OBSERVER Photo by M.J. Stafford Congressman-elect Nick Langworthy takes an unofficial oath of office Wednesday at Pine Valley Central School. Chautauqua County Court Judge David Foley administered the oath. Langworthy was joined by his daughter, Madeline.

SOUTH DAYTON — Congressman-elect Nick Langworthy got a triumphant welcome to his childhood school Wednesday night.

Langworthy is going around his district to take unofficial oaths of office before his official one in Washington. A supportive crowd of well over 100 cheered him on Wednesday at Pine Valley Central School as Chautauqua County Court Judge David Foley administered the oath.

Langworthy’s daughter, Madeline, 8, joined him on stage for the oath. He said his wife, Erin, couldn’t be there because she was home caring for their newborn son.

In his keynote speech, Langworthy promised he would strongly defend the values and priorities of rural Americans. He also talked up his hometown.

“I think back to my younger self and the values and the work ethic that were instilled in me by teachers, faculty and coaches right here in Pine Valley,” he said. “I’m reminded of what a lucky kid I was to come of age in this building, in this school district, in this great small town.”

See Friday’s edition for complete coverage.