Assemblywoman Rabbit hosts swearing-in ceremony at Greenwood Lake Middle School

Monroe - On Friday, Feb. 4, students at the Greenwood Lake Middle School just off Lakes Road in Monroe had a rare opportunity for a first-hand lesson in civics. They, along with government officials and other guests were invited to witness the swearing-in ceremony of state Assemblywoman Annie Rabbitt (R-C-I-Greenwood Lake) for her fourth term. The previously scheduled event had been postponed due to a school closing during a snowstorm. “We kept watching all these storm predictions,” quipped Rabbitt, “and I thought this might become a fifth term swearing-in if the weather didn’t get any better.” The assemblywoman, whose term officially began Jan. 1, represents New York’s 97th District, which includes parts of Orange and Rockland counties. Orange County Family Court Justice Carol S. Klein administered the oath of office. The Master of Ceremonies for the event was Lynn Cione, executive director of the Goshen Chamber of Commerce. Other participants included the Greenwood Lake Middle School Chorus and the Honor Society. The Minisink ROTC Color Guard offered the presentation of the Colors. A series of elected officials praised Rabbitt for her years of service. “I can’t think of anyone who could serve this district better,” said newly elected Congresswoman Nan Hayworth. Greenwood Lake Mayor Barbara Moore also used the opportunity of having so many elected officials present to explain to the students what part of government each official, including herself, represented and the types of issues each would be asked to address. Following her swearing-in, Rabbitt also explained the difficulties of her job during an economy when state coffers are low and worthy requests for additional funding have to be refused. “We’re seeing some of the toughest times in the State of New York,” she said. During his remarks, Orange County Executive Ed Diana, observed that the day before was the beginning of the Chinese New Year. “And according to the Chinese Calendar,” he smiled, “this year is the Year of the Rabbitt.”