Staff members of North Shore University Hospital at Plainview kicked off National Hospital Week by celebrating the hospital's 40th anniversary on Monday, May 7.

At the ceremony, Oyster Bay Town Supervisor John Venditto presented Deborah Tascone, RN, MS, executive director of North Shore University Hospital, with a citation in honor of her and her staff members for their dedication to the hospital.

The celebration, honoring the 40th anniversary of the hospital, which first opened its doors on July 5, 1961, took place during both National Hospital Week and National Nurses Week.

"It is about people," said Venditto. "For 40 years this institution has been doing the right thing. I am proud to be here and proud to have you as our neighbor."

Tascone then directed everyone to enjoy the cake and the festivities because "this is your party," she said.

"This is National Hospital and Nurses Week and we have activities planned all week," said Tascone. "The staff here is the most valuable asset to the hospital and no one is more important than anyone else. We're blessed here. This is a warm, great group of people and today we are celebrating our successes."