Lynbrook Chamber plans for 2014

The Lynbrook Chamber of Commerce is looking forward to a successful year, according to its president, Denise Rogers, with more events, fundraisers and new programs in the works.

“Last year we did so much, and this year’s going to be even better,” Rogers said at a recent chamber meeting at the Lynbrook Public Library. “We have a redesigned website and a Facebook page with more than 1,500 followers … we want our loyal customers to continue shopping locally, and we want the Chamber to continue to grow.”

In 2013, the organization hosted its annual Taste of Lynbrook, a well-attended event at which local restaurants and bakeries offered samples to the public — and participants voted for their favorite dishes, whose creators were presented with People’s Choice awards.

The Chamber also held a logo contest, inviting residents to submit their original designs. Lynbrook High School senior Nicolai Tyco’s entry was the winner, and is now the organization’s graphic symbol.

Despite rainy weather, Rogers said, the annual pre-prom party, summer car show and winter celebration all went off without a hitch. In November, the Chamber partnered with the Malverne Merchants and Professionals Association to host a successful art auction. It also continued the popular Shop Lynbrook Loyalty Program.

Many of the group’s events help raise money for student scholarships. “American Express gave us materials to help us to get people to patronize our shops,” Rogers said. “So that helped a lot.”

Moving forward

In January the Chamber held a dinner dance honoring four members of the community. Jennifer Derrig, owner of the Lynbrook Irish Shop, was named Business Person of the Year. Park Supervisor Patrick McDermott, Fire Chief Edward Hynes and police Inspector Ronald Fleury were also honored. The event was coordinated and chaired by Chamber Secretary Carol Burak and committee members Linda Stephenson, Bill Gaylor and Steve Wangel.