Monsignor James Kelly welcomed attendees as they arrived at the Parish Center, while a German oompah band provided authentic entertainment. "Tonight is about going to Germany to Oktoberfest," said Theresa McCabe, co-chairwoman of the event, with her sister in-law, Mary Ellen McCabe.
Legislator Joe Scannell, state Assemblyman Bob Barra, Sen. Dean Skelos and Councilman Anthony Santino came out to honor the mayor as well.
Participants enjoyed a beer garden, an open bar and a buffet that gave the room a cozy atmosphere. A silent auction was set up in the lobby, while St. Agnes youth handled various chores for confirmation credit. Pumpkin and leaf centerpieces decorated the tables, at which familiar faces conversed with one another. Without a doubt, the mood of the night was unity and togetherness. "We have the largest family room in all of Rockville Centre," said Bishop William Murphy.
More than 400 people were expected to attend between 8 p.m. and midnight. "I would say it's probably the largest group we've had since I've been here," Murphy said.
Richard and Regina Guilfoyle, parish members and Rockville Centre residents, said they had come to honor the mayor's many years of service to the community.
Murray, a lifelong Rockville Centre resident, was one of 13 children of the village's longtime postmaster. He is a graduate of St. Agnes Cathedral High School, and now has two great-grandchildren in the St. Agnes school system. He was a member of the village's Board of Trustees for three years, and has been mayor since 1987. "The parish is very proud to have him in our community," said Kelly.
Murray served in the Army during World War II, operated Murray Floor Waxing Service, a successful family-owned business, and was named businessman of the year by the Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce. He has been active in the volunteer fire department for nearly 55 years, and served as chief from 1981 to 1983. He was a deputy chief for four years, and captain of Eureka Hook and Ladder as well.
In a speech, Theresa McCabe praised the mayor for his deep devotion to his family, the parish and the village.
When Murray took the podium, he addressed the gathering as if he were sitting at his dinner table, talking to his wife of 57 years, Mary Lou, his eight children, 26 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. "Thank you for coming, not just for me but for our parish," he said.
McCabe agreed that it is the hard work that Kelly and the clergy put into St. Agnes on a daily basis that allows for celebrations like this one. "I believe our parish is a wonderful place, and Kelly is an extraordinary leader," she said. "He has such a deep heart."
Although Murray, the man of the hour, had been out and about all day, he was more eager than ever to enjoy the festivities of Oktoberfest. "I never miss a party," he said. "That's my motto."
