Bandit Lites honours long-serving staff
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The company awarded staff with significant anniversaries or those who have demonstrated excellence in service.
In a special ceremony, Bandit chair Michael T. Strickland lauded Leonard Cox, the company’s first employee to retire. Cox served in the military prior to joining Bandit Lites 25 years ago and has proved invaluable to the company serving most recently as the director of logistics and safety.
“Leonard came to Bandit in 1993 and has been a true friend and invaluable part of all things facility related,” said Strickland. “Leonard led us in many areas for 25 great years and we will sorely miss him. He is going to enjoy a much-deserved retirement! Thank you Leonard and have a blast my friend.”
Andy Reese (technical assistant) celebrated five years of service with Bandit while Chas Albea (equipment coordinator), Erich Hudgens (shop foreman), John Jenkinson (installation and service specialist) and Shawn Lear (client representative) were honoured for a decade with Bandit. Jeff Archibeque (lighting technician) and Giff Swart (general manager) rang in 15 years with Bandit.
Both Andy Knighton and Matt King were granted awards for 20 years of service at Bandit. Knighton has worked as Rascal Flatts’ lighting designer for multiple tours and has worked countless productions
“Matt King has been an invaluable part of Bandit for over 20 years,” says Strickland. “Starting on the road and moving into the office with a phenomenal knowledge base has been invaluable to Bandit. On top of that, his calm, cool personality produces a Production Manager second to none. We look forward to many more years with Matt.”
“And Andy Knighton - Andy has been a lighting director for several acts through the years but has long been the LD for superstars Rascal Flatts; Andy is sort of the fifth Beetle! Andy is loved by all those he meets. His talent and skill level are so great there is an award named after him at Bandit: The Andy.
“Bandit is as fresh today as it was in the beginning,” concludes Strickland. “We focus on new acts, new talent and new ideas. If you have never worked with us, give us a try! Your dream is our mission. Thank you to everyone involved for the beginning and hang on as we move into warp speed.”
(Jim Evans)
