Glen Cove Chamber of Commerce launches 2026 board, highlights growth and community impact

Posted

The Glen Cove Chamber of Commerce installed its 2026 board of directors during a swearing-in ceremony and networking dinner on Jan. 28, marking the start of a new term focused on business growth, community engagement and expanded programming.
Chamber President Dr. Maxine Meyris highlighted a year of increased membership, major community events and stronger support for local entrepreneurs, noting that the organization has grown to roughly 250 members while expanding initiatives that promote and sustain local businesses.
“Our decisions have stayed anchored to our mission — enhancing the health and profitability of our member businesses,” Meyris said, pointing to ribbon cuttings, scholarships, networking events and large-scale community programs as examples of the Chamber’s growing impact.
The Glen Cove Chamber of Commerce is led by President Dr. Maxine Meyris, with Vice Presidents Dr. Eve Lupenkoand Jamé Krauter, and Treasurer Thomas Bunger. Serving on the board are Past Presidents Matt Nartowicz and Mary Stanco, along with directors Sonya Lowe, Ylisa Kunze, Kate Alchermes, Ernie Feliciano, Gaitley Stevenson-Mathews, Matthew Rendell, Judith Rivera, and Danielle Vollkommer. The Chamber’s day-to-day operations are overseen by Executive Director Cliff Krauter.
Among its major efforts, the Chamber has taken over stewardship of the Deep Roots Farmers Market at Garvies Point, transforming it into a seasonal community gathering space that supports local vendors and small businesses. The organization also continues to award the annual Dr. Glenn Howard Scholarship to graduating high school seniors and hosts its signature Culinary Delights event, one of the city’s most anticipated food showcases.

This year’s Culinary Delights will be held on May 18 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Glen Cove Mansion, featuring dozens of local restaurants, beverage vendors and specialty businesses.
Executive Director Cliff Krauter reflected on the Chamber’s growth over the past several years and the relationships built within the business community.
“Glen Cove Chamber of Commerce means a great deal to me,” Krauter said. “Over the past five years, it has been an honor to help grow the Chamber into one of the largest and most active on Long Island. The most important part of this work has been building real connections with local business owners and helping them succeed.”
Krauter added that working alongside the board has been a source of pride as the Chamber continues serving Glen Cove and neighboring communities.
First Vice President Dr. Eve Lupenko spoke about her long-term commitment to the city and the role strong businesses play in community stability.
“My intention is to live permanently in Glen Cove, and I really want to help make it a thriving community — a place where my kids will want to stay, live and hopefully raise their families as well,” Lupenko said. “To have a viable, sustainable community, we need sustainable businesses.”
The evening also recognized recent accomplishments including joint networking events with neighboring chambers, sponsorship of Downtown Sounds, community festivals and charitable donations to local nonprofits.
With a new board officially sworn in, Chamber leaders said the coming year will focus on expanding programming, strengthening business advocacy and continuing high-profile events that connect residents with local entrepreneurs.