PAWS Honors Principal, Community Members at Gala

By Nancy Lenz

PAWS, the West Islip education foundation, held its 6th Annual Dinner-Dance Gala on April 29.  Honored this year were Manetuck Elementary School Principal Mary Anderson with the Outstanding Educator Award, and Richard and Robert DiStefano with the Outstanding Community Member Award.  Over 250 guests attended the annual event, held at the Venetian Yacht Club in Babylon Village. 

Anderson is celebrating her 40th anniversary with the West Islip School District, first as a teacher and science mentor and later as principal.  She admits to being in awe of the many young lives she has touched. 

The DiStefano Brothers, owners of , are dedicated to the community, which is demonstrated through their generosity of time and effort to many local events, support of , and coaching the district's young athletes. 

PAWS (Partners Advancing West Islip Students) President Barbara McAteer welcomed the crowd and explained that the evening's proceeds support additional educational projects and initiatives that enhance students' educational experiences.  Joining her at the podium was the event's chairperson and PAWS Vice President for Special Events Jamie Winkler. 

Members of the PAWS executive board, all volunteers working for the 501 (c) (3) organization, greeted various local politicians who came to pay their respects to the honorees and present proclamations and citations, including Senator Owen Johnson and Assistant Gordon Canary, Suffolk County Treasurer Angie Carpenter, and Islip Town Supervisor Phil Nolan and Deputy Supervisor Gene Parrington.