Chamber president profile: Babylon's Patty J. Vorilas

Patty J. Vorilas, owner/proprietor, Long Island Home Recreation

Previous community involvement:

Secretary, Babylon Village Chamber of Commerce, 2011; secretary, parish council of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church; adviser, St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Youth Association; secretary, Philoptochos Ladies Society; co-founder, Women of West Islip.

How many members are in your chamber?

Approximately 150 members

When was your chamber founded?

Late 1980s

How would you describe the business community?

We have a tight-knit business community. We help each other out, however and whenever needed. We recommend each other's businesses. You could say we are a modern-day Mayberry.

Briefly, what are the main issues for the chamber?

Working together to attract people from all over to visit, shop, eat and enjoy all that our beautiful village has to offer.

How has being involved in the chamber helped your business?

My business has grown due to not only the local support of our community but also the support that we provide each other as small business owners. Whether it is referring each other's businesses or frequenting each other's establishments.

Ten years from now, how will things have changed?

If only I had a crystal ball... I would like to see our village continue to grow and thrive as it has been for so many years, however, keeping its old-fashioned charm.

Tell us something no one knows about your community.

One interesting fact is that in December, 1924, Stanley Foster gave the village of Babylon Argyle Park, which is 34 acres of property. It consists of a marina, beautiful waterfalls and a lake. The second interesting fact is that there is a jail cell in the basement of the Old Town Hall from the days when it was the headquarters of the Babylon Police.

Tell us something no one knows about yourself.

Well now, if I tell you that, then everyone will know.