The Communicator - Alabama Hospital Association - Betty Caffee, Project Chair-man; and Don & Sarajane Pugh, Newsletter Co-Chairmen. Finan-cial issues were also addressed with the positive

Alabama Council of Hospital Auxiliaries Volume 22, Issue 2

Founded 1957

The Communicator April, 2010

ACHA Board Meeting

The Alabama Council of Hospital

Auxiliaries Board met on January

20, 2010 to lay the groundwork for

the upcoming year. Attending were

officers, committee chairmen, and

district chairmen and vice chair-

men. Each person attending repre-

sented the many volunteer auxilia-

ries from across the state. Topics

discussed were programs to be ad-

dressed for the fall conference, spe-

cial projects being addressed by

auxiliaries, identification of poten-

tial candidates for election of new

officers and committees, fundraising

events, volunteer hours and a multi-

tude of other issues being faced at

our hospitals. Each person was

personally challenged to perform

his/her duties to the fullest of their

abilities in order to provide a uni-

fied leadership for ACHA. Three

new board members were in atten-

dance: Betty Caffee, Project Chair-

man; and Don & Sarajane Pugh,

Newsletter Co-Chairmen. Finan-

cial issues were also addressed with

the positive report that showed that

we were able to provide an out-

standing fall conference in 2009 and

were able to show a small profit af-

ter all the bills were paid. Positive

remarks were shared about the con-

ference along with shortcomings

which will be addressed before the

next conference. The Board is com-

mitted to listening to its auxiliary

members, so contact any members

of the board to let us know what you

think. Meanwhile, look forward to a

great year for ACHA.

It is time again to start looking for Auxilians who

would be interested in filling the positions of the exist-

ing ACHA State Board members, as their terms will

expire this fall.

Have you ever wondered how to get involved on the

District or State level?

First, let me tell you what the ACHA is and what the purpose of

ACHA is. The ACHA is a non-profit organization whose purpose is to

serve its membership thru programs and services that will enhance

efficiency and effectiveness of auxiliaries, in an effort to improve the

overall quality of healthcare provided to Alabamians.

The primary purpose is to support hospital auxiliaries thru infor-

mation and timely education such as seminars, newsletters, briefing

papers, etc. and to involve auxilians in industry advocacy efforts, with

the goal of providing a good environment for hospitals to operate a

quality healthcare delivery system for the citizens of Alabama.

How can you become a member of the District or State level? First

to be eligible to serve on the ACHA Board as an elected officer such as

Chairman, Chair-Elect, District Chairman or District Vice Chairman,

you must be a member of an active institutional

Auxiliary, must have served as president of your local auxiliary, and

must have the approval of your hospitals CEO. To be eligible to serve

on the ACHA Board as a standing committee chairman such as pro-

gram, project, newsletter, gift chop or historian, you must be a mem-

ber of an active institutional auxiliary and have the approval of your

hospitals CEO.

I have met so many auxilians who would qualify for any of these

positions. You just need to step up and let your District Chairman or

any other State Officer know that you are interested or if you receive a

phone call asking you to accept a position, think it over and give a

positive response. I guarantee that you will not be disappointed. This

has been a journey for me that I will never forget and I have no re-

grets that I said “yes” when asked to serve.

Don’t forget to mark on your calendar, April 27- May 1. SDVSHO

(Southeastern Directors of Volunteer Services in Healthcare Organi-

zation) Annual Leadership Conference to be held in Atlanta, GA at

the Westin Peachtree Plaza.

Also, remember the ACHA Fall Conference to be held in Mobile,

AL at the Renaissance Riverview Plaza on October 17 – 20.

Until next time,

Sharon Farst, ACHA State Chairman

The Communicator Volume 22 Issue 2

2

From the Chair Elect

January 2010….the new year has begun and every-

one is off to a great start with their district meet-

ings. Sharon and I attended the District Four meet-

ing held at Monroe County Hospital on January

13th. I congratulate Alice Hinger and Kay Weiss for

their efforts in coordinating the meeting and for the

impressive turn out…..good job, ladies.

On February 3rd I attended the District Two Presi-

dents Council meeting held inn Bessemer, Alabama.

Thirteen of the districts sixteen hospital auxiliaries

were represented at the meeting. Judy Clark and

Ann Willard did an outstanding job organizing the

meeting.

Then on February 9th Sharon and I attended the

District Three meeting hosted by Vaughan Regional

Medical Center. Tamar Lisenby and Julie Hill

scored a big success with 36 attendees. For two of

the auxiliaries in attendance this was their first time

to attend a district meeting.

We have one more meeting in February. District

One will hold it’s meeting on February 11th with

Huntsville Hospital as the host. If the trend contin-

ues they should also see an increase in the number

of attendees.

This has been a very encouraging start to the new

year. Sharon and I hope we will see this continue

right through to the fall conference.

So why do you want to come to a district meeting?

Well perhaps the single most important benefit is

the sharing of ideas for things like fund raising, re-

cruiting and community outreach. This alone should

motivate the auxiliaries to attend those meetings.

One new idea for your auxiliary that brings your

group a new member, puts some needed funds into

your bank accounts or helps you to have more rec-

ognition in your community is worth the time and

effort it takes to get to the meeting.

I encourage all to make a sincere effort to have your

auxiliary represented at your next district meeting.

You will be glad you did.

Billie Simpson, Billie Simpson, Billie Simpson, Billie Simpson, Chair Elect

Sweet Wars: Fighting Sugar with Knowledge

Betty Caffey, Project Committee Chair Millions of children come home from school each day to eat

or drink their favorite snack foods, but is this always healthy?

Nine times out of ten, the answer is “no.” This picture illus-

trates the amount of sugar in each size of a popular soft drink.

The average one-liter bottle contains 27 ½ cubes of sugar, which

is equivalent to 108 grams of sugar. According to Sugar-

Stacks.com, the amount of calories derived from the sugar con-

tent in each of these sodas is the same. For example, a 12 ounce

can of soda has on average 39 grams of sugar, 140 calories, and

140 calories from sugar. As many dieticians and nutritionists

say… that’s “liquid sugar”. If you think your favorite snacks

are any better, think again! A regular size Snickers candy bar

contains 7½ cubes; four Oreo cookies contain 4 cubes and fat-

free sorbet contains 21 cubes of sugar.

According to Eatingwell.com, the percentage of U.S. children

age 6 to 11 years olds who are overweight has nearly tripled in

the last 30 years. The Centers for Disease Control and Preven-

tion has projected that one in three American children born in

2000 will develop type 2 diabetes. This leaves our youth more

prone to other health issues like heart disease, cancer, and other

illnesses that could be prevented with proper diet and exercise.

It is important to teach our children (and ourselves) healthy

eating and exercise practices. Here are some healthy tips for

everyone from Eatingwell.com:

• Introduce a variety of produce

• Balance calories with exercise

• Lower fats in diets (remember the food pyramid- fats and

sugars are to be consumed sparingly)

• Consume more dairy products to build strong, healthy

bones

• Select whole grains

• Limit sugar-sweetened beverages and foods (like candy and

soda)

• Go fish!

Get moving- together!

If you apply these tips to your everyday diet and engage in

regular exercise, we are sure to see some results quickly. You

will begin to feel refreshed, energized and those post-holiday

pounds will start to shed. To see how your snacks and bever-

ages stack up against the sugar test, visit www.sugarstacks.com.


3

Don & Sarajane Pugh,

Newsletter Co-Chairs

for ACHA

Hello! Well, we got the first

issue written, printed and

mailed a couple of months

ago and must thank all of

you that submitted informa-

tion to be included. We also

apologize for some technical

problems which came into

play with email, computer

issues and the fact that we

were moving during that

time. Hopefully most of that

is resolved and this issue will

reflect some changes that

some of you recommended.

As the Communicator con-

tinues we intend to make

minor changes each issue

until we get more comfort-

able with its format. As you

see items you like, or items

that need to be changed or

re-arranged, please send

positive input to us so that

we may address those items.

Also, please continue to send

information to us using our

email address which is

[email protected] or if needed by mail to

762 Cambridge Lane,

Tuscaloosa, AL. 35406.

We can be reached at (205)

462-3374. Finally, please

let us know if you like the

newsletter or if you have

r e commenda t i ons f o r

changes.

Happy Reading…...

Don & Sarajane

HistorianHistorian **** 2010 Keep those newsletters, pictures and newspaper articles coming!

Please include names on the back of your pictures so they can be iden-

tified in the State Yearbook. At the end of this report I have listed my

address as several auxiliaries have mailed newsletters to the former

historian and the State Chair Sharon Farst is having to re-mail them

to me. Also check on the ACHA website for my address. For those

auxiliaries preparing their yearbooks for competition at the state level,

remember your hospital name needs to be on the front of the yearbook,

and remember to limit the use of fancy paper and embellishments.

Thanks for your assistance.

Fran Brazeal, Historian Address: 1004 Lansing Place

DCH Medical System Northport, AL 35473

205-339-3094

Are you Ready?

Tornado Season is Here

in Alabama!

During a Tornado

• Listen to local radio or TV

• Go to Basement, storm cellar, or the lowest level of the building

• If there is no basement, go to an inner hallway or a smaller inner room without windows such as

a bathroom or closet

• Get under sturdy furniture, heavy table or desk and hold onto it

• Protect your head and neck with your arms

• Get away from windows

• If in a mobile home, GET OUT. Find safe shelter elsewhere.

Do you have Emergency Supplies at Home • Plan for at least 3 days to be without water, gas and electricity • Have a good flashlight with fresh batteries (at least one, preferably more) • Have a portable radio with fresh batteries • Have a First Aid handbook and a First Aid Kit handy • Have a supply of Prescription medications for at least 7 days • Place important documents in a safe place. Include contact information of family and

friends, Insurance papers, Home inventory, Credit Card information, Banking infor-

mation, licenses, birth certificates • Have a supply of food for 3 days. Also have pet supplies. Be sure to have a manual

can opener if canned foods are to be used. Have an abundant supply of clean drink-

ing water. • Have a Fire Extinguisher, a whistle to notify rescuers in case you become trapped, spe-

cial needs equipment such as wheel chair or crutches or cane if normally used. • Have some money (small bills and change) since Banks may not be open for several

days. • Finally, Plan ahead and have these supplies so that you are prepared to take care of your-

self, your family, your pets and even your neighbors. Volunteers are always prepared!!


4

Bibb County Medical Center & Nursing Home “This ain’t no ordinary Nursing Home,

And This ain’t no Fish Tale!”

Bibb Medical Center Nursing Home is not your “ordinary” Nursing Home, instead it is a vibrant component of a remarkable Continuing Care Retire-

ment Community located in Centreville, Alabama. This residential community offers seniors a choice of services and living situations, designed specifi-

cally to meet their changing needs. Not only is the emphasis on quality of care, but quality of life as well. Fun and exciting events take place on a regular

basis. Some of these include cow racing with the Wii, Toss the Pig, Red Hat Society, Movie Club, Church Services, and concerts provided by local talent.

According to residents, though, the most exciting activity available is when the weather permits fishing in the facility’s own catfish

pond. In an effort to improve quality of life for all residents, the facility embarked upon changing its culture a few years ago. Con-

sequently, Terry Smith, CEO, came up with the idea of providing residents with something that many grew up enjoying. He

brought the idea to fruition when the catfish pond was built. Measures were put in place to provide safety and security for the resi-

dents that include a locked gate and fence around the pond. Concrete sidewalks were constructed with curbing and guard rails.

The pond was stocked with very large catfish. Members of the facility’s multi-disciplinary team and BMC Auxiliary accompany

residents while fishing. Residents enjoy taking a break from fishing while indulging in breakfast and snacks in the shade of the

gazebo known as “Oakley’s Haven.” Auxiliary members assist with providing fishing gear and bait. They also provide snacks and

socialize with residents while they are fishing.

Residents have fun with the “friendly competition” associated with catching the most fish

and the biggest. It is not uncommon to catch 6 and 8 pound fish. However, no resident

has been able to break the record held by Mr. Clayton Medders for his

catfish that weighed 10 pounds. Not a man of many words, Mr. Med-

ders proclaimed, “ It weighed so much I thought it was going to pull

me in!” Mr. William “Spunky” Cox continues to hold the record for

the “most fish caught in a day,” while Eva Lou Crocker, 95 years

young, claims to have the “best cast.”

Residents fish early in the morning while the temperatures are still cool and in the afternoon on

pleasant days. Many residents enjoy the warm sunshine and cool breeze on fishing days, even if

they don’t fish.

The fish seem to feast on a variety of chicken livers, hotdogs, worms, and crickets. The residents

choose the bait to use and where to place the hook in the water. The Maintenance Crew gra-

ciously baits the hooks and removes the fish.

Some residents have never fished before coming to BMCNH. It is exciting to watch them catch

their first fish. Pictures of happy residents adorn the bulletin boards and picture frames located

throughout the facility.

“We are extremely pleased to offer such a wide variety of activities. The Fishing Club is one of

my favorites. We love the relaxed atmosphere during our fishing trips and it is a time enjoyed

by all. We meet lots of goals during this activity: increased social interaction among residents, improved range of motion, fine motor skills, etc. How-

ever, one of the most important things is for our family of residents to feel special and enjoy something they love to do” stated Kandace Shoults, CRNP,

Nursing Home Administrator.

Bibb Medical Center Nursing Home is connected to Bibb Medical Center Hospital. It is located in Centreville, Alabama, in Bibb County and is the lowest

cost Nursing Home in the State.

Special thanks to Hattie Terry,

President, and to all Bibb Medical

Center Auxilians on making this

and other activities so successful.

Thanks to Kandace Shoults, Nursing Home Administrator and Karen Daniel, Social Work Director for making this article happen.

Gone Fishin’


5

Marshall Medical Center North Auxiliary The Auxiliary had a Christmas luncheon in December.

It was held in the Medical Plaza classroom. Every Aux-

iliary member was given a gift from the hospital.

The Auxiliary had a Masquerade Jewelry sale

in December. The profit from the sale was $6,369.00.

This is our largest sale ever. The Auxiliary had a Re-

gency jewelry sale and the profit was $2,041.00.

The Auxiliary sent four $25.00 donations in

memory of those Auxiliary members that passed away in

2008-2009 to The Foundation for Marshall Medical

Centers. .

The Auxiliary made a Christmas blanket and

hat for each baby that was born in December.

The Craft Committee helped with the Em-

ployee’s Children Christmas party. Approximately

seventy children attended and each child had their pic-

ture made with Santa and Mrs. Clause. The Craft Com-

mittee helped the children make frames for their picture

with Santa.

We had three Auxiliary members that passed away in

December. They were: Barbara Phillips, Jacque King

and Rowena Merritt. They will be missed.

Huntsville Hospital Auxiliary

Auxiliary members Mable Brooks and Joyce Purple spent many hours with a pair of scis-

sors in their hands. Each year, the Auxiliary has volunteers to cut and sew Christmas stock-

ings for each baby born during the month of December. This year, volunteers presented over

600 stockings to the Mother/Baby unit and the Neonatal ICU. These volunteers add their spe-

cial touch to these handmade gifts. They cut each stocking by pattern, sew together the white

fur and red fleece, and add a tag stating “Special Delivery.” These new bundles of joy are

placed inside the stocking for their first portrait. As the hospital delivers these gifts to the new

parents, the Volunteer Services Staff tries to capture a photograph of that first baby born. This

year, that photo was double the fun. Beautiful twin girls were born on the first day of Decem-

ber. As you can see in the photos, the parents were a little confused with their choice of univer-

sities. There is one thing for sure, their house will be divided!

Christmas bells were ringing at the Huntsville County Club on December 17. Huntsville

Hospital’s Child Development Center was the talk of the town with their 4-year old classes

singing Christmas carols for the Auxiliary. Dressed in their holiday attire, the children boasted

the words to Jingle Bells, We Wish You a Merry Christmas and All I want for Christmas is my

Two Front Teeth! Their performance was definitely a treat for all who attended!

Auxilians were not only celebrating the Christmas holidays but they were also busy raising

funds for the hospital Foundation. A net profit of $26,591 was raised through three sales which

included: a Monogram Sale, Gold Exchange Event, and the annual $5.00 sale sponsored by

Masquerade. The Masquerade sale was by far the most successful fundraiser which grossed

$78,325 for the three day sale! The Gift Shop on the main campus also had the most successful

Christmas in the history of the Auxiliary. We attribute the success to a “24 Days of Christmas

Sale” that took place the entire month of December. The sale featured 25% off a different item

each day during the month and was a hit with the employees. Payroll deductions more than

doubled for the month as compared to recent years. Ask us for details on how we promoted the

sale…I’m sure your hospital employees would love it too!

The best Christmas gift of all was the addition of 20 new

members to the Auxiliary. These new members bring the total

Auxiliary membership to 195…the largest in the history of the

Auxiliary.

What you can’t see is that the caps on these sweet twins de-

pict “Alabama” and “Auburn” logos which may be the best

way to tell which is which instead of placing a “dot” on the

heel o f one of the girls to know Who’s Who. We can only

wonder which one will shout Roll Tide and which one will

holler War Eagle.

Highlands Medical Center Auxiliary We have 28 active members who have worked 1303 hours this quarter. Six of our members attended the state conference in Montgomery in

October. We had a profitable Jewelry Sale in October with Fashion Jewelry. In November, eight of our members attended a class for wheel chair training.

They were taught how to clean, sanitize and transport patients. We also were handing out masks and hand sanitizer at our front desk.

The Tuesday before Thanksgiving we held our annual Thanksgiving Bake Sale. It only took about 30 minutes to empty the tables. The artificial

greenery in the bins in our lobby were beginning to look sickly, so three of our members worked on them. They were able to reclaim some of them, the rest

we purchased from a local florist. December was a busy month for our members. The hospital foundation sponsored a Lighting of the Tree of Love in the

hospital courtyard. We purchased eleven lights in memory of eleven of our members. We had our Christmas Luncheon on December 9th. We had a deli-

cious meal and exchanged gifts with each other.

We hosted a Christmas Party for our fifty Nursing Home residents and Rehab patients. Finger foods and fellowship were enjoyed by all. We

also donated $300 towards their Angel Tree. The money collected from their Angel Tree is used to purchase gifts for all the residents. Some of our mem-

bers put up a Christmas tree in our lobby and decorated the gift shop and information desk. In December, the hospital held an awards ceremony to honor

their employees for years of service and Employee of the Year. At this time Paula Crawford was presented a plaque by Kim Bryant, our CEO, as Volun-

teer of the Year.

Our Gift Shop did very well over the holidays. We continue with our weekly Bingo games in the Nursing Home. One of our volunteers and her

helpers call the games and we furnish the prizes. We also purchased caps for babies born in December and the New Year. We are looking forward to a

busy new year.

District I AROUND THE STATE

This Blank Box is Reserved

for Hospitals that did not send

information about their

Auxiliaries.

X

The Alabama Society of Directors of Volunteer Services (ALSDVS) recently installed new officers. The The Alabama Society of Directors of Volunteer Services (ALSDVS) recently installed new officers. The

new President is Jamie Weeks, Director of Volunteer Services, Southeast Alabama Medical Center, in new President is Jamie Weeks, Director of Volunteer Services, Southeast Alabama Medical Center, in

Dothan, AL. Let’s all welcome Jamie and hope that the year is filled with smooth sailing, lots of fun, Dothan, AL. Let’s all welcome Jamie and hope that the year is filled with smooth sailing, lots of fun,

new adventures, new acquaintances, interesting travels, minimal bumps in the road and a fulfillment of new adventures, new acquaintances, interesting travels, minimal bumps in the road and a fulfillment of

a successful term in office. Good Luck and Best Wishes Jamie!!!!! a successful term in office. Good Luck and Best Wishes Jamie!!!!!


6

District I AROUND THE STATE

Crestwood Medical Center Auxiliary Volunteers at Crestwood are busy this Spring. Two members of the Volunteer Board at-

tended the state conference. They enjoyed the conference and have brought back many ideas

for our program. We all have volunteers attending the Southeastern volunteer conference

who will bring more great idea back with them. The Crestwood volunteers raised money

through jewelry sales and uniform sales in 2009. Our volunteer board voted to donate to the

following community charities: Partnership for a Drug Free Community, Camp Seale Harris,

Community Free Clinic, Honor Flight, Therapy Partners Pet Therapy, and Wounded Warri-

ors fund. The volunteers also gave to the patients and families of Crestwood by donating

microwaves with carts for the ICU waiting areas and TV/DVD combinations for patient edu-

cation. During 2010, volunteers will be providing notepads and pens for each patient room,

coloring books, puzzles for the maternity center and a used book center on each patient floor

for families and patients.

The volunteer craft committee has worked hard making tray favors and gifts for patients.

During the holidays, patients received a tray favor every Friday. The volunteers are also

making teddy bears for pediatric patients, cough pillows for surgery patients and beaded key

chains for new moms and dads.

During 2009, over 10111 hours were donated by an average of 50 adult volunteers. One hun-

dred and six teenager volunteers donated 3374 hours during June and July. The teenage

volunteer program was successful last summer. We are hosting 3 sessions this summer in

partnership with Junior Achievement of North Alabama.

Crestwood Medical Center recently received certification as a NICHE (Nurses Improving

Care for Health System Elders) site, a national program to improve care for older hospital-

ized adults. Through this program, Crestwood will undertake a number of steps to recognize

and prevent or treat health problems specific to elders with a dedicated ACE (Acute Care for

the Elderly) Inpatient Unit. Nationally, more than half of all hospitalized patients are over

65, yet only 1 percent of nurses are certified in gerontological nursing. By joining NICHE,

Crestwood nurses will be able to significantly advance their understanding of the needs of

older patients. Many nurses are passionate about Geriatric Care, now those nurses will re-

ceive additional education and training as Geriatric Resource Nurses. Our volunteers will

also become an active participant in the ACE Unit. As we move forward and grow the unit,

we will recruit and train volunteers to assist those ACE patients with simple, but important

tasks, such as working puzzles, reading books, and other activities.

Pictured are the

Crestwood Volunteer

Executive Board.

I have just finished reading the District II President’s Report and it seems to me that we sure had a lot of Parties

and Luncheons over the Christmas Holidays. I think these parties are a very important reward for all you do throughout

the year, servicing our hospitals, so don’t feel guilty.

We had our President’s Council luncheon on Wednesday, February 3rd at the Bessemer Civic Center. Hosted by

Medical West, we had fourteen of our sixteen hospitals represented. Billie Simpson, Ann Willard and Janice Gillespie from

our State Board attended.

The room was decorated in a Valentine theme, with beautiful fresh flower centerpieces, candy and favors. We were

treated to a wonderful Pasta lunch, thanks for the luncheon.

Instead of a program, we talked at length about sales and fundraisers, as well as services different auxiliaries pro-

vide.

We will be meeting again on May 5th. If you have a change of Officers, please let me know as soon as possible.

2010 is going to be our best year yet. Each hospital in District II is expecting some new ideas to catch on and get

more people involved in our volunteer programs.

Judy Clark, District II

Decatur General Hospital Auxiliary

Below are pictured the recently installed officers for

2010 for the Decatur General Volunteer Auxiliary:

From Left to Right:

Don Fries, President

Shirley Reid, CDVS who installed the officers

Gene Saywell, Vice President

Mary Toth, Treasurer

Joseph Toth, Corresponding Secretary

(not pictured) Carol Wren, Recording Secretary

District II

Early Hospitals began as neighbors help-Early Hospitals began as neighbors help-

ing to take care of neighbors by creating ing to take care of neighbors by creating

facilities to isolate and treat broken bones, facilities to isolate and treat broken bones,

snake bites, cuts, delivery of babies and snake bites, cuts, delivery of babies and

persons with disease. Today, we still do persons with disease. Today, we still do

the same things on a much higher level, the same things on a much higher level,

but the thing that remains the same is that but the thing that remains the same is that

neighbors are still taking care of neighbors are still taking care of

neighbors……….. Only now we are called neighbors……….. Only now we are called

Volunteers………. Thanks for all you Volunteers………. Thanks for all you

do!!!!do!!!!

National Volunteer Week is April 18 - 24, 2010


7

AROUND THE STATE

District II

Pickens County Medical Center Auxiliary In November our Gift Shop held “Holiday Open House” inside

the hospital lobby. As an addition to the sale of our gift shop items, free

refreshments were served. Thanksgiving patient tray favors were provided

by Lois Bruce.

During the month of December, the Auxiliary gave two gift cer-

tificate door prizes of $50 each for the hospital’s employee Christmas party.

At the request of nursing service, we purchased a medical book for them.

For the second year, we sponsored a “Love Lights” Christmas tree project.

With a $5 donation to the Auxiliary, the donor and the name of the person

being honored or remembered are listed in the hospital’s community Tree

Lighting program and on the Christmas tree in our lobby. We sponsored a

jewelry sale on December 7th and 8th. Woodman of the World partnered

with us in providing handouts for children who are patients in our emer-

gency room. Christmas tray favors were provided.

The January quarterly auxiliary meeting room was decorated in

Mardi Gras theme complete with a king cake. Steve Flanagan, a social

worker in the hospital’s Senior Care Department, provided a program on

“Diabetes and Mental Health.” Dottie Wilson, Director of Human Re-

sources, explained the outcome of the volunteer annual DCH Health System

satisfaction survey. Three volunteers were recognized for providing the

most hours during the past three months. The Dietary Department asked

for volunteer help with serving the meal at the hospital’s annual county

association meeting. A shortage of wheelchairs has been observed and it

was decided we would purchase one.

Volunteers deliver a Pickens County Herald to each admitted

patient every Wednesday, compliments of the newspaper. Additional pa-

pers are given to our Gift Shop for their sale and use of the proceeds.

Fayette Medical Center Auxiliary We hosted a Used Book Sale where we accepted books donated

one month ahead of time. Donors were given the chance to shop before the

general public - so many of our bookworms were happy to donate books

they had already read. All paperbacks were $1 and hardbacks $3. We

made nearly $1000 in one day!!!!

Fashion Jewelry Sale was held for 2 days. This sale is a huge

draw bringing in the community. We fill our lobby and parking lots and is

a great way to raise money for our facility.

We approved the purchase of 10 flat-screen TV’s for patient

rooms, a new whirlpool for our attached Long Term Care facility and a

new magnetic door holder for our Emergency Department.

Medical West Auxiliary At the Volunteer Christmas party the following new officers

were announced: Billie Meredith - President

Roxana Shell - Vice President

Jim LeCroy - Secretary

Pat Rigdon - Treasurer

Volunteers donated 1320 hours last quarter. We have 35 active volunteers.

Two new members were added.

Volunteers hosted the 5th Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Luncheon

with speakers Johna Smith and Dr. Richard Stephen.

Volunteers assisted with the Senior Care Christmas Party serving over 500

guests at the Bessemer Civic Center in December.

Bibb Medical Center Auxiliary Last quarter we hosted a Jewelry Sale and a Book Sale. Our

most successful event was our Tree of Lights program which Honors and

Remembers loved ones. We have a ceremony that is always a great event

for all who attend.

Last month at our meeting our auxiliary members brought a

covered dish made from our latest cookbook, which was a nice luncheon.

The patients in our Nursing Home are getting “Cabin Fever”

and can’t wait for better weather so they can get outside and fish and enjoy

the sunshine. We might have to buy another Wii to occupy their time.

Every week there is an article published in our local newspaper

about the Nursing Home and what’s going on there such as activities and

special events. This is a free service you might want to look into.

We had 2 new members join our auxiliary this quarter.!!

DCH Regional Medical Center Auxiliary Last quarter we added 11 volunteers bring our total to 311 who

worked a total of 13,118 hours. We had four fundraisers using Just for

You Clothing, Britches & Bows (children’s clothing), Imagination Books,

and Masquerade Jewelry.

The Auxiliary provided 10 Scholarships, assisted with blood

drives, golf tournament, a food drive, distributed gifts to patients at Christ-

mas, and helped with many other special events.

Christmas sales were big this year in our gift shop, with volun-

teers working extra hours to handle the load. The volunteers purchased a

pop corn machine and served pop corn during sales at Christmas. Gift

bags were offered for purchased items. The gift shop was beautifully deco-

rated by volunteers. Poinsettias were purchased for the lobby and other

public areas throughout the Medical Center.

Brookwood Medical Center Auxiliary

The Brookwood Medical Auxiliary held

its Annual Christmas “Pot Luck” Luncheon on De-

cember 11, 2009. Everyone enjoyed good food and

fellowship. Our guest speaker was Miss Alabama,

Liz Cochran. She thanked the auxiliary for their

generous gift of $4,000 to the Miss Alabama Scholar-

ship fund.

This year instead of a gift exchange at the lunch-

eon we decided to donate money to a worthy

charity. We chose Jessie’s Place for Women and

Children, which is part of the Jimmy Hale Mis-

sion here in Birmingham. They provide shelter

for women and children who come from abusive

situations. The donations from our volunteers

totaled $300.00.

We made 1,200 of tray favors for patients this quarter. They were deco-

rated with a Halloween theme for October, Turkey theme for November

and Christmas theme for December. Our ongoing projects include baby

caps for newborns, mastectomy shirts for our Breast Cancer Care Bags,

and heart pillows for open-heart surgery patients. Our volunteers gave out

524 note pad and pen gifts while visiting new patients. We delivered 46

“Happy Birthday” banners along with a small gift of note pad and pen.

We gave out 103 Mother / Baby nursing pillows to new moms whose babies

were in the NICU. We gave 180 Christmas stockings and red & white

striped knit caps to the “Christmas babies”. We also presented a special

door bow to the Christmas and New Year Baby.

Memorial

We lost a former volunteer, Alice Hawk and a semi-active volunteer, Mary

Ogburn this quarter. Alice was a Brookwood employee for many years

then became a volunteer. She was a volunteer from May 1988 to December

2005, when she retired. Alice worked at the Women’s Center Information

desk and volunteered 2,652 hours. Mary was also a Brookwood employee

before she retired from nursing and became a volunteer in October 1998.

Mary worked on various special projects and was one of our “Stocking

Elves” every year. She volunteered for 335 hours.

Alice

Hawk

Mary

Ogburn


8

AROUND THE STATE

District II

University Hospital Auxiliary Christmas Open House was held in November, followed by our 12

Days of Christmas marketing initiative in December.

The Masquerade $5 Jewelry sale was held in November, and Re-

tail Concepts in December. Dynamic Cookware is scheduled for February.

New sales for 2010 include cookware, linens and a line of boutique merchan-

dise for women. We will hold the $5 Jewelry sale twice this year increasing

it from 2 days to 3 days, due to its popularity. Our semi-annual book sale

was held in January.

Two hundred and fifty Christmas Stockings were delivered to the

nursery during December.

Recruitment of volunteers remains to be top priority. We are

expanding our Bingo program by using Clowns to staff the in-house TV

program. All volunteers working various departments throughout the hos-

pital and medical center will be funneled through the Volunteer Depart-

ment, where we will maintain orientation, in-service, and required medical

tests for Joint Commission. Recruiting has begun for the FORKLIFT pro-

gram. This is a feeding program for spinal and brain injured patients.

The Auxiliary purchased pictures that will hang on the 2nd floor

walkway from the North Pavillion to the newly built Women’s and Infants

Clinic. Each set of pictures will have a nameplate stating that they were

purchased by the Auxiliary.

Volunteers worked 28,580 hours in 2009.

St. Vincent’s East Auxiliary Our Jewelry sale was held in November. To accommodate work-

ing people from the community, the hours were extended to 6 p.m. on two

evenings. We also held our Used Book Sale and Bake Sale. Our hospital

associates look forward to this annual “Tuesday before Thanksgiving” sale

to purchase sweets for their Thanksgiving feasts.

Christmas Open House which we call “Midnight Madness Sale”

was held from 11:00 p.m. until 2:00 a.m. This marked the third time we

held the event which is so appreciated by all our third shift associates. Have

you ever had someone thank you for allowing them to spend money? We

look forward to continuing this sale. Dee Dodd organized a sale of Christ-

mas decorations and ornaments. Dee spent many hours designing and mak-

ing different types of wreaths, mantel decorations and also decorated 3 dif-

ferent trees. We had a great turn out and sold over $400 worth of decora-

tions.

On December 3rd, the Auxiliary had the dedication of the Tree of

Love and presented a check of $4,000.00 to St. Vincent’s East Foundation

for Camp Blue Bird.

On December 5th, the annual Christmas Luncheon was held with

decorations being “Tablescapes” which were beautiful holiday scenes.

In January, the Uniforms 2U sale was a tremendous hit due to the

mandatory uniform change for clinical associates. The sale netted $64,000.

Re-Orientation was held Jan. 25th. Presenters were Robert

Screws, RN and Veronica Patterson, RN. Robert talked about Safety &

Infectious Disease and Veronica presented a program on Bariatric Sensitiv-

ity. Four Auxiliary members will attend SDVSHO Conference in Atlanta.

St. Vincent St. Clair Auxiliary A very successful yard sale was held, with proceeds being used to

replenish our gift shop with new priced items that are affordable during this

economy.

The November jewelry sale provided enough profit to provide a

$3000.00 scholarship.

The hospital lobby and Christmas tree were decorated by the

auxiliary. Our Tree of Lights program was held on Dec. 4th. We had a live

nativity which was narrated by Sister Janet and the hospital choir sang

Christmas Carols. Santa was present for the children to give him their wish

list and to have their picture taken. The auxiliary provided refreshments

and hot chocolate.

This was the first time the Auxiliary had a float entered in the Pell

City Christmas parade. Our theme was “We Lend a Helping Hand”. We

decorated it all in Pink; the auxilians riding on the float wore their Pink

uniforms and a Pink Santa hat. We threw out candy to all the children

along the parade route.

At our General Meeting the nominating committee presented the

new slate of officers, which was approved. This will be the first time that we

will have a man on our board. We are looking forward to having a man’s

opinion.

We have 49 volunteers who worked a total of 2934.5 hours.

Shelby Baptist Medical Center Auxiliary During the quarter, an average of 61 volunteers gave 4,468

hours of service. We have 7 new members. For 2009 our members logged

in 17,585 hours.

In November, five $2000 scholarships were awarded to hospital

employees seeking higher degrees in their respective medical fields.

The most exciting event at our hospital was the opening of our

new tower. Several members assisted in giving tower tours during the

open house. At the ribbon cutting, auxiliary members had an information

table set up to promote volunteering with brochures and applications.

In December, our activities were in high gear. First was par-

ticipation in the Alabaster Christmas parade. Seven brave volunteers

rode the float on that COLD Saturday morning. Our Holiday Bake sale

was held the next week which generated $1055 profit for the auxiliary.

A baby gift basket was presented to the first Christmas Baby.

Stocking caps bought by the auxiliary were given to all December babies.

A request from Nursing Administration resulted in purchase of

Patient Information Boards to be installed in all patient rooms. We

agreed to contribute $10,000 toward this project.

Tray favors for Fall, Thanksgiving and Christmas were made

and distributed.

At our monthly meeting different areas of service are continu-

ally recognized. In October it was the patient advocates, November was

materials management and cardiac rehab volunteers and December it was

the seamstress who makes the heart pillows.

Princeton Baptist Medical Center Auxiliary In November, December & January we had a Masquerade $5

Jewelry Sale, Bake Sale along with Arts & Crafts Sale, a Monarch Fine

Jewelry Sale, Uniform Sale and other activities. Our volunteers made

tray favors at Thanksgiving and Christmas and delivered them to patient

rooms.

Following our Volunteer Christmas Party, many of the volun-

teers visited several areas of the hospital and sang Christmas Carols. A

video was shown of volunteers working in their areas which brought lots

of laughs.

On December 28th, we had our Baby Cemetery Dedication at

Elmwood Cemetery where the Auxiliary had purchased 16 more plots

which will bury approximately 32 babies. That makes a total of 72 ceme-

tery plots for our babies. The Auxiliary agrees this is one or the greatest

Ministries we ever fulfilled.

We have 53 active volunteers who worked 3,636 hours last

quarter. We have a volunteer that has 30,831 hours.

Northport Medical Center Auxiliary Volunteers donated more than 4,000 hours of service with an

average of 41 volunteers participating each month.

Kaye Mitchell, Fund Raising Chairman reported that our elec-

tronics sale made over $13,000 and over $4,500 was made from sale of

cruises with World Wide Travel.

Patsy Nowell, Tray Favor Chairman made artificial pumpkins

with colorful fall foliage on 125 patient trays for Thanksgiving. She also

accompanied Santa at Christmas and gave a Christmas tote along with

clip on tags to remind everyone to “Wash Your Hands”.

In 2009 volunteers donated almost 15,000 hours and fundrais-

ers generated over $46,000 for use for hospital projects.

Dedicated Volunteers Hard at Work at

Northport Medical Center.


9

Trinity Medical Center Monthly fundraisers, an anniversary party, the Christmas luncheon cele-

bration, baby stockings, “Volunteers Love Trinity Day”, Kenyan mission project and

over 2,910 hours of volunteer service combined to keep our 61 volunteers very busy

this quarter.

Congratulations to Marcia Warren, 2nd vice-president and the many volun-

teers that worked three fundraisers –a book sale, Lujeans Fine Jewelry and Masquer-

ade Jewelry sales. The auxiliary commission for these sales was $7,876.22.

Kim Munroe was surprised with a cake and gift to celebrate her fifth anni-

versary as Trinity’s Director of Volunteer Services. After graduating from Auburn

University Kim worked for the American Red Cross for ten years, for Caraway Meth-

odist Medical Center for 16 years before joining the staff at Trinity. We love you,

Kim. You do a great job!

The Christmas Party was fun for all volunteers, and the food was extra

special. Kim chose a special menu and our own Trinity chef prepared the many deli-

cious dishes. Chaplain Bob Anderson did an outstanding job with the music. His solos

were beautiful especially “O Holy Night”. Volunteer Geri Baird joined Bob in singing

“Silent Night” in German, her native tongue. Some lucky volunteers went home with

door prizes and beautiful poinsettias. It is fun to fellowship with volunteers that you

work with and others you don’t see very often.

June DeFoor, 1st Vice-President, coordinated the newborn Christmas

Stocking Program and thirty-eight newborns left the hospital in bright, red stockings

decorated with a green Christmas tree. Parents were so appreciative.

Welcome Phil Skewes, Pinkye Skewes, Cynthia Short, and Jeannette

Stricklin, our new volunteers winter quarter. Phil and Pinkye have already added an

additional day to their work schedules

Currently volunteers are preparing for our second “Volunteers Love Trin-

ity” celebration. We plan decorated tables and a large sign that says “Volunteers

Love Trinity” We will serve large iced, heart cookies in the dining room adjoining the

cafeteria.

Six doctors, six nurses and two pharmacists traveled to Garissa, Kenya on

a mission trip in January. The desire of the group was to show the love of Christ

through a medical clinic. Trinity Medical Center Auxiliary provided $5,000 for the

medicines and $3,000 to sponsor three nurses and one pharmacist. It is a thrill to be a

part of this medical mission. We are grateful to all of the volunteers that work fund-

raisers so we can help. We appreciate all of our health career specialists who freely

give their time and talents to minister in Kenya and look forward to hearing more

about their trip in May.

Judy Long - President

District III met at Vaughan Regional Medical Center in Selma on February 9, 2010. There were 35 people representing eight of the thirteen hos-

pitals in our District. It was so exciting to see such a great turnout. The Auxiliary from Vaughan had decorated the room and the tables in the Valentine

theme. At each place was a coffee mug containing candy, post –it notes, a pen and a Valentine, all wrapped in heart stamped cellophane. The table was

sprinkled with Valentine confetti and “Stress Reliever” Hearts. The sign-in table was decorated in similar fashion and a Valentine heart tree highlighted

the drink and dessert table. A delicious lunch was served to the group by the hospital food and nutrition staff. It consisted of chicken and rice casserole,

marinated asparagus, rolls, fruit and banana pudding. Shirley Pugh, Vaughan’s Auxiliary President, and Tamar Lisenby, District III Chairman,

presided over the meeting. The group was welcomed by CEO Barry Keel and Meriam Bearden, the Director of Food Services at Vaughan shared informa-

tion and a handout on Diabetes in Alabama with the assembled group prior to lunch.

After lunch the group participated in a business meeting . The Change of Address Form was discussed and distributed to each President in atten-

dance, emphasizing the importance of submitting changes on a timely basis. Several topics of discussion were brought before the group in an informal man-

ner. The attendees heard a summary of the recent ACHA Board meeting and discussions ensued from that. Members shared the pros and cons of the Con-

ference as it affects attendance. Generally, the response was encouraging and the networking opportunities at the Conference were considered to be valu-

able time spent. Networking, educational opportunities and fellowship were highlighted as some of the most popular aspects of the Fall Conference.

Turning to a discussion on the District meetings, the group shared thoughts on what factors encourages them to attend, what discourages atten-

dance and what benefits they each received from attending. Some responses were: networking of ideas, fellowship, opportunities to meet new people, oppor-

tunities to visit other hospitals and gift shops, and building interpersonal relationships with like minded people. The group likes the ability to share what’s

going on in their Auxiliaries through the Auxiliary Reports portion of each meeting. Some things which make attending difficult are: weather, early start

times, and a lack of meaningful content or no agenda. It was a lively discussion with great input.

Before hearing the individual Auxiliary Reports each hospital represented shared their procedure for annual Member Orientation. There were

similarities and differences, with most relating to the size of the organization. During the Auxiliary Reports

we heard many wonderful ideas and activities from each hospital. It is so heartwarming to see the dedicated

manner in which so many serve their communities.

Sharon Farst addressed the group and Tamar Lisenby announced the next meeting date. District

III will meet on Friday, June 11, 2010, at Coosa Valley Medical Center in Sylacauga. We are hoping to have

another large group attend.

Tamar Lisenby, District III Chairman

AROUND THE STATE

District II

Shirley Pugh, Selma, gives Auxiliary Report

at the District III Meeting.

District III

Walker Baptist Medical Center Auxiliary “Volunteers—Always Caring-Always Sharing”

Walker Auxiliary submitted two projects into competition at the

2009 Fall Conference and were awarded two ribbons as follows:

2nd Place in Yearbooks and 2nd Place in Special Programs. We

also entered the talent contest as “WBMC Honeys and Junior”.

We had loads of laughs and tons of fun but unfortunately we did

not win.

In October Walker Baptist held its first Breast Can-

cer Awareness Pink Ribbon party. Six volunteers worked to

decorate and hosts the event. Three “Survivors” were guest

speakers with inspiring stories and Dr. Michael O’Gorman,

Surgeon, gave an informative talk and took questions from the

audience.

In November, Walker Baptist held its annual Health

Fair at Jasper Mall and had volunteers who worked hosting the

Volunteer Service table and other areas as needed.

Volunteers were honored at a Christmas luncheon in

December. Our ladies were given a travel kit containing essen-

tial travel items and our gentlemen were given a garment bag.

There were 66 volunteers in attendance. Our Auxiliary Christ-

mas project was to furnish canned goods and staples for New

Beacon Hospice families. We had a tremendous response to this

project.

Two fundraisers were held during the 4th quarter:

Imagine Nation Books dba Books Are Fun and Masquerade $5

Jewelry Sale, with combined total sales of $19,432.18 and a

profit for the Auxiliary of $3,886.44.

4th quarter hours combined for a total of over 4,741

hours. We had 69 Active volunteers and 44 inactive.

Our craft department made 280 tray favors and sup-

plied 143 Walker Teddy Bears and coloring books & crayons to

patients in the hospital.

Pat Ferrell, President

Walker Baptist Medical Center

Volunteer Auxiliary


10

AROUND THE STATE District III

Bryan Whitfield Memorial Hospital Auxiliary The Bryan W. Whitfield Memorial Hospital Auxiliary began the new fiscal year under new leadership. Lloyd “Buddy” Jones is now President

and Rebecca Culpepper is serving as Vice President.

The Fall Season found the auxiliary members very busy. Georgette Griffith, Holiday Bazaar/Monogram Chairperson, reported the November 6,

2009 sales generated $9,811.29. The Blood Drive, October 12, 2009, a collaborative effort between the auxiliary and the hospital, was a very successful ven-

ture, chaired by Peggy Dunklin, generated a total of forty-six (46) pints of blood.

The Jewelry Sale was very successful, profiting $4,525.00. Carolyn Nelson served as Chairperson.

Two (2) members excelled in their hours of outstanding service; Betty McCants, 1,500 hours; Jimmie McCollum, 4,500 hours.

During the Yuletide Season, the auxiliary members were very busy preparing for different festivities. Ron Hainley led the charge sprucing up

the float for the Annual Christmas On The River Parade, a Demopolis tradition. The 20th Love Light Tree Lighting Ceremony officially began the Christ-

mas Season on November 29, 2009 @ 5:00 P.M. Ruth Levitz, chairperson for the Love Light Sales decorated two beautiful Christmas trees, red ornaments

– honorary; white ornaments – memory. These trees decorated the lobby of the hospital. In addition to beautifying the lobby, the auxiliary raised over

$2,000 through this project. Dewana Ballard, chairperson for the Corporate Wreath Sale, used the hospital corridor to exhibit donors who supported this

fundraiser. Donors contributed $5,350.00 to this project.

The Auxiliary donated a WII game System for the Geriatric Behavioral Health Center, as well as, provided an additional leg lift for one of the

hospital’s wheelchairs.

East Alabama Medical Center Auxiliary

The Auxilians at East Alabama Medical Center have been busy. In De-

cember we hosted a Holiday Coffee in honor of Physicians and Hospital Administra-

tion. Wonderful tidbits of Holiday treats were consumed as Physicians, EAMC

Administrators, EAMC Department Heads and Auxilians shared fellowship, coffee

and punch.

February 2, was the date selected for the semi-annual Open Meet-

ing hosted by Auxiliary Board of Directors. A great turnout of

125+ people attended the morning meeting to hear Dr. Steven

Presley, an EAMC Hospitalist. Dr. Presley shared information on

the increasing popularity of the specialty throughout the United

States and how the local program is impacting health care in Lee

County.

After the program and a short meeting, the

large group viewed the newly recorded

EAMC Auxiliary In-Service Video. The

video will be shown four times per year and

lasts 30 minutes. Each member is required to

attend one showing per year to complete

their training requirement.

Plans are currently underway for the Annual Spring Luncheon scheduled

for April 7. More about that event in the next Communicator. An open invitation to

all who read this article: if you’re in the neighborhood (Opelika/Auburn) please

stop in and let us treat you to a visit and a cup of coffee.

Coosa Valley Medical Center Auxiliary The CVMCAuxiliary donated a $1,500 compressor to respiratory partners in learning.

Nathan Farrar, CRA with Partners in Leaning visited Coosa Valley Medical Center. He was impressed with the large waiting room that serves both radiol-

ogy and lab patients. There was plenty of space for patients and family members to sit in comfort. They also had a volunteer in the waiting room who

greeted each patient as they arrived. Coffee was provided in the waiting room, manned by a volunteer. Another added touch of customer service. Nathan

found Coosa Valley Medical Center to be a well run facility. He was allowed to visit each area of the facility and found the staff to be courteous, well organ-

ized and enjoying their work. The hospitality of everyone was appreciated.

The Coosa Valley Medical Center will hold re-orientation for all Auxiliary members on March 4th. During the meeting we will review our competencies, our

handbook, hold our monthly business meeting and enjoy food, fun and fellowship.

We are sorry to inform a member of our auxiliary has passed away. Our deepest sympathy goes to the family of Rufus Ashe. Rufus was a member of the

Auxiliary since November 2007. He was a very cheerful volunteer and will be missed by his many friends.

Chilton Medical Center Auxiliary Chilton Medical Center Auxiliary installed new officers

of the 2010 - 2012 term as follows:

President - Juanita Hearn

Vice President - Frances Johnson

Secretary - Jean Woodfin

Treasurer - Jessie Binion

We had three new members join our team in 2009. Chilton Medi-

cal Center Auxiliary has a total of 17 members at present time. In

2009, Auxiliary members worked a total of 3233 hours.

2009 was a great year for our Auxiliary members and our hospital.

We had several successful fundraisers which included our annual

jewelry sale and bake sale. As result of these fundraisers, we were

able to purchase a new wheel chair for our short stay surgery de-

partment, help on a fundraising project for our senior connection

building and furnish smoke alarms for some of the local home

bound citizens in Chilton County. We also helped a foster family

purchase Christmas gifts for there children and gave a scholarship

to an employee wanting to go back to school to further their career.

Our 2010 goal is to help the hospital purchase new equipment

where needed, provide community assistance as needed and to

recruit new auxiliary members.

Chilton Medical Center Auxiliary Motto is:

“Always Caring, Always Sharing”

(Left to right)

Biboo Webb,

Johnnie Knott,

Rebecca Culpepper,

And

Buddy Jones

Daphne Glaser places an

ornament on the Honor Tree

Love Lights Chairman, Ruth

Levitz serves punch following

the Love Lights Tree Lighting

Ceremony


11

AROUND THE STATE District III

Russell Medical Center Auxiliary

Russell Medical Center Auxiliary members have been busy since Septem-

ber.

RMC’s President and CEO Jim Peace announced the name of the Volun-

teer of the Year at the October meeting. Mrs. Yvonne Crispin was selected

for this honor. She is the only active charter member of the Auxiliary.

The Auxiliary’s jewelry sale, bake sale and the Tree of Lights were tremen-

dously successful this year. Our fundraisers exceeded last year’s sales.

Many thanks go out to all our volunteers for their hard work.

In November Renie Sikes announced her retirement as Gift Shop Manager.

She has held this position for the last ten years. She will remain as treas-

urer of the gift shop. The new manager was named in December. Annette

Poole was hired to fill this position. Annette has big shoes to fill.

RMC has a new information desk. It is located at the entrance to the Total

Fitness area.

The Auxiliary has several new members. This brings our membership to

over 100. They work long and tireless each time they are on duty at RMC.

VAUGHAN AUXILIARY INSTALLS NEW OFFICERS WITH HELP FROM STATE PRESIDENT

Vaughan Regional Medical Center’s Auxiliary newly elected officers were installed by State President Sharon Farst

in January. Former president Billie Rogers ceremoniously passed the gavel to incoming President Shirley Pugh. The

new officers are as follows:

President: Shirley Pugh

Vice President: Martha Plummer

Treasurer: Bonnie Mollett (Bonnie’s mother, Betty Lester, is standing in for her in the photo)

Secretary: Linda Forman

Corresponding Secretary: Judy Davenport

Former President: Billie Rogers

Sharon explained to our volunteers how a chain is only as strong as its weakest link. We must all join

together to be the strongest and best auxiliary we can be, supporting Vaughan Regional. Thank you,

Sharon, for such an inspirational message to kick off 2010.

Yvonne Crispin,

Russell Medical Center

Volunteer of the Year

Russell Medical Center

Lois Richardson, Carolyn Johnson, Susan Oakes work

check-out table at Masquerade Fall Jewelry sale

Julie Twinning, VP at Christmas

Medical Center Barbour

Medical Center Barbour Auxiliary

After the Fall Conference, the Auxiliary Board of Directors, President Judy

Umstattd, Vice President Julie Twinning, Treasurer Beverly Peterson and

Secretary Brenda Riley met to discuss our Christmas plans for 2009. This

is the first year we had Christmas Angels which were placed on our tree in

the lobby in Memory or Honor of loved ones. The monies received will go

to our scholarship fund and new tables for the hospital lunchroom. We

also sold homemade cookies to the hospital employees. This being the first

time for both projects, they were both received very well and we hope to do

just as well or better next Christmas. We also gave the employees an

appreciation brunch on the day we decorated the hospital.

I am sorry to report we have 3 ladies - Anne Kester, Mary Burt, and Sara

Clark who became ill and unable to volunteer. Our prayers are that some

day they will be able to return.

I am proud to announce in 2009, we had six new members and so far in

2010 we have already had three new members.


12

Infirmary West - District IV

We held our installation of new officers in October 2009.

They are :

Vikki Withers, President

Leon Everett, Vice President

Pam Steele, Treasurer

Jean Ellington, Recording Secretary

Barbara Wancowicz, Corresponding Secretary

Three of our members attended the conference in Mont-

gomery where we placed second in the Yearbook Category. We

want to thank Nellie Hill for the fine job she did on the book.

A second bench has been added to our hospital by Dr.

Bobbie Holt-Ragler in appreciation of the staff and volunteers.

We also held our second Lighting of the Christmas Tree

at Infirmary West. Refreshments of hot cocoa and gingerbread

cookies were provided by Food and Nutrition Services. Christmas

carols, performed by a youth string orchestra, helped to set a fes-

tive mood. There was a visit from Santa Clause which delighted

our young visitors.

Sharon Scott and Vikki Withers attended the Atlanta Gift

Mart in January and found some great new items for our gift shop.

We now have thirty volunteers.

Respectfully,

Vikki Withers

President, Infirmary West Auxiliary

AROUND THE STATE District IV

Southwest Alabama Medical Center Auxiliary

Southwest Alabama Medical Center Auxiliary is busy planning for

the 2010 year. Auxiliary members have participated in Health

Fairs, All-Kids Health Check, at local schools, Women’s Wellness

Clinic, and Blood Drives. Audrey Evans, Vice President of

AWAMC Auxiliary and Stephen Ford, Maintenance Director at

Thomasville Nursing Home are planning a February 13, 2010 wed-

ding. Audrey and Stephen are valued members of our auxiliary

and contribute so much of their time, talents and resources to serv-

ing our hospital and nursing home. Auxiliary members and the

community Congratulate them and wish them the very Best. Eli-

nor Ott and Audrey Evans provided an array of delicious treats for

our January auxiliary meeting.

Steven Ford & Audrey Evans

To Wed

Feb. 13, 2010

Elinor Ott &

Audrey Evans

Provided treats

For the January

auxiliary meeting.

District IV Report

February has arrived. I am excited - the grass will soon be

green and my spring flowers are just about ready to bloom. Spring can’t

be far behind!!! Can you tell I am not a fan of winter?

Now that I have picked on “ole man winter”, I have to admit it

was a beautiful day for our drive to Monroeville, AL for our District IV

meeting which was hosted by the Monroe County Hospital Auxiliary. We

had such a good time and they had a beautifully decorated meeting room

done with items selected from their gift shop. What a unique idea! We had

representatives from ten of our district hospitals. We were excited to have

State Chair Sharon and Chair Elect Billie with us, and were very pleased to

have auxilians from Mizell Memorial Hospital in Opp present. They have

not been able to attend for awhile, it was good to hear their report and

know about the great things happening in their hospital. Betty Caffey

attended her first district meeting in her new position as State Project

Chairman. She is hard at work already planning and developing ideas to

promote the state’s emphasis on diabetes. I am going to apologize to Betty

now, as I probably will not always remember to mention her new position

since I think of Betty as one of our District IV Presidents. Most of the

hospitals reported their current membership and it was interesting to find

we have approximately 1492 auxilians in our district and approximately

970 of this number are active. Atmore Community Hospital will host our

next district meeting and it will be held Wednesday, April 28th.

Since Kay Weiss and I are on the Program Committee for our

Fall Conference in Mobile in October, we have begun to work with Beverly

Commander on programs. I hope all auxilians in District IV have marked

their calendars and are planning to attend - remember the dates will be

October 17-20, 2010 at the Renaissance Riverview Plaza Hotel.

Reported by: Alice Hinger, District IV

District III Wedowee Hospital Auxiliary

During the Christmas season, the Wedowee Hospital Auxil-

iary decorated the lobby of the hospital, all of the patient room doors

and the clinic. Each patient received a tray favor on Christmas Day.

Auxiliary members enjoyed getting into the Christmas spirit and spread-

ing joy.

The Auxiliary purchased two bookcases, one for the clinic and

one for the emergency room area of the hospital. One of the bookcases

was built by one of our auxilians.

On February 15th, the auxiliary board members will host an

appreciation lunch for all hospital staff, the clinic staff and auxiliary

members. The menu will consist of a variety of homemade soups, sand-

wiches and desserts.

The auxiliary awarded two scholarships in February to

Christi Benefield and Paige Richardson. The auxiliary will award two

more scholarships in May, at which time all four recipients will be recog-

nized at the auxiliary annual luncheon.

Our next jewelry sale will be March 11th & 12th. The auxil-

iary is looking forward to this next fund raiser.

Volunteering is “Giving of One’s Self”

The more one gives,

The Greater the Reward!

District IV


13

AROUND THE STATE

District IV USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital Auxiliary USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital recently announced some BIG “small” news! The hospital held a press conference in December to announce that the smallest surviving baby, possibly in the world*, is a patient of the hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Born in August weighing 259 grams (approx. 8.6 oz.), the tiny infant’s health is progressing well and the baby is expected to go home in a few weeks (she's a triplet!). More than 10 volunteers offer their time each week in the NICU, helping the staff and families and loving on those babies! *Based on archived news reports and the University of Iowa's "Tiniest Babies" Web site, http://www.medicine.uiowa.edu/tiniestbabies/, this baby beats the current record holder by one gram. Our Gift Shoppe manager, Ashley Key, and DVS, Belinda Baggett, returned from January’s Atlanta market with wonderful new items. The first display of new merchandise to go up in the shop was one of collegiate items to celebrate Alabama’s victory in the 2010 BCS National Championship. Our buyers also brought back colorful spring belts, purses, and jewelry. The Auxiliary held its annual Holiday Extravaganza on November 13 featuring on-site monogramming, holiday uni-forms, Priesters Pecans, BarCon boutique bags and jewelry, and holiday gift items from our own Gift Shoppe. Pic-tured lending a helping hand at the event is Sally Witt, Auxiliary Parliamentarian.

Celebrations… We celebrated the much anticipated arrival of our Board Treasurer John Oldal’s twin grand-daughters! John will have a special picture to share with his girls… On November 6, John met royalty when Miss America 2009 Katie Stam visited the Hospital. Miss Stam is the National Goodwill Ambassador for Children's Miracle Network. The Installation of New Officers was held on at our October Auxil-

iary Board meeting. Pictured (left to right) holding their symbolic fall foliage is Betty Caffey-president, Sally Witt- parliamentarian, Louise Matheson- corresponding secretary, Evelyn Olaya- 2nd VP, Gladys Morgan- recording secretary and John Oldal- treasurer (not pictured- Amanda Smith- VP/fundraising). Evelyn Olaya and I were fortunate to attend the ACHA Fall conference in Montgomery on Oct. 4-7. There was so much relevant information delivered at the event, which we shared with our board and members as soon as we returned! I am excited to be able to work on the ACHA state project for 2009-2010 which focuses on diabetes awareness and education. At USACWH, the Auxiliary is developing and will fund a brochure and an infant bib with a naturally sweet theme to be presented at monthly new parent education classes. Please send me any up-dates on your Auxiliary’s state project initiative for diabetes so we may exchange ideas with all Auxiliaries. At January’s District IV Auxil-iary Mtg. in Monroeville and at the ACHA Board Meeting in Montgomery on Jan. 20th, I collected and shared information about your current diabetes projects.

Current Volunteers: Teenage-25; College: 48; Adult: 36 : Nov. 2009 - Jan 2010 Volunteer Hours: 3,587 Submitted by Betty Caffey, USACWH Auxiliary President

Thoughts and Prayers… were extended to Auxiliary Board members, Gladys Morgan, for the recent loss of her sister and Betty Caffey, for the loss of her brother. Volunteer Services mourned the passing of a dedicated volunteer, Clara Bracey, who served as a greeter in the hospital’s imagining center. Get well wishes go out to Auxiliary Board members- Amanda Smith and Sally Witt.

Providence Hospital Auxiliary

Providence Hospital celebrated its 25th annual tree lighting on December 3rd. There were over 1450 lights on the tree. The Most Reverend

Archbishop Thomas J. Rodi blessed the tree and entertainment was provided by the Sweet Adelines, the MGM High School Chorus and Val Early, pianist.

Our volunteers provided the refreshments.

On Christmas Day, a group of four volunteers and Santa Claus made rounds through the hospital, giving each patient a gift and balloon. The

patients and staff were thrilled and we handed our almost 200 gifts.

Karen Dixon, our Volunteer Coordinator, was honored as one of the Healthcare Heroes for the Southwest

Alabama Regional Hospital Council. Karen took heroic actions when one of our very dependable volunteers did not

show up for her shift. She went to Mrs. Patsy’s home, discovered she had suffered a stroke and brought her into the

Emergency Room. We applaud Karen for this award and her dedicated service to our Auxiliary.

This year, 2010, our Auxiliary celebrates its 60th Anniversary. We’re making plans for our celebration!


14

AROUND THE STATE

District IV

USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital Auxiliary

The USA Medical Center Auxiliary completed the end of the

2009 year activities with their Annual Tree Lighting Cere-

mony that was very successful. The involvement of the Ad-

ministrators, employees, the presence of a charter member

and a youth choir (Mobile Inter Parish) made the occasion a

memorable event. The year end board meeting and luncheon

included the Hospital Administrator, Mr. Elmer Sellers who

thanked the board and volunteers for all they do to make the

hospital holidays special for visitors and patients.

At the Auxiliary’s first meeting of the year a new board

member was welcomed, Mrs. Mary Stevenson. Board re-

cruitment is still a high priority for the Auxiliary.

The Auxiliary is proud to showcase one of their dedicated

volunteers, Mrs. Elsie Kersh, a native of Chicago, Illinois.

Prior to retirement Mrs. Kersh worked with an Urologists

group in the Insurance Department. She began volunteering

at the Medical Center in August, 1990. She is married to

Claude Kersh who is active with the Waterfront Rescue

Mission in Mobile. They are the parents of two (2) daughters

and the grandparents of five (5).

Mrs. Kersh works in the Emergency Room of the Medical

Center. Her assigned job involves folding linens, making sure

the linens are available when needed for new patients. How-

ever, Mrs. Elsie enjoys being available to respond to patients

to provide a blanket or sheet to keep them comfortable while

waiting for treatment. She has been faithful in her duties for

the twenty (20) years of volunteering. She enjoys sharing

information about her experiences and activities when not

volunteering. Because of Mrs. Elsie’s pleasant demeanor, the

patients and staff are happy to have her in ER.

Erica Pleasant, Nursing Student,

Katherine Harrelson, RN,

Mrs. Elsie Kersh

` and Bryan Bates, RN

Thomas Hospital Auxiliary recognizes Volunteer of the

Quarter

FAIRHOPE, ALA – Thomas Hospital recognized Alice Hinger

as its most recent Volunteer of the Quarter, an award given to active

members of the Thomas Hospital Auxiliary.

Hinger began volunteering at Thomas Hospital in 1998 in the

Thomas Hospital Gift Shop and the Thomas Medical Center Surgery

Waiting Area. She served as the Thomas Hospital Auxiliary president

from October 2005 to September 2007. Hinger currently volunteers at the information

desk and serves as fund raising chairperson for the Thomas Hospital Auxiliary. She also

represents Thomas Hospital as the District 4 chairperson for the Alabama Council of

Hospital Auxiliaries, an affiliate of the Alabama Hospital Association.

Prior to volunteering, Hinger worked as an executive secretary and then as a

school teacher for 20 years. She and her husband Carl, who is also an Auxilian, live in

Spanish Fort. They have been married for 58 years, and have three children and five

grandchildren.

Thomas Hospital Auxilians interested in nominating their fellow Auxilians for

Volunteer of the Quarter are encouraged to complete a nomination form, which is located

in Auxiliary office. Nominations for the March through May 2010 award must be re-

ceived by mid-February.

Thomas Hospital Auxiliary offers health career scholarships

to Baldwin County residents FAIRHOPE, AL – Every spring the Thomas Hospital Auxiliary offers health career

scholarships to Baldwin County residents who are pursuing a degree in the healthcare field.

Scholarship applicants must be currently enrolled in a healthcare program at an accredited college or university. Any student who is a junior pursing a bachelor’s degree or is in the last

year of an associate’s degree program will also be considered. In addition, graduate and medi-

cal students may be eligible for scholarships after they have completed their undergraduate studies and have been accepted to a health-related program. Selection of the scholarship recipi-

ents is based on the applicants’ grades, financial need and community involvement. Scholarship applications are available in the Thomas Hospital Auxiliary of-fice. Completed applications and letters of reference must be postmarked no later than May 3. Photos of the applicants are requested. The Thomas Hospital Auxiliary will an-

nounce the scholarship recipients in June.

Health career scholarships awarded by the Thomas Hospital Auxiliary are made

possible through proceeds from the Tree of Lights, an annual Christmas fundraiser sponsored by the Auxiliary, and monies made from the donations of used books to the Thomas Hospital

Auxiliary. Used paperback and hardback books in good condition that are donated to the Tho-

mas Hospital Auxiliary are resold in the Thomas Hospital Gift Shop and Thomas Medical Center Snack Shop.

Auxilian Lorene Graves is serving as Thomas Hospital Auxiliary Health Career Scholarship Committee Chairperson. Sharon Faust and Barbara Davis are serving as co-

chairpersons of the committee. For more information about the scholarship or to have an appli-

cation sent through the mail, please call Lorene Graves at 929-2592.

Pictured reviewing the Thomas Hospital Auxil-

iary’s Health Career Scholarship Fund applica-

tion are Health Career Scholarship Fund commit-

tee chairperson Lorene Graves (sitting, center),

committee members Sharon Faust (sitting, left)

and Barbara Davis (sitting, right). Looking on are

(standing left to right) Thomas Hospital Auxiliary

President Ken Graves and Thomas Hospital’s

Manager of Volunteer Services Melita Willkie.

Thomas Hospital Auxiliary hosts Christmas party

FAIRHOPE, AL -- The Thomas Hospital Auxiliary celebrated

the holiday season with a Christmas party for its

members on December 8 at the James P. Nix

Center in Fairhope. Thomas Hospital Food Ser-

vices provided refreshments and holiday music

was performed. For more information about joining the Thomas Hospital Auxiliary, please call 279-1686.


15

ACHA Officers and Committees 2009-2010

Chairman Sharon Farst Bryan Whitfield Memorial Hospital Demopolis, AL 334-289-8518

Chair Elect Billie Simpson Marshall Medical Center North Arab, AL 256-931-6840

Historian Fran Brazeal DCH Regional Medical Center Northport, AL 205-339-3094

Newsletter Don & Sarajane Pugh DCH Regional Medical Center Tuscaloosa, AL 205-462-3374

Gift Shop Patricia Henry Marshall Medical Center North Arab, AL 256-586-8416

Program Beverly Commander Wedowee Hospital Lineville, AL 256-396-2446

AlaHa/ACHA Liaison Teresa Stubblefield AlaHA Montgomery, AL 1-800-489-2542

District I Chair Diane Butler Marshall Medical Center North Guntersville, AL 256-571-8010

Dist. I Vice Chair Tom Guyton Decatur General Hospital Hartselle, AL 256-773-5300

Dist. II Chair Judy Clark St. Vincent’s East Trussville, AL 205-655-5467

Dist. II Vice Chair Ann Willard DCH Regional Medical Center Tuscaloosa, AL 205-553-3974

Dist. III Chair Tamar Lisenby East Alabama Medical Center Opelika, AL 334-749-6828

Dist. III Vice Chair Julie Hill Medical Center Barbour Eufaula, AL 334-616-0452

Dist. IV Chair Alice Hinger Thomas Hospital Spanish Fort, AL 251-626-9697

Dist. IV Vice Chair Kay Weiss Providence Hospital Mobile, AL 251-460-2898

Appointed Committees:

Nominating - Julie Gillespie, Billie Simpson, Tom Guyton, Ann Willard, Kay Weiss, Julie Hill

Budget - Billie Simpson, Alice Hinger, Tamar Lisenby, Ann Willard

Project - Betty Caffey

Program - Beverly Commander, Alice Hinger, Kay Weiss, Judy Clark

By-laws - Judy Clark, Dean McCormack

Web Page - Janice Gillespie

Historian - Fran Brazeal

Gift Shop - Patricia Henry

Newsletter - Don & Sarajane Pugh

Awards - Fran Brazeal, Tamar Lisenby, Diane Butler, Betty Caffey, Tom Guyton


16

Don & Sarajane Pugh, Editors

The Communicator, ACHA

762 Cambridge Lane

Tuscaloosa, AL 35406

April 29 April 29 -- May 1 May 1 SDVSHO ConferenceSDVSHO Conference Westin Peachtree Hotel, Atlanta, GAWestin Peachtree Hotel, Atlanta, GA

October 17 October 17 -- 20 20 ACHA Fall ConferenceACHA Fall Conference Renaissance Riverview Plaza, Mobile, ALRenaissance Riverview Plaza, Mobile, AL

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Documents

The Communicator - Alabama Hospital Association - Betty Caffee, Project Chair-man; and Don & Sarajane Pugh, Newsletter Co-Chairmen. Finan-cial issues were also addressed with the positive