Farmingdale Round-Up: Food Donations Being Collected

FARMINGDALE, NY — Farmingdale Village Mayor Ralph Ekstrand, in his latest news release, discussed the ribbon cutting of a new solar power business, the collection of food items for those in need, and more.

EmPower Solar recently held its ribbon cutting, and it's expanding and hiring, which Ekstrand called "amazing" due to the coronavirus pandemic.

"They offer clean energy 'Solar Solutions – Pair your panels with a car charging station to become one step closer to energy independence.' We are very fortunate that EmPower selected Farmingdale – a 'green' Village," Ekstrand wrote.

The village is collecting non-perishable food donations to help those in Farmingdale who need help. There is a food collection box at Village Hall for those who can donate non-perishable food to help locals. Donations can be dropped off Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. at Village Hall.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, St. Kilian Social Ministry is open for food assistance and to accept food and toiletry donations, on Tuesdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to Noon. They are located at 140 Elizabeth St.; enter from rectory parking lot, facing Conklin Street.

Additionally, there is a donation box at Village Hall for Marine Toys for Tots, for donations of unwrapped toys for the holidays.

"Thank you for helping those in need in our community," Ekstrand said.

The Meeting House of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers), at 99 Quaker Meeting House Road in Farmingdale Village, is slated for renovations soon. Donations are being accepted by the Quakers. Ekstrand briefly discussed their "rich" history, which dates back to 1698, in the area.

Thomas Powell, along with other settlers of the Bethpage Purchase, started meeting to worship in private homes in that year. Known as the Bethpage Preparative Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends, the group built several meetinghouses over the years that were lost to fire.

The current structure was moved across the road when Bethpage State Park was formed in the mid-1930s and was re-built in 1992. The Quakers continue to meet today, holding Meeting for Worship every Sunday at 11 a.m. All are welcome for silent worship for one hour. Donations are being accepted for the building, which needs repairs.

To donate, contact Jay, acting clerk, 516-473-4002, or Valerie at 516-647-5408.

Ekstrand encouraged residents to continue to shop and dine local in order to support merchants — especially due to the pandemic.

"Support the local merchants, consider gift cards when holiday shopping – we are all in this together!" Ekstrand said.

317 Main Street and Palmer's American Grille are open for takeout and/or dining on Thanksgiving, according to the mayor. Advanced reservations are required.

Additionally, several merchants are offering Thanksgiving takeout for orders placed in advance – The Library Café, Le Petit Café (everything except the turkey – including sides, pies, desserts…), 317 Main Street, Palmer’s American Grille, The Chocolate Duck (holiday chocolates and more) and others, so contact the merchants directly to make reservations, to place orders and for more details.

"On behalf of the Farmingdale Village Board of Trustees and myself, we wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving, and thank everyone for their understanding and cooperation during this crisis, stay safe and healthy – brighter days are ahead!," Ekstrand said.