Junction, Texas (December 4, 2019) – The staff of Kimble Hospital and Junction Medical Clinic celebrated the holidays last week with a Wild West celebration featuring a “Christmas Chuck Wagon” feast of chili with all the fixin’s, salads and desserts made by various staff members.
Over 60 employees broke cornbread together, with many wearing cowboy boots and hats in honor of the party theme, with 10 or more plates put aside for the night shift. Even Santa managed to find a cowboy hat, red bandanna and lariat in his closet.
Traditionally, the annual Christmas party is also the time that the hospital and clinic recognize staff members who have achieved employment milestones.
“This year 11 of our employees were celebrated for a total of 155 years of service to Kimble Hospital, Junction Medical Clinic and our community,” said Duke Young, hospital administrator.
Penny Stewart, RN, received her 30-year pin, along with a gift card and trophy. Odelia “Nellie” Galindo, medical assistant, and John Ibbotson, laboratory technician, earned their 25 years pins, and were also recognized with a gift card and trophy.
Lou Zane Gardner, RN, was awarded a 15 year pin and gift card, and Martean Alborn, physical therapy director, was awarded a 10-year pin and gift card. Five year pins were presented to Maria Alvarado, clinic receptionist, Katie Bowers, medical records director, Edward Glen, housekeeper, and Adriana Munoz, LVN.
With 25 years and 5 years of service, respectively, Brenda Black, laboratory and radiology technician, and Michelle Morales, clinic receptionist, were unable to attend the party.
“I also want to acknowledge the contributions of 2 long term employees who are retiring this year,” noted Young. “Anna Rotge, dietary manager, is retiring after 22 years of serving great food to hospital patients; and Terry Zimmerman, RN, is retiring after 16 years of providing patient care and more recently coordinating the hospital’s Swing Bed Program. We will miss them both.”
Employee congratulations were also extended by the leadership of Preferred Management Corporation who attended the party: Andy Freeman, president and CEO; and Mike Easley, vice president of hospital operations. “We have a highly qualified and caring staff at Kimble Hospital and Junction Medical Clinic, “said Easley, “and appreciate the opportunity to thank them in person for all they do.”
Penny Stewart, RN, was honored last week for 30 years of service to Kimble Hospital. Presenting her award (from the left) were Duke Young, hospital administrator, Andy Freeman, president and CEO of Preferred, and Mike Easley, vice president for Preferred hospital operations.
