Lynbrook Chamber opens associate membership

WIlliam Gaylor, president of the Lynbrook Chamber of Commerce, has announced a new membership category designed to encourage community involvement.

The new category of “Associate Member” was created so that residents of Lynbrook who do not own or operate a business, yet have an interest in their community, can be involved in the Chamber’s projects.

“The residents of Lynbrook need to know what’s going on at the Chamber,” said Gaylor, who also owns Lyn Gift Shop on Atlantic Avenue. “Since the Chamber of Commerce has a vital interest that extends beyond the business community, it is vital for us to have community input.”

The new membership category, Gaylor said, is the brainchild of the Chamber’s planning committee, chaired by Stephen Wangel, owner of The KItchen Loft.

“Credit goes to the entire committee,” said Wangel. “It came out of the idea we had to make a better membership experience for our current members, and to attract new members.” Wangel said that his committee pondered having more community involvement to make it “one big happy family.” He said that he is not aware of any other nearby chambers or merchants associations that are trying this method. “These members can attend our regular meetings and will be receiving our Chamber newsletter, which we will be reinstating soon.” Wangel said that they are looking into a possible reduced membership fee for associates. “The only limitation,” he said, “is that they would not have voting rights.” Wangel also said that full membership is also an option, and, with it, full benefits and voting right in the Chamber.

“We are making some exciting plans for the coming year,” said Gaylor, “and we need the support of the residents that our businesses serve.”

Anyone interested in becoming an Associate Member can contact the Lynbrook Chamber of Commerce at (516) 599-3436 or E-mail info@lynbrookusa.com

Comments about this story? Mmalloy@liherald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 202.