Introducing Chamber Of Commerce News & Notes

Editor's Note: During the first week of every month, West Islip Chamber of Commerce President, Diane Fontana, will write a column discussing updates in the community and how everyone can get involved.  Patch is very excited to have her on board.

The Wait Is Over!

Oh, the calm before the storm as we wait in anticipation for the hurricane season, we are also in anticipation of the upcoming fall season.  Fall in West Islip is a great time.  We have the 6th Annual Blast from the Past Car Show this weekend.  We are dedicating this show to our former president, Joseph DiPalma who was instrumental in bringing this event to our community. 

As anyone who lives in West Islip knows, Joe was a dedicated member of the community who always tried to help our local businesses and our residents when needed.  His dedication to our business and resident community is unsurpassed.  He touched the lives of everyone he met.  With over 1,400 cars, live music, food court, raffles and trophies this is a great fun day for the family right here in West Islip.  So, no need to fill up the gas tank.  Stay right here at home in your neighborhood and enjoy!

This fall is also home to the 35th Annual West Islip Country Fair with over 300 vendors, the presentation of the Dignity Memorial® Vietnam Wall which is a three-quarters the scale replica of the Vietnam Memorial Wall in Washington, DC.  The Town of Islip is hosting this event right in our very own backyard.  This is a great three-day event which will bring our surrounding communities together to honor those who served during this part of our country's history.  And, of course, we cannot forget the annual homecoming parade that marches down Higbie Lane to the high school each and every year.

Please participate in the Good Samaritan Blood Drive to be held on September 30.  For these events and all others please check our website. 

Our next general meeting will be held on September 20 at American Legion Post 1738, 340 Union Blvd.  This is a good forum for networking and also to bring community issues to the table.  Our membership is vital to supporting our scholarships and improvements to our community.  If you would like to join, please visit our site and print out an application.  We welcome new members,  M.S.V. Food Services, Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultant Katherine Carlin and Mike of All Trades, Inc.

For all the nine-to-fives working outside of our community-- just like I did for thirty years-- please take note of our local businesses when you are back in town.  There are businesses right here in our community for all of your needs.  Remember to Keep it in West Islip (KIIWI) and watch as our community becomes stronger and new businesses arrive and thrive.  Need a gift? Check.  Need a tailor? Check.  Need a car? Check.  Need a home improvement?  Check.  Need a new look? Check. You get the idea.  I hope you will take a look around and support our small business owners.

So let's hunker down and await the fall season and remember school will be open shortly.  Drive safe and enjoy this great holiday weekend!  You can contact me anytime through our website.  All the best!