During IDFA’s holiday luncheon last week, we unveiled a new rendition of “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” better known as “The Night Before Christmas,” to recognize the hard work and dedication of six employees who celebrated special work anniversaries this year. They are:

• Tracy Boyle, director, boards of directors, employee relations and administrative services, 30 years;
• Rob Carpenter, director of information technology, 20 years;
• Cary Frye, senior vice president of regulatory affairs, 20 years;
• Tyesha Beckham, manager of accounting services, 15 years;
• Neil Moran, senior vice president of finance, administration and trade show, 10 years; and
• Jessica Matsko, coordinator of administration and accounting services, 10 years.

Have fun unraveling the clues in the poem and join us in honoring these dairy devotees for their many years of service and success.

A Visit from Six IDFA Stars

‘Twas the night before September 28, 1987, when all through the house
A young woman was stirring, trying to pick out a blouse.
The big day was coming when she would walk through the doors
Of the Milk and Ice Cream Associations and soar.

Her coworkers were nestled all snug at their desks
While visions of dairy products danced through their heads.
With a brand-new job and a few fears,
She built an exciting 30-year career.

When out at the reception area a new employee appeared
With the promise of help, all IDFA cheered.
Rob was his name, and he came with mad skills.
His understanding of software gave all a good thrill.

He knew all about laptops, cell towers and trends.
He spoke in a code that few could comprehend.
Inspired by Yoda with mounds of whiz-bangs and gears,
He went to work for the next 20 years.

It was cold and cloudy four days after Christmas
When a star entered the office, very ambitious.
She came from a member company out of New York,
And started the new year with plenty of work.

Traveling far from her beautiful home up in Maine,
All that she did enhanced IDFA’s name.
Ever helpful and willing, she treated all as her peers.
She stood out over the next 20 years.

As budget season drew near
A new smiling face did appear.
She was quiet, yet skilled with sums and financials.
Soon it was clear that her skills were substantial.

Now, time sheets! Now, tax forms! Now, invoices and billings!
On to McDonald’s for a burger with fillings!
From the top of her inbox to the end of the hall,
Over the next 15 years, she provided assistance to all!

And then, in a twinkling we heard at the door
A man dressed in a suit, with his accounting case on the floor.
He was a CPA, and everyone was afraid,
But he turned out to be the shining part of the work day.

With a daily Starbucks in hand,
He sat in his office and planned and planned.
As numbers danced in his head, he gave IDFA street cred.
His 990s became legendary over his 10-year spread.

As the summer of ‘07 came to a close,
A new employee swiftly arose.
She began as a temp, but quickly grew indispensable.
Whatever she tackles, her solutions are sensible.

From trade show registrations to ice cream donations,
Her customer service exceeds all expectations.
No longer considered wet behind the ears,
She grew in her role over the next 10 years.

Their eyes – how they twinkled! Their dimples – how merry!
They were part of a group of all things dairy!

As our celebration comes to a close, and we turn off the lights,
Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!

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Kudos to Tracy Boyle and Peggy Armstrong, IDFA vice president of communications, for the new literary lines and laughs.