“Both ladies have served this community in so many different ways… we’re pleased and honored to have them join our ranks,” said Fredonia Mayor Michael Ferguson. He hosted the ceremony in the Fredonia Opera House lobby, adjacent to his office.

Cruz Keefe and Lazarony were highly complimentary of each other. “I couldn’t ask for a better running mate,” Lazarony said of Cruz Keefe. “She has the personality of gold.”

Lazarony added, “Let’s get Fredonia going. I’m really excited. I look forward to serving my fellow Fredonians.” Ferguson subsequently touted her experience in government; she is a former mayor of Cassadaga.

“I have a million questions, and she can answer all of them,” political newcomer Cruz Keefe said of Lazarony.

OBSERVER Photos by M.J. Stafford New Fredonia Trustee Leeann Lazarony, left, takes her oath of office Thursday at Village Hall.

A longtime Spanish teacher at Fredonia High School, Cruz Keefe was sworn in as a trustee by her father-in-law, former Fredonia Mayor Steve Keefe.

“I am so grateful to be standing here today, I love Fredonia,” she said.

Ferguson hosted a reception in his office after the two trustees were sworn in. Cruz Keefe and Lazarony join Ben Brauchler, Jon Espersen and Paul Wandel on Fredonia’s Board of Trustees.