• Maypole has symbolized a rite of passage for seniors at PHS for 85 years

    The bright, colorful dresses, the inspirational songs, the flashes from hundreds of cameras and the poles that stand as strong as the community’s tradition are what keep Portales High School’s Maypole ceremonies going.

    Maypole Director Wendy Brooks said every year it’s a different group of students, with different talents and different formal wear, but one thing that is consistent is the heart of the 85-year tradition.

     

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    Joshua Lucero: PNT correspondent
    Portales seniors Marshall Chavez, right, and partner Emily Benavidez rehearse the Maypole dance Wednesday night at Ram Athletic Center.

    “It’s all about tradition, it’s about people who want to keep it going,” said Brooks during a break in dress rehersal Wednesday night. “People want to see their kids and their grandkids do it.”

     

    The maypole ceremony is 8 p.m. today..

    Maypole is a tradition that originated from European countries in the 16th century that was brought to Portales in 1929 by Varnell McCall and symbolizes a rites of passage ceremony for high school seniors, according to parents.

    To view the full online article visit PNTonline at http://pntonline.com/news/maypolehassymbolizedriteofpassageforseniorsatphsfor85years.html

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