Chaz Martin Among Bandit's Honored at Annual General Meeting

	Chaz Martin, Bandit Lites

2014 proved to be a record breaking and award winning year for Bandit Lites, and as the entire Bandit family gathered at the annual general meeting to celebrate the previous incredible year, those in attendance discussed the goals for 2015 and honored those who displayed outstanding and diligent workmanship.

World-renowned lighting designer Chaz Martin, who has worked with acts including Jewel, Dan Fogelberg, Faith No More, Tears for Fears, Hugh Laurie, System of a Down, Beck, The Cowboy Junkies, and REM, was celebrated for his 30th year with Bandit.

Bandit founder Michael T. Strickland stated, "Chaz and I have been best of friends since 1984 when Chaz came over to the US with REM as their lighting designer. Quickly we became the closest of friends, and that bond continues to this day. Chaz is simply one of my most trusted friends, period. Chaz has enriched my life and those of others in countless ways through the years. I look forward to the next 30!"

During the meeting, Bandits who had milestone years with the company were honored including lighting technician Steve Gurney for five years, Nashville general manager Steve Powell and lighting designer Shawn Beaulieu for 15 years.

Other awards presented included Bandit's "Rock" Award, the prestigious award bestowed to those who went above and beyond in the previous year. Recipients included Knoxville general manager Giff Swart, project manager Shawn Lear, lighting designer David 'Gig' Butzler, and Bandit's business officer Lee Anne Donaldson. Senior system integrator Andrew Fisher and technical assistant Andy Reese were given the Tim Foltz Rookie of the Year Award for their outstanding contribution in their first year. Additionally, Joseph Eberle was awarded the "Best Best Tech," an honor voted on by Bandit's staff for his excellence on Garth Brooks World Tour.

The final award of the meeting was the "Sam Harden Comeback Kid Award," an honor given to Steve Strickland for his return to the Garth Brook tour after a hiatus from the industry.

Michael T. Strickland added, "I am so very proud of the award winners and indeed the entire staff at Bandit Lites for their contributions. We strive daily to deliver the highest quality people and service, and it all starts with the people. Without these fine folks there simply is no Bandit."