In the halls and on the tables, around the doors and across the gables, decorations were hung with such great care, a grinch and his pooch would never dare break into frowns, not even a little, despite being laid up in the Powell Valley Hospital.

The Powell Medical Foundation, with executive director Amy Wells leading the way, sponsored this year’s Christmas decorating event at the hospital. It culminated with judging for best of show Wednesday in what is affectionately called the “department decorating decor tour,” Wells said.

Wells said 14 departments participated in the contest. Some spent two weeks designing and implementing their  plans.

“It was much bigger and better than usual this year,” Wells said.

In-patient services impressed with an extensive Dr. Suess inspired Whoville theme. All the departments of the care center combined their efforts and went all out with fancy lights and multiple trees, much to the pleasure of residents.

“It got everybody in the Christmas spirit,” she said. “We had quite few people that took the tour that were visiting family in the hospital and they were loving it too.”

But the pharmacy crew turned their facility into the North Pole, wrapping every cabinet like gifts, hanging strands of tinsel to highlight each level of shelving and hung a large mural hand-painted by pharmacy technician Tracey Young for the enjoyment of the care center patients.

“They definitely took it over the top,” said Jim Cannon, director of community relations and marketing. “Our pharmacy team is fantastic.”

Cannon said he was inspired by the seasonal efforts taken by employees in every department.

“Anything you can do to brighten the environment we’re working in is a great activity,” Cannon said.

The pharmacy, celebrating its first ever win, will now carry the traveling trophy through the year until the next competitive holiday decoration season kicks off. They also won a hot chocolate and treat bar for their efforts.