The Women’s Club of Farmingdale has reached the significant milestone of its 100th anniversary. A splendid gala was held at Carlyle on the Green in Bethpage State Park to celebrate the occasion.
Mayor Ralph Ekstrand and Village Trustees Pat Christiansen, William Barrett, Cheryl Parisi and Tom Ryan attended the celebration. Also in attendance was Beth Mignone, president of the Farmingdale Chamber of Commerce, as well as chamber members Bill Trudden and Debbie Podolski, who is also the director of the Farmingdale Public Library. In addition, Farmingdale School Board member Tina Diamond, and Margaret Bollon, president of the Long Island Federation of Women’s Clubs also attended. Mayor Ralph Ekstrand presented a proclamation to Maria Ortolani, president of the Women’s Club and attendees danced the night away to the music of the “Risky Business” Band.
In addition to the gala, events were planned for each month. One meeting was devoted to Abigail E. Leonard, founder of the Women’s Club in 1913. Miss Leonard’s accomplishments were discussed, as well as the accomplishments of club members over the past 100 years. Additional events included presentations by life-long residents on their experiences growing up in Farmingdale, on the changes that have occurred in the Farmingdale community over the past decades, and on the different industries that once were part of this community. Other commemorative events will include the unveiling and dedication of a memorial plaque containing a photo of current members and a framed photo of Abigail E. Leonard, co-founder of the Farmingdale Public Library. This dedication and unveiling will take place at the library on Thursday, April 18, at 11:30 a.m. All are welcome.
The conclusion of the year-long celebration of the 100th Anniversary will be a “High Tea” where members have been asked to wear hats, gloves and vintage attire.
