Newton Memorial Hospital honors employees

ANDOVER-At a recent gathering celebrating the service of Newton Memorial Hospital employees, 345 people gathered at Perona Farms to dance, dine, and recieve recognition for their work. Dennis H. Collette, President and CEO of Newton Memorial Hospital, was Master of Ceremonies, assisted by Thomas E. Digby, MD, Chairman of the Board of Directors. Mary Jane Wetherby, president of the Auxiliary, presented the awards, which are given after every five years of an employee's service. Jean Smolha, Director of Diagnostic and Pharmaceutical Services, was recognized as the employee having the longest service record (44 years) but will not receive an award until next year when she reaches the 45-year mark and her ninth 5-year award. Kay Kidd received an award for 12,000 hours of volunteer service to Newton Memorial Hospital. Ellen Courtright was the first nurse at Newton Memorial Hospital when it opened its doors in 1932 and now serves as a volunteer. She was recognized for her 4000 hours, and crowd gave her a standing ovation as she received her award. President Collette said, "I am very happy in my role as Master of Ceremonies tonight. It is great to see these wonderful people letting their hair down and relaxing from their very difficult jobs. Tonight is the hospital's gift to our employees and volunteers. This is a once-a-year event which is happily funded by Newton Memorial as a ‘thank you' for work well done." The planner and organizer for this event was Donna Poyer, Employment Coordinator, who was assisted by co-workers.