p. 21 | The Wabash Valley Sanitarium by L. A. HANSEN

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Dec 9, 1915

The Wabash Valley Sanitarium

By L. A. HANSEN

The sanitarium at La Fayette, Ind., shows improvement over our visit of last January, both in appearance and in financial outlook. The patronage of the past season has been about all that could be desired, a part of the time all but one room being occupied.

The constituency of the sanitarium responded nobly to the call for help, and is showing its confidence in the institution in a substantial way. The earnings have been increased and the expenditures controlled so that operating expenses have been fully met, interest paid, and some months a gain has been shown.

Conservative progress has been made in repairs and improvements. Most of the interior has been repainted. It was demonstrated that patrons are not slow to appreciate repairs. In fact, some would not have remained had not certain improvements been made. A few guest rooms are yet to be refinished, as the income will permit. The management plans to continue to operate on the pay-as-you-go policy, as it has been doing.

The practically complete elimination of flies by a very simple and economical method has been accomplished. All kitchen garbage is put in a can kept in a screened inclosure. Empty tin cans from the kitchen also go there. The garbage is removed daily. Thus by starving the flies there are very few to 'swat.'

The idea of cleaning up in general is one that can be practiced to advantage anywhere and by anybody. Keeping clean costs nothing. Expense is found in not doing so. Above all places, our sanitariums should be models of cleanliness.

The city branch makes a very presentable appearance in its nice location, and is proving a success financially. Dr. F. A. Loop, the sanitarium superintendent, has an office in connection with the city branch. An encouraging feature of the work is the friendly manner in which the physicians of the city and near-by towns are relating themselves to the work of the sanitarium.

While there is plenty of hard work, as well as many problems, in making this sanitarium what it may be, the outlook is hopeful. Progress in the right direction is evidently being made. Patronage is coming. The doctor holds the confidence of the public. The manager, C. M. Christiansen, a man of Christian business experience, is getting a good hold on his work. There are capable helpers in various capacities to aid in making the work of the institution a success.

L. A. HANSEN.