On September 22nd, 2007 Eltron Research and Development employees celebrated another year of zero work days missed due to in-house accidents by getting together at Waneka Lake Park in Lafayette for the 3rd Annual Safety Picnic. The event, which ran from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm, was organized by Erick Schutte, Carl Evenson, Jarrod Benjamin, and Adam Calihmman and featured food, fun, and frivolity for all (that’s right, I used frivolity in a sentence).

The food/beverage portion featured such mouthwatering delights as Angus beef burgers, chicken drumsticks (undercooked according to some but still delectable to most), and hot dogs cooked by self-proclaimed Master Chef Schutte. There were also numerous side dishes and desserts brought by employees, chips, soda, water, and of course good ol’ beer (90 Shilling) courtesy of O’Dells Brewery.

The fun was provided in the form of various games and park amenities. The horseshoe and Bocce ball tournaments started last year were again a central focus with Jon Snyder and his wife Richelle taking home the first place trophy in Bocce while Erick Schutte and his wife Juliet successfully defending their title in horseshoes. Both couples received two $25 gift certificates to various shops within the area. Aside from Bocce and horseshoes there was also badminton, croquet, paddle boats, and a killer play area available for both young and old to enjoy. While President and CEO of Eltron, Paul Grimmer, was not able to stay long due to a previous engagement he did arrive, along with wife and co-owner Glenda, to thank his employees for another great year. Although Paul did have to leave early Glenda was able to stay for the duration of the picnic and finally had a lengthy opportunity to meet and get acquainted with many of her employees. Vice President of Technology Doug Jack also took some time to address the employees and thank them for their hard work and also to give everyone an update on the direction of the company.

Midway through the picnic two raffles were held, one for the kids in attendance and one for the adults. In all over $700 in prizes were handed out with several employees walking away with $50 gift certificates to area stores. Several children received Toys-R-Us gift certificates while others got jumbo mugs filled with goodies like temporary tattoos, healthy snacks, and one or two candy bars for good measure.

As the sun began to set (and the beer ran out) most guests began to drift away. Many had tears in their eyes, wishing the good time didn’t have to end, but also knowing that another year without gross neglect and/or amputated limbs would lead to yet another fantastic get-together.