Grinnell Rotary Donates $14,000 to GRMC

“Cruisin’ the Hits: Part II”, the March production by Shults & Co., netted more than $14,000 for Grinnell Regional Medical Center from ticket sales and program advertising. Since 1995, the Grinnell Rotary Club has partnered with Shults & Co. to raise and contribute more than $85,000 to local organizations and projects.

This year’s contribution to GRMC is being supplemented with a $2,500 grant from Rotary District 6000 and Rotary International, and a Community Service Award contribution from the Monsanto Company on behalf of Shults & Co. singer and Monsanto employee, Jerry Lane; making the total gift the largest in the 20-year fundraising partnership. The Rotary contribution to GRMC will be used to purchase equipment for the laboratory and the GRMC Auxiliary Chemotherapy and Infusion Suite. The gift honors long-time member and past Rotary president, Gregg Hawkins, director of the GRMC lab.

“We are grateful to Grinnell Rotary and Shults & Co. for supporting GRMC again this year.  The funds raised by the show make a difference in the lives of GRMC patients,” said Todd Linden, GRMC president and CEO. “This is wonderful example of the benefits of local philanthropy in making awesome facilities available for the benefit of our community.”

Throughout the past 20 years, the Grinnell Rotary Club has sponsored the biennial musical production, co-directed by Frank and Sherry Shults, to raise funds for the club’s many and varied projects. The Shultses and their team of singers and musicians perform the musical revues in the Voertman Community Theatre, all with local talent and volunteers.

“Sherry and I are always proud and feel fortunate to be in a community that supports the hospital so strongly. GRMC has meant a lot to us as a family and we are proud to donate the proceeds of our Shults & Co. efforts to the medical center,” says Frank Shults. “This show’s profits, added to the proceeds from our last show, bring our total contribution to the hospital, through Rotary, to nearly $27,000.  An oncology bay in the GRMC Auxiliary Chemotherapy and Infusion Suite was recently named in honor of Grinnell Rotary and Shults & Co.” 

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PHOTO: The Grinnell Rotary Club presented a check to GRMC to support the laboratory and chemotherapy suite. From left; Sarah Smith, a GRMC board member; David Ness, vice-president of operations at GRMC; Sherry Shults, co-director of Shults & Co.; Denise Lamphier, director of communications and development; Frank Shults, co-director of Shults & Co., and Lowell Bunger, Grinnell Rotary p

SE*ED: What You Need to Know About Rheumatology

Rheumatology is a medical sub-specialty that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of rheumatic illnesses such as arthritis and osteoporosis. The field of rheumatology involves diseases of the joints, muscles and bones, as well as disorders of the immune system.

Eman Boulis, MD, will be the featured speaker at the Monday, May 11, Grinnell Regional Medical Center SE*ED program. Boulis will present, “What You Need to Know About Rheumatology,” an overview of this field of medicine. Boulis is a visiting physician seeing patients at GRMC.

Boulis is certified by the American Boards of Rheumatology and Internal Medicine. She completed an internship and residency in internal medicine in Pennsylvania and a fellowship in rheumatology at the University of Mississippi, Jackson, where she was an affiliated staff.

She has published research on lupus and osteoporosis and has experience in the diagnosis and management of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, bursitis, carpal tunnel, and joint and muscle pain, among other conditions and treatments.

The program is free and open to the public at the Drake Community Library. Refreshments are served beginning at 9:30 a.m. and the program begins at 10 a.m. No reservations are needed. Donations are accepted.

There will be no program on May 18 due to Grinnell College Commencement. The public is welcome and encouraged to attend commencement exercises at the college. Additionally, Monday, May 25, is Memorial Day and the library will be closed for the holiday.

Parking is available at the Drake Community Library, along Park Street, on Fifth Avenue, and in the First Presbyterian Church parking lot.

Seniors needing transportation may call GRMC Communications and Development, 641-236-2593, by Thursday before the program.

If you are a person with a disability who requires special assistance,

please call 641-236-2593. For more information about upcoming speakers please check GRMC’s website at www.grmc.us or call 641-236-2954.

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SE*ED: Respiratory Therapy: The Basics of COPD

Respiratory therapists provide a wide variety of healthcare services for patients, most typically in a hospital setting. From administering oxygen, breathing treatments, to measuring lung capacity, respiratory therapist serve an important role on any healthcare team.

Jodie Coursey, RT, a member of Grinnell Regional Medical Center’s respiratory therapy department, will present, “Respiratory Therapy: The Basics of COPD,” at the GRMC SE*ED program on Monday, May 4.

The program is free and open to the public at the Drake Community Library. Refreshments are served beginning at 9:30 a.m. and the program begins at 10 a.m. No reservations are needed. Donations are accepted.

Looking forward on the schedule, Eman Boulis, MD, will present, “What You Need to Know about Rheumatology” on Monday, May 11. There will be no program on May 18 due to Grinnell College Commencement. The public is welcome and encouraged to attend commencement exercises at the college. Additionally, Monday, May 25, is Memorial Day and the library will be closed for the holiday.

Parking is available at the Drake Community Library, along Park Street, on Fifth Avenue, and in the First Presbyterian Church parking lot.

Seniors needing transportation may call GRMC Communications and Development, 641-236-2593 by Thursday before the program.

If you are a person with a disability who requires special assistance, please call 641-236-2593. For more information about upcoming speakers, please check GRMC’s website at www.grmc.us or call 641-236-2954.

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USDA Awards Loan to T.I.P Rural Electric for GRMC

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the 2015 recipients of the zero-interest loans for economic development and Brooklyn’s T.I.P. Rural Electric Cooperative was chosen for a $300,000 award. T.I.P.’s application sought funds for the Grinnell Regional Medical Center’s emergency room renovations.

The funding is being provided through USDA’s Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant (REDLG) program. Through the REDLG program, the USDA provides zero-interest loans and grants to utilities that lend funds to local businesses for projects to create and retain employment in rural areas. These revolving loan funds broaden the program’s reach and create a multiplier effect for its impact. Eligible applicants are USDA Rural Utilities Service borrowers.

“The cooperative had been looking for the right project to make this loan application and the GRMC emergency department renovation was the perfect opportunity,” says Larry Boesenberg, general manager, T.I.P. Rural Electric Cooperative. “This is a win-win for both organizations. The board members of the cooperative approved the additional $60,000 loan match requirement toward the hospital’s renovations. GRMC will receive a zero-interest loan for $360,000, paid back over 10 years. We are committed to improvements that benefit our members. The cooperative will be able to take the funds repaid by GRMC’s loan and create a revolving loan fund for other programs or services needed in our service area.”

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the award of $31 million in loans and grants for organizations in Iowa and 11 other states to promote rural economic development. When making the announcement Vilsack explained, “These infrastructure investments will help rural residents start or expand businesses. The funds can be used for a wide range of needs.”

“The renovations to the ED and creation of a new urgent care clinic are major components of our strategic plan, costing $2.3 million,” says Todd C. Linden, GRMC president and CEO. “We have already raised $1 million, so we created the Manatt Family Urgent Care. After completion of the urgent care clinic, we have $750,000 available toward the $1.9 million needed for the emergency department renovations. Of these funds, $546,616 was raised from the Blueprint for Health and special events. This loan is definitely a shot in the arm toward our goal to make improvements in the GRMC emergency department.

“GRMC has been cautious about adding debt to fund renovations. We count on philanthropy to bridge gap from subpar reimbursement rates so that the community has access to excellent healthcare services. This loan program is another example of the amazing community support for GRMC to meet the needs of area residents,” Linden says.

“I also feel this shows the value of cooperatives in communities like Brooklyn. Iowa came together as a state with a cooperative spirit, valuing the importance of working together for a common good,” Linden says. “We want to thank the board of directors at T.I.P. Rural Electric Cooperative for their loan of $60,000 in addition to the USDA economic development loan of $300,000. This makes funds accessible to the hospital for our project and those funds stay in the community. It’s good for the local economy and for the hospital.”

T.I.P. Rural Electric Cooperative is a member-customer providing electric service to over 6,300 meters and over 1,765 miles of line. It is a progressive utility serving customers in Tama, Iowa, Poweshiek, Keokuk, Benton, Mahaska, Jefferson, Johnson, Wapello and Washington Counties. T.I.P. Rural Electric Cooperative is a true cooperative, organized June 1, 1938. It is headquartered in Brooklyn, Iowa, and is a private, non–profit electric utility owned by the members it serves; and was established to provide reliable electric service at the lowest possible cost.

Since the beginning of the Obama Administration, the REDLG program has helped create or save more than 32,000 rural jobs, provided almost $338 million in economic development assistance, improved manufacturing capability, expanded healthcare and educational facilities and helped expand or establish almost 1,200 rural businesses and community projects.

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Todd Linden to Receive AHA Board of Trustees Award

The American Hospital Association (AHA) announced that Todd Linden, president and CEO of Grinnell Medical Center, will be awarded its 2015 Board of Trustees Award. The award is presented to individuals or groups who have made substantial and noteworthy contributions to the work of the AHA. Linden will receive the award at a ceremony at the AHA Annual Membership Meeting on Monday, May 4, in Washington, D.C.

“Todd’s voice advocating for the nation’s hospitals is instrumental to the AHA,” said AHA President and CEO Rich Umbdenstock. “He is looked upon by his peers across America as one of the strongest leaders for rural and small community hospitals and health systems. 

Linden has served as the CEO of Grinnell Regional Medical Center since 1995. He is credited for influencing state and federal healthcare issues.

“Todd has worked diligently through the years to influence positive change for our medical center and community through his advocacy efforts.  He has an in-depth understanding of the complex healthcare industry and his efforts have helped create a better healthcare system locally, and nationally," says Todd L. Reding, GRMC Board of Directors chair.  "We are proud of Todd and his accomplishments. This is a well-deserved award after more than 20 years of service."

Linden’s insight on small and rural hospitals has made him a valuable participant in AHA governance and advocacy. He currently serves on the boards of AHA SmartMarket, Health Forum and AHA Services, as well as on the AHA Operations Committee. Previously, Linden served on the boards of the Coalition to Protect America’s Health Care and the Center for Healthcare Governance. He served on the AHA Board of Trustees for five years, acting as a liaison to the Section for Small or Rural Hospitals. Additionally, he chaired the task force on a Patient’s Bill of Rights.

Linden has a national profile. He has testified in the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate as well as at a teleconference with President Clinton and in a meeting with President Obama on healthcare issues. He also served on the National Rural Advisory Committee for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Appointed to several state assignments, Linden served as the chair of the Iowa Telemedicine Advisory Council. He currently serves on the Grinnell College board of trustees and the University of Iowa College of Public Health advisory board. He also is an adjunct faculty member at the University of Iowa. He received a master’s degree in health administration and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Iowa and is a fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives.

R. Timothy Rice, chief executive officer emeritus, Cone Health System in Greensboro, N.C., also will receive the 2015 Board of Trustees Award.

For a list of all awardees, view the AHA release at http://www.aha.org/presscenter/pressrel/2015/150407-pr-summary.shtml

About the AHA

The AHA is a not-for-profit association of health care provider organizations and individuals that are committed to the health improvement of their communities. The AHA is the national advocate for its members, which include nearly 5,000 hospitals, health care systems, networks, other providers of care and 43,000 individual members. Founded in 1898, the AHA provides education for health care leaders and is a source of information on health care issues and trends. For more information, visit the AHA website at www.aha.org.

Area Third Graders to Receive Bike Helmets

GRMC, the GRMC medical staff, area businesses, and individuals will work together to prevent head-injuries by giving 541 new bicycle helmets to third grader in the GRMC service area this year.

“If you have wheels under your feet, have a helmet on your head.” These words should echo in the heads of all youth after they have received their free bicycle helmet. Each year since 1996, Grinnell Regional Medical Center and the Grinnell Regional Medical Staff have organized and distributed a free bike helmet to third graders in the GRMC service area. Bikes to You owner, Craig Cooper, along with various members of area businesses and supporters have provided a brief educational presentation to the students about safety at the time of the helmet distribution.

“Our mission each year is to prevent children from experiencing head trauma,” says Holly Pettlon, GRMC wellness specialist and this year’s coordinator. “We use a two-prong approach of education and giving them the equipment to protect their heads. Parents and peers play a key role in encouraging and requiring the kids to wear those helmets. It’s a life-long practice that saves lives.”

Helmets will be given to students in 12 school covering – BGM, Central Iowa Christian Academy, East Marshall, Green Mountain Garwin (GMG), Grinnell/Newburg, Lynnville/Sully, Meskwaki Settlement, Montezuma, North Mahaska, Sully Christian, South Tama, and Victor (HLV).

Financial supporters of the bike helmet distribution raised more than $4,500 for the helmets. Contributors, along with GRMC and the GRMC Medical staff, include Ahrens Park Foundation, Cirks Financial Services, Garwin Ambulance Service, Grinnell Elks Lodge, Grinnell Mutual Reinsurance Company, Grinnell State Bank, Kiwanis Club of Grinnell, Denise Lamphier and Charlie Clements, Lions Club of Sully, Love Our Kids, Adam and Jamin Manatt, Medicap Pharmacy – Kevin and Jennifer Stallman, Sisters in Service Club, Warren Reinecke, State Bank of Toledo, University of Iowa Community Credit Union, and Vannoy Chevrolet –Doug and Debra VerMeer.

If you are interested in supporting this program, contact Denise Lamphier, GRMC director of communications and development, at 641-236-2589 or dlamphier@grmc.us.

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2015 Distribution Dates:

BGM Elementary, Monday, May 4

Central Iowa Christian Academy, Friday, May 15

East Marshall Elementary, Friday, May 1,

Grinnell-Newburg Davis Elementary, Friday, May 15

HLV Elementary, Monday, May 4

Lynnville/Sully Elementary, Friday, May 8

Meskwaki Settlement, Friday, May 8

Montezuma Elementary, Tuesday, May 5

North Mahaska Elementary, Tuesday, May 5

South Tama County Elementary, Friday, May 8

Sully Christian School, Friday, May 8 

PWA Fitness Center

Paul W. Ahrens Fitness Center staff will begin offering open exercise time for its members in the F.A. Jones Physical and Occupational Therapy Center, beginning Monday, April 27. This is available only to fitness center members and GRMC employees.

The early morning exercise time is 6 to 8 a.m. as well as 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Monday through Friday.

“We have a small group of members who prefer exercising in the Ahrens Medical Arts Building because they feel safer with supervision and closer proximity to the hospital,” says Chad Nath, GRMC wellness services director. “We decided to offer this small satellite exercise option to our members, especially those dedicated individuals who want to work out and have mobility limitations. GRMC’s fitness center is predicated on the idea that everyone can exercise and we want to create facilities that welcome all.” 

Staff from wellness, physical therapy, and occupational therapy will be in the area during these times to oversee individuals who exercise in the Ahrens Medical Arts Building.

For information about the Paul W. Ahrens Fitness Center call 641-236-2999 or find it on the web at http://www.grmc.us/services/wellness-services. 

Couch to 5K in Nine Weeks

Grinnell Regional Medical Center will offer a free training program to help area residents build the stamina to complete a 5K walk or run. The Couch to 5K program kicks off on Monday, April 13, and will run for nine weeks. The program will successfully prepare participants to complete the 5K at the Grinnell Games on June 13.

The Couch to 5K training group will be held Mondays and Wednesdays, beginning at 5:15 p.m. at the PWA Fitness Center, 824 Commercial.  Initially, classes will run for 30 minutes but will increase in length as the individuals build stamina and strength. The program is open to anyone in the community and free. Individuals progress at their own pace and build strength to reach their own goals.

Grab a friend and come have fun while building the strength to complete a 5K. The culmination of the class coincides with the week of the Grinnell Games, June 12-13.

Please register for this free class by calling the GRMC Wellness Center at 641-236-2999.