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Sheppard supports local businesses at Vendor Day

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Valerie Hosea
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Supporting small businesses was Sheppard AFB's forte during the 12th Annual Vendors Day May 19 at the Midwestern State University Clark Student Center. 

Col. David Norsworthy, 82nd Training Wing vice commander, said the purpose of the event was to draw customers and vendors to conduct business in person and discuss and compare the needs to the available supply. This helps to put a face with a name and strengthen the bond between the individuals, he said. 

2nd Lt. John Duman, 82nd Contracting Squadron, said, Vendors Day allows contractors and vendors from around the nation to come to Wichita Falls, Texas, to showcase their latest and greatest products and services.

"It provides a venue for the Government Purchase Card holders and approving officials to attend Air Force Instruction-mandated refresher training and to get to know the contractors they may actually work with in the future," he said.

Another benefit of Vendors Day has a bigger impact than some realize, said Airman 1st Class Andru Jones, 882nd Training Support Squadron GPC holder.

"Having a good connection with the small businesses is another way of serving the community. Sheppard is helping out the community by doing business with the vendors and in the long run keeping everyone working," he said.

The vendors that attended agreed and said they felt that this event would help their sales by drawing attention to their products and services.

"These vendors are hoping to reach out to people that aren't aware of their businesses, and maybe attract more government people," said Sandy Andonian, Candle Suites director of sales and one vendor in attendance.