As a thank-you for their service to the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, on Dec. 2 and 3, tribal government employees were treated to a buffet-style meal courtesy of the Community government at the Employee Holiday Luncheon, which was held at the Talking Stick Resort Ballroom. The celebration was held over two days to accommodate the size of the employee population.

A total of 2040 employees were registered for the luncheon over the course of the two days, depending on which department directors selected. About 1450 employees were officially counted at the venue. 529 to-go meals were served to employees who were unable to attend.

The agenda was about the same both days, so attendees had relatively similar experiences, except for different presenters. The Administration holiday message on day 1 came from SRPMIC Council member Cheryl Doka, while the message on day 2 was from SRPMIC President Martin Harvier.

“I’ve come to realize how blessed we are as a Community to even have an event like this,” began Harvier. “I just want to say to all of you, thank you for the work that you do for our Community. I know a lot of times … we don’t feel we get recognized for the work that we do, but I want you to know that the Council administration appreciates everything that you do in the departments that you represent and the Community members that you serve.”

SRPMIC Community Manager Bryan Meyers left his famous rock star costume at home this year, opting for providing a welcome message on day 2 instead.

Salt River Fire Department firefighter/paramedic Malcolm Rankin led a blessing and prayer before employees filled their plates with salad, chicken, steak, pasta and all the holiday side dish staples. Some even grabbed a slice or two of pie if they had room.

Emcees Ipa Dutchover, Education Native Culture coordinator, and Recreation Athletics Program Manager David Willis provided lunch table instruction, introductions of the speakers and performers, and comic relief throughout the program.

During mealtime, the Serenade Events String Quartet performed versions of holiday classics. Bird Singing and Dancing by the River also performed traditional O’odham and Piipaash dances and songs during the program.

While employees stuffed themselves with good food, SRPMIC Vice-President Ricardo Leonard shared a holiday greeting before Santa stopped by the microphone to do the same.

As part of the fun, employees participated in a few holiday-themed games like the “pass the present” table game, musical chairs and cumbia dance contests. The music for these games was performed by Molina Music, a chicken scratch band that played as employees finished their pie and coffee.

SRPMIC’s Community Relations Office led the effort in planning and organizing. One new addition to this year’s event were special centerpiece gourds placed at each table. The gourds were painted by the SRPMIC Day Worker program under guidance of CRO.

Employees also were treated to ZooLights tickets. Each employee could have up to four tickets for the popular holiday event hosted by the Phoenix Zoo.