"People Caring for People" is the theme of the recently completed mural that greets patients and visitors in North Shore University Hospital at Plainview's main entry corridor. The project, designed by Oyster Bay artist Laurette Kovary-Gnagy, was painted with the help of enthusiastic young volunteers. The colorful, large-scale portraits depict hospital staff members engaged in medical scenes. They will "greet" everyone who enters the hospital through the main entrance.

The project was spearheaded by hospital Executive Director Deborah Tascone, RN, MS who was introduced to the work of Ms. Kovary-Gnagy during a visit to an art exhibit. Discussions between the artist and the hospital executive resulted in the theme, "People Caring for People" and, ultimately, in the mural. The artist has donated her time and her creative talent to the project. She was assisted by a crew of 25 young volunteers, ages 5 to 11, who spent three weeks executing the artwork.

Ms. Kovary-Gnagy is known for her artwork, which takes many forms. She also teaches art to youngsters at Art House Studio, which she established for that purpose. The young painters enjoyed the project and look forward to their next creation. They especially enjoyed a "thank you pizza party" held in their honor at North Shore University Hospital at Plainview.