On March 18th, members from all New York locations came together at our Neptune Avenue location in Brooklyn to celebrate a long-standing Mini-Circuits partner, Rocky DeFreitas on his 50th year anniversary at the company. Several retired members returned specifically for the occasion who have been long-time friends of Rocky and others still at Mini-Circuits including Gloria Rosenfeld, Robert Santiago and James Buie. Everton-Dwayne Powell. . Everton-Dwayne Powell who has since moved on from Mini-Circuits but used to work under Rocky in the Facilities department was also in attendance.
The celebration began with an hour-long ceremony, where Rocky was warmly applauded as he entered the cafeteria. This was followed by brief speeches from Jin Bains (Mini-Circuits’ CEO), Kai Lo (CFO), and Alicia Yacoby (Chair Woman of the Board), each recognizing Rocky DeFreitas for his exceptional dedication, loyalty, and 50 years of service. The floor was then opened for additional remarks, including heartfelt speeches from his children: Ishmael and Marvin DeFreitas (current members), Tamika DeFreitas (former member), and Tennille DeFreitas. Joan Hutton-Mills also shared a touching original poem titled “The Great Rockline.” Additional remarks were given by Jogesh Anand (Director of Manufacturing Operations) and Arthur Ackerman (Quality Advisor).
Kai Lo presented Rocky with a commemorative card on behalf of the members and the company, after which Rocky delivered a thank-you speech before transitioning into a celebratory luncheon.
Food was catered by Bassett Caterers and included a wide variety of options such as fresh garden salad, baked ziti, macaroni & cheese, chicken marsala, lemon herb roasted chicken, Asian pepper steak, Mexican pork carnitas, grilled Jamaican jerk salmon, eggplant parmigiana, Asian stir-fry vegetables, and rice pilaf. For dessert, fruit platters and cookie trays were served. Beverages included iced tea, lemonade, and water.
In celebrating this remarkable milestone, it’s important to recognize just how rare and meaningful it truly is. Rocky stands as the first member in Mini-Circuits’ history, outside of our founders, Harvey Kaylie and Gloria Kaylie, to achieve 50 years of dedicated service. This accomplishment speaks volumes about his character, his unwavering commitment, and the passion he has brought to his work every single day.
Rocky’s journey is more than a tenure, it’s a legacy. He has helped shape the culture, values, and spirit of Mini-Circuits, serving as a pioneer and role model for generations of members who have followed. His dedication reflects the very foundation upon which the company was built, and there is no doubt that Harvey Kaylie would have been immensely proud of the example Rocky has set.
As we honor this extraordinary achievement, we also celebrate the lasting impact Rocky has made—not only through his work, but through the relationships he has built and the inspiration he continues to provide. His 50 years of service are not just a milestone, but a testament to a life of purpose, loyalty, and excellence that will resonate within Mini-Circuits for years to come.
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