Volume 11, Issue 18 August 29, 2003
In This Corner by Jon D. Smiley, C.E.O.
This Labor Day Weekend marks the change of seasons for parents, students and all of us who enjoy a sunny morning - that suddenly feels a bit cooler than even just a couple of weeks ago.
Yes summer is gone, and we are all gearing up for the many challenges that face the hospital in the months ahead. While we anticipate some government relief from Rural Hospital Assistance Program money and Medicaid Disproportionate Share payments - keeping a positive bottom line is something we are all going to have to pay strict attention to.
Toward that end I offer the following requests -
1. Use resources wisely. We must use the human resources and equipment and supplies we need to provide excellent care for our patients. But, we must also understand when it is time to send people home if volumes are down for a day. We must all look at our use of expensive supplies and not be wasteful.
2. Know your own responsibilities. No one should know your job better than you. If you see a way that what you do can be done better, more efficiently, please offer that suggestion to your supervisor. Or if you would prefer come and sit down and talk with me. I am always interested in ideas that will help us do a better job.
3. Keep the pressure on our political folks. 2004 is an election year for many at the state and federal level. We will be watching them and asking for your help frequently. It is very helpful when you write an email or make a phone call as a voter, tax payer, employee, and member of the community.
We have all been through some difficult months, and I want to acknowledge that and say thank you very much for the hard work of each individual connected with the hospital - board members, doctors, staff, and volunteers have all pitched in to help. We need that kind of team work. Our community needs that kind of hospital.
I hope you will join me in welcoming our newest medical students from UHS Kansas City. Andrea Opalenik and Jennifer Dumbolten pictured on the front page of the website arrived at the hospital earlier this week.
Puttering Around for the Hospital Foundation
1st
Place Gross 51 
(click for larger image)
David Stokes Jason Ross Dan Whitaker Souta Nozaka
1st
Place Net 37.75
(click for larger image)
Gene Bliesner Mary Ann Bliesner Brian Bliesner Terry Bliesner
2nd
Place Gross 53 
(click for larger image)
Jerry Monroe Brian Clark Brian Kirkpatrick Chris Faris
2nd
Place Net 40 
(click for larger image)
Steve Carpenter Diane Carpenter Penny Ross Jeff Ross
This was the 11th year of the annual foundation tournament at Black Rock Creek Golf Course. More than $8,000 was raised to go toward the needs of the hospital that cannot be covered by other financial sources. Foundation dollars have rebuilt the pharmacy two years ago. Plans for remodeling the Emergency Department are currently under study thanks in part to the philanthropic work of the Foundation and supporters like those in the golf tournament every summer.
RF Strain Insurance gets credit for sponsoring the winning team this year (low gross) of David Stokes, Jason Ross, Dan Whitaker, and Souta Nozaka.
More photos from the tournament held August 16, 2003 in Sunnyside.
Swim Party Picnic Attracts Hungry Swimmers, Employees
The Annual Central Park Picnic/Swim Party sponsored by the Employee Activity Committee was held August 21st. The event featured a hamburger hotdog dinner catered by the nice folks in Food Services. Most everyone who came also brought a dessert or a salad to share.
The swim party was held from 7:45 to 9:45 p.m. after the BBQ. Some people came for both, those with younger kids headed home a little early. (Click for larger images below.)
Blood Drawing Needs Help
The Hospital is sponsoring the American Red Cross Blood Drawing at Sunnyside United Methodist Church next Tuesday, September 2nd.
As part of that sponsorship we have been asked to provided 10 dozen cookies and pre-made juice that does not need to be refrigerated. If you can help with either of these items please contact Penny Duren or Elaina Castillo immediately.
Employee Benefits
If you are interested in getting a Costco membership, you can as an employee of the hospital. Representatives of the company will be at the hospital September 12th - from 7.30 am to 11 am. Please stop by and speak to a Costco representative regarding membership information and Costco services. Costco will also be offering FREE baked goods and refreshments.
You can contact Lisa Garcia in HR if you have any questions.
Veliz Graduates in-house Program
Wendy Veliz is our first ICU nurse to graduate from the in-house ICU Residency program. She has successfully completed the AACN Essentials of Critical Care Orientation program. She also has become ACLS, PALS, and TNCC certified. We welcome her as a primary ICU nurse. Please congratulate here when you see her.