Retired employees of GEBE St. Maarten, Saba and Statia were treated to the annual GEBE Pensioners’ Christmas Party on Saturday, December 13. Although the event is held every year, this is the first time that pensioners from Saba and Statia were invited to join their counterparts on St. Maarten.
The day started off with an island tour to see the many developments on the island. The tour ended at the Sonesta Great Bay Beach Resort where the pensioners were treated to a lunch and entertainment by The Mighty Dow and his steel pan band.
In his short speech, GEBE Managing Director, William Brooks, thanked the retired employees, many of who worked at GEBE since its inception, for their dedication and hard work building up the company for the next generation. "GEBE is what it is today because of your hard work," Brooks stated, "and we will not forget you or your contributions to this company."
After lunch, the festivities began with singing and dancing. Two couples danced for prizes while others sang for prizes. Several pensioners also got the opportunity to play the steel pan after a short lesson from the Mighty Dow.
Then the presents were distributed. "We know it is not easy financially once you are retired and we hope we can make your Christmas a little brighter with these presents," Brooks stated as he presented each pensioner with a present from GEBE as well as gift certificate from Le Grand Marche and a voucher for a ham and turkey. Those pensioners who were not in attendance due to illness will also receive their presents this week.
All of the pensioners indicated that they had a great time; the atmosphere was very festive, the attendees were excited and the food was delicious. Brooks thanked the organizing team consisting of Judith Pompier, Cheryl Arnell and Elfrida Eights, who have organized the festivities for the seniors every year, once again for a job well done.