Talking With: Babylon Village Chamber President Patty Vorilas

In this first installment of "Talking With" Patch spent time talking with new Babylon Village Chamber President Patty Vorilas to find out her goals for the business organization and what's ahead for the chamber group.

Patty Vorilas, proprietor of Long Island Home Recreation on Main Street, took the reins of the Babylon Village Chamber of Commerce this year. Patch sat down with Vorilas, a West Islip resident, to find out what she plans for the business organization and the challenges that small retailers are facing these days. She’s owned and operated her home recreation store for three years.

Patch: So the first big question: Why take on such a role?

Vorilas: Some people in the chamber approached me and I figured why not as I truly believe in the chamber and the amazing work it does for business owners and the village residents.

Patch: What are your goals for your three-year term?

Vorilas: I want to work with the community and the village to do a mix of community events that promotes the whole village, not just the stores. The more people we can draw into the village will benefit everyone.

Patch: What’s the biggest challenge facing village storeowners?

Vorilas: The economy. Small and mid sized businesses are being challenged and that’s why it’s so important for local residents to shop local. Yes, you may pay a dollar or two more, but I think one reason that Babylon Village and other local community business arras have survived the past few years is because people realize the importance of supporting local business.

Patch: What other community organizations are you involved in?

Vorilas: I just co-founded a new group, Women of West Islip that is focused on community service.

Patch: Why should storeowners in the village join the chamber of commerce?

Vorilas: Everyone should join because everything the chamber does is to benefit all the business and if we work together we can do some amazing things. It’s not just about paying the dues, it’s about helping each other and promoting the village as a place to shop and eat and enjoy. I think everyone who isn’t ‘a member or hasn’t been in a few years should come down to the next meeting and see what we’re all about. We are all reaping the benefits of the great events and we’re going to do ever more this year.