This past Saturday the Farmingdale Fire Department held a "Lemon-Aid" fundraiser for the victims of Hurricane Katrina. Thanks to the generosity of our village residents and the Farmingdale community over $12,000 dollars were raised. If you missed the event and would still like to help out, you can send donations to the Farmingdale Fire Department on Main Street.

I had the pleasure of "working the collection jug." As I stood in the middle of Main Street, I felt very proud to be part of this wonderful community. It was rewarding to see firsthand how many cars stopped and people contributed whatever they could. Some cars stopped on their way into town and then on their way out of town.

I would like to thank and commend Chief John Salerno and the members of the Farmingdale Fire Department for organizing this event. They truly were people on a mission Saturday. The enthusiasm and energy was contagious and the event was able to continue with "civilian" volunteers when the firefighters responded to a fire call that came in while I was there. We could not help but notice the smoke as we looked down Main Street. The firefighters were already mobilizing before the call even came in. The returning truck (that had just finished collecting donations), immediately pulled out along with the chief and other trucks. As they responded, the fundraising continued with other volunteers taking over, never missing a beat.

By the time I arrived at the scene, the Lotus Garden Restaurant, the fire was out. As I spoke with the chiefs from our local fire departments at the command post, I got a quick education on how our neighboring departments coordinate their efforts and how the trucks and personnel are positioned to ensure that they are prepared for multiple scenarios. We are fortunate to have these dedicated volunteers who not only protect our property here at home but care about the well being of others in need. Well Done.