Bittersweet farewell - Diplomatic corps hosts send-off for retiring officials
Published:Thursday | March 22, 2018 | 12:00 AMKrysta Anderson/ Gleaner Writer
It was a bittersweet soiree for the diplomats and government officials who gathered at the office of the Dominican Republic on Hope Road last Friday evening. The occasion was to bid farewell to two of Jamaica's finest: former Chief of State Protocol in the Office of the Prime Minister Elinor Felix, and Patricia Rodney-Evering, former director of protocol in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
But this wasn't the typical goodbye. The two lovely ladies, after dedicating years of service to their country, have decided to retire from government.
Thrilling conversations in a wave of familiar territory. Hugs and smiles, followed by warm well wishes, echoed in the quaint, brightly lit room. The Dean of the Diplomatic Corps JosÈ Tom·s Ares Germ·n, shared that it was a great privilege for him to have the opportunity to pay tribute on behalf of the diplomatic corps to two outstanding individuals from the ministry.
EXCELLENT PERFORMANCES
Ares Germ·n spoke of their excellent performance, highlighting that they were always willing to help and answer requests, no matter the hour.
Sharing an in-depth history of their careers, he noted that they had truly exceeded professional expectations and wished them all the best in their retirement. Each was presented with a token of appreciation and later took the stage to address the audience.
Felix revealed that words could not express her gratitude for the occasion and the time she has spent for her country, "We have been blessed to interact with wonderful diplomats and those of the consular corps. I am eternally grateful for that honour."
Rodney-Evering, affectionately called Lola by the dean of the diplomatic corps, thanked her staff for surprising her and coming to the event and thanked the ministry for the vote of confidence to serve her country. She, too, acknowledged her roles as a blessing and said that she hoped to continue to work with everyone present.
From there, they received two tokens from the Trinidad and Colombia ambassadors and mingled among the crowd as they enjoyed the delectable food on display.