4 minute read
The Team that Keeps MAC Clean
MAC’s Housekeeping is a global team, hailing from countries including Korea, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Somalia, Nepal, Ireland, Panama and the United States.
“With such a diverse crew, from homelands to personalities, each day is a fun new adventure,” says Assistant Housekeeping Manager Jackie Sanchez, who has been working with the team since October.
Adds Housekeeping Manager Elaine O’Flynn, “The diversity of our department adds depth and interest to everything we do. If we aren’t playing with language we’re often found laughing at the idiosyncrasy of our cultures. Every day I learn something new. It’s my privilege to work with this team.”
Learn more about some of the team’s amazing members and how they spend their time, both at work and after they clock out.
Nassira Munyabuliza
I’m from East Africa; Kigali, Rwanda, and I started working at MAC in 2002.
I feel proud when I finish my hard work well and members and staff notice. My favorite part is when my teammates are working together and making sure the job is done well and on time.
When I’m not working I like to spend time with my girls by teaching them my culture and telling them about my Rwandan history.
Fun fact: I’m a representative of the Rwandan Women’s Community in Oregon.
Mohamed Yaslam
I’m from Mogadishu, Somalia. I started working at MAC in February 2014.
I like knowing my work makes a difference. I can see how much cleaner the carpets are when I’m finished. My favorite thing is using the auto-scrubbing machine.
When I’m not working, I like to play with my kids.
Fun facts: I have a brother in Ohio, a brother in Dubai and sisters in Norway and Yemen.
Aaron Westerby
I was born in Roseburg but raised in Portland, in the Arbor Lodge neighborhood. I started working at MAC in December 2011.
I’m most proud of seeing my teammates in Housekeeping maintain the cleanliness of the enormous facility. It is quite a large task for such a limited crew.
My favorite part of the job is feeling accomplished, particularly after a special project such as waxing floors. Oh that smooth brilliant shine! There’s nothing like it.
When I’m not at work I create physical collage with magazine images, research local history and design my dream home in my head. Fun facts: I’m a preacher’s kid and an atheist. I’ve worked in a variety of industries — radio, hospitality, and the MAC has given me the best opportunities to grow professionally of any of them.
Daya Shaka
I’m from Nepal and started at MAC in 1993. The club has been supportive of me, allowing me and my wife to raise two kids here.
My work schedule works perfect with my home life. Also, I like meeting the people, and appreciation from them. The members are great.
When I’m not at the club I do a lot of social work, community help and outreach. During the closure I helped people get their unemployment filled out, picked up and dropped off food bank boxes and other PPE supplies.
Fun facts: I’m a writer. I recently reconnected with a school friend from 40 years ago. I’m also Buddhist by faith. If I see something that needs to change, I say something about it and don’t let it go unnoticed.
Ethan Sabin
I was born and raised in Milwaukie, Oregon, and I’ve been working at MAC for 9-10 years.
I really like when I get a project done and the work really shows. My favorite part of working in Housekeeping is the crew; it’s like a family. I’ve known some of them ever since I started working at MAC.
I’m a videogame kind of guy, so when I’m home, that’s my getaway. I also play music, a good mix of instruments.
Fun fact: I finally proposed to my girlfriend this year! One good thing to come out of 2020!
Chuck Orsbun
I’m from Arkansas and I’ve been at MAC about 18 years.
My favorite part of working in Housekeeping is the people. I’m excited to be back. I missed this place when the club was closed.
When I’m not at work, I take care of my son with my wife. We enjoy going out to the mall and park.
Rondie Potter
I’m from Tulsa, Oklahoma. I’ve been at MAC for about four years.
I like knowing that everything I do is going to be polished when I’m finished. I enjoy the physical labor and interactions with the members, however brief they are. I really enjoy the fast pace and staying busy.
I like to bike, hike and explore parks (when we could), spending time outside. I like to be outside. I also volunteer at shelters.
Fun facts: I used to remodel Airstream trailers with my favorite part being the demolition, going at a floor or cabinets with a crowbar.
Nick Swaner
I’m from Portland and I’ve been at the club for about a year.
I’m most proud of seeing things shiny and clean. It just makes me happy. I really like the different personalities of everyone I’ve met at MAC. Everyone on the team has been warm and welcoming; it’s like a family.
When I’m not working I spend time with my fiancée and am a weekend gamer. I also like going on drives.
Fun facts: I love everything shrimp! Also I used to be a semi-pro bowler and competed in the State Games of Oregon, held in Las Vegas.