The Kiwanis Club of Farmingdale, now in its 44th chartered year, recently celebrated its Officer Installation Night at The Lotus Garden Restaurant in Farmingdale. Honorary guest, Kiwanis Long Island North Division Lieutenant Governor Kathy Shanker, was on hand at the celebration to install the new officers.

The newly appointed officers of the Kiwanis Club of Farmingdale are President John Mace, Immediate Past President George Valente, Vice President Ernest Thompson, Secretary Dr. Andrew Manzo and Treasurer Edward Vaughan.

The Kiwanis Club was originally chartered 44 years ago by Tony Kaiser and Andrew Manzo. Since then the club has served the Farmingdale community in various ways, including the posting of over 100 American flags on Main and Conklin Streets on national holidays, one of their proudest projects.

Other annual events the club takes part in include marching down Main Street in the Rag-A-Muffin Day Parade to celebrate Halloween with costumed children, a sing-a-long at the Daleview Manor, the Kiwanis Magic Show, and sending local children to Kamp Kiwanis.

Kiwanis recognizes the devotion of local merchants and caring citizens, who make such events possible for the club through their donations. In addition to relying on community donations, Kiwanis frequently works hand in hand with the Farmingdale Key Club, comprised of approximately 80 local students. According to Past President George Valente, Kiwanis hopes to add at least a few new members to their club, to further enhance the amount of activities and time they can provide to the community.

In addition to sponsoring numerous parades and events in the community, Farmingdale Kiwanis most recently served refreshments at the annual tree lighting ceremony which took place this past Wednesday. In November, the club also worked with the Key Club to purchase 10 turkeys for needy families.

At their weekly meetings, held every Wednesday at Lotus Garden Restaurant in Farmingdale, Kiwanis members discuss plans for upcoming projects. Their latest list of future projects includes hosting a magic show for local children, which they anticipate will take place sometime in May.

The Kiwanis Club is looking for dedicated local residents to join them in their efforts to provide for the community. Anybody who has any questions about Kiwanis or is interested in joining the club may contact George Valente at 935-7502.