I would like to take this opportunity to publicly thank the staff of my office for their untiring efforts over the past year in taking up the slack during the illness of Karel Rice, our Deputy Clerk-Treasurer. Karel was stricken with pancreatic cancer last spring. Gallantly, she made an effort to return to work on those days that her Chemotherapy treatments did not keep her at bay. Karel left us all in November to rest in heaven.

Staffed by Cathy Dinda, Barbara Griffiths and Joann Montovano, the Village staff maintained its composure and service to our boards and citizens. Responding to over 125 telephone calls per day, accounting for over 3 million dollars in revenues from thousands of tax, license and water payments, and assisting hundreds of counter customers with diligence and care was accomplished over their many missed lunch hours, and unselfish dedication.

Both Cynthia Campolo and Patti Haas of the Justice Court staff also lent a hand, while the Mayor and Board of Trustee members offered much inspiration.

We welcome Barbara Canonico to our staff as our new Deputy Clerk-Treasurer. Barbara has the skills necessary to assure the continued good service Farmingdale residents deserve, and will succeed in this task.

Thank you for giving me this opportunity.

John Giordano

Village Clerk-Treasurer