QueensboroughNOv

CONGRESSWOMAN MENG SECURES

FREE OUTDOOR DINING INITIATIVE

$2 million to Queens restaurants through “Dining Out for District 6”

Solutions For Seniors: Helping Families Navigate Housing Transitions

Creative Approaches to Airport and Ferry Advertising

The Growing Threat of Lithium Ion Batteries

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Company Service Projects Help Local Ill Children

A Critical Discussion on Lithium-Ion Battery Fires

Dine and Discover Queens: Nur Thai

Queens Tech Corner: Coverage Cat

Driving Innovation and Community Engagement at Exo Industries Corp

Queens County’s Top Construction Projects Honored at Queens Chamber of Commerce’s 2024 Building Awards Gala

Paul Davis of Metro NY/NJ: Comprehensive Solution for Restoration Needs

Over $2 Million Raised In Record-Breaking Annual Fundraiser

Comcast Business Expands its Local Presence in New York, Bringing Innovation and Community Support

Jamaica Hardware & Paints, Inc. - 15th Anniversary

Winning More Business with Smarter Proposals

Con Edison Begins Construction on $1.2 Billion Project to Modernize the Electricgrid in Southeast Queens

John Sanchez

Walter Sanchez - Publisher - Marketing Director

QUEENS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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Entire Contents Copyright 2024 by Queensborough. All letters sent to the QUEENSBOROUGH should be brief and are subject to condensation. Writers should include a full address and home and office telephone numbers, where available, as well as affiliation, indicating special interest. Anonymous letters are not printed. Name withheld on request. No such ad or any part thereof may be reproduced without prior permission of the QUEENSBOROUGH. The publishers will not be responsible for any error in advertising beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error. Errors must be reported to the QUEENSBOROUGH within five days of publication. Ad position cannot be guaranteed unless paid prior to publication. BQE Media assumes no liability for the content or reply to any ads. The advertiser assumes all liability for the content of and all replies. The advertiser agrees to hold the QUEENSBOROUGH and its employees harmless from all cost, expenses, liabilities, and damages resulting from or caused by the publication or recording placed by the advertiser or any reply to any such advertisement.

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Moving In the Right Direction

Dear Members,

Great news for Queens! The latest data shows storefront vacancies are dropping, and it’s clear that our small businesses—especially our fantastic restaurants—are thriving. It’s a testament to the resilience and creativity of our community, and I couldn’t be prouder to see our borough buzzing with activity and opportunity.

Speaking of celebrations, I hope you’ll join us on December 4 for the Business Persons of the Year Awards. We’ll be honoring six incredible leaders—Shahed Islam, Tom Rudzwick, Jennifer Aument, Saeeda Dunston, Seth Bornstein, and Brendan Leavy—who are shaping the future of Queens in big ways. It’s going to be an amazing evening, and I’d love to see you there.

With Thanksgiving around the corner, I want to take a moment to thank all of you for being such an important part of the Queens Chamber community. Wishing you and your loved ones a wonderful holiday filled with good food and great company!

Best,

Tom Grech

Part of the Queens Family

Dear Members,

Thanksgiving is a time of year to reflect on what you are grateful for. As the holiday season kicks off, I want to take a moment to share how much I appreciate our borough’s resilient small business community.

I am extremely thankful to be part of this amazing Queens Chamber family, and the people who make it great. On December 4, we’ll celebrate 6 of these individuals at our Business Persons of the Year Awards ! It’s always one of my favorite events, so mark your calendars and join us for a night of inspiration and connection.

I hope you all have a warm and joyful Thanksgiving. Thanks for everything you do to make Queens such a special place.

Best,

Howard Graf

THOMAS J. GRECH PRESIDENT & CEO

HOWARD GRAF CHAIRPERSON

QUEENS NEWS

An Actionable Energy Option for a Cleaner Future

By: By: Rocco J. Lacertosa, CEO, New York State Energy Coalition

In discussions with New York and Long Island residents, there is a common thread shared about a deep concern for how much energy we are using to keep our homes comfortable, and how we can make it more sustainable for the environment around us. A recent study reported by the US Energy Information Administration found that 52% of the energy used in homes across the nation is used for heating and air conditioning. This means that all in all, it takes quite a bit of power to keep our homes at a comfortable temperature. In New York and Long Island, it feels like we’re constantly up against unforgiving elements nearly all year round, especially now with fall and winter right around the corner.

Fortunately for all of us, there are a litany of options to consider when it comes to heating our homes with a fuel we can actually feel good about using. Maybe you share the concerns many have when it comes to environmental friendliness and want a fuel that has lower carbon emission output. In the following article, I intend to shed some light on a fuel source available right now that will play an important role in this effort.

New York

and Long Island oil fuel customers may not necessarily be aware of this, but fuel has been evolving rapidly over the recent decades to pursue an active role in protecting our environment by reducing carbon emissions. All heating oil delivered in the state of New York is Bioheat® fuel, which is a sustainable fuel source made from a blend of ultralow sulfur heating oils blended with a percentage of renewable biodiesel fuel. Biodiesel is an environmentally conscious, renewable energy source created out of agricultural byproducts and recycled waste oils.

All these abundant feedstocks end up becoming either waste products or are by-products of existing food supply chain lines, which means that the energy industry’s move to utilize them to make biodiesel fuel reduces greenhouse gas emissions by a significant degree. Because of the use of surplus feedstocks, according to a report by energy giant Chevron, biodiesel fuel and renewable diesel tend to achieve emission reductions of at least 50% or more compared to their petroleum diesel counterpart, which means far cleaner air along with other significant health benefits that should be considered.

Bioheat® fuel also helps our environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions in several other ways. As mentioned, Bioheat® fuel is inherently a low-carbon fuel

source because of its biodiesel content, but second; Bioheat® fuel is environmentally friendly because it helps to reduce our consumption of traditional heating fuels. And, on top of the fact that Bioheat® fuel enjoys its status as a lowcarbon fuel, the heating oil industry has plans to reach net-zero carbon emissions by the year 2050. This means that there is currently an actionable plan in place to help fast-track Bioheat® fuel to reach this net-zero carbon emissions goal and become even better for the environment.

The energy industry’s steadfast commitment to providing cleaner fuels motivated engineers to pursue different ways to reduce oil consumption without derailing access to this trustworthy fuel. The solution was found in biodiesel: according to a study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, by blending biodiesel into every gallon of traditional fuel oil, consumption of the latter is often reduced by as much as 20%. This then results in fewer emissions and a reduction of carbon emissions.

Laboratory, by blending biodiesel into every gallon of traditional fuel oil, consumption of the latter is often reduced by as much as 20%. This then results in fewer emissions and a reduction of carbon emissions.

Both biodiesel and Bioheat®

fuel are actively used by fuel delivery providers in the state of New York to help create a more sustainable future. With Bioheat® fuel, we can chart a path toward a greener future, offering an incredibly affordable and actionable energy option that you can use in your existing heating equipment with no conversions necessary.

Speaking of heating equipment, Bioheat® fuel has spurred innovation in that sector as well. Even though your exi ting heating equipment can be used with no issue to work with Bioheat® fuel, many equipment manufacturers are on board with the Bioheat® fuel movement and have been working to ensure the machinery they are manufacturing now and in the future will use this fuel source as efficiently as traditional heating oil.

Currently in New York state, oil heat equipment is approved to use fuel consisting of a blend of 20% biodiesel and 80% ultra-low sulfur heating oil, and many models are already compatible with higher blends. As technology advances, homeowners can expect that manufacturers are making sure new equipment they will replace their heating equipment will utilize even higher percentages of Bioheat® fuel.

To learn more about the benefits of Bioheat® fuel, visit NYSECnow.org.

Bioheat® Fuel’s Introduction and Evolution

QUEENS NEWS

Visual Strategies: Creative Approaches to Airport and Ferry Advertising

By: Teresa Rampulla

I remember the first time I flew; while I waited to board, I tried getting busy. And what caught my eye amid the chaos of the announcements, security machines, moving luggage, and chitchat? It was not some mundane poster on the wall but a 3D Coca-Cola campaign that looked like I was being handed a bottle through the wall. It stopped me dead in my thoughts. That’s what good advertising should do to grab attention. It’s not a one-way rule, but the golden ticket to airport and ferry advertising takes advantage of multiple strategies to maximize your ads and turnover. This article will explore creative approaches to effective advertising at airports and ferry terminals.

Understanding Your Audience

People from various walks of life all meet at these ports

to commute. In our last post, we explained this population’s unique demographics and characteristics that cut across age, income level, and occupation, showing why they are an excellent target audience in this rich mosaic of audiences from the young professionals with laptops in hand weaving through the crowd. At the same time, elderly couples leisurely make their way to departure gates from their vacation. Families with children move in and out of souvenir shops, and solo adventurers quietly observe the flurry of activity around them. Understanding these demographics is key to creating messages that sell your products and grab and hold their attention.

Innovative Visual Strategies

It’s not enough to plaster a logo and a catchy slogan on a wall and hope for the best. In fast-paced environments like these, where people are on the move, you must think outside the box –or, in this case, outside the conventional billboard-type ads. One fast-rising approach is using technology to create interactive ads, but even with technology, some level of creativity and principle of visual appeal should be employed. Below are a few strategies to use in creating your ads:

1. Bold and Eye-Catching Designs:

Bold and eye-catching are the go-to words that scream successful airport and ferry advertising. As a brand marketer, think about using vibrant hues and contrast against the monotony of the airport. These elements often used in design create lasting impressions, just like the Coca-Cola ad I mentioned in the introduction. It could be bold typography that crosses the billboard frame or visuals that evoke curiosity and keep your audience finding answers; whatever approaches you choose, ensure the goal is first to grab attention and then keep it. According to siteefy, the average person sees over 10,000 ads daily, but only the bold and eye-catching designs genuinely make an impact, ensuring that your message doesn’t just blend in but stands out.

2. Large-Scale Installations:

Don’t fall for the Durex catchphrase because size truly matters. Imagine you’re walking through a terminal and are met with a tower-high banner or 3D sculpture—it’ll be pretty hard not to stop and look.

3. Digital Screens and Multimedia:

Digital screens and multimedia allow you to play videos and animation, sell

your story, provide helpful information, and even loop multiple ads in different contexts for your audience. Similar to our mobile devices, the allure of these digital screens and multimedia is the ability to convey your message in multiple engaging and memorable ways as opposed to the usual static campaigns of traditional advertising.

4. Storytelling through Visuals:

Aside from multimedia and interactive installations, storytelling draws travelers into narratives that resonate with their emotions, helping them find a connection between your story and theirs.

When it comes to marketing, dare to be different, embrace innovation, and defy the status quo, specially when it comes to boring traditional ad formats. Attention is a prized commodity in marketing, and those thinking outside the box of conventional advertising reap the rewards. So, whether you’re a local business in New Jersey or a global brand making waves in New York, understanding your audience and incorporating these strategies will help you leave a lasting impression on the millions of travelers passing through these hubs.

DINE AND DISCOVER QUEENS

Maxi’s Noodle is in the Spotlight

It’s “Dine and Discover Queens’’ time! “Dine and Discover Queens” is a spotlight on some of the best restaurants around the borough!

In this issue, we are featuring Maxi’s Noodle, a great option with two locations in Flushing,

one at 135-11 38th Avenue and another at 59-20 Main Street.

Maxi LauO’Keefe is the owner of the establishment.

To learn more, go to https:// maxisnoodle. com/ or visit them on Instagram @ maxisnoodle.

Can you share a bit about your restaurant journey in Queens?

I opened up Maxi’s Noodle a few months before the global pandemic. It was a fight I refused to lose because I had poured all of my money and everything into this business, and I would not watch it fold. So, I did what I could to sustain

and make it work! During the pandemic, I had to pivot to make my business work, and that’s exactly what I did. I also started donating meals to my community, and they were so supportive! That is why I love Queens.

Can you share any memorable moments or experiences you’ve had as a restaurant owner in Queens?

Everyday is a memorable moment and experience in Queens! I love our community and everyone that comes to visit. The Queens Chamber of Commerce and Flushing BID have always been super supportive of all of the small businesses around the area. My most memorable moments are of meeting people I didn’t think I would ever meet in my life like Former NYC Police Commissioner Keechant Sewell, NY Mets owner Steven Cohen, famous food critic Pete Wells, and popular chef and influencer Joshua Weissman, as well as many others!

What makes your restaurant unique?

A few things make my restaurant unique. Firstoff, I am the first in New York to have supersized wontons. Also, my shop only specializes in noodles. We don’t sell rice or congee.

My menu focuses on seven toppings and four types of noodles. I offer some of the popular Hong Kong Style street food appetizers that I grew up eating. Additionally, I have custom “duck egg noodles” that are specifically and specially made by me, and you cannot get anywhere else!

QUEENS TECH CORNER

The Tech Entrepreneurs at ZeroError

It’s Queens Tech Corner time! This month’s featured tech entrepreneurs are Maria Marti and Victor Gelpi, co-founders of ZeroError, an enterprise AI platform designed to detect errors and anomalies in data. To learn more, go to https:// www.zeroerror.ai/.

Can you tell us a little about your company?

ZeroError was founded by Maria Marti and Victor Gelpi. Maria used her experiences as a hispanic executive and engineer at multiple Fortune100 companies to develop the AI analytics assistant she always needed, but never had. ZeroError is an enterprise AI

platform designed to detect errors and anomalies in data. We use our own proprietary AI, data analytics tools, and algorithms to solve your data quality needs. We are also partners with Microsoft and Snowflake.

What is your latest project, and why are you excited about it?

Our latest development is the Pegasus Project, which customizes our proprietary copilots to the specific needs of any client and data set. The Pegasus Project implements cutting edge tools in data and AI to offer better and faster solutions that our clients can

depend on.

Do you do any work to support your community?

From tracking the spread of disease to monitoring water wastage in drought-stricken areas, our product empowers

communities and governments to make informed, data-driven decisions they can trust. For instance, we are currently sponsoring a project in Catalonia, collaborating with university professors on these topics, entirely free of charge.

QUEENS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Congresswoman Grace Meng Secures $2 Million For Free Outdoor Dining Setups In Queens

Restaurants in Queens have an exciting opportunity to expand their offerings through the “Dining Out in District 6” program, a new initiative funded by $2 million secured by Congresswoman Grace Meng in last year’s federal spending package. The program provides eligible establishments with code-compliant, no-cost outdoor dining setups to enhance their services and draw more patrons.

The program, which is administered by the NYC Department of Small Business Services (SBS) and the Department of Transportation (DOT), is supported by the Queens Chamber of Commerce, which plays a vital role in its implementation. The Chamber is conducting outreach to eligible restaurants, offering application support, and coordinating among stakeholders to ensure smooth execution. The Chamber is also overseeing the buildouts of 60 outdoor dining setups as part of this initiative.

Congresswoman Meng was recently joined by SBS Commissioner Dynishal Gross and Queens Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Tom Grech as they visited restaurants in Elmhurst, Forest Hills, Flushing, and Woodside to raise awareness of the program. They emphasized the vital role that restaurants play in the borough’s economy and community life.

“Restaurants continue to be crucial to Queens, helping to serve as the engine of our

borough’s economy, and as the daughter of former restaurant owners in the area, I know firsthand the important role they play in our communities,” said Congresswoman Meng.

“I am proud to have secured these funds to help restaurants succeed while providing the public with the experience of dining al fresco. I continue to encourage restaurants in my congressional district to take advantage of this free money that I brought back from the nation’s capital.”

“The ‘Dining Out in District 6’ program contributes to equity of opportunity in Queens by helping local restaurants, many owned by immigrant New Yorkers, expand their service options,” said SBS Commissioner Gross. “Thanks to Congresswoman Meng’s support, these businesses will create inviting and compliant outdoor dining spaces without the cost of materials and installation.”

“Queens’ restaurants are more than just top dining destinations—they create jobs, celebrate our diverse cultures, and offer spaces that unite our communities,” added Tom Grech.

“Thanks to Congresswoman Meng and this innovative partnership with SBS, our local eateries can enhance their

outdoor dining offerings at no cost—keeping Queens vibrant, accessible, and competitive. I encourage all eligible restaurants to apply and join in expanding the outdoor dining experience across Queens.”

In addition to this outdoor dining initiative, the Queens Chamber of Commerce is also partnering with Congresswoman Meng on the Small Business Legal Desk program. Funded by $1 million secured by the Congresswoman, the program provides free legal, financial, and human resources support to small businesses across Queens.

Services are offered in multiple languages and include oneon-one consultations, monthly webinars, and additional

resources to help small businesses navigate complex challenges.

Both programs highlight the Chamber’s commitment to supporting Queens’ vibrant and diverse small business community through innovative partnerships and hands-on engagement.

The “Dining Out in District 6” initiative is part of Dining Out NYC, the city’s permanent outdoor dining program launched in March. Local restaurants are strongly encouraged to seize this opportunity to enhance their operations and strengthen the community’s dining experience. To find out if your restaurant is located in District 6, visit Congresswoman Grace Meng’s website or contact her office directly.

Businesses in District 6 are encouraged to scan the QR code to fill out the Interest Form or call SBS at 888-SBS-4NYC and apply for your free outdoor dining setup today!

QUEENS NEWS

Top 5 In-Office Events and Team Building Activities

By: Shari Linton, Esq.

Employee engagement is crucial for maintaining a motivated, productive, and satisfied workforce. Hosting in-office events is a fantastic way to foster team spirit, boost morale, and provide a muchneeded break from the daily grind.

Here are the top five in-office events to keep your employees engaged and excited about coming to work.

1. In-Office Tea and Coffee Tasting

A tea and coffee tasting event is a perfect way to create a relaxing, social atmosphere in the office. Partner with Shari’s Tea to provide a variety of unique blends for your employees to sample. This event can be educational as well as enjoyable, with our expert guiding the tasting and explaining the origin, flavor profiles, and brewing

techniques of each blend.

Benefits:

- Encourages social interaction and team bonding.

- Provides a break from routine work.

- Introduces employees to high-quality tea and coffee options they might not have tried before.

2. Wellness Workshops

Wellness workshops are a great way to show employees that you care about their health and well-being. These workshops can cover a range of topics, from stress management and mindfulness to nutrition and exercise. Bringing in experts to lead these sessions can provide valuable insights and practical tips that employees can incorporate into their daily lives.

Benefits:

- Reduces stress and promotes a healty work-life balance

- Provides employees with tools to improve their overall well-being

- Encourages a supportive and caring workplace culture

3. Lunch and Learn Sessions

Lunch and Learn sessions are an excellent way to combine learning with a meal. Invite guest speakers or industry experts to share their knowledge on relevant topics while employees enjoy their lunch. These sessions can

cover a wide range of subjects, from professional development and industry trends to personal finance and mental health.

Benefits:

- Promotes continuous learning and professional growth

- Provides valuable information and insights

- Offers a convenient and engaging way to learn

4. Office Game Tournaments

Nothing brings a team together quite like a bit of friendly competition. Organize game tournaments in the office, ranging rom board games and trivia contests to video game competitions and sports activities. These events can be a great way to break the ice, foster camaraderie, and inject some fun into the workday.

Benefits:

- Encourages team bonding and social interaction

- Provides a fun and lighthearted break from work

- Boosts morale and fosters a positive work environment

5. Celebrating Nationally Recognized Holidays

Celebrating national holidays like Pride Month, Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, and Women’s History Month in the office is an excellent way to foster inclusivity, diversity, and cultural awareness among

employees. These celebrations can include educational workshops, guest speakers, themed events, and recognition of contributions from diverse groups. By honoring these important occasions, companies not only showtheir commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace but also provide opportunities for employees to learn, connect, and celebrate the rich tapestry of backgrounds and experiences that make up their team.

Benefits:

- Promotes Inclusivity and Diversity

- Enhances Employee Engagement and Morale

- Encourages Cultural Awareness and Education Inoffice events are a fantastic way to keep employees engaged, motivated, and connected. By incorporating activities like tea and coffee tastings, wellness workshops, Lunch and Learn sessions, game tournaments, and celebrating nationally recognized holidays you can create a vibrant and dynamic workplace that employees look forward to being a part of every day.

Contact Events by ST to host an in-office event Info@ EventsbyST.com

PROMOTIONS, ANNOUNCEMENTS & APPOINTMENTS

A Thanksgiving Conversation

As we walk through life, there are important conversations and decisions to be made. Many take place at family gatherings, such as holiday events, often around dinner tables. Discussions center around engagements, births, and weddings. However, as we age, the subject of funeral arrangements inevitably comes up.

Are there events that spur these discussions?

Many times, it’s a death in the family. Or, a famous person dies, who is around our age. Perhaps, the deceased was an icon, during our youth. Ultimately, we begin the process of asking ourselves - when will my time arrive?

Further, what options will my family members have, when my time comes?

This is a difficult subject to address and some may even say that you are challenging death to come. However, I always give the analogy of a collision, and car insurance: once you drop it, you inevitably get into an accident. This could be said, of making your pre-need funeral arrangements. It’s insurance against making the “wrong” decision, in an untimely situation.

By: JP Di Troia

One never knows when death is knocking at our door.

Here is a list to help guide you, in making the right decision:

1. Visit your local funeral facilitator.

(A) Make your funeral pre-arrangements.

2. Talk to an elder attorney, or estate plan specialist.

(A) Making your funeral pre arrangement, is an integral part of your estate planning.

3. Be sure to include your funeral arrangements and if you choose cremation, decide as to the final resting place for the cremated remains.

4. Talk to a Cremation Columbarium or Cemetery company. They are the experts to guide you on your options for your final resting place for the cremated remains.

5. Consider prepayment of all services, including a memorial niche or plot for the cremated remains.

(A) Funds that are spent can be used to offset the spend down in the allocation of funds to qualify for Medicaid. This will

SJ Innovation Brings “AI Power 2024” to Queens

SJ Innovation, a leading technology services firm headquartered in New York, is excited to announce AI Power 2024: Small Business Success and Big Tech Careers, an event focused on empowering local businesses and professionals to leverage the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and gain insights into building careers in the tech industry. The event will take place on November 23rd, 2024, at 11:00 AM at the New York LaGuardia Airport Marriott in Queens.

As one of the first events of its kind in the area, AI Power 2024 brings together business leaders, AI experts, and tech career professionals to provide practical advice and career guidance. From exploring how small businesses can use AI to gain a competitive edge to sharing insights on navigating careers in big tech companies, the event will cover a wide range of valuable topics for the local community.

Event Highlights Include:

AI for Small Business Success: Shahed Islam, CEO of SJ Innovation, will present practical strategies for incorporating AI solutions that improve productivity and efficiency in local small businesses.

Breaking into Big Tech Careers: Former AWS, Dell, and Verizon executive, Mohammad Zaman, will share insights on the skills and steps needed to secure roles at major tech companies like Amazon.

Entrepreneurship Journey: Siam Hossain, CEO of Algorizin, will discuss his entrepreneurial journey, inspiring attendees with advice on navigating the challenges of starting and scaling a business.

An Opportunity for Career Growth and Networking

AI Power 2024 is not only for established businesses and tech professionals but also for students and recent graduates interested in tech careers. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with industry experts, gain firsthand knowledge of career paths in AI, and receive 1-on-1 guidance on preparing for the competitive job market in big tech.

“This event is about making cutting-edge knowledge accessible to everyone in our community,” says Shahed Islam, CEO of SJ Innovation. “Queens has always been a diverse and innovative hub, and we’re proud to bring AI Power 2024 here to help small businesses and aspiring professionals harness the power

qualify you for nursing home expenses paid by Medicaid. Additionally, it will qualify you for Community Medicaid. This happens when your assets are protected, after a 5 year “look back.” You will be able to get home care assistance paid through Medicaid.

These measures makes it easier for your family, at the time of your demise, to make your final arrangements.

Be sure to record all your personal information in a document, and give it to a trustworthy family member or friend. These include:

- Social Security information

- Passwords of

- Bank accounts in trust

- Your final wishes

- Insurance policies

- Trusts

It is difficult to face one’s eventual demise. Consider, however, that by not preparing, it leaves you and your family open to making a less desirable decision, at such a crucial time.

of AI and connect with leaders in the industry.” Event Partners and Registration Information This event is organized by SJ Innovation, in partnership with USBCCI (U.S.-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry), Bangladesh Information Technology Network of North America (BITNA), Bangladeshi Software Professionals (BSP), and LeadsLift. The event is sponsored by Rivertel. Registration is free, with limited seating available. Community members, students, and professionals are encouraged to register early to secure their spots.

QUEENS NEWS

The Growing Threat of Lithium Ion Batteries in NYC

By: Gerrianne Puntervold

In 2024, NYC had 107 fires, 46 injuries and 2 deaths from fires caused by Lithium - Ion Batteries.

On June 27, 2024, a devastating fire ripped through a building on Avenue M near Ocean Parkway in Midwood, Brooklyn, leaving a trail of destruction and several injured. The Fire Department of New York (FDNY) confirmed that the blaze was ignited by an exploding e-bike battery, highlighting the growing concern over lithium-ion battery safety in New York City. As the community grapples with the aftermath, SERVPRO Team Allen’s Northwest Brooklyn franchise stepped in to lead the crucial restoration efforts.

The Incident: A Closer Look

at the Midwood Fire The fire broke out around 7 a.m. on Thursday, quickly escalating to a two-alarm blaze that required the response of over 100 firefighters and EMS personnel. Here’s what we know about the incident:

Cause: An e-bike battery exploded while charging at the foot of the stairs leading to two apartments

Damage: Two storefront businesses (a dry cleaners and a spa) and two second-floor apartments were destroyed

Injuries: Four people were injured, with a 30-year-old man in critical condition due to extensive burns and smoke inhaltion

Response time: The fire was extinguished within 45 minutes “The battery was charging at the time,” the FDNY stated on X, emphasizing the dangers of unattended battery charging.

In the wake of this destructive fire, SERVPRO Team Allen’s Northwest Brooklyn has taken charge of the cleanup and restoration efforts.

As local experts in fire damage restoration, the team faces several unique challenges:

1. Complex Structural Damage With two apartments and two businesses affected, the restoration process involves addressing varying degrees of

fire, smoke, and water damage across different types of spaces.

2. Lithium-Ion Battery Contamination The team must employ specialized cleaning techniques to address potential residues from the exploded battery, ensuring the space is safe for future occupancy.

3. Business Continuity

Working to minimize downtime for the affected businesses, including the dry cleaners and spa, while ensuring thorough restoration.

4. Residential Displacement Coordinating with property managers and residents to facilitate a smooth restoration process while minimizing disruption to those displaced by the fire.

SERVPRO Team Allen and the FDNY recommend the following precautions:

In 2024, NYC had 107 fires, 46 injuries and 2 deaths from fires caused by LithiumIon Batteries.

1. Never charge batteries unattended: Most fires start while e-bike are charging, emphasizing the need for supervision during the charging process.

2. Use only factory-installed batteries: After-market batteries, often purchased as replacements or backups, tend to be more prone to combustion.

3. Charge outdoors when possible: If indoor charging is necessary, ensure it’s done in a well-ventilated area away from exits.

4. Invest in proper storage:

Consider fire-resistant containers for storing and charging lithium-ion batteries.

5. Educate employees and residents: For businesses and property managers, provide regular training on lithium-ion battery safety.

At Exo Industries, we believe that successful businesses are built on a foundation of strong relationships, innovation, and a commitment to community development. We look forward to connecting with other businesses and industry leaders to continue fostering growth, innovation, and excellence in building maintenance and restoration.

Stricter regulations on the sale and use of after-market batteries Increased availability of safe, public charging stations Enhanced building codes to address the storage and charging of e-bikes in residential and commercial spaces.

If you’ve been affected by a lithium-ion battery fire or any other fire damage in the New York City area, don’t hesitate to contact SERVPRO Team Allen’s Northwest Brooklyn franchise at (718) 522-4400 for 24/7 emergency restoration services.

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Haydan Consultants An MBE Owner’s Rep Rooted In Queens

By: Michael Papagianakis

Haydan Consultants, Inc. (Haydan) is an Owner’s Representative firm specializing in a myriad of hands-on professional services to the construction industry. Founded in January 2019 and headquartered in Rosedale, Queens, Haydan is a certified Minority Business Enterprise, Small Business Enterprise and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise with certifications in New York through the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Empire State Development and NYC Department of Small Business Services. Haydan is also certified in several other states throughout the Northeast. The firm offers Program Management; Project Controls; Construction Management and Inspections; Compliance; Staff Augmentation; and Supply Chain Advisory & Risk Management services across the transportation, water, facilities and power/energy markets.

Haydan is incredibly proud of

its Queens roots and is dedicated to making meaningful, positive contributions to its home borough. The firm strives to serve on impactful projects across Queens and prioritizes hiring local talent, allowing employees to contribute to the bettment of their communities. From the redevelopment of both LaGuardia and JFK airports and the new 116th Precinct Station House to countless public schools throughout the borough, Haydan’s goal is to improve the lives of Queens residents through its work on these essential projects.

Guided by an experienced leadership team and executed by a dedicated group of serviceoriented professionals, Haydan has evolved substantially since its inception – growing its staff significantly and transitioning from subconsultant roles to securing work as a prime and member of joint ventures. Haydan has served in key roles on a number of New York’s most significant infrastructure programs, such as East Side Access; NYPA’s Sensor Deployment and NIA

Continued on Page 24

QUEENS NEWS DBE & MBE Certification

By:

Anthony Hamilton Inc. is a certified Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) with a reputation for integrity, consistency, and meticulous attention to detail. The fullservice cleaning company, is deeply committed to delivering high-quality cleaning services to his customers.

Greenlion Cleaning and Maintenance Inc.’s acquisition of the DBE certification is a significant milestone that is expected to enhance the company’s credibility, increase its visibility in the market, and open up new business opportunities.

FREEPORT, NY (August 8, 2024) - New York Janitorial Services company GreenLion Cleaning and Maintenance Inc. has announced that the company has acquired a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Certification. Greenlion Cleaning and Maintenance

The DBE certificate is Greenlion Cleaning and Maintenance Inc.’s latest certification. It is awarded to small businesses owned and operated by disadvantaged groups. Since 1980, DBE certification has helped to enhance opportunities and increase credibility for the

small businesses awarded it.

CEO and Owner of Greenlion Cleaning, Anthony Hamilton, is thrilled about the new certification and emphasized the company’s unwavering commitment to excellence. He said: “We have seen the tremendous value of an MBE certification and realized that the DBE certification is essential to accessing the opportunities we seek. This DBE certification is a significant achievement, and will enable us to expand our services and take on larger projects, thereby contributing to our growth and success.

We look forward to the expanded opportunities and forming strategic partnerships that can lead to contracts and collaborations.”Greenlion Cleaning and Maintenance Inc. offers a comprehensive range of services, including floor maintenance, building maintenance, pressure washing, post-construction cleaning, and more. With the addition of the DBE certification, Green Lion Maintenance Inc., which has a decade-long reputation for excellence, is now well-positioned to take on additional work such as final cleaning, tiling, painting, construction trailer cleaning, office cleaning, and more.

For further information about Greenlion Cleaning

and Maintenance Inc., and to explore potential business opportunities or partnerships, visit greenlioncleaning.com.

About Greenlion Cleaning and Maintenance Inc.

Launched in 2011, Greenlion Cleaning and Maintenance is a professional, commercial cleaning service company based in Freeport, New York. The company offers a wide range of reliable cleaning services, including floor maintenance, Postconstruction cleaning, office cleaning, building maintenance and pressure washing.

Greenlion Cleaning is a family-owned and MBE certified business with NYS, NYC, NYCSCA and NY/NJ Port Authority. The company boasts a reputation for highquality and efficient cleaning services and prides itself on its professionalism, attention to detail and flexibility in fulfilling customers’ requests.

QUEENS NEWS

From Kitchen to Concessions

By: Shahriar Hossain

De L’or Cakery, led by Kayisha Thompson, is a fivestar cake catering company with a mission to bring globally inspired flavors to Queens. Known as the “Cake Executive Officer,” Kayisha has grown her business over the past decade with a commitment to quality and a knack for creative, globally sourced ingredients. Rebranded in 2019 as an S Corporation, De L’or Cakery continues to build on Kayisha’s passion for baking, now with a focus on strategic growth.

In January 2024, as Kayisha looked to expand further, she connected with the Queens Chamber of Commerce for funding guidance. The Chamber linked her to the New York State Small Business Services (NYS SBS), which helped her navigate the financing options available to her business. Through NYS SBS, she received assistance in preparing a pitch to KIVA, ultimately securing an $8,000 interest-free microloan. This loan provided essential support, covering vendor fees for the prestigious Salon Du Chocolat and EatOkra programs, as well as upgrades to her business infrastructure. She was able to invest in a new Square POS wireless system for smoother payment processing, plus essential insurance coverage, including general liability, product liability, cyber security, and coaching insurance. Additionally, the

loan allowed her to revamp several key marketing materials to better align with her growing brand.

The support she received didn’t end there. Through the Chamber, Kayisha joined the Airport Concessions Program, facilitated in partnership with Eat Okra, a platform dedicated to supporting Black-owned food businesses. As a participant, she meets with airport executives to understand the operational and financial aspects of running an airport concession.

This program not only provides knowledge and resources but has also expanded her network, giving her greater access to potential business opportunities within airport concessions. Kayisha also sought the guidance of Nicole Biscardi, the Chamber’s current restaurant specialist, as she prepares for the Salon Du Chocolat, an international chocolate expo originating in France. With Nicole’s support, Kayisha is planning her setup for the event, where she will conduct a live demonstration on March 21st. This opportunity, along with her participation in the Airport Concession Program, positions De L’or Cakery to reach a broader audience and showcase its unique offerings.

Nicole’s guidance further extended to advising Kayisha to reconnect with a former partner, which has now led to

a contract renewal—a v luable outcome for De L’or Cakery as it continues to strengthen its business relationships.

The Queens Chamber also supports De L’or Cakery through its Open and Online program, which provides businesses with SEO assistance. This additional support will help Kayisha increase her brand’s online visibility, reaching a larger audience and helping to solidify De L’or Cakery’s presence in a competitive market. This strategic guidance, alongside her recent participation in the Goldman Sachs One Million Black Women program, is helping Kayisha expand her reach globally. With a corporate catalog developed through Goldman Sachs’ program, she’s already attracting clients from Brazil, China, and beyond, including partnerships with major law firms.

Kayisha’s journey reflects the value of local support networks and strategic partnerships. The Queens Chamber of Commerce, through its connections, resources, and

ongoing guidance, has helped De L’or Cakery continue its journey of growth and innovation. As De L’or Cakery expands, Kayisha looks forward to hiring additional team members, supporting job growth in Queens, and bringing even more of her unique, global flavors to the community.

The Chamber is proud to support Kayisha and other local businesses in their efforts to grow and thrive. Through programs like the Airport Concessions Program, guidance from experts, and access to essential resources, the Queens Chamber empowers entrepreneurs to realize their visions and contribute to the vibrant Queens business landscape. De L’or Cakery is just one example of how businesses, with the right support, can flourish and make a meaningful impact in their communities.

QUEENS NEWS

Queens Chamber Client Success Story: Rios Interiors

By: Gina Sansivero

A Path to Sustainable Growth and Expansion Rios Interiors, a Queens-based construction company and Queens Chamber Member specializing in highend re idential rehabs and renovations, faced a pivotal moment in their growth trajectory two years ago. Led by Jonathan Rios, the company had built a solid reputation for excellence in the NYC area, but like many businesses, they were at a crossroads. They had aspirations to expand beyond residential projects and enter the commercial and hospitality renovation sector, while simultaneously building a stronger, more cohesive team. That’s when they partnered with Joe Maddalone of Joe Maddalone-Power Strategies, also a Queens Chamber Member, seeking the expertise and strategy to navigate the challenges of scaling.

The Challenges

Rios Interiors’ goals were clear, but the path forward was complex. Transitioning from a contract-based workforce to a full-time team while expanding into new markets would require careful planning, organizational structure, and strategic foresight. Additionally, as they looked to grow, they needed to ensure that their internal operations— from marketing to business

development—could support their ambitious expansion plans.

Jonathan Rios, Owner and President, recalls, “We knew we had the potential to grow, but we needed a solid plan and the right guidance to take us there. Joe Maddalone helped us see the bigger picture and gave us the tools to make it happen.”

The Goals

Our work with Rios Interiors began with a clear set of objectives:

1. Expand revenue by 50% within the first year of partnership.

2. Build a full-time workforce with leadership training, career paths, and employee benefits to replace the contract-heavy labor model.

3. Establish a robust

organizational structure by filling key roles in marketing, sales, and business development.

4. Expand into the commercial hospitality sector, specifically targeting hotel renovations in the NYC area.

5. Secure Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) certification in New York to open up new opportunities in public and private sector projects.

6. Develop a comprehensive business plan to act as a strategic guide for focus and long-term growth.

The Accomplishments

Over the course of our partnership, Rios Interiors has achieved remarkable success:

-Substantial Revenue Growth

-Workforce Transformation

-Commercial Hospitality Expansion

-MBE Certification

-Business Plan Development

The Future

Our relationship with Rios Interiors is ongoing, and we continue to work closely with their leadership team to adapt to the changing economic environment, industry trends, and their evolving goals. With a stronger foundation, Rios Interiors is well-positioned to continue its expansion into commercial renovations while scaling their team and services.

“Working with Joe Maddalone-Power Strategies has been hugely beneficial for myself and my company as a whole,” Jonathan Rios reflects. “Their expertise helped us unlock our potential, and we’re excited for what the future holds.”

QUEENS NEWS Solutions For Seniors: Helping Families Navigate Housing Transitions

By: Walt Siefert

As real estate brokers secializing in senior housing, we understand that making the right housing decision for seniors often goes beyond just buying or selling a property. It’s about ensuring safety, comfort, and quality of life for our clients as they navigate significant life transitions. At the core of our mission is a commitment to provide expert real estate services tailored to the unique needs of seniors and their families, while also connecting them with trusted resources and partners when additional support is needed.

Our role as Certified Senior Real Estate Specialists (SRES) is to guide seniors and their families through the complexities of selling a home, downsizing, or transitioning to a new living arrangement. While our primary focus is on real estate, we recognize that the process often involves additional considerations, such as financial planning, legal

issues, or home modifications to support aging in place. That’s why we collaborate with a network of certified service providers, offering referrals to these professionals on an asneeded basis to ensure a smooth and successful transition.

Expertise in Senior Real Estate

As real estate professionals, our top priority is helping seniors and their families navigate the often emotional and complicated process of selling or buying a home. We bring years of expertise and a deep understanding of the senior market, enabling us to offer personalized real estate solutions that address both immediate and long-term needs.

Whether you’re considering downsizing to a smaller, more manageable property or transitioning to a senior living community, our team is here to provide the advice and support needed to make informed decisions.

We assist with everything from preparing a home for sale, staging, and marketing, to negotiating offers and ensuring a smooth closing process. Our goal is to simplify the real estate transaction so seniors and their families can focus on what matters most—choosing the right living situation for the

next stage of life.

Tailored Referrals for Additional Services

While our primary focus is real estate, we understand that housing transitions can involve more than just buying or selling a home. In many cases, seniors and their families may require additional services to support the transition, such as decluttering, moving assistance, legal advice, or financial planning.

That’s why we maintain relationships with a trusted network of specialized professionals, including Aging in Place experts, Certified Decluttering and Move Managers®, and senior living placement advisors. These services are not a requirement for working with us, but we make them available on an as-needed basis to ensure our clients have access to the resources they need.

For example, if a senior prefers to age in place rather than move, we can recommend professionals who specialize in home modifications to make the property safer and more

accessible. If downsizing or relocation is part of the plan, our Certified Move Managers® can assist with the logistics of decluttering, packing, and settling into a new home.

A Hands-On Approach to Senior Housing Transitions

One of the hallmarks of our service is the personal attention we provide to each client. We don’t just offer advice from a distance; we take a hands-on approach, working directly with seniors and their families to assess their current living situation and help them identify the best housing options moving forward. This often involves in-home consultations where we can discuss the client’s goals and concerns in detail, whether they plan to stay in their current home or move to a new one.

Whether you’re looking to downsize, sell a family home, or explore senior living options, our team is here to help every step of the way. And when additional services are needed, we’ll connect you with the right professionals to ensure a successful transition.

Kupferberg Center For The Arts Announces Exciting 2024-25 Season

By Shawn Choi

Kupferberg Center for the Arts (KCA) at Queens College is thrilled to present its dynamic 2024-25 season, following a successful kickoff in September with two soldout performances by renowned artists Suzanne Vega and Juan Fernando Velasco. This season promises to be filled with diverse and engaging performances,offering something for everyone in the community.

A Celebration of Culture and Artistry

The upcoming lineup includes an array of events that highlight the rich cultural tapestry of Queens and beyond. From awe-inspiring circus acts to heartwarming family performances and incredible world music and jazz concerts, this season is designed to captivate audiences of all ages.

Cirque Kalabanté: Afrique

en Cirque kicks off the family performance series on November 3. This Montréalbased troupe combines breathtaking acrobatics with live music, bringing the vibrancy of African culture to the stage. Audiences can expect a mesmerizing experience that combines traditional African arts with North American modern circus performance.

On November 16, KCA celebrates the 10th Anniversary of the CUNY Dance Initiative with a double-bill dance performance featuring Los Ricos and Sekou McMiller & Friends. This electrifying event

showcases the talents of alumni from this groundbreaking residency program, promising an evening filled with rhythm and movement.

The holiday season at KCA is marked by Keith Michael’s The Nutcracker on December 1. Perfect for children ages three and up, this one-hour rendition captures the magic of the holidays with enchanting choreography and delightful surprises.

Jazz lovers will enjoy Bria Skonberg: Jingle Bell Swing on December 7, where the award-winning artist brings her smoky vocals and vibrant trumpet to classic holiday tunes, making for a festive evening of music.

The QC MLK Day Celebration on January 19 features the Branford Marsalis Quartet, honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a special performance. This annual event has been a staple at KCA, reflecting the center’s commitment to community and culture.

The Lunar New Year

celebration on January 25-26 will welcome the Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company, who will bring the Year of the Snake to life through a stunning family dance performance. Expect a vibrant showcase of traditional customs and captivating artistry. For dinosaur enthusiasts, Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo Live on February 2 will take audiences on a thrilling journey through pre-historic Australia, featuring interactive and lifelike dinosaur puppets that are sure to entertain children and adults alike.

Join Us at KCA Kupferberg Center for the Arts invites everyone to experience this extraordinary season filled with rich cultural offerings. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly outing or a captivating performance to enjoy with friends, KCA has it all. Be sure to grab your tickets early, as many events are expected to sell out quickly, just like our September performances! For more information and to purchase tickets, visit kupferbergcenter. org.

QUEENS NEWS

Navigating Inflation: How Small Businesses Can Protect Their Bottom Line

By: Jeffrey Stein

Inflation has hit small businesses hard. Costs are rising across the board, from materials to overhead, making it tougher to stay profitable. In fact, 64% of U.S. small business owners don’t expect relief from inflation soon. That’s a tough reality, but you don’t have to just endure it— you can take action to protect your bottom line and thrive.

How Inflation Disrupts Your Business

Inflation doesn’t just chip away at profits—it can feel like it’s eating into the core of your business. Let’s look at where inflation does the most damage:

1. Supply Chain and Material Costs

Rising material costs force businesses to absorb the increase or pass it to customers. Neither option feels right. Absorbing costs reduces your

margins, while higher prices might alienate customers. It’s a frustrating situation, like a restaurant dealing with escalating food prices. Do you raise prices and risk losing customers or take the hit on your profits?

2. Labor and Wages

Employees face rising living costs and expect pay raises. You want to take care of your team, but offering higher wages can mean cutting elsewhere— or even reducing staff. This emotional toll is real. You’re not just balancing the books—you’re balancing the well-being of your business and your people.

3.

Overhead Costs (Rent,

Utilities, Insurance)

Rent, utilities, and insurance costs keep climbing. These fixed expenses eat into revenue, leaving you with less to reinvest or grow. As costs rise, the pressure mounts, making it harder to stay competitive.

Practical Ways to Save Money

While inflation poses big challenges, there are practical steps you can take to reduce costs. Here are some strategies to help relieve that pressure:

1. Renegotiate Vendor Contracts

Many businesses stick to old vendor agreements, paying more than necessary. Take time to review contracts for services like telecom or supplies. Renegotiating with your providers could uncover significant savings.

2. Streamline Operations

Small changes can have a big impact. Conduct an efficiency audit to identify where you can save. Maybe it’s adjusting staff schedules or automating routine tasks. These tweaks don’t just reduce costs—they empower your team to focus on higher-value work.

3. Lower Energy Usage

Utility bills can sneak up on you, but simple adjustments— like energy- efficient lighting or programmable thermostats— can bring those bills down. Many utility companies also offer energy audits to identify savings opportunities. Little changes add up over time.

4. Review Insurance Policies

You might be paying for coverage you don’t need. Regularly reviewing your insurance policies can help ensure you aren’t overpaying. Tailoring coverage to your specific needs can reduce costs without sacrificing essential protection.

The Long-Term Benefits of

Cost Reduction

Cutting costs isn’t just about surviving—it’s about thriving. A long-term cost reduction strategy positions your business for lasting success. It’s about more than trimming expenses—it’s about using those savings to grow, innovate, and pursue what matters most to you. When you know your business is running efficiently, you’re free to focus on the bigger picture. You stop worrying about hidden costs eating into your profits and can focus on scaling your business. Reducing costs now allows you to make strategic decisions that align with your long-term vision.

If you’re ready to take control of your costs, I’m here to help. At Schooley Mitchell, we specialize in finding hidden savings in areas like telecom, merchant services, and shipping.

Let’s work together to create a cost-reduction strategy that protects your business and helps you thrive—even in tough times. Reach out today to get started on your journey toward lasting savings and peace of mind.

Continued from page 14

Switchyard WNY; Phase 1 of Second Avenue Subway; and the World Trade Center Hub.

The firm’s success has been rooted in the quality of its team members, who have a wealth of knowledge and experience managing and serving on projects of varying scales and complexities, and the strong relationships it has built with clients and industry partners. With each assignment, Haydan aims to surpass client expectations and deliver upon the trust they have placed in the firm.

Haydan is honored to have served numerous public agencies and private entities, including the New York City School Construction Authority, New York Power Authority, Port Authority of New York

and New Jersey, Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Delta Air Lines, New York City Department of Design and Construction, New York City Economic Development Corporation, New York City Department of Environmental Protection, New York City Housing Authority, New

York State Office of General Services, New York City Health + Hospitals and Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority, among others.

Haydan has remained steadfast in its commitment to its core philosophies and principles, which prioritize

safety, quality, collaboration, schedule and budget. Furthermore, the firm believes strongly in investing in and supporting its team members to ensure they are growing both professionally and personally, while also striving to engage and mentor potential future leaders of the AEC industry.

QUEENS CHAMBER PARTNERS & AFFILIATES

82ND STREET PARTNERSHIP

37-06 82nd Street, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

Executive Director: Leslie Ramos

718.335.9421

82ndstreet.org

QUICK GLANCE: Budget of $224,000 with more than 200 businesses under its umbrella. The district is on 82nd Street from 37th Avenue to Baxter Avenue. The board meets quarterly with the annual meeting in June.

ASIAN AMERICAN FEDERATION

120 Wall Street, 9th Fl., New York, NY 10005 aafederation.org

QUICK GLANCE: The Asian American Federation’s mission is to raise the influence and well-being of the pan-Asian American community through research, policy advocacy, public awareness and organizational development.

Established in 1989, the Federation is a pan-Asian non-profit organization representing a network of community service agencies in the Northeast. These agencies work in the fields of health & human services, education, economic development, civic participation, and social justice.

BAYSIDE VILLAGE BID

213-33 39th Avenue, Bayside, NY 11361

Executive Director: Christine Siletti 718.423.2434

info@baysidevillagebid.com

QUICK GLANCE: Budget of $218,000 and over 350 members. Founded in 2007, the BID includes commercial property owners and residents on Bell Boulevard between 35th Avenue and Northern Boulevard, as well as a block east and west on 41st Avenue.

BAYSIDE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

41-16 Bell Boulevard, Bayside, NY 11361

President: Ed Probst Vice President: Judith Limpert 718.229.2277

info@baysideba.com baysideba.com

QUICK GLANCE: Founded in 1997, the Bayside Business Association services all of Bayside business to address issues and concerns those businesses have with regards to running their businesses.

ACCOMPANY CAPITAL (FORMERLY BCNA)

78-27 37 Ave., Ste. 1 Jackson Heights, NY 11372

Business Development: Tshering Gurung 347.730.6468

tgurung@accompanycapital.org

QUICK GLANCE: Accompany Capital is an award-winning Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) and Small Business Administration

(SBA) micro lender that provides small and micro business owners in New York City with low-cost loans, access to business training & technical assistance, and one-on-one counseling.

Accompany Capital has disbursed over $34 million in loans and assisted over 10,000 immigrant and refugee entrepreneurs in New York City since its founding as Business Center for New Americans (BCNA) in 1997, as well as provided workshops and one-on-one advice on business management and marketing to over 10,000 businesses.

BUSINESS OUTREACH CENTER NETWORK (BOC, INC.)

85 S. Oxford Street #2 Brooklyn, NY 11217

718.624.9115

bocnet.org Continued on Page 26

QUEENS NEWS

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Business Persons of the Year Awards Gala

December 04, 2024

6:00 PM - 11:00 PM (EST)

The Small Business Legal Desk Program

December 18, 2024

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM (EST)

QUEENS CHAMBER HOLIDAY RECEPTION. SPECIAL APPEARANCE FROM MR MET!!

December 2, 2024

12:00 PM - 2:30 PM (EST)

Managing Risk in a Litigious Business Environment

December 20, 2024

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM (EST)

Loconsolo Paints Grand Opening

By: Jonathan Chiaro

On Wednesday, September 25th, Loconsolo Paints celebrated the Grand Opening of its 5th Family owned and Operated Benjamin Moore Store of the Future! We were welcomed into the neighborhood by over 150 attendees, the Steinway Astoria Partnership and the Queens Chamber of Commerce.

For generations, residents of Astoria have relied on this destination, formerly known as Schatz Paint, for knowledge and advice to complete their paint and decorating projects. Located on Steinway Street between 28th & 30th Avenue, this iconic Benjamin Moore paint store has been a destination for homeowners, contractors and decorators alike. With the retirement of the previous owner this year, the torch has now been passed to Loconsolo Paints, a 4th generation, family-owned and operated Benjamin Moore distributor. Loconsolo knows how important it is to keep the community in mind as it takes the helm as the store’s new owners. Fortunately, you will still see the friendly faces of the store’s 20-year veterans, Kostas (Gus) the

Store Manager, and Jose the dedicated Color Specialist, along with a few new team members who eagerly await the opportunity to serve your needs. A welcomed and much needed face lift both inside and out will undoubtedly catch your attention as you pass by.

Benjamin Moore’s full product line is readily available and an entire wall of over a thousand colors will inspire you. New decorating paint products like venetian stucco, metallic plasters, lime wash and gold leafing, will provide incredibly unique ways to reimagine your living and working spaces. Professional contractors will find all the commercial products needed for any renovation, maintenance or new construction project. Local artists will be keen to know that the store now stocks the wellknown Montana spray paints and Rosco products which provide just the right touch for their creations. We’ve even added some amazing murals and graffiti art to demonstrate the possibilities and motivate your creative thinking.

The new renovation has reimagined the mezzanine which hosts the Loconsolo Atelier. Here you will be guided by Anne Laurie, our

in-house Design Consultant, who will take you on a journey to enhance your space with fabrics, window treatments and wallcovering. Choose from over 1000 wallcovering books to find your perfect pattern. We offer the chicest designs from Versace and Roberto Cavalli as well as playful caricatures for your children’s bedroom. A sliding window installation is there to help demonstrate the varieties of blinds, curtains and draperies. We offer the complete line of Hunter Douglas and can schedule a measurement and installation so that your shopping experience is stress free and turn-key. f you would like someone to help walk you through your special project, then we are pleased to offer our in-house consulting services which are available for a modest fee. These can be scheduled at your convenience. If you have a paint or decorating idea or problem, contact us! With over 75 years of paint and decorating experience Loconsolo Paints is the team you can rely on to work with you hand in hand.

Please come visit with us and let us help you with your next project! For more information about Loconsolo Paints, please visit us @Loconsolo.com or call one of our stores to speak with us directly.

QUEENS CHAMBER PARTNERS & AFFILIATES

QUICK GLANCE: Business Outreach Center Network’s mission is to improve the economic prospects of traditionally underserved groups, with a focus on low- and moderate-income entrepreneurs and their communities, and thereby create genuinely brighter futures.

At the heart of our mission is the belief that whatever their differences, people and communities share a common goal: to achieve economic stability and growth. Working in partnership with culturally diverse individuals and organizations in support of this shared goal is the hallmark of BOC.

CHHAYA CDC

37-43 77th Street, #2 Jackson Heights, NY 11372

718.478.3848

chhayacdc.org

QUICK GLANCE: Core to our strategy is organizing and advocating for systemic changes that remove the barriers to well-being, housing stability, and economic mobility for our communities. For over 20 years, Chhaya has served tens of thousands of individuals and led the charge on key policy issues for immigrants, such as basement legalization, language access, tenants’ rights, and more.

CHINATOWN DISTRICT MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION (CHINATOWN PARTNERSHIP)

217 Park Row, 2nd Floor, Suite 9 New York, NY 10038 chinatownpartnership.org

QUICK GLANCE: Chinatown Partnership, led by Wellington Chen, was formed in 2006 as new start-up from grounds up to bring residents, business owners and community groups together to rebuild Chinatown following 9/11, and to preserve the neighborhood’s unique culture while ensuring its vitality in the future through strategic positioning.

With the highly popular Weekend Walks street festive series, Mid-Autumn Festival, One Day in NYC, annual Beautification/ Earth Day, East West Parade with Little Italy, Double Valentine’s Day to promote the softer side of Chinatown and the Jewelry District and all the cafes, eateries in the area. Explore Chinatown marketing initiative, Lunar Stages outdoor film screenings, and Taste of Chinatown street events, Chinatown Partnership helps promote the area as a special destination to live, work, and visit.

FOREST HILLS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

PO Box 751123, Forest Hills, NY 11375

President: Leslie Brown

718.268.6565

FHChamber11375@gmail.com

FHChamber@aol.com

QUICK GLANCE: Re-formed in 1995, the group has over 225 members. Chamber meetings are held on the last Wednesday of the month at 9 a.m. at the West Side Tennis Club, 1 Tennis Place, in Forest Hills.

GANYC – GUIDES ASSOCIATION OF NEW YORK CITY

115 Broadway, 5th Floor, New York, NY

10006

Associate Director: Harvey Davidson

908-499-3735

info@ganyc.org

Ganyc.org

QUICK GLANCE: GANYC was founded in 1974 by licensed tour guides for licensed tour guides. We are one of the oldest and most active tour guides associations in America. Founded originally as an association of multilingual guides, GANYC has grown greatly since, encompassing a wide variety of guides that reflect the diversity of NYC’s tourism industry. We provide a number of services for locals and the visiting public as well as for our members including tour guide education, familiarization tours (FAM Tours), professional advice and workshops.

GATEWAYJFK

Interim Executive Director: Barbara J. Cohen

718.304.0119

info@GatewayJFK.org GatewayJFK.org

QUICK GLANCE: GatewayJFK is a publicprivate partnership providing neighborhood services, improvements and advocacy for the District’s off-airport cargo community and all who live, work or visit the area. A vital link in the global supply chain, GatewayJFK is a distinct and unique NYC neighborhood of major economic significance to the region, the nation, and the world.”

GREATER JAMAICA DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

90-04 161st Street, Jamaica, NY 11432

President: Hope Knight

718.291.0282

gjdc.org

QUICK GLANCE: Founded in 1967, the group has 75 members. GJDC’s work expands economic opportunity and improves quality of life for the ethnically and economically diverse residents of Jamaica and for the region at large, which benefits from rational, well-planned, and sustainable metropolitan growth.

GREATER WOODHAVEN DEVELOPMENT CORPORATIONWOODHAVEN BID

84-01 Jamaica Avenue, Woodhaven NY 11421

718.805.0202

gwdcbid@hotmail.com

woodhavenbid.com

QUICK GLANCE: Budget of $257,000 with more than 350 businesses under its umbrella on Jamaica Avenue from Dexter Court to 100th Street. They are providing free benches for store owners along Jamaica Avenue. They also provide 2.5 and 5 percent home improvement loans.

JAMAICA CENTER BID

161-10 Jamaica Avenue, Suite 419

Jamaica, NY 11432

Executive Director: Jennifer Furioli

718.526.2422

jamaica.nyc

@JamCenterBID (Twitter)

@jamcenterbid (Instagram)

@Jamaica Center BID (Facebook)

QUICK GLANCE: Founded in 1979, the Jamaica Center BID serves over 400 businesses on Jamaica Avenue between Sutphin Boulevard and 169th Street. With a budget of over $1 million, the BID’s goal is to promote and maintain Downtown Jamaica as a thriving business hub and an enjoyable destination to shop, work, live and visit.

JFK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

P.O. Box 300687, Jamaica, NY 11430

Executive Director: Clorinda Antonucci

President: Al DePhillips

Vice President: Joseph Morra

JFKCoCExec@gmail.com

jfkairportchamberofcommerce.org

QUICK GLANCE: Founded in 1978, the group has over 200 members. The chamber was chartered in 1978 by a group of business people in and around JFK Airport. It is the only airport in the nation to have its own Chamber of Commerce. The chamber seeks to create an environment in which members of the business community can work together to enhance the growth, well being and economic development of the airport community and its aviation industry.

LONG ISLAND CITY PARTNERSHIP

718.786.5300

longislandcityqueens.com

QUICK GLANCE: Founded in 1979, the Long Island City Partnership advocates

QUEENS CHAMBER PARTNERS & AFFILIATES

for economic development that benefits LIC’s industrial, commercial, cultural and residential sectors. The goal is to attract new businesses to the neighborhood, retain those already here, welcome new residents and visitors, and promote a vibrant and authentic mixed-use community. The LIC Partnership operates the LIC Business Improvement District and the LIC Industrial Business Zone.

MASPETH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

P.O. Box 780265, Maspeth, NY 11378

President: David Daraio 718.335.1300

maspethchamberofcommerce.org

QUICK GLANCE: Founded in 1953, they have 120 members and a budget of $115,000.

MASPETH INDUSTRIAL BUSINESS ASSOCIATION (MIBA)

BOC: 96-11 40th Road, Corona, NY 11368

Coordinator: Quincy Ely-Cate

718.205.3773

qelycate@bocnet.org mibanyc.org

QUICK GLANCE: Covering roughly 600 businesses with 30 active members, the Maspeth Industrial Business Association provides a collective voice in advocating the needs and interests of industrial and manufacturing businesses in Maspeth. They help companies in the Maspeth Industrial District in developing workforce, accessing tax credits, obtaining financing, navigating government regulations and, in some cases, finding real estate.

MIDDLE VILLAGE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

79-47 Metropolitan Ave., Middle Village, NY 11379

President: Salvatore Crifasi

718.894.8700

Sal@Crifasi.com

QUICK GLANCE: Budget of $8,000 with 35 businesses under its umbrella. Formed in 1929. MVCC meets annually and focuses on the Metropolitan Avenue shopping district between 69 and 80 th streets. The mission is to improve the area and assist local businesses if they have any concerns or needs.

MYRTLE AVENUE BID

62-14 Myrtle Avenue, Ridgewood, NY 11385

Executive Director: Ted Renz

718.366.3806

QUICK GLANCE: Budget of $500,000 with over 300 retail and service businesses under its purview. Board meetings are held four times a year with the annual meeting in June.

The district includes Myrtle Avenue in Ridgewood between Fresh Pond Road and Wyckoff Avenue. Program support is provided by the Ridgewood LDC.

QUEENS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

12-55 Queens Boulevard, Room 309 Kew Gardens, NY 11424

Executive Director: Seth Bornstein

718.263.0546

queensny.org

QUICK GLANCE: Budget of $1.5 million and a resource for over 2,000 businesses in the borough of Queens. Register online for upcoming virtual events, including:

ROCKAWAY DEVELOPMENT & REVITALIZATION CORPORATION

1920 Mott Avenue, Far Rockaway, NY 11691

President: Kevin Alexander 718.327.5300 www.rdrc.org

QUICK GLANCE: Founded in 1978, the Rockaway Development & Revitalization Corporation (RDRC) was established to promote the revitalization of the Rockaway’s economic base and neighborhoods by creating long-standing partnerships with city and state agencies.

ROCKAWAY EAST MERCHANTS ASSOCIATION (REMA4US)

1032 Beach 20th Street Far Rockaway, NY 11691

rema4us.org

QUICK GLANCE: REMA 4 US, Inc. seeks to engage in economic development and revitalization in the Rockaway Peninsula. To strengthen our community revitalization programs and community development efforts in the Rockaway Peninsula REMA works alongside businesses, civic groups, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. REMA works to inform the public about opportunities that exist to strengthen the community, and to create a welcoming and safe environment to help expand economic opportunity in the Rockaway Peninsula.

STEINWAY ASTORIA PARTNERSHIP BID

25-69 38th Street, Suite 1C, Astoria 11103

Executive Director: Marie Torniali 718.728.7820 info@steinwaystreet.nyc steinwaystreet.org

QUICK GLANCE: Founded in 1991, the BID has over 300 members. The Steinway Street Business Improvement District encompasses

all 300 business located on Steinway Street from 28th Avenue to 35th Avenue. National chain stores such as Victoria’s Secret, The Gap, Benetton, and Express are side by side with local family-owned shops.

SUNNYSIDE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

PO Box 4399, Sunnyside, NY 11104

President: Vanessa Ceballos 718.729.4688 sunnyside-chamber.org

QUICK GLANCE: With an annual budget of $55,000, t he chamber is an organization built around assisting and helping local business and professionals by providing resources to increase business, safety and historical preservation throughout the neighborhood.

SUNNYSIDE SHINES

45-56 43rd Street, Sunnyside, NY 11104

Executive Director: Jaime-Faye Beam 718.606.1800 director@sunnysideshines.org sunnysideshines.org

QUICK GLANCE: The BID has a budget of approximately $480,000 with more than 250 businesses under its umbrella. The mission of Sunnyside Shines is to invigorate and enrich the economic life of the neighborhood by creating a safe and dynamic commercial district.

SUTPHIN BOULEVARD BID

89-00 Sutphin Boulevard, Suite 204C Jamaica, NY 11435

Executive Director: Glen Greenridge 71 8.291.2110

sutphinblvdbid@verizon.net

QUICK GLANCE: The BID was founded in 2004 and represents 134 businesses, 56 properties and 39 property owners along Sutphin Boulevard between Hillside Ave. and 94th Ave.

URBAN UPBOUND

40th Avenue, Long Island City, NY 11101

CEO & Co-Founder: Bishop Mitchell G. Taylor

QUICK GLANCE: Urban Upbound, originally known as East River Development Alliance (ERDA), was co-founded in 2002 by Debra-Ellen Glickstein, a strong advocate of economic development inclusion, and Bishop Mitchell Taylor, a lifelong resident of Queensbridge Houses, with the intention to develop high-quality services that address resident-identified needs. Since then, the organization has grown to serve thousands of youth and adults living in public housing and other low-and moderate-income neighborhoods annually

MAJOR CORPORATES

New York City Football Club

Jennifer O’Sullivan jennifer.osullivan@nycfc.com

Grubhub

Brett Swanson bswanson@grubhub.com

JP Morgan Chase Bank, N.A.

Paul Harrison expresspay@jpmchase.com

AECOM

Jackie Snydergeorge jackie.snyder@aecom.com

Tik Tok Inc

Julien Nagarajan julien.nagarajan@tiktok.com

HOTALING INSURANCE SERVICES

Bobby Hotaling bh@hgfin.net duhlig2004@yahoo.com

CORPORATES

The New York Times

Deirdre Deignan deignd@nytimes.com

Delta Railroad Services

Linda Laurello linda@deltarr.com

Harmony & Keen of NY, dba HKNY Jeffrey Lin jeff.lin@hkgroupusa.com

SMALL BUSINESS PARTNERS

Kartikart

Oleg Kachko info@kartikart.com

Team NWE at Keller Williams Realty

Dean Graber deangraber@kw.com

NEW MEMBERS

Lincoln Technical Institute

Francisco Galindo jgensler@lincolntech.com

Energo

Robyn Espejo cdonnellan@energo.com

Pharmakeio

John Metekidis info@pharmakeiorx.com

Shari’s Tea

Shari Linton info@sharistea.com

Accurate Business Solutions DBA

ABS Carol Weiss carol@absprotaxes.com

National Financial Network

Derek Chan derek.chan@natfin.net

Twist it Top it

Angelo Gurino angelogurino@gmail.com

Zion Tabernacle F.B.H. Church Food

Pantry

Debbine Murray foodpantry105@gmail.com

Pasricha & Patel, LLC

Amandeep Cheema aman@pasricha.com

Fratellini RG Inc

Vilson Dautaj vinny@fratellinirg.com

Sixty First Productions

Helena Kincaid-Nalladurai media@sixtyfirstproductions.com

GIO LENDING SOLUTIONS INC

GIOVANNI CAMPOS gioyba@gmail.com

CPRE Marketing

Yanna Luo yanna@cpregroup.com

lgbtnetwork

Robert Vitelli robert@lgbtnetwork.org

J K Bennett

Dean Bennett

Maureen Regan

YourDOT

Robert Vitelli robert@lgbtnetwork.org

AROMA Group LLC dba YAAAS Tea

Amy Chan foresthills-ny@yaaasfranchise.com

Weiss & Associates, PC

Matthew Weiss mjw@nytrafficticket.com

Central Business Systems

Timothy Ealy tealy@centraldigitalsolutions.com

MK Vision Center

Kaleena Ma kaleena@mkeyewear.com

E-Green Recycling Management LLC

David Block dblock@pkmetals.com

URvet Care

Lacey Shapiro l.shapiro@gmail.com

Zeroerror.AI

Maria Marti maria@zeroerror.ai

Queen of Sword 2 Inc

Elma Siljkovic qos2ridgewood@gmail.com

EXECUTIVE COMMMITEE

A degree of freedom structural engineer

A&L Cesspool Services Corp

A+ Technology & Security

AARP

Abrams Fensterman

ADS Engineers, DPC

Advanced Technology Alliance

AES

Aetna Better Health of New York

AFGO Mechanical Services, Inc

Allegiant Home Care

Allied Risk Management, Inc

Andromeda

Antun’s of Queens Village

Apex Development Group LLC

Approved General Contracting Inc.,

Astound Business Solutions

Avison Young

Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP

Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service

BankUnited, N.A

Barone Management LLC

Bath Fitter

Bayside Contracting Inc

BedRock Real Estate Partners, LLC

Berkshire HathawayHomeservices Laffey

International Realty

Bethpage Federal Credit Union

Blumenfeld Development Group

Bonanza Contracting LLC

Capital One Bank

Capitol Fire Sprinkler

BANKING & LAW

John Renda

Edward Jones

John.Renda@edwardjones.com

Edwin Wong EWong@flushingbank.com

COMMUNICATIONS

Jake Oliver Anat Gerstein jake@anatgerstein.com

Henry Ramos Dedline AV henry@dedlineav.com

HEALTHCARE & WELLNESS

Prabhleen S. Virk

Citrin Cooperman pvirk@citrincooperman.com

TRANSPORTATION

Phil Jones

LIME philip@li.me

ENERGY

Marshall Haimson E-Capital Development marshall@e-capitaldevelopment.com

EXECUTIVE STAFF

Capitol NY

CareerPoint LLC

Carver Federal Savings Bank

Catholic Charities Brooklyn & Queens

Catholic Health

CBIZ Marks Paneth

CBRE

CDS-Mestel Construction

Center for Automotive Education and Training

Century Development Group

Cerini and Associates, LLP.

Certilman Balin Adler & Hyman, LLP

Champion Elevator Corp

Ciampa Organization

Cine Magic LIC Studios, LLC

Cipico Construction, Inc.

CISO Global, Inc.

City Underwriting Agency, Inc.

CITYWIDE CONTAINER SERVICE

CORP

Clear Channel Outdoor

CliftonLarsonAllen, LLP

CMG Home Loans

Comcast Business

Compu-Phone Voice & Data, Inc.

ConnectOne Bank

Cornell Tech

Cornerstone Land Abstract

Corporate Loss Prevention Associates INC

Cort

CPower Energy Management

CORPORATE MEMBERS

Creative Office Resources

Crescent Consulting Associates, Inc.

Crystal Window & Door Systems, Ltd

Cushman & Wakefield

Cygler Warren Street Corp

Dack Consulting Solutions

Davidoff Hutcher & Citron LLP

Dedline AV

DO & CO New York Catering, Inc.

Douglas Elliman Real Estate Commercial

Division

EAC Network

Edge Auto Rental

Edward Jones

EJ Stevens Group

EKA Planning Services, Inc.

EMCOR NY/NJ

Emigrant Mortgage

EMU Health

ENT and Allergy Associates, LLP

Episcopal Health Services

EW Howell Construction Group

Exo Industries Corp.

Expense Reduction Analysts

F & T Group

Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, Inc.

First Central Savings Bank

Firstlight Cloud Xchange

Fluid Mechanics Corp

Forest Hills Financial Group, Inc.

Giant Industrial Installations

COMMITTEE LEADERSHIP

Jay Solly Sol Strategies jaypsolly@gmail.com

ENTREPRENEURSHIP & INNOVATION

Ryan Letts Cleonmaye Corporation rletts@cleonmaye.com

FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESSES

Michael Shoule JW Hampton mikes@jwhampton.com

FOOD, BEVERAGE & HOSPITALITY

Jim Quent Statewide Public Affairs jquent@statewidepublicaffairs.com

Rachel Kellner Aigner Chocolates rachel@aignerchocolates.com

NOT FOR PROFIT

Larry Grubler Transitional Services of NY lgrubler@tsiny.org

Christine Deska BellesBoard/Nonprofit Sector Strategies christine@nonprofitsectorstrategies.org

REAL ESTATE

Kevin Louie RIPCO klouie@ripcony.com

Michael Wang Project Queens michael@projectqueens.com

MANUFACTURING

Lina DeLaCruz lina@controlelectropolishing.com

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

Shahriar Hossain Shossain@queenschamber.org

TECHNOLOGY COMMITTEE

Jake Shild Jake@landsky.ai

Tom McFarland Tmcfarland@teamlogicit.com

GOLDEN AGE HOME CARE INC

Goodwill Industries NYNJ

Graf & Lewent Architects

Greater NY Automobiles Dealers Association

Greenlion Cleaning & Maintenance Inc.

H2M architects + engineers

HANAC, Inc.

HE2PD, Inc.

Healthy Corner Pharmacy

Heatherwood Communities

HNTB Corporation

HOK

Holt Construction Corp

Hugh O’Kane Electric Co., Inc.

Hyatt Place Flushing

Innovo Property Group

International Shoppes LLC

J.W. Hampton Jr. & Co., Inc.

Jamaica Hospital-MediSys Health Network

James E Fitzgerald

JGM Construction Development, LLC

JME Group LLC

K-Four Construction Corp.

Kasirer, LLC

Kelair Inc.

Koeppel Auto Group

Landeta Vargas Accounting & Business Solutions Corp

Leather Street Realty LLC

Lenoblelumber Co

Lidl US

LiveOnNY

Loconsolo Paints

M & R Concessions LLC

M&T Bank

Macerich

Madison International Realty

Mark Medical Care

Marriott New York LaGuardia

Mayer Malbin Company, Inc.

MBJ Food Services

Mc Gowan

MD Squared Property Group LLC

Mega Contracting Group LLC

Mr. T Carting Corp.

MSN Air Service Inc

Neutron Holdings, Inc

New Empire Corp

New York & Atlantic Railway

New York Life Insurance Company (The office of Queens )

New York State Energy Coalition, Inc.

Nonprofit Sector Strategies, PBC

Northwell Go Health Urgent Care

Northwell Health

O&S Associates, Inc.

On-trac Construction Associates

Onegroup

Park Ave Building & Roofing Supplies

Parker Jewish Institute for Rehabilitation for Health Care and Rehabilitation

Patrick B. Jenkins & Associates

Perch Advisors LLC

Priority 1 Security LLC

Prudential Advisors The Empire City Financial Group

QSIDE Federal Credit Union

Queens Centers For Progress

Queens College CUNY

Queens Garden Florist Inc

Queens Public Communications Corp.

Queensborough Community College

Quent Capital, LLC

Queensborough Community College

Quent Capital, LLC

Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers

Ripco Investment Sales

RKTB Architects, P.C.

Rosco Inc.

Roy Farid LLP

Royal Waste Services

Russo’s on the Bay

Sacco & Fillas LLP

Safeguard Self Storage

Salz Group

Samaritan Daytop Village

Santander Bank

SASCO CONSTRUCTION SERVICE

SB Vernon LLC

Schroder & Strom, LLP

Schuckman Realty INC.

Sherwin-Williams Co.

SiliconCore Technology, Inc.

SkyTrac Access Group, LLC

South Island Orthopedics

SPARTA: Saint Paul’s Autism Research & Training Academy

SpeakEasy Services, Corp.

Spectrum Reach

St. Francis Preparatory School

St. John’s University

Starbucks Corporation

Structural Engineering Technologies, P.C.

SUMMIT BUILDING SERVICES LLC

SUNation Solar Systems

Superior Office Solutions

Target

Terrace On The Park

The Bronx Parent Housing Network, dba

Housing Solutions of New York

The Child Center of NY

The Excelsior Consulting Team - UBS

Financial Services, Inc.

The Federal Savings Bank

The Ideal Supply Company

The L Grp

The Parkside Group

Tri-Power Electrical LLC

Tristate Plumbing Services Corp

Tristate Safety

Trucking Association of New York

United Airlines

United American Title Agency

United Public Adjusters & Appraisers, Inc.

Upfront Security Associates, Llc.

USTA National Tennis Center, Inc.

Valley National Bank

Vassilaros & Sons Coffee

Viega LLC

Vivid Mortgages Inc.

Voco Fiorello LaGuardia East

Wasa Water

Waste Management of New York LLC

Watch Guard 24/7

Waymo

White Coffee Corp

Wildlife Conservation Society

Work Better Now

World Wide Flight Service

YMCA of Greater New York - Jamaica

YMCA

Zara Realty

MAJOR CORPORATE MEMBERS

MAJOR CORPORATE MEMBERS

We hope you are enjoying the newly designed, expanded Queensborough, the monthly publication of the Queens Chamber of Commerce. We, the Chamber, direct and approve all content deciding what stories are covered in each issue, editing all copy and forwarding information that is contained in the publication. BQE Media produces it for the Chamber. We look forward to continuing to highlight the outstanding business persons, services and activities that make our borough unique. We welcome all your letters, manuscripts, etc. Please send all materials to the Queens Chamber of Commerce at 75-20 Astoria Boulevard, Suite 140, Jackson Heights, NY 11370 or call 718.898.8500 for more information. We reserve the right to edit for space limitations. Your support of the magazine is critical to its success. We encourage you to include Queensborough in your advertising plans. To place your ad, please call BQE Media at 718.426.7200.