Top-10 Videos of 2011

This article doesn't need a thorough introduction; these are simply the best videos that were published by West Islip Patch in 2011.  (Although it was difficult choosing only 10.)

10.

The Bowdens didn't moan when we were trampled with a few feet of snow last winter.  They took advantage by creating this masterpiece. 

9.  

This past September marked the 10th anniversary of 9/11.  And MacArthur Airport's ceremony was a fitting one. 

8.  

The Ragen family shot this footage from the front door of their home just as Irene was approaching the hamlet.  

7.  

On Sunday, August 21, Cedar Beach Park hosted Lexi's Beach Bash, a fundraiser honoring the memory of Alexia Pilkington, a West Islip teen who tragically took her life 17 months ago. Friends and family turned out to enjoy musical acts and, aside from a little rain, the event was a huge success.

6.  

In an effort to raise dollars for the senior prom, WIHS students strutted down the runway in a fashion show fundraiser.  

5.  

The most touching video on the list.  Sara Jean Hammel graduates from CCI with a new assistance dog Tivie.  

4.  

After hearing lots of criticism from residents for months leading up to the 2011 budget vote, school admins were relieved to see it approved.  Definitely one of the biggest stories in '11.  

3.  

It might be a shameless self promotion, but no other video received more Facebook likes than this one.  It was the start of an original Patch series that runs every so often.  That's just how special it is.  

2.  

Fantastic video of Elliot the seal bouncing his way to the shores at Robert Moses.  The injured Elliot once weighed only 37 pounds when he was rescued, but thanks to the fundraising efforts of Manetuck students and staff, they were able to bring the seal to full health. 

1.

The boys remarkable lacrosse season hit its peak with another Suffolk Class A crown last spring.  But what really makes this video No. 1 on our list is the game-saving stop goalie Kyle Turri made in OT.  It was the best ever.