CLAREMONT — Valley Regional Hospital recognized 74 staff members with a total combined tenure of more than 1,000 years during the annual Employee Appreciation Day picnic. Employees with hiring anniversaries ranging from five years to 40 years.

Mary Fontaine and Susann Stearns achieved the 40-year mark, with 19 of their colleagues honored for 20 to 35 years of service.

Also announced during the ceremony were the hospital's employee of the year, manager of the year, and Team Excellence Award.

Michael Francis, a registered nurse in Valley Regional's Emergency Department, received the award for employee of the year, in recognition of his high level of compassionate care for all patients, and for his many contributions to the advancement of nursing practice.

Pharmacist Michael Lessard was named manager of the year for his leadership role in the hospital's improvement initiatives.

The Physician Practice Improvement Team, consisting of Judy Carr, Theresa Clark, Emily Owens and Heidi Boutilier, was honored for its work to improve and streamline the appointment scheduling process.

Speaking before the assembled group of staff, trustees, and other guests, Valley Regional CEO Claire Bowen remarked, ”As I have often said, any organization is only as good as its people. When our patients express their gratitude for Valley Regional, they are talking about all that you do in such a caring manner. When people care, miracles happen. For this, we applaud all of you.”