Northwest Health-Starke celebrated National Doctor’s Day Friday, April 28 by honoring the physicians on the medical staff with a significant and long-lasting gift to the community.
Northwest Health-Starke, like many hospitals, has always provided physicians with a gift to show their appreciation. This year, the medical staff partnered with the hospital, asking to forgo the gift and instead donate it to the Knox Parks system.
Chief Executive Officer of Northwest Health-Starke Keith Nichols said $1,500 will be donated to the parks in Knox. He said the money will promote the hospital’s shared purpose statement, “help people live healthier lives”.
Knox Director of Parks and Recreation Karl Swihart discussed the ongoing revitalization project taken on by the department and what is involved.
Swihart stated, “It is to put up dugouts, protective shelters for the t-ballers and the younger kids. Those are the only two fields that don’t have that. We’re also looking at purchasing three concrete game boards that will be located throughout the park where people can come out and play games and enjoy the park, as well as some cornhole boards – two sets of them, permanent concrete ones that will go right into the park too.”
Swihart noted that the department has applied for a Community Foundation matching grant to assist with funding for the additions to the parks.
Mayor Dennis Estok said future plans include more programs for kids and adults in the park system.
Mayor Estok and Swihart accepted the donation on behalf of the City of Knox.
