Amid an overflowing crowd of dignitaries, elected officials, civic leaders, supporters, friends, and family members in PS 232’s auditorium, Stacey Pheffer Amato was officially sworn into office on January 22, 2017.

Opening the ceremony was an inspiring Presentation of Colors and recital of the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Girl Scout Troop #4493 as well as a performance of our National Anthem by Scholars’ Academy MS/HS Chorus. Rabbi Yaakov Bender, Dean of Yeshiva Darchei Torah then delivered the Invocation.

The inimitable Master of Ceremonies was retired Justice of the Supreme Court, Honorable Augustus “Auggie” Agate, who kicked off the event with a bang, including a recognition of each elected official present. U.S. Senator Charles Schumer regaled the crowd with an “everything is the same” address, poking fun at the Assemblywoman’s mother, Queens County Clerk Audrey Pheffer, and concluding with the ultimate compliment that he knows Pheffer Amato will continue the great work of her predecessors by fighting for the residents of the 23rd Assembly District as they did.

Following suit were heartfelt, and at times, lighthearted speeches from: Congressman Joseph Crowley, Congressman Gregory Meeks, NYS Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli, NYS Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, NYC Public Advocate Letitia A. James, NYC Comptroller Scott Stringer, Queens Borough President Melinda Katz, NYS Senator Joseph Addabbo, Jr., and NYS Senator James Sanders. Each elected official declared their admiration for Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato, along with their eagerness to work alongside her to better the quality of life for the residents of the 23rd Assembly District.

Former Assemblyman Phillip Goldfeder, who “retired” from the NYS Assembly this past November, and whose seat Pheffer Amato presumed, imparted words of wisdom and support.

The much anticipated Oath of Office was then officiated by the Honorable Audrey Pheffer, and the new Assemblywoman was formally sworn in.

The final speaker, Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato, expressed her great appreciation for all who assisted her through the election process, giving special mention to her family. “I am doing this for you and for your future!” Pheffer Amato emotionally exclaimed, speaking to her children and explaining her motivation for running. She then thanked them for being her inspiration to run for Assembly. The Assemblywoman referred to every community within her district by name, as she pledged to represent them all, and fight to better quality of life for all residents within the 23rd Assembly District. Following, a benediction was then presented by Father Francis Colamaria, Pastor at St. Helens Roman Catholic Church.

“I am deeply touched by the outpouring of support and affection from everyone who took the time to attend my inauguration. I believe the best way I can show my gratitude is by upholding the oath that I took on Sunday,” said Pheffer Amato.