Before a board room filled beyond capacity, the new administration for the Village of Farmingdale was sworn in Monday evening during a special ceremony. Mayor George Graf, together with Trustees Tom Langon and Joseph Rachiele, officially took office at noon on April 5. The three join trustees Marialyce Denauski and Dr. Benjamin Giminaro on the village board.

After Cub Pack 601 presented the colors, Cathy Langon and Julia Rachiele were invited up to lead the Pledge of Allegiance and Village Historian William Johnston offered welcoming remarks.

"It's a bedrock tradition in American government that transitions take place ceremoniously and graciously," said Johnston, inviting residents to remain after the meeting for refreshments and fellowship. Johnston, who was joined by Deputy Village Historian Daniel Looney, said that this time in Farmingdale's history is particularly significant as the village is celebrating its centennial of incorporation. "It was in April 1904 when it all began ... on April 14 a petition of incorporation was presented to the Town of Oyster Bay," he said, adding that a hearing was scheduled that May and in June a proposition of incorporation was adopted. The incorporation of the village was made official in July. "This year we will be celebrating the centennial of incorporation, especially on the weekend of July 17 and 18," he said, noting that many other activities are planned.

Several local dignitaries were on hand to join in the festivities. Assemblyman James Conte swore in Trustee Rachiele and Oyster Bay Town Supervisor John Venditto swore in Mayor Graf and Trustee Langon.

"I cannot tell you how I have benefited by the work of this great village board and so many village boards over the years," said Venditto, adding that while he is not a "villager," as a resident of North Massapequa, all three of his children went through the Farmingdale school system. "You have the tendency to live where your children go to school. You simply cannot find a better place to live and raise your children."

The supervisor said that most importantly, the town has always had positive relations with the village. "Over many, many decades ... there has been an exemplary amount of inter-municipal cooperation between the Town of Oyster Bay and the Village of Farmingdale," he said, adding to the new administration, "I want you to know that the door to the Town of Oyster Bay and the door to the supervisor's office will always be open to you."

Graf, after thanking his family, distinguished guests, friends and neighbors, said he felt privileged and honored to have been sworn in as mayor. He added that together with Langon and Rachiele, he looks forward to working with Trustees Denauski and Dr. Giminaro to make the next four years productive for the village and to improve the quality of life for all residents.

"Our goals are to initiate changes based on sound ideas and to offer sensible solutions to social, business and economic issues. We will meet these challenges by working together as a team," the mayor said. He further told residents, "Your input will be welcome and valued at our meetings ... your concerns are our concerns. With your support and active participation, we will succeed. The future of the village is in the hands of the community."

Following Graf's remarks, Faith Graf was invited to lead in the singing of God Bless America and Boy Scout Troop 261 retired the colors.

Before closing the meeting, Graf concluded, "As a final note for tonight, I'm looking forward to serving as your mayor during our centennial year. Let's make this celebration a memorable one."