Republican Sen. Ron Johnson of Wisconsin is extremely disappointed in revelations that Tomah VA employees spent part of a work day on taxpayer dime playing the human version of Hungry, Hungry Hippos.
“Given the serious problems that have surrounded the Tomah VAMC, it is more than disappointing to see Tomah VA employees playing games and engaging in such unprofessional behavior during work hours while veterans wait for care,” Johnson told The Daily Caller News Foundation.
A leaked video from the facility showed mostly middle-aged female employees being pushed around on dollies to collect as many balls in the middle of the gym as possible as part of a series of carnival games planned by Ethics Officer Leah Finch. The events took place on Oct. 30, a Friday, the day before Halloween. Finch also planned a costume judging contest for later in the day. (RELATED: Tomah VA Employees Spent A Work Day Playing Human Version Of ‘Hungry Hungry Hippos’ On Taxpayer Dime [VIDEO])
The video comes at a particularly raw time for a facility beset by scandal. Only recently did the VA announce the firing of Dr. David Houlihan, the physician notoriously known as the “Candy Man” for handing out obscene amounts of opioids to veterans and retaliating against staff who dared question his practices. His position officially ends on Nov. 9. (RELATED: ‘Candy Man’ Doctor Finally FIRED From Tomah VA, Whistleblowers Elated)
Matthew Gowan, public affairs officer at Tomah VA, said that the “CREW Carnival” takes place annually and “highlights Civility, Respect and Engagement in the Workplace.”
“This is a video taken during the Tomah VA Medical Center’s “CREW Carnival” on Friday, October 30,” Gowan told TheDCNF. “Staff had the opportunity to participate at several learning stations that focused on communication, collaboration and a positive working environment.”
Speaking directly to the Hungry, Hungry Hippos game, Gowan said that “This particular exercise highlighted the importance of team building, cooperation and communication among employees.”
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