On Wednesday evening, Dec. 1, the Village of Farmingdale conducted the 16th annual holiday lighting of the Tricentennial Tree, a tradition which grew out of the Tricentennial of Settlement observance.

This year's program took place at the new gazebo on the Village Green. This was especially appropriate in view of the 100th anniversary commemoration of the village's incorporation this year.

As coordinator of this event, I would like to thank the many individuals and groups which made this joyous ceremony possible despite a blustery evening:

* Deputy Mayor Joe Rachiele for his special role in lighting the tree as he pinch-hit for Mayor George Graf.

* Fred Zamparelle, DPW superintendent and his crew; their role was critical to the program. The tree and the gazebo are beautifully decorated for the season.

* John Giordano, village clerk/treasurer and the village hall office staff for their help.

* Dr. Roberta Gerold, superintendent of the Farmingdale Public Schools; director of fine arts Rita Padden; Catherine Martin, choral director at Albany Avenue School; the talented youngsters of her chorus, and Mi Hee Hwang, their accompanist; Barbara Pandolfo, director of library/audio-visual services; and Jeffrey Pritzker, district a-v technician who set up and manned the excellent public address system, another vital role.

* The Farmingdale-Bethpage Historical Society for funding the publicity ads and fliers.

* The Farmingdale Chamber of Commerce for presenting the South Shore Brass Ensemble again, a holiday gift to the community for all 16 years of the event. This ensemble always adds a special sparkle.

* The Kiwanis Club of Farmingdale for providing refreshments as they have for so many years in the past. This was a most welcome service on a cold, windy night.

* And the throng of local residents who came out for this brief but joyous occasion at the beginning of a special time of year for all. Again, many thanks to all who made it possible. Happy Holidays!

Bill Johnston

Historian, Village of Farmingdale