All employees are invited to unleash their hearty appetites in the coming days as City of Hope holds several festive events in honor of National Hospital Week.

Employees enjoy spicy competition in a salsa contest during the 2009 Hospital Week. (Photo by Thomas Brown)

“We are proud to hold this annual celebration,” said Bob Cuthbertson, chair of the employee hospitality committee, which sponsored the Hospital Week events. “It recognizes every employee for their contribution to make City of Hope a great place to receive care and to work for.”

Introduced in 1921 to generate public awareness about hospitals and the health-care system, the week has evolved to acknowledge hospital staff and their roles in upholding organizational standards, maintaining and improving patient care and achieving excellence.

The week will feature these events, held outside the cafeteria and Human Resources Department:

Blast-off with Chili Monday – billed as an “out-of-this-world” chili and baked potato bar accompanied by space-themed games and stellar prizes.

Holy Smokes, It’s BBQ Tuesday – feast on Santa Maria-style barbecued meats, roasted veggies and other favorites fresh off the grill.

It’s All Greek to Me Wednesday – employees are invited to open their minds and palates to a variety of Mediterranean specialties, including falafel, tabouleh and couscous, followed by a well-deserved scoop or two at the ice cream social afterward.

Aloha Thursday – tropical shirts and relaxation are on the menu along with Hawaiian pizzas, grilled fruits and flavorful shaved ice. A car show will feature stunning rides from City of Hope colleagues. (To participate in the car show, please contact Edwin Domingo at edomingo@coh.org.)

Hot Dog, It’s Friday – the week ends on a jubilant note with savory sausage sandwiches and a variety of toppings, accompanied by a live performance by the band “Artistic Measure.”

For further information on Hospital Week activities, visit the master calendar on the intranet at www.coh.org/master-calendar.