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Riu Palace rewards staff

Published:Friday | December 27, 2013 | 12:00 AM
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Frank Sondern announcing gate-prize winners onstage.
Gustavo Echenagucia and Adiene Blanco, employee of Riu.
From left: Assistant Front Office Manager Rochelle Powelle and friend Natalie Brown at the Riu Palace staff party last Friday night at Caribbean Showplace in Montego Bay. - contributed photos
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Karrie Williams, Gleaner Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:

Good food, great music and fun vibes were all in abundance last Saturday night, when Riu Palace hosted its annual staff party at Caribbean Showcase in Ironshore, Montego Bay.

From as early as 9 p.m., the enthusiastic workers, some accompanied by friends and family, could be seen making their way into the venue, many of whom were greeted on arrival by General Manager Frank Sondern and other members of his management team.

Determined to make a fashion statement, the employees all came decked out in their best wares, where it seemed that the ladies, especially, spared no expense from head to toe.

On arrival, many immediately made their way over to the food station to feast on the variety of food items that was provided. After which, it was straight to the clubroom, where DJ HQ from Hyperactive Sound Station disco kept everyone dancing.

With an open bar close to the dance floor, there was good vibes all round, and with cups in hand, the employees danced, laughed and chatted excitedly about their prospects of winning the various gate prizes which were prominently displayed on the stage area.

Unlike Santa Claus who waits until after midnight to start giving out his goodies, Sondern did not keep his workforce waiting that long. At approximately 11:30 p.m., with the assistance of some staff members, he began to draw the winners. Among the prizes were a flat-screen television, a tablet, a standing fan and an assortment of gift baskets.

Employee of the Year

Of notable mention is Steve Frazer, from the Grounds Department, who for the second year was voted Employee of the Year for his department.

After completing the presentations, Sondern thanked the staff for their year of hard work.

"I know that everybody here deserves a big thank you from myself and all the Riu family for all the hard work you have done throughout the year. It has not always been easy but it's an honour to be your team leader, this party is for you so enjoy," he told everyone.

Still, the best was yet to come, as employees were also promised a special surprise performance by a popular dancehall artiste. Their suspense ended shortly before 1 a.m., when Agent Sasco took to the stage for a thrilling performance.