As a child when I would visit my grandmother in Tampa, she would take us to Morrison's Cafeteria. That was a treat as there were so many choices, and you could pick out a dessert all by yourself. As you know, you haven't lived until you have been suckered into getting some of the brightly colored Jello, instead of a "real" desert. Sorry, I digress.
      The reason I bring up Morrison's is because East Georgia Regional Hospital has contracted with Morrison Management Specialists, an offshoot of the original restaurant chain, to operate the hospital's cafeteria. The hospital's partnership with Morrison began on May 1st, 2011.
      "Menus are written based on seasonality and availability of regional fresh product," said Trevor Castaneda, assistant administrator at East Georgia Regional. "Whenever possible, these are sourced locally from farms using sustainable and environmentally responsible practices Morrison's provides a variety of healthier food options not only to our patients and associates, but those within the community as well."
      Morrison Management Specialists, a member of the Compass Group, is the nation's only food service company exclusively dedicated to providing food, nutrition and dining services to the healthcare and senior living communities through its two operating divisions: Morrison Healthcare Food Services and Morrison Senior Living.
      With over 1,200 registered dietitians, 200 executive chefs and 16,600 professional food service team members, Morrison is committed to fostering ways to enjoy great-tasting, healthy food through socially responsible practices and superior customer service.
      The Atlanta-based company serves approximately 460 acute care clients and 370 senior living clients in 41 states including some of the largest integrated health care systems and senior living communities in the nation. It is the nation's only food service company exclusively dedicated to providing food, nutrition and dining services to the health care industry.
      Castenada said food service to patient's rooms has taken on a different feel with the change.
      "Morrison's Catering to You Service Program provides patients with a Catering Associate who will perform nine to 12 visits a day," he said. "Catering Associates will present patients with a spoken menu in which they can decide what they would like to eat for breakfast, lunch and dinner."
      I have always liked the food in the hospital's cafeteria. Many regulars who go to the hospital just to eat will tell you that it is the best kept secret in town. I am anxious to try it out.
      So, until next Tuesday, I bid you au revoir.

      Got a scoop for Jan? Call her at (912) 489-9463. or email her at jmoore@statesboroherald.com