Thursday, July 10, 2025
After serving the last two years as president of the Lynbrook Chamber of Commerce, Polly Talbott is preparing to step into her new role as its executive director, effective at the Jan. 7 meeting.
Her stint with the chamber, which includes a second term as president and a focus on modernization and growth, has left a lasting impact on Lynbrook's business community.
During Talbott’s first term as president in 2004-2005, she laid a foundation of community involvement and business support. When she returned to lead the chamber in 2022, she came in with a clear vision on how to address the evolving needs of Lynbrook's business owners, many of whom were navigating the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Reflecting on her time as president, Talbott described the experience as both challenging and rewarding.
"It was truly an honor,” she said. “I really enjoyed being president these last two years. We had a lot of things that needed attention when I started out. I had quite a big agenda, and I’m proud to say we accomplished, or at least started, everything I set out to do.”
One of the most significant changes Talbott oversaw was the launch of a new website and membership registration system. By integrating the system with the chamber’s website, members now have access to a variety of benefits, including easy online registration, event posting and the ability to distribute coupons.
“It makes it so much easier to join, pay dues, and take advantage of all the member benefits,” Talbott said.
Talbott welcomed aboard Lloyd Chrein, who specializes in web design, as the chamber’s senior advisor to assist with the website and other projects. He said Talbott’s experience in Lynbrook, owning a culinary service business, A la Carte, helped get others involved, particularly young entrepreneurs.
“One of her superpowers is to delegate,” Chrein said. “She is smart in how she gets people involved. She got people really excited.”
In addition to the digital upgrades, Talbott’s presidency saw the revival of several popular events, including the “Experience Lynbrook” business showcase. Held annually at the Lynbrook Public Library, the event allows chamber members to connect with local residents and other businesses, promoting everything from professional services to specialty goods.
“We’ve had so many people join simply to come to that,” Talbott said.
Other highlights of Talbott’s leadership included the introduction of a window contest that encouraged businesses to refresh their storefronts, the return of the Chamberfest Street Fair and car shows, and the launch of Casino Night, which provides both a fun community event and a fundraising opportunity for the chamber, she said.
As the chamber’s executive director, Talbott will provide guidance and support to Michaela Jorgento, the current vice president who is set to be formally elected president during the chamber’s general meeting on Jan. 7, since no other member is running for the position. Talbott will remain a key figure within the chamber, offering advice from the perspective of someone who has been through the rigors of leadership.
“We created this role to help ensure the new president has support and guidance,” Talbott said. “I’m in an advisory position to assist Michaela in any way she needs. My goal is to help her succeed, and I’m confident she’ll do a great job.”
While Talbott’s role will be less visible, her work will continue behind the scenes, particularly through her involvement with the Economic Development Committee. She will also remain dedicated to supporting the chamber’s ongoing initiatives, from organizing events to advocating for the business community, she said.
Talbott is quick to emphasize the importance of the chamber’s role in Lynbrook.
“Businesses don’t always realize how much they can gain from the chamber," she said. "It’s not just about the workshops and seminars, it’s about networking and the support we offer each other. The word spreads, and it’s an important thing to do, especially if you're a business in Lynbrook.”
Another key achievement during Talbott’s tenure has been strengthening the chamber’s relationship with the Village of Lynbrook. The chamber has long served as a bridge between the local business community and the village government, advocating for issues like zoning changes and business-friendly policies.
"We can help solve problems and bring issues directly to the village,” she said.
As Talbott reflects on her time as president, she is optimistic about the future of the chamber under Jorgento’s leadership.
“I think Michaela is going to do an amazing job,” she said. “She has a great team behind her, and I’m really happy for them. I’m excited to see the chamber continue to grow.”
Outside her work with the chamber, Talbott has pursued a lifelong passion for cooking. Inspired by her grandmother, a pastry chef, she now teaches cooking privately and recently published a book,
“Recipes and Memories from a Cooking School.”
"I really enjoy teaching all ages, especially the basics," she said.
While Talbott’s focus shifts to her role as executive director and her personal projects, she remains committed to the continued success of the Lynbrook Chamber of Commerce.
"It’s been a great experience," she said. "I’m excited to see what’s next."
The Lynbrook Chamber of Commerce is open to businesses of all sizes. Annual membership dues are $150 for businesses with fewer than 12 employees and $200 for businesses with more than 12. Membership benefits include networking opportunities, workshops and advocacy. For more information, visit the chamber’s website: LynbrookUSA.com.
