Tags Posts tagged with "Mary Ellen McCrossen"

Mary Ellen McCrossen

By Jennifer Donatelli

Under a big white tent, St. Catherine of Siena Hospital hosted its 33rd Annual Fall Community Health Fair on Saturday, Sept. 28, from 9am – 12pm.

Located on 25A in Smithtown, the hospital draws hundreds of community members every year, along with local organizations and businesses, to offer free on-site services and to raise awareness on the importance of healthcare.

Visitors to this free event had the opportunity to meet with health care professionals, from over 50 specialties, for a Q&A. Hands-on demonstrations of the hospital’s latest advances in technology were also performed for onlookers.

Additionally, free flu shots were given, as well as on-site cholesterol and glucose testing, BMI screenings and blood pressure readings.

There was even a Teddy Bear Clinic, where children brought their favorite stuffed animals to be treated as real “hospital patients.” Children also enjoyed face painting and pumpkin decorating, along with free puzzles, coloring sheets and crayons, to take home.

Visitors were given the chance to learn about healthy eating and nutrition, while sampling New England clam chowder, gluten-free, pumpkin-chocolate chip loaves, chili and hot apple cider.

Declan Doyle, President of the hospital discussed what an exciting time this is for the hospital, saying, “I can sense the enthusiasm in the staff. They were all pumped up and looking forward to this day, so they could educate the public about [all things health.”

In addition to what happens inside of the hospital, Mary Ellen McCrossen, the hospital’s Community Relations Manager, explained the free services St. Catherine’s offers, within the local community, including health education seminars and library events. The hospital works with local school districts to educate students on healthy eating, strokes, diabetes and general wellness, as well.

McCrossen says, “At St. Catherine’s, we care for each other in body, mind and spirit. All three are equally important. The best way to help people heal is to have all three in sync.” 

Sen. Mario Mattera (R-St. James,) from the 2nd Senate District, was at the event and provided some of his thoughts on the annual fair.

“St. Catherine of Siena is very important to the local community, especially our seniors who may not have access to funds or resources,” he said.

“They can come to this facility and get the flu vaccine and other testing, free of charge. This hospital is so important to the Smithtown community, [and that is why we need] to promote the hospital as much as possible,” he continued.

He went on to thank the hospital’s staff for all the hard work they do “for us each day,” and pledged to make St. Catherine’s prosper.

For more information about St. Catherine of Siena, you can visit their website at www.catholichealthli.org.

Photo courtesy of Let. Rob Trotta's office

Suffolk County Legislators Rob Trotta and Leslie Kennedy joined hospital officials at the return of its community health fair on the grounds of St. Catherine’s Medical Center in Smithtown on April 13. The event provided access to more than 50 specialties and programs offered at the hospital. Medical staff conducted free glucose, cholesterol and blood pressure screenings. Community organizations were also present to share their resources and answer questions.

“St. Catherine is our community hospital and I proud to have it located in my 13th Legislative District. I am a supporter of the hospital and its events,” said Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta.

Pictured at the health fair from left to right are Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta; Mary Ellen McCrossen, the hospital’s Community Relations and EMS Managers; Declan Doyle, President of St. Catherine; Suffolk County Legislator Leslie Kennedy; NYS Senator Mario Mattera; Randy Howard, COO of St. Catherine;  and Suffolk County Comptroller John Kennedy.

Mary Ellen McCrossen, Community Relations Manager at St. Catherine, has Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta complete the required forms before getting his flu shot. Photo courtesy of Leg. Trotta's office

The rain and the wind did not stop Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta, other elected officials and residents from attending St. Catherine of Siena Medical Center’s free drive-thru flu vaccination on Saturday, September 23. Throughout the event, there was a steady stream of cars coming with people to get their flu shot.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, a flu vaccine is the best protection against getting the flu, and everyone six months and older should get one. Such vaccinations are available from your local health care provider and pharmacies, and it is best to check with your doctor before getting the shot. “I commend St. Catherine’s and its staff for offering free flu shots last weekend, and think this is a great public service particularly when we are still dealing with COVID,” said Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta.

Additional information about the flu and other health related issues is on the Suffolk County Health Department’s website at www.suffolkcountyny.gov/health

 

The Greater Smithtown Chamber of Commerce meets for the installation of its new officers.

The Greater Smithtown Chamber of Commerce met for its annual luncheon Sept. 26 at the Chop Shop Bar & Grill on Main Street in Smithtown and swore in its new officers.  

Executive Director Barbara Franco introduced guest speaker Town Supervisor Ed Wehrheim (R) during the event, who explained to the business leaders how recent investments in the town infrastructure is improving business in the Town of Smithtown.  New sidewalks, parking lots, housing and sewer projects were among some of the completed and planned initiatives touched upon during his presentation. 

The chamber board consists of a president, two vice presidents, a treasurer and  a secretary plus 10 other volunteer directors, who are business owners in the community.  The organization meets monthly and is committed to networking to improve economic development opportunities in the town. Currently, the chamber consists of 325 members. 

It’s next event is a Fashion Show Gala at Watermill Caterers, which is scheduled for Wed., Oct. 23 from 6 to 10 p.m. Proceeds benefit the Smithtown Food Pantry.

Greater Smithtown 

Chamber of Commerce 

President: Christopher McNamara, Mac Abstract Land & Trust

1st Vice Pres.:  Ayman Awad,Village of Old Field Pulse 

2nd Vice Pres.: Jeff Troiano, Troiano Agency – Allstate Insurance 

Treasurer:  Ann Aboulafia, Aboulafia & June, CPAs

Secretary:  Susan Hughes, BNB Bank

Executive Director:  Barbara Franco

Directors:  

Robert Bernstein, Citi-Mortgage 

Brittany Lawton, American Cancer Society 

Mary Ellen McCrossen, St. Catherine of Siena Medical Center

Paul Mastrorocco, Brookhaven Opticians 

Jennifer O’Brien, Jennifer O’Brien Agency – State Farm

Ron Reed, Reed Resumes

Alyssa Solarsh, Esq., Taylor, Eldridge & Endres, P.C. 

John Vigliante, Branch Funeral Homes

Deanna Varricchio, Town of Smithtown Receiver of Taxes

Past President, Robert Cartelli, Outstanding Plumbing & Heating

Photo by Elise Margolin