies

• Nova’s Bakery – more cookies and sweet treats

• WOSC Rodeo Team – rodeo talent and horses

• Martha Road Baptist Church – bounce house fun

• Jackson County Extension Office – interactive kids' activities

• Quartz Mountain Lodge – hands-on booth with Rachel

• Farm Credit of Western Oklahoma – grilled the hot dogs

• Bar-S Foods – donated the hot dogs

• Western Equipment – brought out the tractors

• Friendship Inn Restaurant – cooked and helped with food at a generous wholesale cost

• Elysium Acres – brought snowcones and organizational support

• City of Altus – provided vital behind-the-scenes setup and support

We’re grateful to everyone who helped create an event that welcomed, educated, and cared for newcomers—while giving back to our broader Altus community. This is what it means to live in a town that serves together.

For more on the Committee of 100 or the Adopt an Airman program, visit: www.altuschamber.com/committee-of-100