If employer/employee loyalty and commitment seem to be oxymorons in today's economy and work environment, it could be further from the truth at ABC Corporate Services' inaugural Fabulous FIVES Anniversary Luncheon.  Held May 27 at the Allerton Hotel in Chicago, nineteen employees―each celebrating an anniversary of five years or a multiple of five―were honored by ABC's president and COO, Beverlee S. Patterson (herself a 20-year ABC veteran) and her executive team. 

Hailing from ABC's Rosemont, Illinois headquarters and virtual offices across the USA, the tenured employees were brought together in celebration of their hard work, dedication and pursuit of excellence throughout the years. They truly represent what fuels the company's success!

Following a welcome presentation taking employees on an entertaining stroll back in time to the year they joined ABC, honorees enjoyed a delicious lunch and received special Thomas Cook service awards and ABC-specific keepsakes selected for each year.  Finally, as the employee with the longest "25-year" tenure, Cynthia Kropp, executive vice president, sales & service, was bestowed with a unique appreciation gift.  Kropp notes, "It was a PROUD day! For me, 25 is a big number but the 25 years went by in a blink.  So much has changed but so much has stayed the same.  Our core products still  hold up as the best in the industry.  We have many loyal customers and many loyal employees.  And it was just wonderful to have so many of our talented team members together in one spot!" 

In addition to the recognition of their achievements and efforts over the years, employees enjoyed the chance to get to know a little better some of their colleagues and friends who they know via phone and email but don't see often in person.  For others, the luncheon presented a wonderful opportunity to meet fellow ABC colleagues for the very first time.

That evening the employees joined customers and preferred suppliers for another smashingly successful UpClose with ABC Corporate Services trade show at the rooftop of the Allerton Hotel.

Comments from some of the honorees:

"I had a great time at the tenure party.  It's hard to believe it's been almost 16 years for me.  ABC is just like a family and it was great to see my co-workers that I rarely get to see in person, but only talk to on the phone...and I had a lot of fun."  -- Lisa Dunbar, Training Manager

"It was really wonderful to meet some of the people we have been working with for so many years; it was time well spent, and meeting our colleagues from corporate helps to build stronger working relationships and create a better understanding of all the roles ABC plays in the industry. Thank you to all involved in the planning and preparation! -- Shannon Neuhaus, TESS Agent

"ABC's dedication to its employees during these trying times is what keeps me motivated after nearly 16 years!" -- Klayton Killion, Executive Vice President, Operations

"It is truly amazing when you consider how many of our people have been around and contributing for such a long time.  It's great to be working with such great people." -- Harry Gates, Operations Manager