Two from Malverne and W.H. named merchants of the year

Two local business owners were honored this year at the Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce’s 27th Annual Small Businessperson of the Year and Legislative Breakfast, which took place at the Crest Hollow Country Club on Oct. 7.

The Malverne Merchants and Professional Association chose Gerry Hughes, owner of Connolly Station, as its merchant of the year, and the West Hempstead Chamber of Commerce chose Hilda Manuella, who co-owns Finest Security with her husband, Robert.

“It feels real nice,” Hughes said of being named small-business owner of the year. “It’s a nice honor and it’s nice to see that people in the community appreciate what you do.”

Hughes opened Connolly Station, an Irish pub that sits on Hempstead Avenue near the Long Island Rail Road tracks, in 1996. He emigrated to the U.S. when he was 18 and had enjoyed living here since. Hughes, a father of two grown children, is known throughout the Village of Malverne, and elsewhere, for his generosity and eagerness to participate in benefits and fundraisers, and to help charities.

Manuella, who has a 15-year-old son, is also fond of volunteering at various events throughout West Hempstead, where she’s lived for the last 20 years. According to Manuella, volunteerism has given her “a great sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.” She’s been a catechist at St. Thomas the Apostle Church for the last 10 years, serves as president of the West Hempstead High School PTA and as recording secretary of the chamber.

“I was very honored,” Manuella said of the recognition she received for all of her work.