The Legacy of Former Dancers
Our former dancers have left a lasting imprint on PartyDancersUSA, shaping the fabric of our company in diverse ways. Some have set high professional standards through their exemplary conduct, becoming role models for current and future dancers. Others, perhaps less professional, inadvertently taught us valuable lessons through their actions, prompting us to tighten or revise our company policies. In essence, every dancer who has graced our stage has contributed to refining our operations and defining our ethos. Their legacies play a crucial role in our continuous efforts to enhance workplace standards and ensure a positive, respectful environment for everyone involved.
Raine’s Impact on Company Policy
Raine, one of the original dancers at PartyDancersUSA, played a pivotal role in the formation of our company policies. During her first four years with us, her actions—intentional or not—served as a catalyst for significant policy developments and amendments. While we continue to make occasional updates, it’s fair to say that the foundation of our company policy was essentially written as Raine… happened. Her tenure with us was not just about her performances on stage but also about the lessons we learned and the standards we established in response to her unique contributions to the company dynamic.
The Birth of the Drinking Policy
The origins of our Drinking Policy trace back to a memorable night in 2001 at the Caribou Motor Lodge—an event that could easily pass for a scene from a wild comedy. The evening featured an eclectic cast of characters, an unexpected visit from the Caribou Police Department, and the undeniable star of the show, Raine, affectionately known as “Fire Woman” for her fiery personality and perhaps, that night, for her incendiary antics.
As the night unfolded with escalating revelry, Raine’s spirited participation led to a series of misadventures that culminated in law enforcement stepping in. The incident not only made for legendary tales within our company but also served as a stark reminder of the need for clear boundaries regarding alcohol consumption at company events.
Prompted by the chaos of that evening, we implemented a Drinking Policy to ensure that all future gatherings maintained a balance between fun and professionalism. This policy wasn’t just about imposing restrictions; it was about safeguarding our team and maintaining the integrity of our events—lessons learned thanks to Raine’s unforgettable performance at the Caribou Motor Lodge.
A Promising Weekend at the Caribou Motor Lodge
In 2001, PartyDancersUSA secured a booking for a two-night gig at the Caribou Motor Lodge’s lounge, a venue that promised not only an immediate opportunity but also the potential for future engagements if everything went according to plan. The stakes were high, and the team was buzzing with anticipation, eager to deliver performances that would solidify our reputation and open the door to more shows.
As we prepared for the weekend, everyone involved understood the importance of these shows—not just for the immediate income, but for the longer-term prospects they represented. It was an opportunity to showcase our best talent and professionalism in hopes of establishing a lasting partnership with the venue.
Strategizing for Caribou
You might be thinking that a four-hour trip for a gig seems like a long haul, and you’d be right. However, developing new show sites is an intricate part of growing our business, and it often requires going the extra mile—literally. To make the journey worthwhile and to really test the waters, we decided to book two back-to-back nights at the Caribou Motor Lodge.
The plan was set: we would bring four dancers to ensure a dynamic show, aiming to maximize attendance and make a strong impression. This initial foray was crucial. A good turnout and positive reception could pave the way for more bookings, making the long drive a smart investment in our future presence in the area. So, with everything lined up, it was time to hit the road to Caribou.
Preparation at Caribou Motor Lodge
We arrived at the Caribou Motor Lodge on Friday, three hours before showtime, to handle all the logistics and get settled. The accommodations were surprisingly nice, very welcoming—a good omen for the weekend ahead. In the lounge, I began setting up for our show while Raine, Cherry, Paris, and Passion prepared for their performances.
Given that this was our debut show in what could be considered Maine’s Bible belt, we decided to keep it strictly topless to maintain a conservative approach. We wanted to introduce our entertainment gently, without overwhelming the locals. It was crucial that everything ran smoothly with no surprises—our goal was to lay a solid foundation for future shows by ensuring this first event was impeccable and well-received.
“A well-run event,” I reminded the dancers, “That’s all we need to win them over.” It was an optimistic thought, but one that we all believed was crucial for making a good first impression in Caribou.
Showtime at Caribou Motor Lodge
As the clock struck 9, the show kicked off in true PartyDancersUSA style. The lounge came alive with rocking music and enticing dancer previews. The performers, Raine, Cherry, Paris, and Passion, confidently took the stage, tops off, executing the signature “696” routine flawlessly. The atmosphere was electric, and everything seemed to be unfolding perfectly according to plan.
The crowd’s enthusiasm was palpable, growing larger with each passing hour. From the corner of my eye, I caught the owners exchanging pleased glances and smiles—a clear sign that they were satisfied with how the event was turning out. However, beneath the surface of this smooth start, there were developments brewing that I was yet blissfully unaware of. Little did I know, the night was far from over, and it held surprises that would soon unfold.
Trouble with Raine
As the clock approached midnight, the vibrant atmosphere of the show took a concerning turn. I noticed that Raine appeared to be intoxicated, which was not a good sign. Having dealt with her before, I knew she had a history of alcohol issues, and any attempt to correct her behavior when she was drinking typically only exacerbated the situation. This development was troubling, especially given the high stakes of performing well at this new venue. I needed to act swiftly to manage the situation and prevent it from spiraling out of control.
A Delicate Balance
Mentioning “cooling it” to Raine when she was drinking was akin to poking a bear—likely to awaken the monster within. She had agreed to follow the rules, a commitment made with the understanding that any deviation could jeopardize not just the evening, but our future at this venue. Faced with her intoxication, I was caught in a bind. Addressing it directly could escalate tensions and disrupt the show, yet ignoring it risked letting the situation spiral further. The challenge was to navigate this carefully, finding a way to subtly intervene without triggering a negative reaction.
Uncovering the Source
As I kept a close watch on Raine, determined to pinpoint the source of her alcohol, my vigilance soon paid off. It became clear that the house DJ was unwittingly fueling her intoxication. Despite the bar’s strict agreement not to serve the dancers, the DJ, perhaps out of ignorance or miscommunication, was handing drinks to her. This revelation added a layer of complexity to the situation. Not only did I need to address Raine’s behavior discreetly, but I also had to inform the DJ of his oversight without causing a scene that could disrupt the entire night’s flow.
Addressing the Problem
Upon reaching the DJ, I quickly explained the gravity of the situation, firmly instructing him to cease providing Raine with any more drinks. He denied involvement initially, but his actions thereafter suggested he understood the seriousness of my warning, as he stopped serving her immediately. Unfortunately, the intervention came too late. By then, Raine was visibly inebriated, her behavior increasingly erratic. The damage was already done—she was smashed, and now I had to manage the fallout during what was supposed to be a crucial night for us at the Caribou Motor Lodge.
Managing the Final Stretch
With only twenty minutes left in the show, it was a mystery how Raine was still managing to stand, let alone perform. Recognizing the potential for trouble, especially given her state and the possibility of others in the crowd being just as intoxicated, I made a quick decision. I stayed close to her on the dance floor, shadowing her every move. My goal was to discreetly support her and intervene if necessary, to prevent any incidents that could escalate into something more serious. It was a delicate balancing act, trying to maintain the energy and flow of the show while ensuring that Raine didn’t inadvertently cause any disruptions.
Navigating to a Safe Conclusion
Somehow, through a combination of vigilance and quick intervention, I managed to guide everyone safely to the end of the show. It was a relief to see the last minutes tick by without any major incidents, despite the precarious situation. Once the performance concluded, I herded the dancers off the floor and upstairs to their rooms, ensuring they were all safe and away from further potential trouble. The sense of relief was palpable as we closed the doors behind us—safe at last after a night fraught with challenges.
An Unexpected Afterparty
Just when I thought we had navigated the night’s challenges and could finally relax, there was a knock at the door. No sooner had we settled in than the partygoers Raine had invited started to show up, armed with bottles of alcohol, mixers, ice, and an array of other party essentials. This wasn’t just a small group looking to wind down the night; it was a full-blown invasion of 35-45 inebriated revelers, many of whom seemed barely aware of their surroundings.
Faced with this overwhelming scenario, I felt my resolve waver. Realistically, turning them away seemed impossible—they were already here and ready to continue the festivities. With a deep breath, I opened the door wider, hoping against hope that what I was facilitating would be a short-lived extension of the evening.
A Sober Decision Amidst Chaos
Before the unexpected influx of party-goers, I had managed to keep my evening relatively tame, limiting myself to just two beers throughout the night. However, as the crowd descended upon our rooms, turning the calm after-show atmosphere into a full-blown afterparty, I made a conscious decision to abstain from any further drinking. Recognizing the potential for the situation to spiral further out of control, I opted to stay sober. This choice was crucial—it allowed me to maintain clarity and oversight, ensuring I could manage whatever challenges the night still had in store for us.
Managing the Mayhem
There I was, effectively alone in the eye of a storm, tasked with overseeing three dancers—one of whom had wisely locked herself in an adjacent room—and a room overflowing with far too many party-goers. The atmosphere was chaotic, with the noise and movement of the crowd making it difficult to keep track of everything and everyone. My decision to remain sober proved invaluable as I navigated through the throng, trying to maintain some semblance of order and ensure the safety of the dancers amidst the revelry. It was a daunting task, managing such a volatile environment single-handedly.
A Split-Second Decision
Faced with an almost impossible task, I was just managing to keep the situation under control when a new challenge arose. Raine, unpredictable as ever, suddenly decided to leave the room and head downstairs. This left me with a critical decision to make: follow her to ensure her safety, or stay and manage the burgeoning chaos in the room above.
Each option carried its own risks. If I went after Raine, I’d leave a room full of overly enthusiastic partygoers without any supervision. Conversely, staying put meant potentially allowing Raine to get into a situation I couldn’t control from afar. It was a split-second decision, weighing the immediate risks against the potential consequences.
Unexpected Help and a New Dilemma
Fortuitously, just as I was grappling with the decision of whether to follow Raine or stay with the party, an off-duty police officer who had stopped by to check out the commotion offered his assistance. Grateful for his timely intervention, I quickly briefed him on the situation. With someone reliable to keep an eye on the rowdy room, I felt reassured enough to go after Raine.
I dashed downstairs and burst through the exit, expecting to catch up with her immediately. However, as I scanned the area outside, confusion set in—Raine was nowhere to be seen. “WTF? Where’s Raine?” I muttered under my breath, my concern mounting as I realized I had no idea which direction she had gone. The night air was cool and still, offering no clues, only the echoing sounds of the party fading behind me.
A Night of Surprises
My search for Raine ended abruptly when she emerged from behind a car, casually mentioning they were grabbing more drinks from the trunk. “Really, no shit!” I couldn’t hide my exasperation as a random guy began to interject, but I quickly waved him off. My focus was on getting Raine back inside safely—my patience was already stretched thin, and the chaos upstairs wasn’t going to manage itself.
As I ushered her toward the door, attempting to diffuse the situation, Raine suddenly swung at me, landing a punch squarely on my face. Shocked but still determined, I continued to guide her inside. Just as she struck me a second time, a stern voice cut through the night, “Ma’am, don’t hit him again!” To my surprise, officers from the Caribou Police were nearby, having observed the entire scene unfold from a short distance. Their timely presence likely prevented the situation from escalating further.
A Swift Resolution
As the police officers made their way past us at the stairwell, they headed upstairs, shouting warnings back at Raine to refrain from any further violence. Their commands, however, fell on deaf ears. Defiant to the core, Raine shouted back, “F*** YOU!” and, fuelled by anger, she landed a harder punch, this time directly on my mouth.
Reacting with swift precision, one of the officers spun around, descended the stairs in quick strides, and took immediate action. Without hesitation, he handcuffed Raine and escorted her out of the building. Just like that, she was gone—cuffed and removed from the scene, ending the chaos she had instigated. The abruptness of her departure left everyone in a momentary state of shock, but it brought a necessary resolution to the turmoil of the evening.
Restoring Order
Once the Caribou Police had efficiently cleared out the room, along with the hallway, stairwell, and any lingering party monsters tucked away in corners, they gave me a nod and a smile before turning the space back over to my control. Relief washed over me as I regained a semblance of order in the chaos.
I immediately went to check on the other dancers, who, upon my earlier instruction, had wisely retreated to the adjacent room and locked themselves in. This precaution, thankfully, had been heeded this time—something I was immensely grateful for. “Thank you, ladies!” I expressed my appreciation for their cooperation, which had undoubtedly kept them safe from the night’s upheaval.
With Raine handled by the authorities and the disruptive crowd dispersed, I could finally focus on ensuring everyone else involved in the event was safe and accounted for. The ordeal was intense, but the swift actions taken had prevented any further escalation, allowing us to wrap up what had been an extraordinarily turbulent evening.
The Morning After
Exhausted and bewildered by the night’s events, I collapsed into bed with nothing but the echoing thought: “What the hell just happened?” The surreal and tumultuous evening had taken its toll. When I awoke, I found two of the dancers had joined me, seeking solace after being thoroughly shaken by the chaos. Together, we talked through the ordeal, providing mutual support and reassurance.
Feeling a renewed sense of solidarity, we collectively decided to see through the remainder of our booking, provided the lounge was still open to hosting us. After convincing the dancers to return to their own room for some rest, I set about making some coffee, craving a moment of calm. Yet, just as I was about to enjoy the first sip, the unexpected sound of knocking jolted me. “KNOCKING AT THE DOOR AGAIN!” I muttered, bracing myself for whatever new challenge lay ahead.
An Unusual Morning Visit
Peering through the peephole, my heart sank a little as I spotted a uniform accompanied by two suits. “Hell, what now?” I muttered to myself before opening the door with a resigned shake of my head. “Hello, gentlemen,” I greeted them, trying to mask my apprehension with politeness. “What’s happening today?”
The visitors introduced themselves in a manner that only heightened the surreal nature of the situation: the Mayor of Caribou, the Police Chief, and the owner of the Caribou Motor Lodge were all standing in my doorway. “Can we talk?” they inquired, their expressions serious yet courteous. “Yes, of course, come in,” I responded, stepping aside to welcome them.
As we sat down, the atmosphere was unexpectedly calm and professional. They were straightforward yet seemed somewhat bewildered by the previous night’s events. However, what really shifted the tone of our conversation was their firsthand experience with Raine after her arrest. While they were aware of her altercation with me (I chose not to provide a statement about that), what truly opened their eyes was witnessing her behavior at the police station, where she fully displayed the extent of her volatility.
A Difficult Decision
The police chief, wearing an expression that hinted at both frustration and disbelief, laid out the aftermath of Raine’s rampage. She had managed to cause approximately $1,500 worth of damage to a police cruiser, the station, and various equipment. It was a staggering sum that illustrated the severity of her outburst.
Then came an unexpected request. The chief, almost pleading, asked if I would consider bailing her out for just $60. His reasoning was as practical as it was desperate: they simply did not want to deal with her any longer. I understood their predicament but had to think about the larger picture. With one more night left in Caribou and the lodge owner still on board for us to stay, I couldn’t risk bringing her back into the mix.
Reluctantly, I declined the offer. The chief sighed, resigned to the fact that he would have to transport her to the county jail in Houlton. The mayor, mostly silent throughout the exchange, seemed to be there to assess the situation, perhaps understanding the delicate balance between community relations and public safety.
After a few more exchanges, handshakes were exchanged, and the officials departed, leaving me to navigate the rest of our stay in Caribou—a stay that had become more complicated than I ever anticipated.
A Memorable Conclusion
Despite the previous night’s chaos, we managed to pull off the second night without a hitch. The crowd was fantastic, the energy was high, and, most importantly, there were no further incidents. My face healed up just fine, and thankfully, there was no lasting damage—except, of course, to the Caribou Police Department’s cruiser and station.
Over the years, we’ve returned to the Caribou area many times, and it’s always been a successful stop on our circuit. However, for reasons that remain unspoken but understood, we never performed at the Caribou Motor Lodge again. It seems that one wild weekend was enough for everyone involved, leaving behind a story that’s still talked about whenever we pass through town.
A Final Note on Raine
Oh, and one last thing—I wasn’t completely heartless. Before leaving Caribou, I made a call to Raine’s sister and arranged to meet them back home, four hours away. Once I was safely back, I handed over the bail money to get Raine out of the county lock-up. But I made sure not to do so until I was well clear of Caribou. I figured it was best to let a little distance—and time—come between me and that whirlwind weekend before Raine was back on the scene.
A Final Acknowledgment
Thank you, Raine, for your unforgettable contribution to PartyDancersUSA. Despite the challenges, it’s important to note that she was our very first trainer and an exceptionally good one at that. Her influence extended beyond her performances, helping us shape company policies that have ensured such issues are less likely to arise again. So, in a way, we owe her a debt of gratitude—for both the good times and the valuable lessons learned by happenstance. Thanks, Raine!
I’ll never forget the time… RAINE DID CARIBOU!
