Moses Lake woman celebrates 20 years on the job

MOSES LAKE - Tri-State Outfitters employee Karen Baker hasn't just spent the last 20 years clocking in, doing her job and going home.

She's spent the last 20 years forging strong relationships with supervisors and other employees, said Store Manager Sandy Keller.

The store threw Baker a party Friday, not only to recognize the hard work she's put in over the years, but to thank her for making the workplace a positive place, she said.

Keller said Baker treats her coworkers like members of her extended family.

"She's known for always remembering people's birthdays," said Keller. "We never forget to celebrate them thanks to her."

Keller said Baker started working for the company in May of 1993, making her one of the more veteran employees. She started when the store was at its old location on Broadway Avenue, she said.

Baker currently does janitorial work at the store, she said.

"Karen is never late," said Keller. "And she keeps the place shining."

Baker said she works at the store Monday through Friday, she said. Although she has had the same schedule for 20 years, she hasn't grown tired of it, she said.

"It's a lot of fun," said Baker.

Baker, who has Down syndrome, also participates in the Special Olympics. She said she uses her time off to train for various events.

Baker has gone to regional competitions for track and field, bowling and tee-ball. She recently took second place in walking, she said.

Baker said she plans on working for Tri-State Outfitters for a long time. She is looking forward to her next milestone of 25 years, she said.