The Town of Oyster Bay held an induction ceremony on Jan. 5 to swear in the newly elected and incumbent members of the board, on which the Republicans now outnumber the Democrats 6-1.

Sworn in were incumbents Supervisor John Venditto, Councilman Joseph Muscarella, Councilman Anthony Macagnone and Receiver of Taxes James Stefanich, the lone Democrat elected in November. Also sworn in were newcomers to the Town of Oyster Bay board Councilwoman Rose Marie Walker and Town Clerk Steven Labriola. They all join Democratic councilwoman Mary McCaffery and Republican Councilmen Chris Coschignano and Angelo Delligatti.

Master of Ceremonies Councilman Delligatti introduced the Amvets of Post 88 and American Legion Post 1066, both from Massapequa to present the colors as John Farcione, Eagle Scout, from Boy Scout Troop 689 in Seaford sang The Star Spangled Banner.

Receiver of Taxes James Stefanich, who was sworn in by State Supreme Court Justice Leonard B. Austin, said that he was honored to be returning to office for another four years and appreciates the support he received, being the only Democrat elected to office in November in the Town of Oyster Bay.

Nassau County Republican Chairman Joseph Mondello, a resident of the Town of Oyster Bay, swore in the remaining officers, all Republican.

After being sworn in, Town Clerk Steven Labriola said this is another chapter in his life of public service, as he was formerly a State Assemblyman. "To the Town of Oyster Bay residents living in the South Shore, you know me and I appreciate your support," he said. "To those on the North Shore and between, thanks for taking a chance on me and I will earn your trust."

Rose Marie Walker, a resident of Hicksville, said she is excited for all of the opportunities that lie ahead. "I promise I will not let you down," she said to those in attendance.

Anthony Macagnone said he has the opportunity to hold two great positions, a job as a union carpenter and a councilman and he looks forward to the next four years to serve the residents.

Joseph Muscarella said he has learned so much as a public servant and thanked all those who supported his re-election. He looks forward to making the Town of Oyster Bay an even better place to live.

Supervisor Venditto praised the board and the work they have done and said he is anxious to continue that success. "If you do the right thing for the people you serve, they will do the right thing and elect you," said Venditto. "I ran with great people who were running to make this town a better place and I am happy that we have the opportunity to serve together."

The ceremony closed with blessings from Msgr. Peter Pflomm from Maria Regina R.C. Church in Seaford; Rabbi Moshe Portney from Young Israel of Plainview and Rev. Frank Nelson from St. Stephen's Lutheran Church in Hicksville and Nicholas Hart's rendition of God Bless America.

Over 300 people attended the ceremony, including elected officials, family members, honored guests and residents. Everyone celebrated together after the board was officially sworn in.