Edition 11

Construction Update:

Yesterday, the construction zone was expanded to include another chunk of the hallway on the first floor of the St. Martins building. This will take mammo and x-ray offline for now, but the construction crew is working to get those areas back on as soon as possible. The radiology crew is working from the second floor and the radiologist will be in the Verbeck building. Although not directly related to our construction we also have cooling systems in a few buildings that are struggling right now. The East EC and hospital units are having trouble. Maintenance is working on keeping us cool as possible.

Employee Satisfaction Survey:

I wanted to remind and encourage everyone to take our annual employee satisfaction survey. Available Here.

I value your feedback and want to ensure that our workplace is the best it can be for everyone. By taking a few moments to complete the annual satisfaction survey, you’ll provide valuable insights that help us improve our policies, work environment, and overall employee experience. Your voice matters, and we’re committed to listening and making positive changes based on your input.

Lunches and Breaks:

If you work in a hospital patient care function, there are new L&I interpretations about breaks and lunches that are effective with this payroll. The biggest change is a requirement for scheduling the breaks, which, unfortunately, can remove some of the flexibility. Department leads will be communicating the changes but if you have any questions, reach out to HR.

We want to ensure all employees get their breaks on time and uninterrupted. Given the nature of our work that isn’t always possible, but it is a priority for me that we strive to be as close to 100% as we can.

Kim Jacobs & Noreen:

I just passed my seven-year anniversary at NVH, which is crazy to think about how fast that time has flown by. Reflecting on my journey, two people, in particular, stood out as NVH's champions: Noreen and Kim. Their dedication and passion have been truly inspiring, and it's hard to imagine my time here without their presence.

Noreen and Kim have been pillars of strength and support, making a significant impact on all of us. Noreen's unwavering commitment and Kim's boundless energy have shaped the very essence of our work environment. Their contributions have been invaluable, not just to me but to everyone who has had the privilege of working alongside them.

As Noreen prepares for her well-deserved retirement, celebrated her last week with us, and Kim, who embarks on her retirement journey next month, I find it even harder to picture NVH without their guiding presence. Best of luck to both of you and enjoy retirement!

Family:

One friction point in my marriage is what my wife describes as an “inability to wait.” She is particularly bothered by my habit of telling her I want to leave the house at 8 but then asking her at 7 if she is ready to go. Whether it is starting a project, starting a drive, or starting a meal, I seem to always be in a hurry.

A few weekends ago I was in Puyallup helping my dad lay down new decking. (Nephew Wade helped out also). The night before, I checked in with my dad and brother about what time on Saturday morning we wanted to start. We agreed on 830. You can imagine my surprise when the sound of the saw running woke me up just after 6.

I’m not sure it will help my wife at all, but I’m encouraged to know that my personality flaw is, in fact, inherited.