The Mile-A-Minute Murphy 100th anniversary event currently being planned for the spring by Farmingdale's village historians, Farmingdale-Bethpage Historical Society, Long Island Rail Road Historical Society and others, is one that is worthy of much community support.

The celebration will mark Charles M. Murphy's world record bicycle ride on the Central branch of the Long Island Rail Road, south southeast of Farmingdale. The event presents an opportunity for the entire community to recognize an extraordinary piece of local history. Riding behind a LIRR train inside a special hood constructed around the coach, Murphy completed a mile in just under a minute. He amazed thousands of spectators that day, June 30, 1899, and was forever inscribed in history books.

The anniversary event, which is expected to feature a family bicycle parade in the village and a dedication at the Farmingdale LIRR station on June 26, will also be a way to celebrate the unique heritage of Farmingdale's railroad station, which is the subject of ongoing restoration. Further, events such as this one, which keep the local community at the center while providing needed exposure for the business district, are good for Farmingdale.

All are encouraged to get excited about, and get involved in, this highly anticipated day.

-A.M.