...in the news
30th Anniversary Holiday Party Highlights
We wrapped up an extraordinary year with a memorable celebration at our holiday party, marking not only the joy of the season but also honoring our 30-year journey. Held on Saturday, Dec. 14th at the Ashore Resort & Beach Club in Ocean City, the evening was filled with warmth, camaraderie, and well-deserved recognition.
Our CEO, Brian Holland, started the evening by sharing a short video showcasing interviews with our team members reflecting on our 30-year history. It was truly a touching reminder of how far we’ve come and the incredible journey we continue to embark upon together. (You can watch the video on our YouTube channel here: https:// bit.ly/CHC30Years)
It was heartwarming to watch the presentation of awards to our outstanding colleagues who exemplify excellence and dedication. Congratulations to our incredible award winners:
Employee of the Year: Leisa Reid, Lead Medical Assistant at Woodbrooke OB/GYN
Most Dedicated Team Player Award: Douglas King, PRP Worker at Healthway Drive; Niya Black, Dental Assistant Supervisor at PA Dental; Brandon Bailey, Pharmacy Finance Analyst at Delmarva Pharmacy; Amy Massey, Clinical Manager at S. Division St.; Kelly Sturgis, Phlebotomist at Pocomoke Peds; and Vera McGowan, RN at Woodbrooke OB/GYN.
Heart of Gold Award: Shannon Wright, Clinical Manager at Woodbrooke Adult; Alma Moreira, Translator at Healthway Drive; Kerri Lambert, Therapist at Healthway Drive; Rebecca Taylor, Dental Administrative Revenue Specialist; and Lillian Ballard, CRNP at PMD Pediatrics.
Customer Service Star Award: Fay Palmer, Receptionist at Corporate; Francina Jones, Certified Application Counselor; and Jamie Webster, Director of IT.
Team Spirit Award: Mallory McIntyre, RN at Woodbrooke Adult and Dana Malone, Controller at Corporate.
Sunshine Spirit Award: Anita Jackson, Human Resources Coordinator at Corporate.
We also honored our Longest Serving Employees: Robin Holden, LPN at PA Adult (27 years); Tricia Sterling, CRNA at PA Peds (23 years); Dr. Melinda Maranan, Pediatrician at PMD Peds (22 years); Michelle Wegt, MA at PA Mental Health (20 years); Paulette Collins, Front Desk Supervisor at PA Adult (20 years); Joshua Boston, COO (20 years), and Nicole Krasner, Therapist at Healthway Drive (20 years).
Feel free to download and share these wonderful memories. It’s such a joy to see everyone’s smiling faces and the genuine warmth of our team coming together for this special celebration. Please visit https://bit.ly/ CHCHoliday2025 to access the entire photo gallery.
Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to making this event a resounding success. Here’s to many more years of growth, collaboration, and success at Chesapeake Health Care.
Leisa Reid was presented with the Employee of the Year Award. Pictured here are Josh Boston, COO; Jennifer Swanton, CFO; Nancy Baker, CNO; Leisa Reid, Lead Medical Assistant; Dr. Lee Jennings, CMO; and Brian Holland, CEO.
2024 Holiday Trees
Holiday Tree Decorating Contest Winners Announced
There was solid competition this year, as each site decorated their holiday tree with creativity and imagination. Some sites chose to use more traditional decorations, while others decided to decorate with a whimsical theme.
Kristi Carmean, Anita Jackson, and Kelsea Mathis from our HR Department visited each site to judge the trees. These winning sites will each be receiving a pizza party! Enjoy the photos of all our trees on the following page.
WINNER: Berlin Crisis Center – Home Alone
WINNER: Princess Anne OB/GYNAdult – Gingerbread
WINNER: Riverside Mental Health – Candyland
WINNER: Woodbrooke Adult – Winter Wonderland
2024 Holiday Trees
Tree Sap Admin. Support
Berlin Main Mental Health Berlin Main Medical Corporate: Rachell Connelly
Delmarva Pharmacy S. Division Street
PA Pharmacy
PMD Peds
Pocomoke Medical
Princess Anne Medical
PA Dental
PA Mental Health
PA Peds
Woodbrooke OB/GYN
Winterplace
Healthway Dr.
Department News & Updates
Please welcome these new staff members who joined the Chesapeake Heath Care Team in December!
Carly Dittrich – Medical Assistant at Woodbrooke Adult
Kayla Beiler – Health Outreach Quality Coding Specialist at Tree Sap Admin
Carly Diehl – Dental Sterilization Aide at PA Dental
Rebecca Hall, LMSW – Therapist at Pocomoke MH
Terri Heywood – Medical Receptionist at Riverside Dr. MH
Swanzetta Perry – Medical Assistant at Woodbrooke Adult
Sydney Scharf – Dental Receptionist at PA Dental
Our Time Capsule is Sealed!
We’ve officially wrapped up our fantastic 30th anniversary year with a bang by sealing up our special time capsule! This capsule is more than just a collection of items it’s a snapshot of our journey from our early days in 1994 to where we stand proudly today.
Each site contributed their own unique items - from nostalgic photos and articles, to personal notes written by our staff. Each department included their unique flair, adding items like our 30th anniversary logo creations and awards that marked important milestones in our history.
And here’s the best part: the School-based Health Center Team took the prize for the best submission! They wowed us with a collection that included heartwarming photos and touching testimonials from their staff. As a reward, they’ve won lunch for their entire SBHC team! Way to go!
Brian Holland, our CEO, said, “This time capsule is more than just a box. It’s a unique testament to our growth,
Week Dec. 9, 2024 –
dedication, and commitment to community health.”
Our time capsule will be stored at our Princess Anne facility, awaiting its grand reveal on our 50th anniversary in 2044. It’s a symbol of our legacy, preserved for future generations of Chesapeake Health Care heroes.
Here’s a look at some of the items that are included in our special time capsule, to be opened in 2044!
Thank you to all our sites that submitted items for the time capsule! Here’s to many more years of making a difference in our community.
Orientation
Sydney Scharf, Rebecca Hall, Kayla Beiler, Carly Dittrich (middle), and Carly Diehl.
December Staff Kudos
Ajee Finney x2
Annette Barella x2
Erin Hollenbach
THANK YOU to everyone who goes out of their way to help others! If you would like to recognize someone for their hard work and dedication, please use this link: https:// forms.office.com/r/DRmFK535UW.
Lovett
Ariel Snell
Brittany Harmon Kyleigh Witter x2
Joe Guard Catina Davis
Katarina Todorov x3
Colleen Castro
Lillian Ballard Lyric Truitt Hughes
Stacey Gibson
Maranan
Cooper
McKenzie Dancy Shehzad Sajid Allyson Booker
Tyesha Parsons Troy Forse
Voshty Christopher
Berlin Crisis Center Savannah Poorman
Cheyenne White Brianna Trevillian
Crystal Roughton
Kelley Holloway PA Medical
Theresa Kenney Silawt Adeel David Bonhom x3
Ashley Mister
Christine Collins
Deirdrie Givens
Erin Rizia
Holly Smith
Janessa Soissan
Krystle Moorfield
Billy Ward Kyesha Brown
Corporate Cindy Spann
Anita Jackson Maria Vansant
Cynthia James
Josh Boston
Julie Houk x2
Robin Holden
Robin Iler
Tracy Grupp
Remember, a simple “thank you” goes a long way! Every day, there are individuals among us who go above and beyond to help others, whether it’s a colleague, patient, or someone in the community. It could be a small gesture or a significant effort that makes a difference.
If you’ve seen someone making an impact, no matter how big or small, let us know using this link: https://bit.ly/ CHCKudos. We’ll highlight the names of these individuals monthly in our newsletter and on a screensaver, and ensure
Lori Holland
Marcella Roenneburg
Marvella Joyner
Mary Rascona
Obdiel Dormelus
Patience Murray
that their efforts are recognized by their managers.
By taking a moment to appreciate each other, we not only boost morale but also create a culture where every contribution is valued. So, let’s celebrate the good work happening around us and spread positivity throughout our CHC family.
Thank you for all you do!
Healthy Living Corner
Welcome to this month’s Healthy Living Corner, where we celebrate health and wellness through practical tips and seasonal inspirations.
As we begin a new year, it’s the perfect time to renew our commitment to a healthier lifestyle. Let’s kick off 2025 with some ideas to promote well-being and vitality. Most of us will make some sort of New Year’s resolution in January. However, many people give up on their resolutions in the first two weeks of the year, often succumbing to what’s known as “Quitter’s Day” on the second Friday of January. To increase the likelihood of sticking to your resolutions, consider these strategies:
Strategies to Survive “Quitter’s Day”
Set Small Milestones: For instance, if your goal is to lose 20 pounds this year, break it down into smaller monthly goals of 1-2 pounds. Celebrate each milestone with a non -food reward, like treating yourself to a movie or a relaxing day at the spa.
Prioritize Sustainable Routines: Instead of committing to a drastic workout plan, prioritize daily activities you enjoy, like walking in nature or dancing to your favorite music. This sustainable approach makes it easier to stick with over time.
Embrace Lifestyle Changes: Shift from a goal of cutting out all sweets to incorporating more fruits into your diet. This adjustment not only helps manage cravings but also adds nutritional value to your meals.
Staying Motivated Throughout the Year
Visualize Success: Create a vision board with pictures of healthy meals, fitness activities you enjoy, and inspirational quotes. Place it where you’ll see it daily for a visual reminder of your goals.
Find Support: Join a local running group if your goal is to run a marathon, or start a healthy recipe exchange with friends to keep meal planning exciting and varied.
Reflect and Adjust: If your goal is to reduce stress, try different relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing until you find one that resonates with you.
By implementing these strategies, you can navigate “Quitter’s Day” and maintain momentum toward a healthier and happier year ahead. Remember, each small step you take brings you closer to your goals. Here’s to a successful and fulfilling 2025!
Recipe: Quinoa and Chickpea Salad with Lemon-Herb Dressing
Ingredients:
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper (any color), diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
For the Lemon-Herb Dressing:
Juice of 1 lemon
3 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
1 Tbs. honey or maple syrup (optional)
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Cook Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until quinoa is cooked and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it cool.
Prepare Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, parsley, and mint.
Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, honey or maple syrup (if using), minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Assemble Salad: Add cooled quinoa to the bowl of vegetables. Pour the lemonherb dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve: Divide the salad into bowls and garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy this refreshing and nutrient-packed salad as a satisfying meal or a side dish.
Tips: This salad can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's versatile and can be customized with other vegetables or protein sources like grilled chicken or tofu.
Birthdays & Anniversaries
Sallie Taylor – Jan. 2
Holly Green – Jan. 3
Jy’Asia Frazier – Jan. 4
Kacie Akers – Jan. 4
Stephanie Pinchback – Jan. 6
Darnaya Andrews – Jan. 7
Julie Houk – Jan. 7
Sydney Scharf – Jan. 8
Rhonda Jagdhuber – Jan. 9
Keyonia Dale – Jan. 9
Niya Black – Jan. 9
Savannah Poorman – Jan. 9
Binh Phan – Jan. 10
Rachel Thomas – Jan. 10
Tonya Silva – Jan. 11
Jamie Webster – Jan. 13
Carlie Bozman – Jan. 13
Lillie Glenn – Jan. 14
Paulette Collins 21 years
Joshua Boston – 20 years
Denise Lewis – 18 years
Luann Hampshire – 18 years
Jessica Clayton – 17 years
Lisa Doyle – 17 years
Angela Pruitt – 16 years
Maria Garde – 15 years
Ada Zant – 14 years
Stephanie Hewitt – 14 years
Kristin Werner – 14 years
Sharon Feliciano – 11 years
Alicia Perez – 11 years
Keleigh Merrill – 10 years
Tiffany Maddox – 8 years
Christie Brittingham – 8 years
Rosa Matos Mendoza – Jan. 15
Marvia Jenkins – Jan. 16
Bridgette Taylor – Jan. 17
Dawn Kelley – Jan. 18
Denise Conner – Jan. 18
Joshua Boston – Jan. 18
Madeline Parler – Jan. 25
Lisa Morton – Jan. 26
Maria Vieyra-Becerril – Jan. 26
Susanna Bechtel Boehs – Jan. 19
Veronica Purnell – Jan. 19
Andrew Carmine – Jan. 20
Mary Simpson – Jan. 20
LaShawna Trader – Jan. 21
Char’Myah Stanley – Jan. 22
Emily Thompson – Jan. 22
Sherell Brady – Jan. 22
Mia LePage – Jan. 23
Daneé Erb – Jan. 24
Andrea Hickman – Jan. 25
Karen Layton – Jan. 25
Lisa Cooper – Jan. 27
Maria Vansant – Jan. 27
Roberto Donati – Jan. 27
Madeline Pierre – Jan. 27
Heather Hubbard – Jan. 27
Patricia Hines – Jan. 27
Keynaja Trader – Jan. 28
LuAnn Hampshire – Jan. 29
Shaneka Jews – Jan. 29
Shawn Eisemann – Jan. 29
Sentara Ernst – Jan. 30
Juanita Davenport – Jan. 31
The following staff members are celebrating a work anniversary in January. Congratulations, and thank you for your service to CHC!
Krystle Moorefield – 8 years
Krystal Baker – 7 years
Meredith Rathkamp – 6 years
Natasha Turner – 6 years
Catina Davis – 6 years
Annette Barrella – 6 years
Shanta Smith – 5 years
Alona Kuzmenko – 5 years
Sharon Liu – 4 years
Theresa Kenney – 4 years
Fabienne Jones – 4 years
Katy-Erin Miller – 4 years
Joseph Merai – 4 years
Kortney Davis – 3 years
Audra Smullen – 3 years
Shannon Wright – 3 years
Brittney Frank – 3 years
Robert Laun – 2 years
Jennifer Janaskie – 2 years
Donna Coulbourne – 2 years
LaKreisha Parker – 2 years
Tyeisha Lingham-Okpo – 2 years
Stacie Ennis – 1 year
Patrick Ward – 1 year
Trinity Dennard – 1 year
Kerri Lambert – 1 year
Anna LeCompte – 1 year
Heather Reeder – 1 year
Brittany Harmon – 1 year
Emilie Carey – 1 year
Bernice Jones – 1 year
Heather Hubbard – 1 year
1. In what year did the ball lowering celebration in Times Square first take place?
A) 1899
B) 1907
C) 1915
D) 1923
2. In what country is it a tradition to jump off a chair at midnight on New Year’s Eve to avoid having bad luck in the new year?
A) Denmark
B) Norway
C) Sweden
D) Finland
3. Which city drops a giant chocolate kiss on New Year’s Eve?
A) New York City
B) Hershey, Pennsylvania
C) Paris
D) Las Vegas
4. When did the practice of making New Year’s resolutions start?
A) 1,000 years ago
B) Some 4,000 years ago, with the ancient Babylonians
C) During the Middle Ages
D) In the 19th century
5. In 46 B.C., which Roman leader made Jan. 1 New Year’s Day?
A) Augustus
B) Julius Caesar
C) Marcus Aurelius
D) Nero
1. In Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” what was Mr. Scrooge’s first name?
Answer: A) Ebenezer
2. Which Bing Crosby song is the bestselling single ever?
Answer: D) White Christmas
3. In the early 1800s, the first gingerbread houses were reportedly inspired by what famous fairy tale?
Answer: C) Hansel and Gretel
4. “Miracle on 34th Street” centers on what real-life department store?
Answer: B) Macy’s
5. In the song “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer,” what “incriminating” evidence was found on Grandma’s back?
Answer: B) Claus marks
6. How many reindeer are featured in the poem “Twas the Night Before Christmas?”
Answer: D) Eight (no Rudolph!)
Try your skill at answering these fun trivia questions to ring in the new year! Send an email with your answers to Julie Houk at jhouk@chesapeakehc.org before the end of the day on Friday, Jan. 10th to be entered into a random drawing for a PRIZE!
6. In Greece, what object is baked into a New Year’s cake to bring good luck?
A) A coin
B) A ring
C) A key
D) A horseshoe
7. Around which landmark do people in London gather to watch fireworks on New Year’s Eve?
A) Big Ben
B) Tower Bridge
C) The Shard
D) The London Eye
8. In Spain, what fruit do people eat 12 of when midnight strikes?
A) Oranges
B) Apples
C) Grapes
D) Bananas
9. An Irish tradition on New Year’s Eve is to add what to the table to pay tribute to loved ones who have passed away during the year?
A) A candle
B) A photograph
C) An extra place setting
D) A bouquet of flowers
10. What was a major fear as the clock struck midnight on Jan. 1, 2000?
A) Y2K bug
B) Global warming
C) Nuclear war
D) Alien invasion
7. What traditional Christmas decoration is actually a parasitic plant?
Answer: C) Mistletoe
8. In “The Muppet Christmas Carol,” who played Scrooge? Hint: It wasn’t a muppet.
Answer: C) Michael Caine
9. What beverage company has been using Santa Claus in its advertising since 1931?
Answer: B) Coca-Cola
10. According to legend, what holiday goodies were shaped to resemble a shepherd’s staff, as a way to remind children of the shepherds who visited baby Jesus?
Answer: C) Candy canes
Congratulations to Shelby Tapman, Corporate Compliance Officer, who was the winner of our December trivia contest! Shelby chose the CHC sports chair as her prize.