A long line of Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community employees decked out in their favorite sports team’s jerseys waited outside Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, a scene that looked as if it was opening day of spring training.

However, the employees were here for a different reason on December 10. The ballpark’s concourse served as the latest location for the SRPMIC “Homerun Holiday” Employee Holiday Luncheon, with the beautiful backdrop of the baseball field and the mountains beyond.

According to Community Relations Events Manager Yvonne Schaaf, the luncheon is produced by an employee-based committee who begin their work in the summertime to bring the best energy, food, programs and entertainment to their peers.

“It was a party, and the open atmosphere made it easier for all to gather and relax with coworkers.” 

As employees entered the concourse at the main stage behind home plate, they chose seats at tables along the left or right side of the ballpark. The meal was buffet-style, with dessert and beverage stations on either side.

Although employees weren’t allowed on the field, they took part in fun activities like the fast pitch game and caricature artists on the South Terrace, the axe throwing and golf dart board on the West Terrace and holiday photo stations on the second-floor deck of the stadium.

At the main stage, Recreation Department emcees Senior Multimedia Specialist Kasey Kauakahi and Athletics Program Manager David Willis delivered news desk-style entertainment that was seen on video screens set throughout the concourse for employees to follow along.

The pair kept the party going, hosting the Christmas Angels Program karaoke station, where department representatives picked a holiday song to sing from a bowl.

Each year at the Employee Holiday Luncheon, the SRPMIC Human Resources department recognizes the Employee of the Year. Employees are nominated by their departments for going above and beyond and providing exceptional service.

“It’s a tradition that reenforces the Community’s commitment to long proven values of service, work ethic, stewardship, dependability, innovation, accountability and many others,” said Human Resources Director Steve Haydukovich. “It also shows us that recognition for excellent work is a critical component of a happy and healthy workforce.”

The winner of the 2024 SRPMIC Employee of the Year was Christina Prichard from Social Services.

The other nominees were: Christopher Begay (Senior Services), Rosario Correa (CRA), Nohemy Durazo (HHS), Alex Enas (Department of Transportation), Kelsey Geist (Community Legal Services), Dr. Rachel Goodman (HHS), Rito Lopez (ECS), Westley Manuel (Internal Audit), Vicki Quintero (Senior Services), Lancisco Richards (Senior Services) John Paul Saspe (Youth Services), Lauressa Thomas (Community Relations) and Rosanna Williams (Administration).

Each nominee received a gift bag in recognition of their efforts and achievements, a cash prize, a Pendleton blanket with a special carrier and a certificate of appreciation. The Employee of the Year award winner received the same gifts and a larger cash prize.