One of the more enjoyable duties that I get to perform as mayor is the ribbon cuttings of new businesses. I always enjoy meeting the owners and employees of the businesses that have chosen to make a living in our fair village. Each ribbon cutting or grand opening celebration is unique to the type of business that it is. Some are elaborate and some are just a quick photo and handshake. No matter what the type, the trustees and I are always excited to attend and welcome them to our town. During the past week I had the pleasure of attending two very special openings. When a national chain chooses our village for one of their stores it is always rewarding. I was invited to perform the "first pour" at the recently opened Starbucks in Fulton Street Plaza. I was honored to take part in this Starbucks tradition. The event was meticulously planned with no details left out. Trustees Starkie, Langon and Deputy Mayor Rachiele joined me. I think it is important to note the extra effort of Building Department Superintendent Ron Craig and DPW Superintendent Fred Zamparelle. Both of them have been working with the Fulton Street Plaza owners and the merchants from the onset of the renovation. The results of their efforts are clearly visible. The other opening I attended was the new Wings Over Farmingdale at 221 Main St. Once again national chains chose Farmingdale to locate their store. While attending the ribbon cutting I not only met the local Farmingdale franchise owner, but the corporate Wings Over owner. This is the gentleman who started the franchise. He mentioned to me what a terrific town we have and how happy they are to have a store here. The process of working with new businesses is one that we pride ourselves on. Both Ron and Fred try to make it as easy as possible for the businesses to get through the process - from permits to build-outs. They both also work very closely with the trustees to keep within the "look" that we want the village to have. The nature of a downtown business district like ours lends itself to change. Businesses come and businesses go. There will always be a change-over. According to the Long Island Index, our downtown area is right at the national average for vacancies. The Long Island Index identified a key component of creating a vibrant community was a thriving business district. They went on to say in their report, how vital the business downtown is to people and the community. With this in mind, the village board and I are working on some very exciting plans to bring more businesses into our town, ones that will continue to make the Village of Farmingdale the place to visit, shop and dine.