This Is Queensborough December 2017

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December 2017 . Volume 13 . Issue 12

CENTER

OF IT ALL INSIDE THE STRONG TIES BETWEEN THE BOROUGH’S LARGEST MALL AND THE LOCAL COMMUNITY

PLUS: A CLOSER LOOK AT SIX OF THE CHAMBER’S 2017 BUILDING AWARD WINNERS

QUEENS CENTER MALL SENIOR PROPERTY MANAGER JEFF OWEN

December 2017 • Volume 13 • Issue 12

A MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

QUEENS SMALL BUSINESS AND THE RETAIL SECTOR In the past decade, the borough total private employment. Also, of Queens has demonstrated signif- Queens has had the largest growth icant growth as New York’s largest in chain retail stores of all the five borough. Since 2004, boroughs at 5.3 percent private sector employgrowth. ment has increased 18 The retail industry percent. has always had its ups On the jobs front, the and downs, but since small business sector the advent of the interhas become the largest net and online-sales, segment of employers retail stores have been in Queens, and there forced to find new ways is no question that the to remain afloat. At the borough’s small busiQueens Chamber, we ness sector is going to MAYRA DIRICO have heard the woeful continue to grow due to tales of our brick-andour increasing diversity CHAIRPERSON mortar shops having and immigrant populato close due to online tion. competition.

Queens has a larger share of This is troublesome across the its employment in businesses with borough, but especially in the areas less than 20 employees (34.8 per- such as Corona, Flushing, and cent) than the city as a whole (27.8 Bayside, which are especially high percent). Notably, entrepreneurship foot-traffic. is increasing in the borough, with We cannot delude ourselves into 11.8 percent of all new jobs in the thinking this competition between last five years added by firms less small retail and online sales is than one year old. going to get less fierce, but small When it comes to small busi- businesses can take steps to retain ness, the retail sector is prominent and bolster their clientele. Here are in the Queens economy, currently a few simple suggestions: representing nearly 12 percent of 1. Develop a social media plan

Source: U.S. Census, County Business Patterns, 2013

and create a social media presence.

2. Give people extra reasons to come to your store rather than shopping online.

3. Send weekly newsletters with specials, related news, featured items new to the store, etc.

4. Create loyalty programs to increase member retention.

5. Demonstrate how an item looks or works using video merchandising.

6. Search online to see what the competition is and make sure you are offering the best deal.

7. Offer free shipping, or at least pay for returns.

Again, we realize the struggle facing our small business Retail owners and want to offer any assistance we can. Please reach out to us and we will be more than happy to help.

Happy Holidays!

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT & CEO

REACHING THE LIFEBLOOD OF THE CHAMBER: SMALL BUSINESSES Small business is the lifeblood of New York City, and Queens in particular. It is important to note that, while we seek and depend on all businesses to support us via membership at the Queens Chamber, fully 60 percent of our membership are small businesses with 50 or fewer employees.

As such, the Queens Chamber recognizes the challenges facing our small business owners and is committed to aiding them in any way we can.

The Queens Chambers’ outreach to small businesses is a major tenet of our advocacy, and one of the ways we do this is through our “Chamber-on-the-Go” program.

This NYC Small Business Servicemanaged, New York City Council discretionary-funded initiative is

designed to deliver on-the-ground services targeting “mom-and-pop” small businesses in commercial sectors within the borough.

The Queens Chamber staff reaches out to these businesses to assess their needs, deliver services, and refer them for assistance. This is accomplished by conducting small business events, workshops and forums, as well as door-to-door canvassing of targeted commercial corridors to inform the owners of available business-related services.

We also make sure businesses are aware of all services and incentives offered by Small Business Services (SBS).

During the 2017-2018 year thus far, we have reached and served 149 businesses. We were able to go to new areas for our outreach,

and have served many at numerous Rockaway and Springfield Gardens. events throughout the borough. In We completed a total of 48 surveys: July, we translated the survey into six in Chinese and two in Spanish.

Korean, and manIn addition to Chamaged to serve and ber on the Go, our reach several Koresmall business outan businesses in the reach includes workarea. ing with Business In August we Improvement Districts reached new areas (BIDs), Merchant on in Queens. During the Go programs, and the month of Octohosting networking ber, almost half events and academic of all the outreach programs. work took place in THOMAS J. GRECH The Queens Chamevents held in dif- PRESIDENT & CEO ber of Commerce ferent neighborhelps businesses hoods, including improve their day-toCorona, Elmhurst, Long Island City, day efficiency and identify ways Jamaica Estates, Jackson Heights to strengthen their operations. We and Whitestone. In November, we also act as the liaison between busicanvassed new areas, such as Far nesses and elected officials.

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THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

queenschamber.org As of today, only 104 establishments have the license due to the expensive and time-consuming application process.

QUEENS QUICKLY

Get Footloose! City makes it safe to dance again

Mayor Bill de Blasio signed a historic piece of legislation to repeal the city’s 91-year-old Cabaret Law. The bill repeals all aspects of this law except for two safety requirements.

Establishments previously required to obtain a cabaret license must continue to install and maintain security cameras, and if they employ security guards, they must be licensed.

“Nightlife is part of the New York melting pot that brings people together,” said de Blasio. “We want to be a city where people can work hard, and enjoy their city’s nightlife without arcane bans on dancing.”

The Prohibition-era Cabaret Law was originally created to monitor illegal venues, and while many specific restrictions embedded in the law came and went, the ban on dancing has remained. Though the law is rarely enforced in recent years, the law has survived numerous repeal attempts.

Fair workweek laws are now in effect in Queens

Fair workweek laws to end inconsistent scheduling practices in the fast food and retail industry are now in effect as of November 26.

These laws apply to all employees, regardless of immigration status.

“Fast food and retail workers endure unpredictable schedules and incomes that make it hard for them to create budgets, schedule child

Mattone donates $3M to create Institute for Real Estate Law

With a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by distinguished alumni, government officials, and business leaders, St. John’s University School of Law launched the Mattone Family Institute for Real Estate Law. The institute was established through a $3 million gift from St. John’s University and St. John’s Law alumnus Joseph M. Mattone, Sr., chairman and CEO of the Mattone Group, a Queens-based development and construction company that manages over two million square feet of commercial, residential, and industrial properties in New York, Georgia, Illinois, Connecticut, and Florida.

Mattone is also a senior partner at Mattone, Mattone, Mattone LLP, a full-service law firm in Queens.

Throughout his professional career, Mattone has promoted education and philanthropy. He was the first person to give $1 million to St. John’s University, and served as a founding member of its board of governors.

Housed in new, spacious quarters at St. John’s Law and led by a full-time director, St. John’s Law alumnus Robert J. Sein, the Mattone Institute will be the academic and pre-professional training hub for all St. John’s Law students interested in pursuing a career in real estate law.

TABLE OF CONTENTS Promotions, Announcements & Appointments ........................................6

Health Committee hosts Health & Business Summit .........................................21

COVER STORY: Jeff Owen discusses Queens Center’s success .......8

Upcoming Queens Chamber of Commerce events .............................................23

Chamber committee chairs talks real estate and retail ...........................9

Partners & Affiliates news and happenings ..........................................................25

Sterling National provides new banking option for businesses .........10 A closer look at some of this year’s Building Award winners .........11 Chamber connects tech companies with LIC students ........................16 SunPower an attractive new solar option for businesses .....................20 4

PUBLISHER Walter H. Sanchez

MANAGING EDITOR Shane Miller

CHAMBER EDITOR MARKETING DIRECTOR Brett Swanson John Sanchez BQE Media, 45-23 47th St., 2nd Floor, Woodside, NY 11377 Phone: (718) 426-7200 Fax: (347) 507-5827

December 2017 • Volume 13 • Issue 12

QUEENS QUICKLY care, or pursue education or a second job,” said Department of Consumer Affairs Commissioner Lorelei Salas.

Fast food employees now have the right to a good faith estimate of their schedule, 14 days advance notice of work schedules, priority to work new available shifts over the hiring of a new employee, and employers must get their consent and pay an extra $100 for working a closing and opening shift in succession.

Retail employees now must receive 72-hour advance of their work schedule, are not subject to on-call shifts, and no shift cancellations or additions with less than 72-hour notice.

Crowdfunding for women entrepreneurs

The not-for-profit crowdfunding platform Kiva.org has launched WE Fund: Crowd, a first-of-its-kind city-led crowdfunding program to help women

entrepreneurs access affordable capital and start businesses in New York City.

Through Kiva, women entrepreneurs can apply for crowdfunded loans of up to $10,000 and the city will contribute the first 10 percent of their loan request. The program is designed to reach at least 500 businesses over three years.

“Leveling the playing field for women entrepreneurs will help grow and diversify our economy,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio.

“With Kiva, we will help launch small businesses that might otherwise never get off the ground.”

The city will contribute the first 10 percent of an entrepreneur’s crowdfunding goal when they launch their campaign. The loan from the city will be confirmed when the entrepreneur meets their full fundraising goal.

The city’s contribution is capped at $1,000 per campaign and includes no-interest repayment terms for up to 42 months.

St. John’s coach honored at gala

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THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

queenschamber.org Email your announcement or promotion to info@thisisqueensborough.com

PROMOTIONS, ANNOUNCEMENTS & APPOINTMENTS of urological conditions and disIn her most recent role as vice degree from the University of AriMatos to head ease through research and educa- president of Education at WNET, zona. tion is part of the fabric of our pro- Wacey led a team that produced HACU board fession,” said Nagler. “Continuing educational television, online eduQueens College President Félix to do it here with an organization cational media for teachers, and Museum honors Matos Rodríguez has been elected of such stature and trustworthiness community engagement.

LGCC’s Mellow Wacey earned a Juris Doctor board chair of the Hispanic Asso- remains a privilege.” ciation of Colleges and Universities (HACU).

Established in 1986, HACU currently represents more than 470 colleges and universities committed to Hispanic higher education success in the United States, Puerto Rico, MATOS RODRIGUEZ Latin America, and Spain.

“The work HACU does each and every day has had beneficial impact on Hispanic students both in the United States and abroad,” said Matos Rodríguez. “I am truly humbled to have the opportunity to serve as board chair as we continue to advocate for students around the world.”

Matos Rodríguez has served as president of Queens College since 2014 and has been a member of HACU’s Governing Board since 2012. His distinguished career spans both academia and the public sector.

Matos Rodríguez is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and is an Aspen Institute Ascend Fellow. He serves on the boards of Phipps Houses, the United Way of New York City, the TIAA Hispanic Advisory Council, and the Research Alliance for New York City Schools. He is a graduate of Yale University and he received his PhD from Columbia University.

Nagler tapped to lead UCF Dr. Harris M. Nagler of Northwell Health’s Smith Institute for Urology has been named president of the Urology Care Foundation Board (UCF), part of the American Urological Association (AUA).

“Supporting and improving the prevention, detection and treatment

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Over the last year, Nagler has helped drive the foundation’s outreach and development efforts, making great strides in establishing the UCF NAGLER as the single largest resource for medically approved urologic patient education information.

The organization also supports research funding for many of our young scientists dedicated to preventing, diagnosing and treating urologic conditions and diseases.

Nagler has been recognized numerous times in New York Magazine’s Best Doctors, Best Doctors in America and The New York Times’ Super Doctors listings.

WCC names Wacey as CEO The Women’s City Club of New York (WCC) today announced the appointment of Carole J. Wacey as chief executive officer, citing her breadth of experience in the public and private sectors and strong networks at the city, state and federal levels.

“I am privileged to join an organization that has championed change in New York City to the betterment of all people for more than a century,” the Forest Hills resident said. “From its earliest days, the Women’s City Club of WACEY New York has been a consistent voice influencing reforms that advance equality, preserve rights, and improve our quality of life.”

from Vermont Law School and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from American University. She studied Public International Law at Oxford University and Environmental Leadership at Yale University. Currently, Wacey serves as a member of the Board of Directors at MOUSE. WCC is a nonprofit, non-partisan, multi-issue activist organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for all New Yorkers.

WCC shapes public policy through education, issues analysis, advocacy, and civic participation.

Villani joins NYPQ Dr. Gina Villani has joined NewYork-Presbyterian Queens as the Medical Oncology Division Chief. She is also a member of Weill Cornell Medicine’s faculty.

She was previously CEO of Harlem’s The Ralph Lauren Center for Cancer Care in partnership with Memorial Sloan Kettering.

Dr. Villani believes that “cancer care isn’t one size fits all,” VILLANI and her experience working with diverse communities has prepared her to serve the borough of Queens with comprehensive cancer care.

At NewYork-Presbyterian Queens, Dr. Villani will build an interdisciplinary medical oncology cancer program in hematological and solid tumor malignancies.

Dr. Villani has worked at a national level to help mitigate cancer disparities, and has served as chairman of Cancer Disparities Committee for the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ACSO).

She received her undergraduate

LaGuardia Community College president Gail Mellow was honored by American Folk Art Museum at its annual gala.

Dr. Mellow, who has been president of LaGuardia Community MELLOW College since 2000, was honored for being a national leader in the education of underserved students with her boundary-breaking success at LaGuardia.

LaGuardia and the Museum have been partners on an initiative whereby selected LaGuardia students work in the various departments of the museum, on a paid basis, to learn about careers in the museum field.

Queens Chamber of Commerce 75-20 Astoria Boulevard, Suite 140 Jackson Heights, N.Y. 11370-1131 Entire Contents Copyright 2017 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.

Schneps Communications 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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December 2017 • Volume 13 • Issue 12

GOVERNMENT NEWS

HELP YOUR BUSINESS ENJOY THE HOLIDAY CHEER The holiday shopping season is ers online by offering exciting seaupon us, and small business owners sonal promotions on your website know all too well or by launching a how “Black Friholiday-inspired day” got its name. social media camOften operating paign. with slim profit • Know the margins, it is the Rules: Help your end-of-year holibusiness avoid day shopping rush costly fines by that finally pushes staying in the many businesses know. The holiinto the black. day season can It is common present unique GREGG BISHOP that 20 to 30 perregulatory chalSBS COMMISSIONER cent of annual lenges for New sales occur during York City small the last month of business owners. the year alone. The Department of SBS offers free compliance conSmall Business Services (SBS) is sultations that can help. offering a few simple tips along • Hire Extra Help: Create new with our services to help your busi- positions and hire additional staff ness make the most of this holiday to help your business perform well season: during the holiday rush.

• Spread the Holiday Cheer • Get Your Books in Order: Stay Online: Connect with your custom- on top of your holiday sales by

keeping your business finances well organized this season.

• Connect With Your Neighborhood: Participate in the holidayinspired programming happening on your block and in your neighborhood. From tree lighting events to local gift guides, get involved and help organize local campaigns to increase foot traffic in your area.

SBS is here to help your business succeed this holiday season and year-round. We operate a network of seven Business Solutions Centers located in all five boroughs that offer free, hands-on support to help small businesses hone the skills needed to start, manage, or grow in a changing economy.

The services provided include free business courses in multiple languages, access to financing assistance and incentives, recruitment services, and pro-bono legal advice. We will also help you cut through red tape by offering free,

on-site compliance consultations that help small businesses comply with regulations and avoid costly fines.

While you’re preparing your business for this busy season, we’re continuing to promote the diverse, independent, small businesses that enrich neighborhoods across New York City. Through “NYC Love Your Local,” SBS encourages New Yorkers to add their favorite small businesses to an interactive map for other New Yorkers to discover.

Check out the businesses on this map and be sure to share your favorites at nyc.gov/loveyourlocal.

You can also promote your favorite neighborhood businesses and discover those shared by others by using #LoveYourLocalNYC on social media.

This holiday season let SBS help you prepare to manage the holiday influx. For more information, visit to nyc.gov/sbs or call 311.

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DECEMBER FOCUS: REAL ESTATE & RETAIL GIVE AND TAKE: SUCCESS OF QUEENS CENTER ALL LOCAL

BY JEN KHEDAROO Nestled in central Queens, Queens Center Mall has become a staple for communities throughout the borough. But just as the community relies on the mall, Queens Center relies on its neighbors as well.

With about 220 stores covering 963,000 square feet of space, it’s an attraction that draws people to the area, said senior property manager Jeffrey Owen.

Owen had 20 years of experience working at JCPenney before he left in 2005 to manage Queens Center Mall for property owner Macerich, the third-largest owner and operator of shopping centers in the United States.

But his responsibilities extend far beyond property management and issues like lease management and security, but also include reaching After 20 years with JCPenney, Jeff Owen is now senior property manager at the borough’s largest mall. out to and organizing events for the local community throughout season. stream mall like ours, we try to ants first,” Owen said. “You’ve got the year.

For the most part, though, Owen work with them on things like to get the tenants that customers “We always want to interact feels the community has supported finding the right location within the want to shop in, and we’ve been with the community because with- Queens Center Mall throughout the mall, what does the business plan really putting in the resources to out them there would be no us,” years. In fact, some realtors use look like, and seeing if it makes find the right tenants. We really Owen said. “The mall is successful the proximity to Queens Center as sense for our market.” work all of our centers into what’s because of those in Queens. It’s all a selling point when advertising Owen said even if you see a in the best interest of the tenant and about the people.” properties. national brand at Queens Cen- therefore ourselves.”

Queens Center has a working “I think regardless of what part ter Mall, it could be owned by a A huge boost to The Shops at relationship with community lead- of the country you’re in, shopping local franchisee. For instance, Red Atlas Park, he said, was the addiers, including working with Com- and entertainment value is going to Mango and Chick-Fil-A are both tion of stores such as Home Goods munity Board 4 district manager be in your top three or four of what owned by local residents, while and Ashley Furniture. The mall Christian Cassagnol to sponsor a you’re looking for,” Owen said. there’s a T-Mobile corporate store also features local businesses like recent youth and a T-Mobile kiosk Brooklyn Cupcake. fair. Nonprofowned by a local franAs the economy continues to THE MALL IS SUCCESSFUL it Make the chisee. recover, Queens Center remains a Road New Macerich also owns hotspot for businesses. If a store BECAUSE OF THOSE IN QUEENS. York utilizes The Shops at Atlas decides to leave the mall, there’s the Queens Park in Glendale, but always interest and a number of Center comunlike Queens Center businesses ready to take its place. munity room that has a more tra- When Payless decided to leave the for classes, ditional shopping mall mall, Owen and his team decided and a women’s cancer survivors While Queens Center features experience, The Shops at Atlas to bring in the regional store Jimmy group holds their monthly meet- national stores like Aeropostale and Park is an outdoor mixed-use life- Jazz. ings there.

Macy’s, Owen believes that the style center.

“This mall is at the hub of the Queens Center is surrounded by mall has an important responsibilThough lifestyle centers are fre- borough, it is at the crossroads,” condos and apartments buildings ity to work with small businesses quently seen in the south or west Owen said, “with all of the vehicle and single-family and multi-family in the local community. coast, Macerich is transforming transportation, buses and subways residences. For those living around “We try to compliment, whether The Shops at Atlas Park to be a and just the amount of people livthe mall, there’s an understanding it’s a local retailer or a regional viable alternative to Queens Cen- ing closing enough to walk around of what it entails, such as traf- retailer,” he said. “If they are trying ter. To do so, it’s about leasing. here. We’re lucky enough to be in fic congestion during the holiday to get a foothold within a main“You’ve got to get the right ten- high demand.”

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IT’S ALL ABOUT THE PEOPLE.

December 2017 • Volume 13 • Issue 12

DECEMBER FOCUS: REAL ESTATE & RETAIL

EXPERTS TALK CHANGING NABES, RETAIL SCENE

BY BENJAMIN FANG With the rise of e-commerce giants like Amazon, the traditional retail industry is feeling the pressure.

To address the future of retail and real estate, the Queens Chamber of Commerce’s Real Estate Committee is planning a panel discussion event in the coming months.

Martin Cottingham and Michael Wang, who co-chair the committee, are inviting experts representing all facets of retail.

Cottingham, a principal at the commercial real estate services firm Avison Young, said the focus on retail is timely and important because the industry “impacts everybody.” Retailers face a rising real estate market and rent costs, which puts pressure on tenants.

They’re balancing rules and regulations set by the city, such as paid sick leave.

“When you introduce e-commerce to the equation, how they have to compete now with the likes of Amazon and companies that have the infrastructure built in place where people can easily sit at home or work and purchase goods, that’s having a real impact on retailers,” Cottingham said.

Long Island City is one of several neighborhoods within New York City that is competing for Amazon’s second headquarters.

Cottingham said the high interest is driven by the fact that a lot of highly-skilled, high-salaried employees will enter the market.

“They’re an agent of change, and they are changing the industry,” he said. “You either have to change and keep up or you could be out of business.”

Wang, CEO of G8 Real Estate, said the chamber can actually have a mutually beneficial relationship with an innovative company like Amazon, not an adversarial one.

“We may invite Amazon to become a member of the chamber, of the Real Estate Committee,” Wang said. “Let them be aware

of the issues here, and allow them to make us aware of what they’re doing, to see if something makes sense.”

Cottingham added that the chamber may even see if local retailers can become vendors or supplies for Amazon.

Those are all questions that will be discussed at the Real Estate Committee’s panel event. Cottingham and Wang, who both have roots in Queens, also focus on the trends of the real estate industry in the borough.

Wang, whose focus is primarily on Flushing, said rents are going “through the roof” in that hot market, making it tough for many industries to survive.

Even restaurants, the second most popular retail industry in Flushing, are operating at lower margins, he said. Financial institutions like banks, as well as beauty shops and pharmacies, round out the other top retailers in the neighborhood.

What some owners do now, Wang said, is break up their storefronts into cubicles for different businesses. Rents are lower, even if companies are paying more per square foot.

“People are more willing to pay that out of pocket, to be on a main street to sell whatever goods and services they may have,” he said.

“You see these different models coming up that are working. But the meat of the old industry, which is regular mom-and-pop stores, a lot of those models are not thriving.”

Cottingham, who grew up in Brooklyn and the Rockaways, said what has amazed him is seeing how neighborhoods like Long Island City have emerged in the last few years. Now that the residential population has exploded, he said infrastructure and other needs like schools, libraries, post offices and even retail need to keep up.

“While there has been great strides made in a neighborhood like Long Island City, it’s still underretailed,” Cottingham said, “con-

Michael Wang and Martin Cottingham co-chair the Real Estate Committee.

sidering the amount of folks who live there, and the amount of folks who will live there once all those developments are done.

“That alone amazes me, That’s a blank canvas,” he added. “Real estate folks like us need to be part of the solution.”

Cottingham attributed the retail need to the state of construction and development in the neighborhood, which he said IS in a “period of flux.” As those projects near completion and come on line, retailers will flock to the neighborhood.

Outside of Flushing and Long Island City, two booming real estate hubs in Queens, Wang said neighborhoods like Maspeth, Jackson Heights and Kew Gardens are all “in the conversation” for commercial and residential development.

“Once you have a transit line to Manhattan, anything is possible,” he said.

Wang said he considers Willets Point another huge development project that, if it ever becomes a reality, would really change the area.

Cottingham said Jamaica, with its proximity to John F. Kennedy International Airport, the Long Island Rail Road and other developments, cannot be dismissed.

Both also pointed to the Rockaways as an area to look out for, with all of the economic revitalization funding coming in.

“The resiliency projects taking place down there will definitely help,” Cottingham said. “There’s room for a lot of work, a lot needs to be done.”

Another project they’re keeping top of mind is the BrooklynQueens Connector (BQX) streetcar, which would run from Astoria down to Sunset Park. Cottingham said he’s excited about the potential of the project.

“If you want to follow retail and emerging neighborhoods and markets, follow that rail route,” he said.

“Those neighborhoods will emerge and those neighborhoods will have needs.”

Though quality of life and infrastructure capacity are issues that could potentially affect real estate projects, Wang said the chamber can play an important role to address those problems. Bringing together city agencies, community boards and civic groups and local businesses, the chamber can act as a “hub of information” and cooperation, he said.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 29

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STERLING NATIONAL, ASTORIA BANK MERGE CREATES ATTRACTIVE BANKING OPTION FOR QUEENS BUSINESSES

BY WENDY O’NEILL Sterling National Bank Local businesses and business owners often face a kaleidoscope of choices, and it can often be difficult to determine which financial institutions offer the right balance of service, array of products, rates and fees.

The recent merger of Sterling Bancorp with Astoria Financial Corporation took place in early October and brought together two complementary banks with deep roots in the Metro New York area.

It also created an exciting option for Queens businesses and banking consumers, combining the overall capabilities of a large commercial bank with the high-touch services of a smaller, local bank highlighted by a unique single point of contact model for all its clients’ banking and financial service needs.

Together, the two institutions have formed a high-performing regional bank with over $30 billion in assets across the New York City, Hudson Valley, Long Island, and Northern New Jersey markets.

Sterling was recently ranked #36 on Forbes magazine’s annual list of America’s Best Banks, having grown significantly through acquisition and organic growth over the last seven years.

With the Astoria Bank merger now complete, Sterling provides over $20 billion in loans and over $19 billion in deposits, with a diversified commercial and consumer loan and deposit base, a solid capital foundation, and broad footprint in a dynamic and growing marketplace.

The completion of this transaction brings

financial solutions and enhanced expertise, noted Jack L. Kopnisky, president and CEO of Sterling Bancorp.

“The combined company will be a Top 10 regional bank in the greater New York metropolitan area that is focused on delivering superior operating performance, providing distinctive service to our clients, creating an environment for our colleagues to be successful, and serving our communities,” he said.

Sterling offers targeted business banking and commercial banking solutions with expert guidance by top-performing financial specialists.

For companies with sales of $1 million to $10 million, Sterling deploys a unique five-point approach to understand and proactively add value.

Utilizing a single point of contact delivery model supported by a team of experts The combined company will be a Top and digital tools, managing directors in 10 regional bank in the greater New Sterling’s 120-plus local financial centers York metropolitan area that is focused take business owners through a cash flow on delivering superior operating perpain-point analysis and help them access formance, providing distinctive service capital using local credit decision-making. to our clients, creating an environment They also help clients prepare for the for our colleagues to be successful, and “what ifs” that can occur, and are instruserving our communities. mental in building business connections, President & CEO Jack L. Kopnisky all of which helps to create a unique and extraordinary personal experience.

Sterling’s commercial division is led regionally by New York Metro Market the best of Sterling and Astoria together, and President David S. Bagatelle, who with his will allow the bank to provide clients with an teams is looking forward to creating an extraorexpanded network of locations, more tailored dinary experience for Queens businesses.

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Sterling’s relationship managers start by approaching each relationship as an opportunity to provide outstanding service: listening to clients, understanding what makes them unique, and providing reliable expertise and guidance through a single point of contact approach.

The bank offers a wide range of both traditional and specialty commercial banking services, ranging from commercial lending, trade finance, payroll services to treasury management and equipment financing, as well as other customized solutions.

In addition to a full suite of commercial banking products and services, Sterling brings the same level of care and expertise to its personal banking clients through its convenient financial centers and ATM network throughout the New York metropolitan area, as well as its digital mobile, online and telephone banking services.

Personal banking clients have access to Sterling’s flexible deposit and loan products, as well as highly responsive Private Banking and independent Wealth Services.

“Every client can count on personalized service, our customized guidance and diverse experience, delivered with a single point of contact approach,” notes Mayra DiRico, executive director of Consumer Strategy and Segment Management at Sterling.

For more information about the new Sterling National Bank and how it can help you meet your commercial, business, and consumer banking needs, visit www.snb.com.

December 2017 • Volume 13 • Issue 12

CHAMBER BUILDING AWARDS & GALA

BUILDING AFFORDABLE

The Pavilion at Locust Manor is an eight-story, 85-unit rental building that provides affordable housing. D&F Development Group, LLC, owner and developer of the property, will also manage the newly constructed property.

Peter Florey and Leonard D’Amico, principals at D&F Development, have led their team in over 20 affordable housing projects.

The Pavilion at Locust Manor features amenities such as elevators, visual intercom system, security cameras, central air, parking lot, laundry room, community room and bicycle storage.

Much of the funding was made possible through the New York City Housing Development Corporation. Bank of America not only lent money towards the project but also provided a considerate amount of funding, Florey said.

“The building is 100 percent affordable,” Florey said. “One of the things we wanted to do was reach across a spectrum of economic bands, not just reach those folks that were below 60 percent of the area median income.

“We wanted to also reach a lower income group that were slightly

below that and also reach groups that were above it,” he added. “We have a range from 50 to 90 percent of the area median income.”

D&F Development Group wanted to design a building that fit well into the surrounding area and is reflective of the architecture that exists in the neighborhood.

The project took about two years to complete with the help of architect Gerard Caliendo. Florey explained that D&F Development Group are very particular about the design elements and appearances of their projects.

“Just because it’s affordable housing doesn’t mean it should look like a blank box,” Florey said. “There should be some creativity and distinctive design principles that go into the architecture.”

Some of these distinctive features include the treatment around windows, cornices and the quality materials that they used.

“It’s a beautifully designed affordable project that both the residents and the surrounding community can be proud of,” he said.

“I love to see more of this type of project in the city.”

(JEN KHEDAROO)

On December 6, the Queens Chamber of Commerce held its annual Building Awards & Gala at Terrace on the Park. For nearly a century, the chamber has been recognizing excellence in design in both new construction and adaptive reuse in both the commercial and residential sector. Here’s an in-depth look at six of this year’s 20 honorees.

THE PAVILION AT LOCUST MANOR

171-04 BAISLEY BOULEVARD ST. ALBANS, NY 11434 NEW CONSTRUCTION: MULTIPLE DWELLING AFFORDABLE HOUSING

YEAR BUILT: 2017 OWNER: D&F Development Group, LLC ARCHITECT: Gerald J. Caliendo, RA, PC BUILDER: D&F Construction Group DETAILS: An 8-story rental building with quality finishes and amenities such as elevators, visual intercom system, security cameras, central air, parking lot, laundry room, community room and bicycle storage.

TAKEAWAY: “Just because it’s affordable housing doesn’t mean it should look like a blank box.” – Peter Florey

RISKY NAME PAYING BIG DIVIDENDS FOR GRAFFITI HOUSE When it comes to interior design, don’t settle, strive to do the next best thing.

That’s what motivated Jeffrey Harris, president of Voyeur Real Estate, when he designed Graffiti House on Welling Court in Astoria.

More than just a beautifully designed building, Graffiti House acts as a rotating art gallery, featuring 20 permanent installations and other original works in the lobby and hallways of every floor.

The facility is located in the heart of Astoria’s street art scene, led by the Welling Court Mural Project. A public art experience launched in 2009, the project hosts 150 murals by both renowned and upcoming artists.

GRAFFITI HOUSE 11-07 WELLING COURT ASTORIA, NY 11102 NEW CONSTRUCTION: LANDSCAPE DESIGN, COURTYARDS, PLAZAS

YEAR COMPLETED: 2016 OWNER: 11-07 Welling Court LLC ARCHITECT: Architects Studio BUILDER: AKI Development DETAILS: A residential masterpiece that combines luxury style with contemporary street art.

TAKEAWAY: “Don’t settle.

Strive to do the next best thing and improve the daily life of your tenants.” – Jeffrey Harris

CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

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THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

queenschamber.org

CHAMBER BUILDING AWARDS & GALA

ARCHITECT TURNS HIS FOCUS ON HIS OWN OFFICE

Gerald Caliendo gets excited when he discusses the transformation of his new office.

“It’s an architect’s office so, I wanted it to look slick and I wanted it to look industrial,” he said. “I wanted it to be the best building on Queens Boulevard.”

The previous one-story building now has four floors and an accessible rooftop. Architectural elements include a Turkish curtain wall and a descending LED chandelier.

Renovations were completed over three weekends without forcing any of his 40 employees to relocate. Caliendo believes the new building will impact future construction in the area.

“It stands out like a sore thumb but in a good way,” he said. “I know I’ve influenced the rest of the area. The next guy that builds here is going to want to compliment this.

“Don’t always cheap out, that’s the reality of it,” Caliendo added of his philosophy as an architect. “The key is to make sure that you design to improve the building environment and promote the area, because that‘s what architects are supposed to do.”

(MEGHAN SACKMAN)

GERALD J. CALIENDO ARCHITECTS BUILDING

138-72 QUEENS BOULEVARD BRIARWOOD, NY 11435 REHABILITATION, READAPTIVE USE ALTERATION, OR ADDITION: OFFICE BUILDING

YEAR COMPLETED: 2016 OWNER: Gerald J. Caliendo ARCHITECT: Gerald J. Caliendo, RA, PC BUILDER: Impact Builders DETAILS: The building underwent a drastic transformation from a single-story brick building to a sleek, four-story architect’s office.

TAKEAWAY: “Don’t always cheap out, that’s the reality of it.” – Gerald J. Caliendo

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December 2017 • Volume 13 • Issue 12

CHAMBER BUILDING AWARDS & GALA MOUNT SINAI LOOKS TO MAKE A STATEMENT IN ASTORIA For Caryn Schwab, executive director of Mount Sinai Queens, a $175 million campus expansion was about projecting strength. The new 140,000-square-foot, limestone and glass facility on 30th Avenue stands out from the surrounding red-brick buildings that are characteristic of Astoria.

“We wanted it to be iconic and distinctive,” Schwab said. “We wanted a building that would withstand the next 50 years.”

Mount Sinai’s new building offers a state-of-the-art emergency department, which is five times the size of the former space. It boasts an outpatient imaging center with the latest technology, complete with a robotic surgery system and two floors for primary care and specialty physicians.

The facility is filled with natural light and plenty of wayfinding signs. Visitors to the hospital now walk into a brand new lobby with the Ambulatory Pavilion entrance nearby.

To better understand how to navigate the hospital through the lens of a patient, hospital staff ran through simulations of entering the building, finding the right directions and accessing care as quickly as possible.

While thinking about the environment inside the hospital, the team chose neutral colors for the building and decided to use furniture and art to bring “pops of color” and life.

“We want it to be warm and inviting and accessible,” Schwab said. “We want the building to be timeless. If somebody came in 10 years from now, it will feel current and up to date.”

Schwab, an 18-year veteran of the hospital, said it wasn’t easy to get to this point. While hospitals in Manhattan can rely on donations and philanthropy for this type of project, that isn’t always the case in Queens.

“It’s very hard for hospitals in our community to access the kind of capital to build a project of this scale,” she said. “We are proud to

MOUNT SINAI QUEENS PAVILION

25-20 30TH AVENUE ASTORIA, NY 11102 NEW CONSTRUCTION: HEALTH CARE RELATED FACILITIES

YEAR COMPLETED: 2016 OWNER: The Mount Sinai Hospital/Queens Campus ARCHITECT: NK Architects BUILDER: Skanska USA Building DETAILS: A 140,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art hospital facility with a brand new emergency department.

TAKEAWAY: “We want this building to project strength.” – Caryn Schwab

be part of the Mount Sinai Health System that supported this huge investment in our borough and the hospital.”

Working with NK/Davis, Brody, Bond Architects and Skanska USA, Mount Sinai’s team took 18 months to think through the design and flow of the expanded hospital space.

Schwab said they saw the opportunity as a clean slate to change the hospital’s processes and workflows. The focus is having a hightech, optimally functioning and cutting edge facility.

“The building gave us an opportunity to think about the future,” she said. “We knew this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so we took advantage of it.”

While designing the layout of the emergency department, for example, they consulted the staff to see how to organize equipment and supplies, and determine how the team would communicate in a space five times bigger than its predecessor.

Their team also did a lot of online research for the project, and visited two other health care institutions.

The end product is a modern, bold and all-encompassing facility that marks a new chapter for health care in Queens.“It allows us to bring a level of complexity to the borough and keep care local,” Schwab said.

“ WANT THE BUILDING TO BE WE TIMELESS. IF SOMEBODY COMES IN 10 YEARS FROM NOW, IT WILL FEEL CURRENT AND UP TO DATE. ”

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queenschamber.org

CHAMBER BUILDING AWARDS & GALA

THE JACKSON PAYS HOMAGE TO LIC’S PAST Combining manufacturing elements with modern design, The Jackson pays homage to Long Island City’s industrial past while looking toward the future.

The 11-story building, sitting at the corner of Jackson Avenue and 21st Street, is made entirely of architectural concrete with encasement windows. The lobby inside also features stylistic elements that highlights the neighborhood’s industrial history.

According to Justin Pelsinger, chief operating officer at Charney Construction and Development, the building represents what’s happening with Long Island City today.

“We still have in Long Island City a great deal of manufacturing and industrial space existing side by side with residential,” Pelsinger said.

“It’s kind of nice to see a building that fits in with our neighbors.”

In fact, right next door to The Jackson is a manufacturing building that makes cabinets and millwork for apartments. Across the street is the contemporary art and cultural institution MoMA PS1.

The look and feel of the building is intentional, Pelsinger said. Unlike many Long Island City developments that tower over its neighbors and are made mostly of glass, The Jackson fits in more with the character of the neighborhood.

“For us culturally as a company, we believe that when you construct a building, you’re constructing a piece of a neighborhood that will be there for a very long period of time,” he said.

“It’s something people will have to look at and will join in with the community.”

Pelsinger sees constructing a building as “very much an art.” While it’s important to make sure the project works out economically, he said making a building isn’t just about square footages or maximizing dollars.

“It’s important not to just plop buildings that you design in a vacuum in various neighborhoods,” he said. “We wouldn’t put this up in a different neighborhood. In this neighborhood, it works. In other neighborhoods, it wouldn’t work.

“Not only will it look better, but the people appreciate it a lot more,” Pelsinger added. “You want things to fit and mesh.”

The Jackson was built on what used to be a taxi stand above the 21st Street G train station. Although some of the uses of Long Island City’s industrial and manufacturing past may be lost, The Jackson ensures the style and feel of it remains.

To create the perfect architectural concrete, which stays exposed forever, Charney Construction and Development’s contractors poured 20 to

14

THE JACKSON

13-33 JACKSON AVENUE LONG ISLAND CITY, NY 11101 NEW CONSTRUCTION: MIXED USE RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL

YEAR COMPLETED: 2017 OWNER: Charney Construction & Development LLC ARCHITECT: Fogarty Finger BUILDER: 1Oak Contracting DETAILS: An 11-story, mixed-use building that pays homage to Long Island City’s industrial past.

TAKEAWAY: “Spend the extra time, be thoughtful and you ultimately are left with an end product that is better.” – Justin Pelsinger

30 sample columns just to get it right, Pelsinger said.

He said they wanted to pour the concrete on site, and not get pre-made panels, because they wanted to get “those little imperfections” that come with the look.

“No pour of concrete is ever the same, it’s not a perfect science,” Pelsinger said. “That’s the beauty of concrete and of these old buildings.”

Though it took a few dozen samples to find the right concrete look, Pelsinger said it was worth it because they “ended up with a great product.”

The Jackson boasts luxury condo units with amenities like a 24-hour attended lobby, a parking garage, fitness centers, lounges, children’s play rooms and a rooftop space that offers a stunning view of Manhattan and north Brooklyn. Prices start at $865,000 for a one-bedroom condo that come with a 15-year 421-a tax abatement.

On the ground floor is retail space. Though it’s currently not occupied, Pelsinger said retail is sorely lacking in Long Island City, so it’s much-needed.

With the emergence of Amazon and other online businesses, Pelsinger said he has seen more service-related shops, like restaurants or barber shops, rather than places to buy clothes.

Even on Vernon Boulevard, which he considers the heart of retail for Hunters Point South, there are still manufacturing facilities that have yet to turn to retail.

“There’s definitely a lot of pent-up demand for retail, it just hasn’t quite caught up yet,” he said.

“It surprises me that people that are seeking to open businesses have not really jumped on that.”

Pelsinger advised builders and developers to be more creative when it comes to designing, using materials, and bringing in good tenants.

While it’s important to look at the bottom line and seek profit, he said “you don’t need to sell out for that.”

“We believe if you’re a smart builder and a smart designer, and you have the right people on your team, there are ways to find materials that economically make sense and fit within the design of the neighborhood,” he said.

When walking past a building, residents should be able to point to and explain to people about the contributions they made to the neighborhood.

“There are ways to spend the extra time, be thoughtful and you ultimately are left with an end product that is better,” Pelsinger said. “The people who are living there are happier about it.”

(BENJAMIN FANG)

December 2017 • Volume 13 • Issue 12

CHAMBER BUILDING AWARDS & GALA FINDING MAXIMUM COMFORT THROUGH GOOD DESIGN Willy Zambrano and Daniel Barrenechea, partners at Zambrano Architectural Design, LLC, are committed to projects that create spaces with a sense of delight for their clients and users. For Zambrano, working on the Genesis Renal Center was an opportunity to stand out in terms of design and comfort.

Originally a one-story cabinet shop, Zambrano Architectural Design worked with builder Fazio Construction Company and property owner Nathan Brachfeld to create the 24-station dialysis center.

Genesis Renal Center is in an area that has both industrial and residential elements. Zambrano’s vision involved injecting contemporary architecture into the neighborhood.

To do so, they designed the exterior with a playful yet elegant charcoal gray shade and added a gold band across the width of the building to illuminate the windows and the lobby entrance.

“We wanted to have a strong presence in the streetscape of the neighborhood,” Zambrano said.

“While one side of 88th Street is

industrial, the other side is residential, and for the look we wanted to be in the middle and have the building stand out.”

Designing comfort was the key to how the architect and his team chose the particular palette of colors for the interior. Dialysis patients typically spend about three hours being treated at least three times a week.

To ease the experience for patients, they chose a pastel base and added bright and soothing colors such as orange, yellow and red

as accents throughout the space.

They also sought to create a space with as much natural light as possible to create a more calming space.

“You want to give them an environment that emphasizes warmth,” he said. “Being treated three hours a day, three days a week, is really uncomfortable so the colors we chose are pleasant to the patients.

“The exterior is all about presence in the community while the interior is all about warmth and comfort,” Zambrano added.

(JEN KHEDAROO)

GENESIS RENAL CENTER

74-07 88TH STREET GLENDALE, NY 11385 REHABILITATION, READAPTIVE USE ALTERATION, OR ADDITION: HEALTH CARE RELATED FACILITIES

YEAR COMPLETED: 2016 OWNER: Nathan Brachfeld ARCHITECT: Zambrano Architectural Design, LLC BUILDER: Fazio Construction Co. DETAILS: 24-station dialysis clinic with a soothing color palette and a contemporary exterior TAKEAWAY: “We created a strong presence in the streetscape while providing comfort for the patients with a soothing interior design.” - Willy Zambrano, architect

GRAFFITI HOUSE EXTENDS LIC’S ARTISTIC VIBE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11

Harris, whose firm was the broker and leased Graffiti House, sees the building as a “natural extension” of the project.

“There’s an interaction between the physical space, with where you live and how you live,” he said.

“It’s a matter of creating a visual aspect to the building that goes beyond the actual look of the interior. It adds another layer of depth to each floor.”

Working with the Bushwickbased Ad Hoc Art, Harris and his team brought 40 artists to paint street art not only on each floor of

the building, but also vertical art installations in the elevator.

“It exposes people to a medium of art that people don’t normally see. If they do, it’s normally in passing on the street,” Harris said.

“This allows us to showcase that art and expose tenants and visitors to a whole new variety of artists.”

Harris also added that in addition to the Welling Court Mural Project, Socrates Sculpture Park and the Noguchi Museum are both nearby, adding to the artistic and cultural appeal of Astoria.

Though he recognizes the risk of a name like Graffiti House, which

evokes thoughts of vandalism and eyesores, Harris said he has seen a tremendous response to the building. Residents have been buzzing about the art they’ve seen already.

“We knocked it out of the park,” he said.

Harris said though interior design as an industry has started to evolve, there’s still a lot of design that looks formulaic. Many homes still rely on stainless steel and other cookie-cutter patterns. From the floors, walls and lighting to the storage, fixtures and hardware, Harris said they don’t skimp on the thought.

“We do a lot of rounds of design so it doesn’t come out looking like an afterthought,” he said. “Everything is as it should be.”

He advised designs to not settle, but rather be bold and work to improve the daily life of tenants, neighbors and community members.

“What we’ve done with Graffiti House is striking and looks mature and timeless,” Harris said. “We’re building bridges to the community and people who are just visiting. It really does open up conversations and start a dialogue.”

(BENJAMIN FANG)

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CHAMBER CONNECTS STUDENTS WITH TECH COMPANIES

BY BENJAMIN FANG Hundreds of high school students in Long Island City connected with professionals in variety of industries at a networking fair on November 30.

Energy Tech, an early college and career-focused high school, collaborated with the Queens Chamber of Commerce and the Long Island City Partnership on the event. Founded in 2013, the school has a six-year program and partnership with LaGuardia Community College that offers students a path to an associate degree.

The school specializes in preparing students in engineering and technology fields. Con Edison and National Grid are two of Energy Tech’s founding partners, providing internship opportunities and helping mold the school’s degree model.

Laura Miller, the school’s industry liaison, said Energy Tech hosted its first networking fair last year, when the school welcomed its first 12th grade graduating class.

“We realized that in order to create a substantial and robust work-based learning opportunity for our students, we would need to increase the number of partnerships that we have across the city, particularly in Queens and Long Island City,” she said.

Miller said their two goals were to find more partnering companies and spread the word about the school and to offer students an “authentic networking experience.”

Through the fair, students learn how to really get jobs and job exposure, she said.

“It’s not always because your teacher gives you an internship one day and says here it is,” she said. “We do some of that, but mostly it’s going to these kinds of events, getting your name out there, speaking to adults.”

While some schools host a career day, Miller said Energy Tech wants to go deeper into the industries of energy and engineering. Dozens of companies, agencies and firms from across the city sent representatives to the fair.

16

What makes Energy Tech students stand out, Miller said, is that they receive industry exposure from day one. Starting in the 9th grade, they take classes devoted to “work-based learning and professionalism.”

“In addition to all their core academic subjects, and the career and technical education within the engineering, they’re also getting what some folks call ‘soft skills,’ or we like to call 21st century or leadership skills,” she said. “How to speak to professionals, how to network, how to have a polished resume, even if you’re just getting out there in the workforce for the first time.”

Starting in the 10th grade, students can begin taking courses at LaGuardia Community College.

All of the classes they take are free, and many end up receiving an associate degree in energy technology.

Other students graduate with 15 or more college credits, setting them up for college and getting internships right away. Combine that with the networking and partnerships, and Energy Tech students stay ahead of their competitive field.

“You’re infusing what the workforce needs right here in this school, making sure we’re mapping backwards from the skills that are needed at entry-level jobs to what they’re learning in the classes,” Miller said, “to make sure they’re the most competitive candidates for what the engineering and energy industries need for tomorrow.”

Priya Patel, an 11th grade student from Sunnyside, said she’s unsure of what she wants to study in college, so she walked into the fair with lots of questions. Though she considers herself a shy person, she spoke to many company reps, including someone who was selfemployed.

“She was telling us how she was in a business but she didn’t like it, so she started her own,” Patel said.

“I found that really interesting.”

Chelsea Arenaza, an 11th grader from Elmhurst, said she’s interested in education and the arts. She spoke to a local sculptor at the fair, who

Samantha Padreddii of SunPower by EmPower with intern and Energy Tech High School student Pamela Tuwaidan. also started his own business. She stressed the importance of getting work experiences early.

“You may not know what you want to be at the moment, but once you do internships, you gain different experiences,” Arenaza said, “and start to realize what you’re really interested in and what you like.”

The networking fair and partnerships have already produced results for many alumni. Pamela Tuwaidan, who now studies at LaGuardia Community College after graduating from Energy Tech last year, connected with the Long Island-based company SunPower

by EmPower Solar through the school’s network.

The Elmhurst resident worked there over the summer as an intern, and is continuing her internship.

She primarily worked in sales and marketing, but also spent time with the CEO, the engineering department and others.

“The solar portion of it was really fun because I didn’t know that they actually installed the solar panels themselves,” she said. “I actually got to design some solar panels for houses. That was fun.”

On top of the skills she honed, Tuwaidan said she learned a lot about communication through her interactions with the entire

company. She often went to events and was tasked with coming away with new leads.

That will come in handy as she pursues a career in communications.

She’s currently studying journalism at LaGuardia Community College and is interested in broadcasting.

“I think it’s really interesting, getting the word out there and letting everyone know what’s new,” Tuwaidan said.

Samantha Padreddii, a digital marketing associate at SunPower

by EmPower Solar, works with Tuwaidan and helped recruit her to the company. Padreddii attended the networking fair last year simply to get to know the neighborhood, but never expected to get an intern out of it.

“I think it’s valuable, being an environmental company, seeing how much this generation really cares about it,” she said. “I know Pamela is really eager about sustainability.

“They also have a lot of technical knowledge,” she added. “Solar is a complex product, so when you have kids who already understand energy, and on top of that they care about the mission, that’s super valuable.”

Miller said Energy Tech “feels really lucky” that they are located in Long Island City, a growing

December 2017 • Volume 13 • Issue 12 tech hub with booming industrial activity, particularly with small businesses. She credited partnering companies for knowing what’s happening on the ground in the neighborhood, and connecting that back to the school.

“This area is going to show a ton of growth in the next few years, we’re excited to be a part of that,” she said. “We think that we have many of the students

who will fill those jobs that will be opening in the next few years, particularly in the technology and tech-related fields.

“We’re looking for businesses who want to partner with us, who share our vision to develop the future workforce, particularly students and young people from Queens being able to stay in Queens and work in Queens,” Miller added.

“It’s important to us and important to the businesses.”

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FIRST-PERSON ACCOUNT

SEARS COMMITTED TO CLEANING UP QUEENS

BY KELVIN WALTER, JR. “Necessity is the mother of invention,” and the same is true when it comes to the foundation of entrepreneurship.

I lost my father (and best friend) to pancreatic cancer four years ago. He was a disabled Vietnam veteran, and he and I were planning to become business partners.

His dream was to start a cleaning service and a home for disabled veterans.

After taking time to mourn, I began to explore his dream that eventually became mine. I needed a new challenge in life, and I wanted to find a productive way to honor my father’s legacy.

In the fall of 2015, I made the decision to start my own cleaning business. I did not know what that would look like, but after countless hours of research, I decided that a cleaning franchise would offer me

the most advantages. cially strong. After receiving that I wanted the support and the assurance, I contacted Sears with benefit of an estabthe intention of lished brand, but I becoming a franalso understood the chise owner and importance of a provisited their cortected territory. My porate office for IN THE FALL OF 2015, I research eventually MADE THE DECISION TO extensive training. lead me to Sears Once I commitSTART MY OWN CLEANMaid Services. ted to Sears, it felt ING BUSINESS. I DID I had no idea that like a perfect fit.

NOT KNOW WHAT THAT Sears was in the In addition to havWOULD LOOK LIKE, cleaning business.

BUT AFTER COUNTLESS ing the support of a I was intrigued national brand, the HOURS OF RESEARCH, because I was raised entire borough of I DECIDED THAT A by parents and Queens was mine CLEANING FRANCHISE grandparents who to service.

WOULD OFFER ME THE trusted Sears for The majorMOST ADVANTAGES. decades, but I was ity of my customalso initially appreers were initially hensive because unaware of Sears I kept reading and Maid Services. hearing about the reported financial People believe in the Sears name, instability of Sears as a retailer. the challenge is letting people I soon learned that the home know that Sears Maid Services services division of Sears is finan- exist. In addition, we need to show our added value compared to our competition.

While some people trade quality and security in exchange for cheap labor, our customers don’t.

We cater to those who want the best cleaning service for their homes and families.

Our maids have a standard of excellence that is unsurpassed by any of our competitors. They are all professionally trained, background checked, insured and bonded. We provide exceptional cleaning and great customer service. Sears maids are courteous and punctual.

In addition to residential cleaning, we service commercial accounts as well. Whether it’s a house, apartment, office, school or church, we are equipped to handle all your specific cleaning needs.

Giving back is an important part of our business model, which is why Sears Maid Services has formed a partnership with “Cleaning for a Reason,” which provides

“

”

free home cleaning for women undergoing cancer treatment.

I know firsthand how impactful even the smallest gesture of kindness can be to a person contending with an illness. As a franchise owner, I care about our customers and the community.

I was born in Queens and am a graduate of St. John’s University. It’s my intention to let every Queens resident and business owner know how much we value your patronage. We understand the level of trust extended to us to enter your home or business. It is a responsibility that we will never take for granted.

Our estimators will come to your location free of charge and give you a thorough assessment of what a cleaning would cost and entail.

We can design a tailored cleaning program to fit nearly any budget.

As part of the Sears guarantee, we stand behind our work. If any customer is unsatisfied within 24 hours, we will return to rectify the problem at no additional cost. Sears Maid Services is a recognized symbol of excellence in the cleaning industry.

I am proud to offer a 10 percent discount off any deep clean for Queens Chamber of Commerce members. I am especially honored to extend a 10 percent discount on deep cleanings for any of our military service men and women.

We provide daily, weekly, biweekly and monthly cleaning services. One time move-in and move-out cleanings are available as well. For more information, please contact us at (718) 527-0370 or searsmaidservices.com.

December 2017 • Volume 13 • Issue 12

NONPROFIT SECTOR POSITIVE FORCE FOR WOMEN A new nonprofit based in Jamaica is aspiring to be a positive influence in the lives of young women.

Sylvia Cothia founded Positive Women United earlier this year.

The group held an event in September, which was focused on the mental health of women and featured Nicole Johnson of ThriveNYC as a guest speaker.

Proceeds raised went to Houston Haitians United, a group based in Texas working to help Houstonians recover from Hurricane Harvey.

In March, they hosted an event at the Laurelton Library that gathered successful women in various fields, from finance to fashion, to discuss their journey.

Despite holding down a full-time job in the nursing field, Cothia felt the need to be a positive force in the local community, in part as a tribute to the strong female role models in her own life that made her the person she is today.

In September, she was featured as the “Person of the Week” on Spectrum News.

“There is a real lack of role models for females,” she said. “We are wearing many hats these days. We are mothers, we are heads of households, we are business owners.”

Forming a nonprofit has been an eye-opening experience for Cothia.

“Funding is the biggest obstacle, but so is finding board members, time management and dedication,”

she said. “And the paperwork!”

Tamara St. Fleur is one of five members on the group’s board of directors . She met Cothia at a community event, and was instantly on board.

“It was inspiring to see someone as busy as Sylvia who still wanted to take the time and give back and make an impact,” she said.

It’s her first time serving on a nonprofit board, which she admits can be a bit stressful and hectic, but ultimately a rewarding experience.

“I really see my role as just trying to push the mission forward and get as many people excited and involved as possible,” St. Fleur said.

Cothia and her board are currently planning future events, including seminars and job readiness programs. They are also trying to connect with other groups with a similar mission through social media, word-of-mouth and community events and other grassroots efforts.

“We are currently focused on southeast Queens, but hope to expand to the rest of the borough and eventually the country,” Cothia said.

(SHANE MILLER) You can learn more about and connect with Sylvia Cothia and Positive Women United at positivewomenunited.org.

love WHERE YOU

live LETS BEAUTIFY JAMAICA TOGETHER ZARA'S PHILANTHROPY Involvement on community boards richmond hill hs computer lab Voices of Jamaica features community events Fundraising

Luxury Apartments in Jamaica, Queens COURTESY OF SPECTRUM NEWS

166-07 Hillside Avenue Jamaica, NY 11432 718.291.3331 • application@zararealty.com

THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

queenschamber.org

TRANSFORMATIVE MODEL UNLOCKS FINANCIAL POTENTIAL A new opportunity has opened up for owners of Queens commercial buildings looking to gain income from renting out their unused roof space. As a result of a new statewide renewable energy policy that permits community solar, businesses can now rent out their roof to host solar panels.

The community solar business model allows businesses to receive rent payments for this previously untapped real estate, while the owner of the system virtually sells the clean energy to local members of the community.

This seemingly complex business model is actually more simple than it sounds – business owners provide roof access, while solar developers pay them a monthly or annual rent payment for the space. Once the system is up and running, ConEd customers can “subscribe” to a share of the solar system and buy energy at a discounted rate.

This benefits the community for a number of reasons; it contributes to the local economy by supporting local solar developers, providing a new income stream to property owners, and access to discounted energy for residents.

This also allows the deployment of more clean energy, thus improving economic independence on oil, while improving air quality,

and environmental health.

The policy responsible for community-shared solar is called community distributed generation, or CDG. CDG is an electric utility billing mechanism that credits the owner of a system for the electricity they contribute to the grid. Rather than using the electricity, the owner of the panels exports the entire production of the system to different local subscribers of the energy.

The reason this model is so transformative is because it helps to grow renewables to a larger scale, while offering energy at a lower price point than what consumers are already paying.

This comes at a time when New York City has its sights set on going 50 percent renewable by 2030. New York is on the forefront of sustainability, due in large part to top-level political engagement through city and statewide programs and incentives.

There is still plenty of work to be done, and great obstacles to overcome in the realm of cleaning the statewide energy grid, however community solar, among other sources, could play an influential role in that transition.

While the community solar model is a new and beneficial way to go solar, businesses who are able to get involved with the project beyond hosting have major benefits to gain. Going solar

There is still plenty of work to be done, and great obstacles to overcome in the realm of cleaning the statewide energy grid, however community solar, among other sources, could play an influential role in that transition.

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makes economic sense for commercial clients who want to use the energy on-site themselves.

The cost of production of solar is cheaper than utility rates, so commercial solar projects lower the variable operation costs normally spent on utility bills.

Ratepayers have been seeing a steady increase in electric rates that have almost doubled since 1990. Going solar cuts down on overhead costs, while decreasing the carbon footprint of the business. Electricity bills take up a large percentage of a company’s monthly costs, while going solar could offset the entirety of the usage of the building at a lower price.

Solar in New York is a robust and expansive market. It’s ranked in the top 10 nationally for solar capacity, as a result of increasing electricity rates and impactful tax incentives. There are many solar companies operating in the space including Queens Chamber of Commerce member SunPower by EmPower Solar, which offers community solar, lease, loan, and ownership options for both commercial and residential projects.

For more information on CDG and SunPower

by EmPower Solar, contact Samantha Padreddii at (516) 837-3459 or spadreddii@empowersolar.com.

December 2017 • Volume 13 • Issue 12

QCC COMMITTEE NEWS & NOTES

COMMITTEE HOSTS HEALTH & BUSINESS SUMMIT

BY BENJAMIN FANG

relief loans, such as in the aftermath of the hurricanes in Puerto Rico, Texas or Florida. The maximum interest rate for disaster loans is 4 percent.

ing on income, would only cost up “This is the important time in the to $20 a month. So far, more than year when people can enroll in a 665,000 New Yorkers have already plan,” Nakhle said.

Business and health care interenrolled. sected at the Queens Chamber of The next presenter at the sumOther New Yorkers signing up mit was Neil Gilberg, business Commerce’s Health and Business for a health care plan can advocate with the New York State Summit at the Medical choose among one of four Workers’ Compensation Board.

Society of Queens in tiers of plans: Platinum, Appointed in 2008, Gilberg assists Forest Hills on NovemGold, Silver and Bronze. business owners with understandber 16.

Platinum offers the most ing the rules and regulations about The event featured a comprehensive coverage the state’s workers’ compensation panel of experts who for those who need more laws. discussed programs care, while Bronze plans and resources available “We’re there to assist you,” he cost less per month. at the federal and state said. “All I do is help people all People can sign up for day long.” level for business ownhealth insurance in person ers.

He started off by noting that with a counselor, over the workers’ compensation covers Susan Browning, phone with a customer ser- on-the-job accidents and injuries, executive director of vice center, or online.

Long Island Jewish including wages, while disability Small businesses in New covers off-the-job incidents.

(LIJ) Forest Hills, also JENNIFER JACKSON OF THE SMALL BUSINESS York can also sign up for co-chairs the chamber’s Gilberg explained a host of criADMINISTRATION AND STANA NAKHLE OF NY STATE OF HEALTH health insurance plans teria about who needs coverage Health and Wellness for the company. Small- for workers’ compensation, which Committee, which first er employers, with fewer includes family members, domestic met on July 13. than 50 employees, are not required workers and even student interns.

“It was at that meeting that the The federal agency also provides to offer health coverage, but those vision for this morning was born,” grants for research and developWhile independent contractors with more than 50 she said. “We’ve been working on ment projects to help small busido not need this for quite a few months.” nesses develop new technologies. or more must offer coverage, he Jennifer Jackson, an economic Starting with $150,000 to examine insurance. said there are Nakhle laid out development specialist with the feasibility for an idea all the way 10 requireSmall Business Administration to up $1 million in federal funding, the advantages ments that a (SBA), talked about the services SBA does everything from micro- of small busiworker meets nesses signing up to help companies start, grow and loans to investment capital. to be considexpand. One of their functions is to Jackson said it’s important to for health insurered a contracprovide access to capital and loans. know what resources are available ance through NY tor, so employLast year alone, SBA guaran- to small businesses so they can take State of Health, ers should be teed $30 billion advantage of them. including having careful about in loans. In New “You won’t choices based on that designaYork City alone, know unless you region, administion. the agency guarask or reach out,” trative simplicity, The premiavailable tax credanteed $1 billion. she said. ums for the covJackson said SBA Stana Nakhle, its and a variety erage are based regional director of of contribution leads the nation in on how dangerSUSAN BROWNING OF LIJ New York State of options. small loans under ous a job is. To FOREST HILLS Health, the state’s Since the health $50,000. keep costs low, health care mar- care exchange “Sometimes Gilberg recomketplace exchange, opened in 2013, 4 million New mended shopping around for difthose are the loans delved into how Yorkers have gained insurance, she ferent plans. that are hardest NEIL GILBERG OF THE NEW individuals and said. The uninsured rate in New to get,” she said.

The penalty for not offering YORK STATE WORKERS’ small business- York City went down from 13 per- workers’ compensation can be quite “That’s the difCOMPENSATION BOARD es can apply for cent to 7.7 percent in 2016. Queens severe: up to $2,000 for every 10 ference between health insurance. in particular had the largest gain of days out of compliance or $72,000 someone being Individuals who are not eligible insured individuals, with 157,000 per year. Gilberg noted there is an able to open the doors to their deli for Medicaid, and are between the more residents covered. or not.” appeals process as well. ages of 18 and 65, can apply for The current enrollment period SBA also offers loans to home“The goal is compliance,” he said. owners and renters and disaster the Essential Plan, which, depend- runs from now until January 31.

“We don’t want to take your money.”

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THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

queenschamber.org

EVENTS TO BRIGHTEN YOUR HOLIDAY SEASON

December is famous for family, gifts, vacations, and Santa. The month is less renowned as National Fruitcake Month, National Eggnog Month, National Tie Month, and National Pear Month. However in Queens, the 31 days bring tremendous entertainment and enrichment with everything from concerts to comedy to history to absolutely gigantic helpings of gingerbread.

Please read the following schedule for more information.

Dec. 9, Swingin’ Holiday Concert, 3 pm.

The Astoria Symphony Orchestra featuring conductor, composer, and U.S. Army Music Officer Silas Huff accompanied by vocalists Heather Petruzelli and Anthony Maida, presents dance, interactive projections, and singa-longs of carols like “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” “Feliz Navidad,” and “Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer.” Santa will be there. Prices vary. LaGuardia Performing Arts Center, 31-10 Thomson Ave., LIC, lpac.nyc.

Dec. 9, My Mother’s Italian, My Father’s Jewish, and I’m Home for the Holidays, 2 pm and 8 pm (and Dec. 10 at 3 pm). Steve Solomon, who created the long-running oneman comedy show My Mother’s Italian, My Father’s Jewish & I’m in Therapy, returns with more hilarious stories about his family, friends, and others who drove him into therapy in the first place. $20-$35. Queens Theatre, 14 United Nations Ave. S., Flushing Meadows Corona Park, queenstheatre.org.

Dec. 10, The 30th Annual Holiday Historic House Tour, 1 pm. Participants walk or take a chartered shuttle between Flushing and Corona.

Most of the participating sites — Louis Armstrong House Museum, Bowne House, Flushing Town Hall, Quaker Meeting House, Kingsland Homestead, Lewis H. Latimer House Museum, and Voelker Orth House — will be decorated as they were during their first holiday seasons.

And as this year marks New York’s centennial of the struggle that led to women’s suffrage, the venues will celebrate their female inhabitants along with the holiday season. Tickets are $15

TEN TENORS

in advance, but $20 at the door. Children under age 12 can attend for $5. More info at queenshistoricalsociety.org.

Dec. 10, The Ten Tenors, 3 pm. This Australian vocal group, now in its 20th year, playfully blends rock, pop, and opera. Members will harmonize traditional standards such as “Joy to the World,” as well as John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s “Happy Xmas (War Is Over),” “Feliz Navidad” by José Feliciano, Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas,” and the Mariah Carey hit “All I Want For Christmas Is You.” $30 to $55. Queens College’s Colden Auditorium, 153-49 Reeves Ave., Flushing, kupferbergcenter.org.

Dec. 16, Queer Urban Orchestra: We Are One, 5 pm. This citywide LGBTQ troupe presents a concert with Beethoven’s Symphony No. 3; the premiere of Ascension, a new composition

by Brooklyn-based Jessica DiMari; and other seasonal selections, such as parts of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker Suite. Free. Queens

GINGERBREAD LANE 22

Museum, NYC Building, Flushing Meadows Corona Park, queerurbanorchestra.org.

Dec. 17, Oratorio Society of Queens Holiday Concert, 4 pm. This 125-plus member chorus will perform parts of Handel’s Messiah during the first half. The second half will include a suite of Christmas carols — “Noel, Nouvelet,” “O Holy Night,” and “Joy to the World” — plus “Gloria”

by Randol Bass, “Ma’oz Tsur” by 18th century composer Benedetto Marcello, and “Al Hanissim.” In advance, prices are $35, $30 for seniors (62+) and students with ID, and $10 for children (12 and under). Queensborough Performing Arts Center, 222-05 56th Ave., Bayside, queensoratorio.org.

Dec. 17, The Gift of the Magi, 1 pm (and Dec. 18, 7:30 pm). Queens Opera Theatre offers this classic O. Henry short story with music and lyrics. This version takes place in New York City on Christmas Eve in 1905. A young woman sells her most prized possession to be able to buy her lover a Christmas present and vice versa. $16/$10 for students with ID. Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., flushingtownhall.org.

GingerBread Lane, ongoing until Jan. 15, 2018. This annual smorgasbord of sweetness includes houses, trees, street signs, and other urban fixtures made with gingerbread dough, icing, and candy. Workshops are offered, and on Jan. 15, the museum will dismantle the municipality and distribute free chunks of it to the public from 2 pm to 5 pm. New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St., Flushing Meadows Corona Park, nysci.org.

Find more information on all these events and others at itsinqueens.com.

December 2017 • Volume 13 • Issue 12

QUEENSBOROUGH CALENDAR OF EVENTS DECEMBER 12/21, 11 a.m.

QUEENS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE Special Members-Only Event Queens Chamber of Commerce 75-20 Astoria Boulevard Jackson Heights, NY 11370

JANUARY 1/24, 2 to 4 PM

business online, including Google Analytics and G Suite.

Tips for Measuring Success: You invest time, effort, and resources into being online, but do you know how much it’s worth to your bottom line? This workshop introduces ways to track and measure progress, so you can find out.

Register at queenschamber.org Free & open to the public Complimentary parking Queens Chamber of Commerce 75-20 Astoria Boulevard Jackson Heights, NY 11370

GET YOUR BUSINESS ONLINE WITH GOOGLE

Grow Your Business: Learn how customers find your business online and how to promote your online presence with search engine optimization (SEO) and online advertising. We also introduce tools to help you run your

FEBRUARY 2/8

BREAKFAST WITH BOROUGH PRESIDENT MELINDA KATZ AND HER CABINET

Discuss local issues pertinent

to the business community with the Queens Borough President’s Office and members of her staff over breakfast.

There are sponsorship opportunities still available for this event.

Call (718) 898-8500 for or email sganosis@queenschamber.org for more information.

Antun’s 96-43 Springfield Boulevard Queens Village, NY 11429

UPCOMING

• QUEENS DAY THE EGG, ALBANY

• ST PATRICK’S DAY LUNCHEON TERRACE ON THE PARK

• BUSINESS EXPO CITI FIELD

More details to follow.

3/9

WORKSHOP #3: EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION SKILLS IN THE WORKPLACE

This program covers how HR professionals and managers develop effective communications skills for greater performance.

The workshop will provide participants with hands on techniques to maximize communication skills, which can translate into improved productivity and reduced friction and conflict.

Effective Communication skills will also improve employee satisfaction and promote loyalty.

Register at queenschamber.org Free & open to the public Complimentary parking Queens Chamber of Commerce 75-20 Astoria Boulevard Jackson Heights, NY 11370

For any registration or more information on these events or any other events please call us at 718.898.8500 or visit us on the web queenschamber.org

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THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

queenschamber.org

BQX ADVOCATES UNVEIL PROTOTYPE OF STREETCAR

BY BENJAMIN FANG New Yorkers got a glimpse of what the Brooklyn-Queens Connector (BQX) streetcar could look like last month.

Supporters of the proposed light rail line unveiled a life-sized prototype of the streetcar, which would run along the 14-mile waterfront corridor from Astoria to Sunset Park. Proponents of the project said it would signify the next step of public transportation in New York City.

“Public transit is the key and the missing link to connect New Yorkers to opportunities, to good paying jobs, to education,” said Ya-Ting Liu, executive director of the Friends of BQX, a nonprofit advocacy group pushing the project. “On the heels of Mayor de Blasio’s re-election, we call on the city of New York and the mayor to take action and move this project forward.”

Since the mayor announced the project last February, the BQX has been a topic of discussion among officials, residents and local leaders. Those in favor of the rail project tout its potential to connect 400,000 residents, including 40,000 public housing residents, to booming employment hubs in Long Island City, Williamsburg and Sunset Park.

Liu said the subway system was built more than a century ago, designed to move people toward Manhattan. In 2017, she said, more people are living and working in Brooklyn and Queens, so the transportation system should reflect that shift.

She added that the streetcar will have curb-level boarding that will be accessible to all New Yorkers, open gangways to create more boarding capacity, and possibly a dedicated right of way to move the streetcar faster than buses.

The city is currently analyzing potential routes and financing models as part of the BQX’s feasibility study. It could open as soon as 2024, according to officials.

Liu said letting the public to see an example of what the streetcar

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could look like allows people to realize that “the city is for real” about the project. The prototype was 46 feet long, nearly nine feet wide, and compromise of two cars and a driver cab.

“Putting something more concrete forward will help crystalize it for more New Yorkers,” she said.

In an interview, Liu also addressed an array of issues that BQX detractors have raised since its conception. Recent news reports raised concerns that the streetcar project would be denied by the governor, but Liu said the land the BQX bypasses is city owned. They wouldn’t need any zoning changes or eminent domain, she said.

“There will always be bureaucratic resistance to these kinds of projects,” Liu said.

On the question of fare integration with MTA buses and trains, Liu said it’s too early at this stage of the planning process to talk about integrating fares. She said she’s confident once the project is further along, it will be “sorted out” by the MTA and city officials.

“It’s used to distract from the main vision,” she said. “This is a red herring.”

Opponents of the project have also denounced the BQX for possibly leading to over-development of waterfront communities. Liu noted that the corridor is already one of the fastest-growing stretches in terms of population growth and development. She said residents will need more reliable transportation soon.

Another concern is how to pay the $2.5 billion price tag, which city officials are sorting out now.

Liu said “all options are on the table,” but the Friends of BQX recommended the strategy of value capture, a mechanism that allows the city to generate property tax revenue on the higher land value.

Liu said she believes it’s a way to pay for the project without competing with items in the city’s budget.

“That is a viable financing model,” she said. “We think it’s a progressive way to fund public transit.”

At the event, Borough President Melinda Katz said transportation

Queens Borough President Melinda Katz and Queens Chamber President and CEO Thomas Grech “ride” the prototype. needs to be a coordinated effort, including ferries, subways, Select Bus Service, bike lanes and even the BQX, which is “part of that huge discussion we need to have.”

“Right now, the most important thing is to make sure that we can move New Yorkers from borough to borough to borough,” Katz said.

She acknowledged that more discussions need to take place first, including figuring out what happens to parking and bike lanes on the corridor.

“Move forward, have this discussion, and see how BQX can benefit the entire city’s economic development, transportation and families that we serve,” Katz said.

Leaders, advocates and representatives from a variety of industries attended the unveiling to support the project. Claudia Coger, tenant association president at Astoria Houses, said the BQX would provide another mode of transportation for her isolated community.

“Living without easier access to transit means our residents have to struggle more for the opportunities provided to so many others,” she said. “Opportunity means upward mobility.”

She urged the mayor to follow through on his promise to bring more transit to help connect residents to jobs and young people to cultural institutions.

“Mr. Mayor, the time is now for the BQX,” Coger said. “If you want to help the NYCHA residents living along this corridor, if you want to end the tale of two cities we are living today, it is time to get to work.”

April Simpson, who leads the tenant association at Queensbridge Houses, said the BQX would not only connect local residents to jobs, but it would also help those with disabilities get around easier. She said although Queensbridge Houses has the F train right on 21st Street, it’s often over capacity.

“I think this would be an excellent alternative for people to get around,” she said.

Simpson also said she appreciated that BQX streetcar team approached her and other public housing tenant leaders for input before proposing the project. She noted that as developments continue to go up in nearby Astoria and Long Island City, no developers have approached her for consultation.

“The only ones who did that was the BQX, that speaks volumes,” Simpson said. “Sometimes I didn’t always agree with what they were proposing, but the BQX was the first to come and sit down with the residents. They wanted to know what we think about it.”

December 2017 • Volume 13 • Issue 12

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.

The 82 Street Partnership had a particular focus on Small Business Saturday on November 25 with a robust Facebook campaign. Andrew O’Neill reports that Saturday went better than they expected. “We gave shop owners marketing material and encouraged them all to have sales,” he said. “Diva NY had a 50 percent off everything sale and did phenomenal.” The partnership gave shop owners 82nd Street Bid tote bags, provided by American Express, for shoppers who spent more than $50 at their store. “So many shoppers remember it from the year before, it was great,” said O’Neill.

BAYSIDE VILLAGE BID

213-33 39th Avenue, Bayside, NY 11361 Interim Executive Director: James Ellis 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.

mote local businesses.

GREATER FLUSHING CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

135-32 38th Ave., Suite 25, Flushing NY 11354 Executive Director: John Choe john@flushingchamber.nyc 646.783.8985 flushingchamber.nyc QUICK GLANCE: Founded in 2014 and representing over 200 businesses.

The poster child for hyper-local chambers around the city, GFCC created the Night Market, a lending circle for businesses, and is paving a new path forward for Flushing’s growing population of new immigrants.

Litter in the area is rampant, and the chamber is making it a priority. The chamber is partnering with the city for locations for up to 50 new garbage cans in Downtown Flushing. They will be purchased by the city and maintained by the Department of Sanitation. The chamber is inviting local business owners and residents to provide suggestions for the placement of these heavy-duty garbage cans.

At a town hall meeting on November 21, the mayor announced that the city will double its street cleaning efforts in Downtown Flushing from once to twice a day immediately.

On December 13, the chamber will host a Holiday Party and Coat Drive at Oo Bar & Rooftop Lounge at 137-72 Northern Boulevard.

Admission is one coat in good condition.

GREATER JAMAICA DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

90-04 161st Street, Jamaica, NY 11432 President: Hope Knight 718.291.0282 www.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, wellplanned, and sustainable metropolitan growth. The chamber just held its 2017 gala on November 30th at the Ritz Carlton, where it celebrated its 50th year.

They honored Starbucks and the Regional Plan Association.

A joint venture has been formed between BRP Companies and Wharton Properties to purchase and develop a site located at 90-02 168th Street. The open-air parking lot north of Jamaica Avenue will become a 500,000-square-foot development with 300 mixed-income residential units.

In addition, the team will develop more than 70,000 square feet of retail space. The project is slated to break ground in the second half of 2018.

President & CEO Hope Knight says it will create jobs and fill a need in Jamaica.

On December 16 from 2 to 5 p.m., children’s stories will be brought to life at the Saturday Family Matinee Series at Jamaica Performing Arts Center.

Admission is $10, $5 for kids..

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.

The chamber is currently planning a new event, the “Forest Hills American Music Festival,” an all-day event highlighting American music from jazz to country. Forest Hills has a rich history in music tied to the concerts at the Forest Hills Stadium going back to the 1960’s.

The Forest Hills Chamber of Commerce hosted its fourth annual Celebrate Winter event on November 27. As part of the chamber’s campaign to “Eat, Shop, Love Forest Hills,” local businesses and organizations gathered under a tent at 71st Road between Austin Street and Queens Boulevard to celebrate the community and pro-

Nearly 350 business, tech, real estate and civic leaders attended the 30th annual Long Island City Awards Gala hosted by the Long Island City Partnership on November 14. The gala celebrated the remarkable contributions of Boyce Technologies and Hour Children. Pictured from left to right are Elizabeth Lusskin of the LIC Partnership, Tom Powell and Charles Boyce of Boyce Technologies, Johanna Flores of Hour Children, Gary Kesner of Silvercup, and Gail Mellow of LaGuardia Community College.

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THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

queenschamber.org

QUEENS CHAMBER PARTNERS & AFFILIATES GREATER WOODHAVEN DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION WOODHAVEN BID

84-01 Jamaica Avenue, Woodhaven NY 11421 Executive Director: Maria Thomson 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, the BID features six supermarkets. They are providing free benches for store owners along Jamaica Avenue. They also provide 2.5 and 5 percent home improvement loans. The BID is again hosting holiday decoration on Jamaica Avenue, with holiday music playing all day from speakers on the light posts from Dexter Court to 100th Street.

JAMAICA CENTER BID

161-10 Jamaica Avenue, Suite 419 Jamaica, NY 11432 Executive Director: Rhonda Binda 718.526.2422 jamaica.nyc QUICK GLANCE: Budget of over $1 million.

Founded in 1979, the district includes 300 stores on Jamaica Avenue between Sutphin Boulevard and 160th Street in Jamaica. They offer a value card and support business owners in their expansions and openings.

Valerie Stevens is director of Business Services and Operations, supporting member businesses in their marketing efforts. Stevens has been focusing on social media to assist with branding and expansion. The BID is currently looking for a sponsor for their banners and trash can program along Jamaica Avenue.

Fabulous Optical is expanding with a ceremony on December 6 on 164 Street at noon. “This is an incredible business,” said Stevens. “They are an eye care company in a venue with the elegance of a ballroom.” Meanwhile, Chipotle is having a grand opening on 167 Street on December 14.

JFK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

616 Duke Street, Westbury, NY 11590 Executive Director: Mercedes Altman 516.492.0513 www.jfkairportchamberofcommerce.org QUICK GLANCE: Founded in 1978, the group has over 200 members.

• December 4, 5 to 7:30 p.m.

Wine & Cheese Networking Party Hilton JFK, 144-02 135th Avenue Free to Members, $15 for Non-members • December 13, 5 to 7 p.m.

Annual Chanukah Party JFK Airport International Synagogue, Terminal 4

LONG ISLAND CITY PARTNERSHIP

President: Elizabeth Lusskin 718.786.5300 www.longislandcityqueens.ccom Founded in 1979, the Long Island City Partnership advocates 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 mixeduse community. The LIC Partnership operates the LIC Business Improvement District and the LIC Industrial Business Zone.

The partnership held a successful gala on November 14 at Melrose Ballroom, where it honored Boyce Technologies and Hour Children. On Tuesday, December 5, partnership president Liz Lusskin will be a featured speaker at Bisnow’s

A KINDER AND WIDER DOWNTOWN FLUSHING

BY SHANE MILLER There’s now a little more room to walk in Downtown Flushing.

City officials and business leaders last week celebrated the completion of a $7.6 million project to widen the sidewalks on Main Street from 38th to 41st avenues. In some spots, the sidewalks are nine feet wider.

“It expands the area in front of local businesses, makes it safer for shoppers, and improves access points to a major transportation hub in the borough,” said Nicole Garcia, Queens commissioner for the Department of Transportation.

Work also included upgraded water mains and sewers, new fire hydrants, and high-efficiency street lighting and traffic signals.

The Department of Design and Construction also added concrete-reinforced bus pad on Main Street and a new northbound SBS lane between 40th Road and Roosevelt Avenue.

It’s the first major construction project on Main Street in over 20 years.

Councilman Peter Koo said the last thing left to do is make sure the new sidewalks remain clear for pedestrians.

“My office will work with law enforcement to crack down on those who use the sidewalks for illegal vending,” he said.

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City officials were joined by Flushing business leaders to mark the completion of the project.

December 2017 • Volume 13 • Issue 12

QUEENS CHAMBER PARTNERS & AFFILIATES conference exploring the bustling neighborhood.

It’s at The Factory at 30-30 47th Avenue at 8 a.m.

On Friday, December 8, the partnership will hold its Annual Meeting and Legislative Breakfast from 8 to 10 a.m. The event is free for members with a slight cost for non-members. It’s at 27-01 Queens Plaza North, and Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul and State Senator Mike Gianaris will be on hand to speak.

MASPETH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

P.O. Box 780265, Maspeth, NY 11378 President: David Dario 718.335.1300 maspethchamberofcommerce.org QUICK GLANCE: Founded in 1953, they have 120 members and a budget of $115,000.

The Chamber meets the second Tuesday of each month at noon at Connolly’s Corner on Grand Avenue. The majority of their budget is spent on holiday lights, banners, beautification and festivals, including replacing the street banners on Grand Avenue. There has recently been a push to form a BID on Grand Avenue.

On December 16, Santa will be at Maspeth Federal at 69th Street and Grand Avenue, with carolers singing from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. Hats, scarves and socks will be collected for Hour

Children. The holiday lights are up and Grand Avenue is ready for the shopping season.

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 80th streets. Annual membership fee is $150, and they are looking to gain momentum through attracting new members. The mission is to improve the area and assist local businesses if they have any concerns or needs.

Their new initiative is cleaning Metropolitan Avenue and organizing the holiday lights in December to create a festive atmosphere for the community. The MVCC has received grants for street cleaning and are looking for grants for the holiday lights, since some businesses do not support them. The Chamber will host meetings in connection with the Middle Village Property Owners & Residents Association at 7:30 p.m. on December 18. The meetings take place at St.

Margaret’s Parish at 66-10 80th Street.

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 of over 2,000 businesses.

Funded by Department of Small Business Services, they strive to create and retain jobs via programs that grow neighborhoods and assist small businesses.

QEDC assists by providing one-on-one consultations, hosting workshops, operating training courses and networking events.

The Queens Economic Development Corporation is currently considering applicants for its Made in Queens (MiQ) program. MiQ is a brand and certification promoting local makers and manufacturers, while also sharing their stories and providing growth and networking opportunities. Currently, MiQ has a website and organizes pop-up markets around the borough. Small businesses that enjoy the MiQ label include Milene Jardine (chocolate), Queens Thread (apparel), Pepplish Provisions (hot sauce), Sterling Silver Bee (jewelry), and Widad Franco (greeting cards). More can be found at madeinqueens.nyc.

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THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

queenschamber.org

QUEENS CHAMBER PARTNERS & AFFILIATES 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. Myrtle Avenue pulled out all the stops for Small Business Saturday, with Santa in Town Square and carolers strolling along Myrtle Avenue throughout the day. Executive Director Ted Renz says Myrtle Avenue is a special place during December, when most stores remain open late and music, holiday lights and decorations are up all season long. The Myrtle Avenue Sales Days Guides are out and the sales last all month.

ROCKAWAY BUSINESS ALLIANCE

info@rockawaybusinessalliance.org QUICK GLANCE: Budget of $40,000 and a resource for over 200 businesses.

The Rockaway Business Alliance was founded in 2012 after Hurricane Sandy. RBA’s vision is to create business corridors that are clean, safe, and welcoming, with shopping, dining, attractions, and engagement for the local community and the

visitors drawn to Rockaway’s beaches and open spaces. RBA seeks to create and curate an inviting atmosphere for all to enjoy year round.

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 group has 30 members.

The RDRC offers employment assistance and improves public spaces with commercial development projects such as the Downtown Far Rockaway Storefront Improvement Act.

STEINWAY STREET BID

25-69 38th Street, Suite 1C, Astoria 11103 Executive Director: Tony Barsamian 718.728.7820 info@steinwaystreet.nyc steinwaystreet.org QUICK GLANCE: Founded in 1991, the BID has over 300 members.

Board meetings are held seven times a year.

The BID’s vision is to make Steinway Street user friendly, while highlighting the local businesses on the street and bringing together the Astoria community in a positive way. The BID works to improve sanitation, marketing, security, holiday

lighting, beautification and Internet access along this famous street in Queens.

SUNNYSIDE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

PO Box 4399, Sunnyside, NY 11104 President: Rigoberto Cardoso 516.492.0513 www.sunnyside-chamber.org QUICK GLANCE: Annual budget of $55,000.

The chamber is an organization built around assisting and helping local business and professionals by providing resources to increase business, safety and historical preservation.

SUNNYSIDE SHINES

45-56 43rd Street, Sunnyside, NY 11104 Executive Director: Jaime-Faye Beam 718.606.1800 director@sunnysideshines.org sunnysideshines.org QUICK GLANCE: Budget of $480,000 with more than 250 businesses under its umbrella.

The BID hosted residents and business owners at the Sunnyside Arch on November 21 for the 8th annual Sunnyside Shines Holiday Lighting event.

On December 2, Sunnyside Shines also held its first annual Sunnyside Holiday Shopping Trolley Tour in the district. They are also running a digital marketing workshop for Small businesses on January 17.

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December 2017 • Volume 13 • Issue 12

NEW MEMBERS MAJOR CORPORATE

New York State Restaurant Association CORPORATE

Enterprise Fleet Management New York Safety and Training Next Wave Safety Treasure Island Storage INTRODUCTORY

Alley Pond Environmental DevJee Inc. Margaret Fitzsimons DDS, PC Preferred Environmental Services Restore Plus Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Triangle Auto Body, Inc. United Disability Individuals, Inc.

REAL ESTATE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

Looking at the next five to ten years in Queens, Cottingham said the future is bright.

“I’d like to think that a lot of the work being done today will be the foundation for a borough that’s continuing to emerge, continuing to be the go-to place for a diverse set of global companies,” he said.

Responsible development, which includes expanding infrastructure, amenities and retail, will all be important to support the growing of neighborhoods.

“I think it’s an exciting time to be in Queens, in the city,” Cottingham said. “The economy is moving along, job growth is tremendous, and you have emerging markets.

There’s a lot of opportunity out there. It’s been exciting to watch and be a part of.”

New York State Restaurant Association

1001 6th Avenue, Suite 300 New York, NY 10018 (212) 398-9160 nysra.org The mission of the New York State Restaurant Association is to help restaurateurs succeed. It is the first place restaurant owners and managers turn to gain a competitive edge by taking advantage of advocacy, education, and cost saving benefits. The NYS Restaurant Association is here to help with all your needs. From opening a new restaurant, to making an existing restaurant more successful, the Association is the best resource for your business!

Enterprise Fleet Management

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We have the fleet management systems, programs and services to help improve your productivity, drive down costs and stay up to date on the top fleet management company trends and technology for managing your commercial vehicles, and maintaining your fleet cars, trucks and vans.

New York Safety and Training

975 Kelly Street, Suite 401 Bronx, NY 10459 (718) 734-8400 nysafetyandtraining.com The mission of New York Safety and Training is to impact lives and enrich our community through affordable safety training, planning, and drills and to become the premier authority on occupational safety within New York’s five boroughs and beyond. The founder of New York Safety and Training is veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces with a strong affinity for service.

As such, we pursue relationships with Not-ForProfit organizations to help serve our communities and to provide safety training to underserved populations; we offer discount pricing to all military veterans with an eye toward aiding returning veterans more smoothly transition to civilian employment.

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Treasure Island Storage

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Statement of Ownership Name of Publication, Queensborough Magazine, Pub. No. 0033-6068, Date of Filing 10/27/2017, Frequency Weekly, No. of issues published annually 12. Annual Subscription Price $12.50. Complete Mailing address of known office of publication 75-20 Astoria Blvd. Suite 140, East Elmhurst, nY 11370, General Business of offices same, Full Name and address of Publisher, Thomas Grech, address Editor Brett Swanson, address - same. Known bondholders, mortgages and other security holders owning 1% or more of total amounts of bonds none. Of the average number of copies of each issue during the preceding 12 months; total no. of copies 3712, Paid and/or requested outside county mail subscriptions 2344. Paid in county mail subscription 0. Sales through dealers, carriers vendors and counter sales 0. Other Classes mailed through USPS 0. Total paid/ requested 2344. Free distribution by mail inside - outside county and other classes of mail-0. Free distribution outside the mail 187, total free distribution 187. Total distribution 2531, copies not distributed 1181, total 3712`. Total percentage of paid circulation 92.6 Of the actual number of copies of single issue published 9/1/17; total no. of copies 3200, Paid and/or requested outside county mail subscriptions 2350. Paid in county mail subscription 0. Sales through dealers, carriers vendors and counter sales 0. Other Classes mailed through USPS 0. Total paid/ requested 2350. Free distribution by mail inside - outside county and other classes of mail-0. Free distribution outside the mail 500. total free distribution 500. Total distribution 2850, copies not distributed 650, total 3500.

Total percentage of paid circulation 82.4. To publish on 11/1/2017. Thomas Grech – CEO, 10-27-17.

29

THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

queenschamber.org

EXECUTIVE COMMMITEE Mayra DiRico

Fran Biderman-Gross

Howard Graf

Richard Dzwlewicz

Chairperson

Associate Treasurer

Vice Chairperson

Associate Secretary

Treasurer

Immediate Past President

Henry Wan Nash Roe

Albert F. Pennisi

Thomas J. Grech

Brendan Leavy

President & CEO

Business Development Manager

Sophia Ganosis

Cathy Berger

Development Director

Chief of Operations

Jacqueline Donado

Dorothy Owermohle Bookkeeper

Strategic Program Coordinator

Financial Controller

Membership Outreach Coordinator & Member Engagement

Brett Swanson

Alejandra Espejo

Secretary

CHAIRPERSON’S ADVISORY COUNCIL

EXECUTIVE STAFF

William Blake Dominick Ciampa Joseph Farber Louis D. Laurino Joseph M. Mattone, Sr

Franklin F. Regan, Jr. John E. Roe, Sr. George Rozansky Gerard Thornton

QUEENSBOROUGH (ISSN0033-6068 is published 12 times a year for $12.50 annually by the Queens Chamber of Commerce of the borough of Queens. 75-20 Astoria Blvd, Suite 140, East Elmhurst NY 11370-1131.

Periodicals postage paid at Flushing NY and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Queens Chamber of Commerce 75-20 Astoria Blvd., Suite 140, East Elmhurst NY 11370-1131.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Andrew Barnes Fran Biderman-Gross Joshua E. Bienstock Michael Billia Willa Brody Kenneth J. Buettner Charles J. Callahan

KY Chow Carol Conslato Sal Crifasi Mayra DiRico Richard Dzwlewicz Thomas Eagar Joseph R. Ficalora

Tamara Gavrielof Howard Graf Raymond Irrera Kenneth Koenig Kelly Koukou Henry Kuykendall Neil Levin

Jeffery E. Levine Carl Mattone Patricia Mezeul Michael Moran Michael Onghai Jeffrey Owens Albert F. Pennisi

Vincent L. Petraro Esq Adam Reece-Cohen Nash Roe Jeffrey Rosenstock Thomas Santucci Mark Scheinberg Caryn Schwab

Sher Sparano Michelle Stoddart Terri Thomson Henry Wan Swain Weiner Patrick Yu Daniel Zausner

CORPORATE MEMBERS AARP Advanced Cardiovascular Diagnostics Age Well New York AKI Development Allied Barton Security Services Alma Bank Alma Realty Corp.

Aloft Long Island City Manhattan View Hotel Aloft Hotel New York LaGuardia Airport Alphapointe Altria Client Services Inc. American Food Basket Amna Construction Corp.

Anchin, Block & Anchin ATCO Properties & Management Baker Tilly Virchow Krause LLP Bank of America Berkeley College Berkman, Henoch, Peterson, Peddy & Fenchel, PC Bethpage Federal Credit Union Better Home Health Care Blue Ocean Wealth Solutions Borchert & LaSpina, PC Boro Hotel Boyce Technologies Inc. Broadway Stages Building Maintenance Corp.

Capital One Bank Cathay Bank Care Connect Insurance Co. Inc. Carmel Car & Limo Service CDS Mestel Construction

Center for Automotive Education & Training Cerini & Associates Certilman Balin Champion Elevators Chaney Construction & Development Charles Schwab Ciampa Organization City MD City Scrap Metal Cleaning Systems Co. Clickable CoAdvantage Constant Contact Construction Safety Network Inc. Cord Meyer Development LLC Cornell NYC Tech Corporate Development Systems, Inc. Costco Wholesale Court 16, Inc. Courtyard Long Island City CPEX Real Estate Crown Container Cumming Corporation Cushman & Wakefield FedCap D&B Engineers & Architects, PC Daniels Norelli Cecere & Tavel PC DY Reality Services, LLC Dera Restaurants, Inc. Dignity Memorial Funeral Provides of Queens E. Gluck Corporations

East Coast Energy Group Edible Arrangements Elite Palace Elmhurst Hospital Center Emigrant Mortgage Co. Empire Merchants Exit Realty Lewis & Murphy Farrell Fritz, PC Fedcap Fidelis Care New York Financial Resources Brup Investment Services LLC Firecom, Inc. First American International Bank First Central Savings Bank First in Service Staffing Flushing Bank Forest Hills Financial Galaxy Music Productions Inc. Gerard T Dolan Agency Farmers Grand Rehabilitation & Nursing at Queens Greater New York Auto Dealers Association Inc. Greencrown Energy Greenwald Doherty LLP Greiner-Maltz of NY H&R Block HF Management Services Haks Hanover Community Bank Healthplex, Inc. Health Republic Insurance Healthy Corner Pharmacy, Inc. Hilton Garden Inn/ LIC Manhattan View

Holiday Inn LaGuardia Airport Home2Suite LIC Hyatt Place Flushing Ibis Styles New York LaGuardia Airport Hotel INDA Association of Nonwoven Fabric Industry International Asbestos Removal Inc. J.F.A. Insurance Brokerage JRT Realty Group, Inc. James F. Capalino & Associates Jaros Baum & Bolles Jetro Resataurant Depot Kasirer Consulting Inc Kaufman Astoria Studios Inc. Knockout Pest Control LaGuardia Plaza Hotel La Technology Group Lee & Associates Levine Builders Lessing’s Inc. Long Island City Volkswagon Luna Park in Coney Island Lyft Lyons Mortgage Services, Inc. M&T Bank M&V Provisions Co, Inc. MCR Development LLC MTA-Long Island Rail Road Madeline Chocolate Novelties Marriott NYC Airport Hotels Mazars USA LLP Merritt Engineering Consulting PC Metroplus Health Plan Metropolitan Taxi Cab Board

of Trade Melrose Credit Union Metro Franchising Commissary Molloy College Mortgage Depot Moses & Singer LLP Motiva Networks Mount Sinai Hospital of Queens Mr. T Carting Corporation Muss Development Company National Supermarket Association Newtown Creek Trusted PRI USD New York Building Congress New York Business Corp.

New York Life New York Oil Heaing Association Inc. New York Racing Association Northfield Bank Northwell Health Norhstar Mitsubishi NRG Energy Inc. NY Building Congress NY Families for Autistic Children, Inc. NYG/DE Green Partners, LLC Office Depot, Inc. OnForce Solar Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care & Rehab Paper Factory Hotel Patrick B. Jenkins & Associates People’s United Bank Petro Energy Solutions

Portnoy, Messinger, Pearl & Associations, Inc. Prager Metis CPAs, LLC PMBA, Inc. Progressive Waste Solutions Qside Federal Credit Union Quadlogic Controls Corp.

Queens Center Queens Ledger Queensborough Community College Quontic Bank Radisson Hotel JFK Airport Radson Development LLC Register Abstract Co. Inc. Related Retail LP Rent A Throne Rochdale Village Inc. Royal Waste Services Inc. Russo’s On The Bay SL Green Realty Corp.

Sahn Ward Coshchignano PLLC Sandrine Capital LLC Sears Maid Service Sholom & Zuckerbrot Realty LLC Signature Bank Silvercup Studios Simon Baron Development Sleep Numbers Solomon Agency Staples, Inc. St. John’s University Steiner Sports Sterling Risk Strat X IT Solutions Structural Engineering Tech-

nologies PC Suffolk County National Bank Suation Solar Systems Super-Tek, Products, Inc. Terrace on the Park The New York Times The Parc Hotel The Parking Spot Trinity Solar TSC Training Academy LLC Tully Construction Co. Inc. United Airlines United Health Care United Nations Federal Credit Union United Public, Adjusters & Appraisers, Inc. US Security Care USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center Valley National Bank Van Guard Insurance Agency Verizon VHB Engineering Surveying & Landscape Architecture Victory Pharmacy Villa Russo Venture House Vornado Realty Trust Waste Management of NY LLC Wells Fargo Home Mortgage Welllife Network WeWork York College Zwanger Pesiri Radiology LLP

COMMITTEE LEADERSHIP COMMUNICATIONS Joshua Bienstock NYIT bienlaw@aol.com ENERGY Marshall Haimson E-Capital Development marshall@e-capitaldevelopment.com James Sheuchenko PM Advisors js@pmadvisors.com HEALTHCARE & WELLNESS Susan Browning Long Island Jewish Forest Hills sbrowning1@northwell.edu Evangeline Rosado-Tripp Queens County Medical Society ertripp@queensmedicalsociety.org

30

HOSPITALITY Jim Quent Statewide Public Affairs jquent@statewidepublicaffairs.com Michael Zayas Real Hospitality Group michael.zayas@rhgcorp.com MANUFACTURING Geoffrey Smith NY Grant Company Geoffrey@nygrants.com Thomas Powell Boyce Technologies tpowell@boycetechnologies.com NONPROFIT Larry Grubler Transitional Services of NY lgrubler@tsiny.org

Maria Odysseus Investors Bank modysseus@myinvestorsbank.com REAL ESTATE Martin Cottingham Avison Young martin.cottingham@avisonyoung.com Michael Wang G8 Real Estate / Flushing Chamber mwang121@gmail.com TECHNOLOGY Bobby Giurintano TGI Office Automation bgiurintano@tgioa.com Eugene Erichsen Connect Me Voice Eugene@connectmevoice.com

TRANSPORTATION Kris Amato TD Bank Kristin.amato@td.com Tammy Petsios VHB tpetsios@vhb.com 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.

December 2017 • Volume 13 • Issue 12 MAJOR CORPORATE MEMBERS

31

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