LeadingAge New York Adviser Fall 2015 Vol. 1 | Page 42

Photo Gallery Brings
Art & Joy to Residents
By Dennine Cook, director of public relations, Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, Commack

T

he Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center recently unveiled the winners of
the Annual Gurwin Photo Contest, enlarging and beautifully framing the selections for
permanent display at the 460-bed nursing and rehabilitation facility. The striking photos
are continually discussed and admired, making them a signature element of the warm and
welcoming environment at Gurwin.
According to Center Executive Vice President/CEO Herbert Friedman the contest began more
than 23 years ago with two objectives: Decorate the new facility, and give local photographers an
opportunity to show off their work.
“Our contest has a loyal following, and most of the photographers understand
that their photo does more than win them a prize,” he said. “When a photo is
chosen in our contest, it is not only well-done technically and pleasing in
subject matter, but also it is selected to hang in our residents’ home. The
knowledge that it will bring joy to others for years to come is often
cited by photographers as the main reason they enter our contest,
regardless of the actual prize won.”
This year, almost 700 entries were received in 10 categories,
and 45 photos were selected to adorn the walls of the
Helen and Nat Tiffen Gallery in the main corridor at Gurwin.
The Tiffen Company, whose founder, Nat, was a resident at the
Gurwin Center, has sponsored the contest for nine years.
“We appreciate the Tiffen Company’s generosity, because it enables
us to continue to provide beautiful, changing artwork for our residents to
enjoy,” Friedman said. He noted that past winners are not discarded. Rather,
they are moved to resident units, where they remain indefinitely.
Professional photographers Michael Cassera and Tony Lopez did the honors
as jud vW2