By:Jason Scheer
Joe Mancino, a member of the Kiwanis club since 1975, said that events like the pasta dinner are a great way to meet new people who care about the community and to celebrate the clubs past efforts. "The work they do in the community is outstanding," he said.
Mancino brought his young grandaughter, 4-year-old Grace Mage, to the event. He says he hopes to instill in Grace the belief that she should always be looking to give of herself and help others.
"You have to remember, in life, you can't be a taker," he said. "There comes a time wen you have to give back."
As for his granchildren, Mancino said "I want to see them all get involved in their community and do what you can to help other people."
During the event, Dr. Tom Batera was named the Kiwanis' Member of the Year. The award was given to Batera on the basis of his service, commitment and leadership.
"He really deserves it," George Silkes, President of the West Hempstead Kiwanis Club, said.
The fun continued on Sunday, Sept. 26 on the baseball fields at the West Hempstead Middle School. Eight teams competed during a Kiwanis-sponsored softball tournament designed to raise money for the community functions.
