Observations all along the line - Kimball & the Southern Panhandle First
Observations all along the line - Kimball & the Southern Panhandle First
The Kimball Health Services staff was all smiles during Monday's ribbon cutting celebration for the new hospital that opened. Also packing the hospital's main entry area during the event were residents, media and officials from healthcare, government and business. See more photos from the ceremony on Page B8.
The Kimball community came out en masse for Kimball Health Services new hospital ribbon cutting on Monday, Feb. 26. On a windy day, an estimated 200 or more people crammed into the entryway and clinic waiting area while officials were recognized and spoke of the process to develop the facility.
Gov. Jim Pillen started off the ceremony with a message of congratulations.
"This is a big, big deal for rural Nebraska, for Kimball, for your community," he said.
Pillen spoke about what a fantastic facility the new hospital was and said, "All healthcare is local. We all want to be taken care of right where we live."
Other speakers included Byron Haselden, president and CEO of Haselden Construction, Jim Brisnehan from CMBA Architects, Kimball County Commissioner Carl Stander and state Senator Brian Hardin.
Past Kimball Health Services CEO Ken Hunter reminisced on the growth of Kimball Health Services. He explained that when he first arrived in Kimball, there was one doctor and one PA taking care of the entire community. Now, the provider list is extensive, with a variety of specialties. He said that 13 years ago, discussions began on building a new hospital. Other speakers included CEO Cassie Gasseling, KHS board Chairman Jim Cederburg and Mayor John Morrison.
In a moment of respect and admiration, Kerry Ferguson, director of community relations and foundation, said, "As we celebrate the beginning of a new era of healthcare for Kimball, I can't help but think of some of our health providers who have passed away."
He mentioned Dr. Al Shamberg, who began his practice in 1951 and served the community until 1985. He started his practice just a year after the old hospital was built.
Ferguson also mentioned Dr. Jim Plate, who practiced medicine for 39 years, and the late Dr. Jamie Broomfield.
"I would like to think they would be thrilled with this place," Ferguson said. "They would be happy to see the community's attendance today, and I think they would be thrilled about the community's commitment to healthcare, much as they showed that commitment to us so many years ago and for so long."
