COMMACK, NY — More than 500 photographs were submitted to Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center's 33rd annual photo contest, with 35 winning images selected for permanent display at the Commack facility.
The nursing center recently celebrated the 27 photographers whose winning submissions were professionally framed and added to Gurwin's permanent photography collection, which is displayed throughout the facility for residents, staff and visitors to enjoy.
Aaron Needle, of Merrick, received Best-in-Show honors for his photograph, "Laughing Boy with Playful Puppies," while Alan Sloyer, of Roslyn, earned Best-in-Show Runner-Up for his photograph, "Orange Man."
Grand Prize and Honorable Mention winners were also recognized in categories including Action/Sports, Altered/Enhanced, Children, Landscapes, Long Island/New York, Nature, People, Pets, Still Life, Travel and Wildlife. A student category recognized photographers younger than 18 who are still in school.
"Gurwin's unique contest demonstrates the extraordinary power of photography to make a difference in someone's life," said Stuart B. Almer, president and CEO of Gurwin Healthcare System. "The images located throughout our Center are more than beautiful works of art. They spark memories, inspire conversations and bring moments of happiness to the people we serve."
The annual contest was established more than three decades ago to surround Gurwin's residents, employees and visitors with photographs that enhance their daily lives. The competition typically attracts nearly 1,000 entries from photographers across Long Island and beyond each year, according to the organization.
Even photographs that do not receive awards are incorporated into Gurwin's therapeutic recreation programs, where they are used for activities such as painting inspiration, collages and memory-support projects.
"We're grateful to the talented photographers who share their work with us and help make Gurwin such a special place," said Dennine Cook, chief corporate communications officer, who launched the contest more than 30 years ago. "Our residents and staff develop personal connections to the images that adorn our hallways. That's the real reward for our photographers— knowing their work will continue to bring joy to someone else's life for years to come."
Gurwin Healthcare System operates a 36-acre campus in Commack that includes skilled nursing, rehabilitation, assisted living and independent living services.
The complete list of winners and their photographs can be viewed here.
The 2027 Gurwin Photo Contest will open for submissions in February 2027.
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