Three graduation t-shirts and an honorary degree later, Assemblyman Tom Alfano finished the commencement addresses to the graduates in the Elmont elementary schools for the year 2000. Gotham Avenue, Alden Terrace, Dutch Broadway and Covert Avenue Schools were the stops for the assemblyman as he gave his speech "strive for your dreams" to the graduating classes in Elmont's elementary schools.

"These classes were very special to me this year," said Assemblyman Alfano noting "many of these students have participated in many events I've had whether they traveled to Albany and took part in a Town Hall meeting or in the classrooms. Many of the diplomas I handed out were to children I know by first name. It was quite an honor - one that I won't soon forget."

Alfano was awarded honorary yearbooks and shirts from the class of 2000 from Covert, Alden Terrace and Dutch Broadway Schools

Alfano was shocked to receive an honorary degree from Gotham Avenue School. Principal Marshall Zucker awarded the degree after Alfano's speech. "Words can't express how pleased I am to receive this award from Gotham Avenue School. Thank you to all the 6th graders and the teachers," Alfano said. The degree was signed by each of the sixth grade teachers and Principal Marshal Zucker and Assistant Principal Dennis Cowan.

Alfano imparted three wishes to each of the graduating classes in his speeches: "If I could wish for three things for each and every one of your I would first wish that you are optimistic in all of your pursuits. Never let anyone get you down. Work hard, study and strive for your dreams. I would then ask for you what a famous man wished for himself during a trying period - to have an understanding heart and to have the ability to recognize right from wrong."

Alfano started the graduation tour throughout Elmont with his first stop Alden Terrace with Principal Mary Tabone. The ceremony took place in the morning and an afternoon reception was held after the ceremony. In the evening, Dutch Broadway kicked off the graduation evening with Principal Walter Aksionoff then off to Gotham Avenue School and then finally ending at Covert Avenue School with Principal Margaret Pleta.

Alfano concluded by thanking the students: "I want to thank each of you for having me address your class and I especially will enjoy the yearbooks, pictures and t-shirts as a remembrance of all our work together."