Hospital auxiliary recognizes businessman's efforts

More than 16 years of service to the Carson-Tahoe Hospital Auxiliary were recognized Tuesday when local businessman John Nicosia was honored with a plaque of appreciation by the group.

Nicosia, a former member of the hospital board of trustees, has been casting the leaves for the metallic Memorial Tree of Love which is displayed just inside the hospital. The 4-by-9 foot tree was created in 1987 as a way to recognize those who have made donations to the auxiliary's memorial fund in honor of loved ones and special events, such as births and anniversaries.

The leaves, which Nicosia makes of stainless steel and are later bronzed by hospital maintenance staff, are engraved with whatever message a donor wishes.

Nicosia was presented the plaque by Memorial Tree of Love chairwoman Joy Amodei who said he has been providing the leaves since the project began. She said about 280 engraved leaves adorn the tree.

Another highlight of Tuesday's auxiliary meeting was the introduction of recipients of the Carson-Tahoe Hospital Auxiliary Ursula Daines Memorial Scholarship for students at the registered nursing program at Western Nevada Community College.

Receiving $800 scholarships were Colleen Donohue, Juanita Samuels, Nahid Sarvin, Sara Mikulich and Monica Grulli.

The nursing scholarship program has been continuous since it began in 1972, said Billie Brinkman, chairwoman.

Another auxiliary program was showcased Tuesday when dozens of items for newborn layettes were brought to the meeting by members. Others contributed cash.

According to Norma Summey, co-chairwoman for the program, the auxiliary provides six layettes a month, three for each gender, to the hospital for new mothers in need.

"Some new mothers have nothing but T-shirts to take their baby home in," said Summey.

There was also a brief "show and tell" as members viewed new E.R. Bears, stuffed animals purchased by the auxiliary and given to children who are traumatized when they are in the hospital.

According to project Chairwoman Ruth Pierini, 250 stuffed bears have been given out yearly since the program started in 2001.