Gary Regalbuto M.D.
Jeff Walker
The McElderrys |
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REGALBUTO, WALKER AND MCELDERRY
TO RECEIVE PROVIDENCE’S “HEARTS” HONOR
Oct. 16, 2008
HOOD RIVER, Ore. - A physician, a fire chief and two community leaders are the recipients of Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital Foundation’s 2008 Hearts of Gold awards.
Internal medicine physician Gary Regalbuto M.D., Hood River Fire Chief Jeff Walker, and community members Andrew and Melissa McElderry were chosen for exemplifying exceptional advocacy in contributing to the community’s health. They will be honored at the Hearts of Gold Gala on Saturday, Nov. 8, at the Best Western Hood River Inn.
Regalbuto, who received this year’s physician award, has been practicing medicine in the Gorge for more than 25 years. He is recognized as an exceptional physician who has been a long-time advocate for his patients’ health and well being. “Dr. Regalbuto’s expertise and dedication to his patients is remarkable,” said Rena Whittaker, Providence Hood River Foundation executive director. “Many of his patients have called him a hero in their healing.”
Walker received this year’s health professional award. He is recognized by fellow fire fighters and emergency responders for his dedication to protecting the community. Walker has served Hood River County as fire chief for more than 20 years. He started a first responders class at Hood River Valley High School preparing students for emergency situations. In addition, he is an instructor at Columbia Gorge Community College and the Red Cross. “Jeff is dedicated to protecting every citizen, every day,” said Whittaker. “He is a real mentor to our community.”
The McElderrys, owners of Andrew’s Pizza and Skylight Theater, received this year’s community member award. Their personal motto is “feed, clothe, educate and protect.” They are committed to supporting organizations that provide services in one of these four categories. One example of the McElderrys’ personal investment is the time they take to teach children from Head Start how to make, toss and bake pizzas. It is a chance to provide a fun activity for the children and an opportunity to make a difference. “The McElderrys have been involved in our community for more than a decade,” said Whittaker. “From coaching after school sports to supporting local organizations, they are dedicated to giving back and do it with great humility.”
The Hearts of Gold Gala is open to the public and will feature a champagne reception, dinner and auction. Tickets are $75 and can be reserved by calling the foundation office at 541-387-6474. All proceeds will benefit Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital Foundation’s The One Campaign.
The One Campaign is a fundraising effort with the goal of raising $3.5 million in support of a 72,000 square foot hospital renovation project, expanded care for the uninsured and underinsured of Hood River County, and enhanced clinician education programs.
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Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital is part of Providence Health & Services, the state’s leading health system and largest private employer. Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital is a full-service, critical-access hospital with a 24-hour Emergency Department. Providence offers a wide range of health care services in the communities of the Columbia River Gorge through its clinics, care centers and senior living facilities. |
