Chilly temperatures lingering just below 30 degrees didn't stop dozens of Farmingdale residents from gathering on the Village Green last Wednesday for the Village's 15th annual tree lighting.

Village Historian Bill Johnston welcomed the large crowd at 6 p.m. and thanked the Village of Farmingdale, the Farmingdale-Bethpage Historical Society, the Farmingdale Chamber of Commerce and the Kiwanis Club of Farmingdale for their sponsorship of the event. He also recognized the presence of village officials as well as of Town Councilman Anthony D. Macagnone, who participated in the festivities.

Standing in a semi-circle before their families, friends and community members, the children of the Saltzman East Memorial fourth-grade chorus - clad in coats, gloves, scarves and some in red Santa hats - graced the crowd with holiday songs, under the direction of Jennifer Olster.

"It's not that cold," joked Mayor Trudden as he took to the podium to give his traditional holiday message. "I always pray for peace on earth," he said, although noting that this year it was probably not possible. He then expressed his thanks and prayers to the soldiers in Iraq and wished them a "safe return home."

Hordes of ecstatic children quickly surrounded the mayor as he requested their help with the lighting. Proceeding the count of three, the button was pressed and the Farmingdale Tricentennial Tree - standing roughly 45-feet-tall - twinkled with dozens of colorful lights and a bright star on its very top.

The South Shore Brass Ensemble ended the ceremony with an instrumental version of Santa Claus Is Coming to Town, as some residents sang along and swayed to the melody. The band had also played various other seasonal tunes throughout the beginning of the event.

Johnston then invited everyone to warm up inside Village Hall and to enjoy doughnuts and hot chocolate provided yearly by the Kiwanis Club. "Thanks for coming on a frosty night," he added.