This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Business & Tech

Chamber Welcomes New Members, Prepares For Networking Event

West Islip Chamber of Commerce President Diane Fontana informs residents of current chamber notes.

now and the holidays are upon us.

The recent hosted by The Town of Islip and displayed on our very own was the perfect event to leave the warmer weather behind and move forward to this great time of year. 

The organized the hospitality booth for the .  Without the support of our residents and local businesses this could never have been a success.  This was a very humbling experience for me and my family and I hope that all of you were able to stop by to see this that stands in Washington, D.C.  All the effort and entertainment was just amazing.  Our local school children were able to come during school hours and get a little education at the same time.  I hope we can be host to this event again. 

Interested in local real estate?Subscribe to Patch's new newsletter to be the first to know about open houses, new listings and more.

With October behind us I am hoping that we will not lose sight of October being breast cancer awareness month.  While we wear our pink and get together for walks and fundraisers remember this is an ongoing problem that needs our support every month.  Our is always on the move working to raise awareness through education and outreach.  They not only service our local residents but towns throughout Long Island that do not have their own local coalitions. 

Great events such as the annual clam shucking contest bring in proceeds that go back into research and the community.  was incorporated in 1992 and continues to thrive today.  Anyone interested in learning more or wanting to help please visit their website                                                                                                             

Interested in local real estate?Subscribe to Patch's new newsletter to be the first to know about open houses, new listings and more.

I recently had the opportunity to give a recognition award to two high school seniors who were selected to attend the American Legion's Boys State and Girls State programs this past summer sponsored by the American Legions.  It was an honor to meet and present to these two fine young people.  Both Griffin Burr and Lori Interlicchio enjoyed their time in the program and acknowledged all their potential for the future.  Congratulations to these two future leaders.                             

We are excited to announce our "Networking with the Chamber" night Tuesday, November 16 at Farrell's Pub from 6-9 p.m.  Join our local business community for some light fare and drink specials.  It is a great way to catch up with some old acquaintances and make some new ones.  Free to chamber members and $10.00 for all others.  There will be door prizes.  At our last networking evening many great connections were made.

The chamber welcomed in the new Atlantis Diner and Restaurant this week to West Islip.  This is a great addition to West Islip and partners Peter Strifas, Gus Berketis and Louras Rieniris have made this venue a hit.  The décor and menu are fantastic.  Bring the family and enjoy!

The Chamber would like to welcome three new members.  Long Island Home Recreation, J. Knowles Graphic Arts and PuroClean.  We welcome these businesses and wish them all the best!

It is getting closer to the .  Look for announcements in the near future. 

While we are getting closer to the end of this year there is no slowing down.  Our membership drive is underway and we are planning for our holiday party and our installation breakfast.  The chamber routinely gives scholarships to our local high school seniors and work with businesses in many ways to help promote them.  We are working with the and the for our annual Festival of Lights to be held on December 5.  Look for more info next month.

I think I've taken up too much of your time already.  Enjoy the remainder of this great season and get ready for old man winter!  You can reach us through our website  Look for all upcoming events and information there.  And remember to Keep it in West Islip (KIIWI).

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?