Green Acres Mall hosted a Women’s History Month celebration, bringing together community members, beauty brands and local officials to recognize women making an impact in their communities.
The event, held on March 14, was titled “Celebrating Women: Beauty Inside and Out” and was held from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. in front of Macy’s Women’s and highlighted empowerment, confidence and connection. Organized by Green Acres in cooperation with Macy’s and community partners, the afternoon included beauty demonstrations, master classes and recognition of local honorees.
“Women’s History Month is a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the strength, resilience, and impact of the women in our community,” Jill Bromberg, marketing and community relations manager at Green Acres Mall, said. “This event is about more than beauty — it’s about creating a space where women feel empowered, supported, and celebrated.”
Beauty brands, including Estée Lauder, MAC and Lancôme, led live demonstrations and master classes, with sessions hosted by Estée Lauder during the event. Guests also received complimentary giveaways while supplies lasted.
Additional highlights included complimentary professional headshots, a themed photo backdrop and meet-and-greet opportunities with representatives from the Miss Long Island Pageants, including Miss Long Island and Miss Teen Long Island. Selene Ferdinand of Meera Empowerment also participated in the program.
A key portion of the event recognized women nominated by local elected officials for their service and leadership.
State Senator Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick honored Claudine Hall, president of the Jamaica Square Improvement League for more than 20 years. Hall leads the civic association focused on preserving Elmont’s history and supporting residents. She founded the organization’s annual backpack giveaway, which provides school supplies to local students, and also serves on the Paul Sapienza Elmont/Belmont Parade Committee.
“As a woman in public service, I deeply admire other women who dedicate their unique skills and perspectives toward serving the community,” Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick said. “Claudine Hall has spent nearly four decades giving back to the Elmont community through her work with the Jamaica Square Improvement League, including serving as President, and through the Paul Sapienza Elmont/Belmont Parade Committee. I was honored to recognize her at this year’s Women’s History Month Celebration and thank her for her many contributions to our friends and neighbors.”
Town of Hempstead Councilwoman Melissa Miller recognized three members of VFW Post 1790: Intelligence Specialist 1st Class Mystique Rivera, Master Sergeant Wilyshia Tiffany Franklin-Clarke and Hazel F. Brown.
Rivera served in the U.S. Navy Reserve from 2015 to 2024 as an intelligence specialist and operational intelligence analyst, supporting operations including Inherent Resolve and Freedom Sentinel. She holds degrees from the University at Albany and St. John’s University.
Franklin-Clarke served 27 years in the U.S. Air Force Reserve, beginning in 1979 as an air cargo specialist before transitioning into the medical field as a medical service technician with an aeromedical staging squadron.
Brown, born in the Panama Canal Zone and later immigrating to the United States, joined the military in 1979 and later served in the National Guard as a chaplain’s assistant and unit helping coordinator before retiring in 2019.
“It is always an honor to recognize outstanding women in the Town of Hempstead,” Miller said. “I was proud to nominate three incredible women from VFW Post 1790 in Valley Stream for this Women’s History Month Celebration, and it was truly a pleasure to celebrate their dedication, leadership and unwavering commitment to our veterans and the community.”
Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages honored Janice Thomas, a Millbrook community resident and nurse who now serves as an adjunct professor and is known for supporting neighbors.
Nassau County Legislator Cynthia Nuñez recognized Brandi Walker for her leadership and communication efforts within the Mill Brook community, helping residents stay informed and engaged.
Nassau County Comptroller Elaine Phillips attended the event to show support and recognize the women honored during the celebration.
