This Is Queensborough - November 2021

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“WHEN PEOPLE SAY NEW YORK IS THE CENTER OF THE WORLD, IT’S BECAUSE OF A BOROUGH LIKE QUEENS.”

November 2021 . Volume 17 . Issue 11

BUILDING

QUEENS NY BUILDING CONGRESS HEAD DISCUSSES THE FUTURE GROWTH OF THE BOROUGH

ALSO

• CHAMBER HOLDS BUILDING AWARDS • POONAM VASANTHA KUMAR OF SAAVOR • WHAT MICK JAGGER CAN TEACH YOU ABOUT BUSINESS SUCCESS

NEW YORK BUILDING CONGRESS PRESIDENT & CEO CARLO SCISSURA

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November 2021 • Volume 17 • Issue 11

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR THANKS FOR YOUR SERVICE

With November upon us, our nation began honoring our milithoughts turn to the impending tary veterans, a group of individuholiday season. However, before als had the foresight to create an we reach that day of organization focused giving thanks, anothon advocacy, educaer federal holiday tion, and networking. of importance takes Today, you are direct place. beneficiaries of those On Veterans Day, efforts. we pause to honor Don’t miss out on those who served any opportunities in the United States designed to help your Armed Forces. business grow and Since November 11, thrive. There are far 1938, our country has TOM SANTUCCI too many to mention, set aside this day to CHAIRPERSON but click of the mouse pay tribute to veteror a phone call will put ans, recognizing the you in direct contact sacrifices they made on behalf of with Chamber staff. others.

Take a moment this Veterans As a business owner, you’re well Day and everyday to say “thank acquainted with sacrificing for the you for your service” to someone greater good. Long days, sleepless who sacrificed on your behalf nights, and the weight of the orgaA little bit of kindness goes a nization all rest on your shoulders. long way, and it will set you up for The Queens Chamber is and will the season of giving thanks. always be your source of supWith that being said, thank you port as you navigate the turbulent for your endless support of the waters associated with owning and Queens Chamber. We couldn’t do operating a business. this without you.

A couple of decades before the Queens STRONG!

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT & CEO

WITH A GRATEFUL HEART

The fourth Thursday of this month from small business grants to we will take a collective pause increasing your customer base to and gather with loved ones to give honing communication skills. thanks for our many blessings. So You’ll have multiple opportunimuch happens over ties to participate in the course of a year the New York State that it’s only approCOVID-19 Pandempriate for us to all ic Small Business have a grateful heart Recovery Grant Proas we usher in the gram with Peter Aust, 2021 holiday season. who will explore the If your business grant program. has survived these Chamber member past 19 tumultuous Edward Cresci with months, you indeed Thryv will guide you have just cause THOMAS J. GRECH through getting more to have a grateful customer utilizing heart. The challenges PRESIDENT & CEO Google. This session you’ve faced are a is essential, as clients distant memory, and the end of the are the heart and soul of every busiyear is fast approaching with hope ness large and small. for a brighter new year.

And Joshua Bienstock is back Queens Chamber has a number with another workshop targeting of programs scheduled this month designed to assist with everything CONTINUED ON PAGE 25

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THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

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QUEENS QUICKLY

JETBLUE TOUCHES DOWN AT GATWICK

New York’s Hometown Airline has expanded its presence in the transatlantic market with nonstop service between New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and London Gatwick Airport (LGW).

The flights, which operate four times weekly in October, then daily onward from November, arrive well timed for the long-awaited easing of U.S. entry requirements for travelers from the U.K. and other European destinations.

“With a 500 percent increase in JetBlue’s U.K. bookings following news of easing U.S. entry requirements for international travelers, it’s clear there is significant pent up demand for travel between our two countries,” said JetBlue president and COO Joanna Geraghty.

In August, the carrier began offering service to Heathrow, marking the start of JetBlue’s first-ever transatlantic service. JetBlue is the only carrier flying nonstop between the U.S. and Gatwick.​ “The launch of JetBlue’s service between New York and London has been a welcomed addition to the transatlantic market,” said Sheelagh Wylie, chief marketing officer for Americas at VisitBritain. “With the festive holiday season around the corner and an exciting year ahead full of events, we are thrilled to welcome JetBlue to its second home in London Gatwick.”

BUILDING A BETTER ‘TOMORROW’ AT LGCC LaGuardia Community College has embarked on a $15 million fundraising campaign to help New Yorkers who lost their jobs or faced other hardships during the COVID-19 pandemic get

back on track through higher education.

LaGuardia’s “Tomorrow” Campaign will help more New Yorkers get the training they need to pursue new jobs or upskill to advance in their current positions.

An anonymous donor has pledged $5 million, which will be the college’s largest donation to date, if LaGuardia raises $10 million by the end of the year.

Funds will expand resources at LaGuardia to support students, such as scholarships, emergency aid and technology resources, and more.

Ninety-five percent of funds raised will go directly to students.

“We’re aiming high with this ambitious fundraising campaign because of the urgent need to help New Yorkers get back on their feet,” said LaGuardia president Kenneth Adams. “The $15 million will transform the lives of LaGuardia students and create a new talent pool for New York City employers.”

LaGuardia serves over 30,000 students a year, with a majority living below the poverty line, earning less than $30,000 per year. Many are immigrants or first-generation college students.

“By raising $15 million we will increase support available for LaGuardia students by 500 percent,” said Suzie Scanlon Rabinowitz, chair of the LaGuardia Foundation Board. “In recent years we raised approximately $3 million annually. Given the toll of COVID-19, it’s needed.”

With scholarships, grants, and internship stipends ranging from $500 to $2,000 on average, the campaign has the potential to benefit as many as 15,000 to 20,000 new and continuing students.

For students pursuing associate degrees, federal and state financial aid programs exist to help them pay their tuition. Instead, living expenses, family responsibilities, and associated costs of attending college are what many degree-seeking students grapple with.

Without emergency aid, unexpected financial burdens can lead to students dropping out of school. Whereas, students who receive aid from the LaGuardia Foundation are three times more likely to graduate than general students.

Computer science major Sabiha Farheen received support from the LaGuardia Foundation during the height of the pandemic when her parents lost their hospitality jobs.

“The scholarship, grocery money, and my paid internship at CNBC helped keep my family afloat during a scary time,” Farheen said. “Now I’m on track to graduate from LaGuardia in December and transfer to a four-year college for my bachelor’s, and then start my career in tech.”

VIRTUAL TECH TRAINING IN QUEENS Commonpoint Queens is partnering with Per Scholas to transform a portion of its Elmhurst site into a new classroom for virtual tech training. Commonpoint Queens CEO Danielle Ellman explained how the program will help people pursue new careers while minimizing travel time.

“At Commonpoint, we’ve been addressing unemployment and underemployment for over ten years with training and workforce development programs,” Ellman said. “By removing the barrier of transportation, we can make it much easier for people to learn these skills.”

Commonpoint Queens was chosen for a number of reasons, chief among them being the massive effect the coronavirus pandemic had in Elmhurst.

“Elmhurst was the epicenter of the pandemic, and there was an unemployment percentage of 22 percent at one point,” Ellman said. “Much of the job loss in our borough were jobs that had no chance of returning, like restaurants or businesses closing down.

“That made us want to focus on career development,” she added. “We don’t want people to feel like their dreams need to be deferred. Instead, we want people to feel like they have options.”

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

COVER STORY: Carlo Scissura of NY Building Congress .........................17

Tech Spotlight: Poonam Vasantha Kumar of Saavor ..............................7

Stay Connected With the Queens Chamber in September .............................25

What Mick Jagger Can Teach You About Business ...............................8

Get to Know the Chamber’s Newest Members ..................................................29

EXPERT ADVICE: Estate Planning Made Easy ..................................10 Neir’s Tavern Gets Historic Street Renaming .........................................13 Building Awards Spotlights .....................................................................14-21 Queens Chamber Hosts Building Awards Gala at TWA Hotel .........16 4

PUBLISHER Walter H. Sanchez

MANAGING EDITOR Shane Miller

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

November 2021 • Volume 17 • Issue 11

QUEENS OPENINGS

SECURITY FIRM OPENS THIRD LOCATION

BY EVAN TRIANTAFILIDIS A security firm in Queens is expanding, opening its third office in the borough last month. The new location is at the corner of 34th Street and 37th Avenue in Astoria.

Retired NYPD lieutenant John Rafferty formed Watch Guard 24/7 in 2009. The business offers concierge services and security guards for commercial, retail and residential properties throughout New York and New Jersey.

“We’re trying to be the best security provider out there,” said Rafferty. “From the very first job I got, I always tried to make sure I did the right thing for the clients, and I never stopped taking that approach.”

Rafferty credits a top-to-bottom team effort for the firm’s success and growth over the past 18 months. After looking for additional office space in both Manhattan and Queens, he decided to stay in the borough where the company originally started.

“We wanted to reinvest in Queens, a lot of our team and employees are from Queens,” said Rafferty. “We just decided this was a great place. We put a lot of money into renovating the entire building.”

At the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the company

Representatives from the Queens Chamber took part in last month’s ribbon-cutting ceremony. was praised by longtime clients, NYPD officers, elected officials and the Queens Chamber of Commerce.

Councilman Robert Holden presented Rafferty with a proclamation, calling the company

a Queens success story.

“This is one of the greatest pleasures I have on the City Council, honoring a small business that is getting larger,” said Holden. “Hopefully, you’ll take over the whole block eventually.”

PIG BEACH BBQ NOW SMOKING IN QUEENS

BY EVAN TRIANTAFILIDIS The long-awaited Astoria location of the Brooklyn-based Pig Beach BBQ is now open.

Executive chefs Shane McBride and Matt Abdoo welcomed a crowd of hungry customers last month to their newest location at 35-37 36th Street.

“We’re looking forward to meeting our neighbors and making new friends,” said McBride, who has lived in Astoria for almost 15 years.

Starting in 2015 as a Brooklyn pop-up with just a small smoker and some induction burners, the business took when people got a taste of the roasted baby back ribs, smoked turkey, chicken wings and award-winning burgers.

“It was a very organic seven-year process,” said McBride of the restaurant’s growth.

Following a two-year undertaking – with pandemic-related speed bumps involved – the chefs are thrilled to finally open their 28,000-squarefoot location in Queens.

“We can’t wait for Pig Beach BBQ to be up and running at full speed,” said Abdoo.

The Astoria location includes a dog-friendly

outdoor garden that can accommodate 800 people. With three separate bars and an anticipated 50 televisions, the chefs hope to create a laid-back atmosphere much like their Brooklynflagship restaurant.

“When we put the first tap handle on our beer tower and the first brisket in the smoker, we had a restaurant,” said McBride.

In tribute to the “Mediterranean feel” of the neighborhood, the menu will include a smoked lamb shoulder topped with NYC Classic White Sauce.

The chefs say during the restaurant’s first few months, they will adjust the hours of operation to best meet the needs of the neighborhood.

From Tuesday to Friday, Pig Beach BBQ opens at 4 p.m. and closes at “10-ish”. On weekends, doors open at noon and close after 10 p.m. The establishment has a permit to be open until 4 a.m.

At full-speed, the restaurant aims to employ 100 people. The business owners also have plans to open a third location in West Palm CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22

Matt Abdoo & Shane McBride of Pig Beach.

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THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

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PROMOTIONS, ANNOUNCEMENTS & APPOINTMENTS Brennan to lead Diocese of Brooklyn After 18 years of service, Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio is retiring from his role as Bishop of the Diocese of Brooklyn. He will be replaced

by Robert J. Brennan, who has been appointed as the eighth bishop of the Diocese by Pope Francis.

Bishop Dimarzio, 75, submitted his letter of resignation on June 16, 2019. His resignation was accepted today by Pope Francis, followed by an announcement that Bishop Brennan will fill the position.

Bishop Brennan was born and raised on Long Island, where he attended Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic School in Lindenhurst and St. John the Baptist Diocesan High School in West Islip.

BRENNAN He later earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics and computer science from St. John’s University before completing his studies for the priesthood at the Seminary of the Immaculate Conception in Huntington.

Brennan served as a parish priest for St. Patrick in Smithtown and was later ordained an Auxiliary Bishop for the Diocese of Rockville Centre. In 2019, Pope Francis appointed him as the 12th Bishop of the Diocese of Columbus in Ohio.

For Bishop Brennan, the appointment in Brooklyn feels like a homecoming of sorts.

“I came to know amazing people in the Diocese of Columbus and there is a tremendous sadness in leaving them behind,” said Bishop Brennan. “As I prepare for a return to New York, I am ready and eager to embrace the people of Brooklyn and Queens as their pastor.”

Buckley wins ConEd LOV Award Sara J. Buckley received the 2021 Con Edison’s Living Our Values (LOV) Award at a virtual ceremony last month. This recognition is given annually to Con Edison employees who exemplify the company’s values of service, teamwork, excellence, and concern for the quality of life in their communities.

As a coordinator and substance abuse counselor, in the company’s Employee Wellness Center, the Rockaway resident is always available to help any employee, family member or retiree suffering from addiction find the path

6

to recovery.

She supports them on their journey to a happy sober life, changing people’s lives for the better.

“Substance abuse destroys lives, families, marriages, and friendships,” she said. “One of the last things it destroys is BUCKLEY careers. We make sure employees who come to the Wellness Center for help, have the services, information, and support networks they need to rebuild their lives and careers.”

“Sara is always willing to share her experience, strength and hope to assure her clients that they will be okay if they follow the path laid before them,” said John Lyons, Employee Wellness manager. “Many of Sara’s clients credit her for their recovery and many more have thanked her for setting them on the right road.”

The Employee Wellness Center’s Chemical and Substance Abuse Program is tasked with identifying unique safety concerns. From recognizing the warning signs of substance abuse, to engaging employees in candid conversations to helping them find the right treatment, the goal is to make sure they are safe.

Buckley, who is in recovery herself, credits her success in changing lives for the better to those who helped her, the “amazing” people in the Employee Wellness Center and Con Edison’s compassion for those struggling with addiction.

In addition to her work at Con Edison, Buckley is a member of a 12-step program of recovery and started a bereavement group to help parents cope with the loss of children following the loss of her 17-year-old son to a drug overdose.

Elmhurst executives honored by Crain’s Elmhurst Hospital CEO Helen Arteaga-Landaverde and CFO David Guzman were named to Crain’s “2021 Notable Hispanic Leaders and Executives” list.

Both leaders were recognized for their successes in steering Elmhurst Hospital through the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as ongoing ARTEAGAefforts to provide care LANDAVERDE to underserved communities.

Arteaga-Landaverde, who previously served

as an assistant vice president at Urban Health Plan, was appointed CEO in January of 2021.

In addition to overseeing the hospital’s COVID-19 vaccination efforts and securing over $27 million in capital funding for facility upgrades, she has also focused on improving the hospital’s ties with the surrounding neighborhoods through collaborative partnerships with community-based organizations and educational institutions.

“I am extremely honored to have received this recognition,” said GUZMAN Arteaga-Landaverde. “I look forward to continuing to expand Elmhurst’s reach into the community and to increasing access to healthcare for all those who need it.”

Guzman has 20 years of healthcare finance experience at NYC Health + Hospitals. In his role as CFO, he has spearheaded efforts to increase hospital revenue while containing costs.

“Having spent the formative years of my career working at NYC Health + Hospitals, and having been born at one of its facilities, I feel a special connection to the organization, the patients, the communities that we serve, and my friends and colleagues whom I am privileged to serve with,” said Guzman.

He has also managed efforts to secure funding for sufficient PPE, medical equipment, and other vital supplies as the hospital continues to care for an underserved community placed under enormous stress by COVID-19.

Queens Chamber of Commerce 75-20 Astoria Boulevard, Suite 140 Jackson Heights, N.Y. 11370-1131 Entire Contents Copyright 2021 by Queensborough. All letters sent to the QUEENSBOROUGH should be brief and are subject to condensation. Writers should include a full address and home and office telephone numbers, where available, as well as affiliation, indicating special interest. Anonymous letters are not printed. Name withheld on request. No such ad or any part thereof may be reproduced without prior permission of the QUEENSBOROUGH. The publishers will not be responsible for any error in advertising beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error. Errors must be reported to the QUEENSBOROUGH within five days of publication.

Ad position cannot be guaranteed unless paid prior to publication. BQE Media assumes no liability for the content or reply to any ads. The advertiser assumes all liability for the content of and all replies. The advertiser agrees to hold the QUEENSBOROUGH and its employees harmless from all cost, expenses, liabilities, and damages resulting from or caused by the publication or recording placed by the advertiser or any reply to any such advertisement.

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November 2021 • Volume 17 • Issue 11

TECH SPOTLIGHT This week’s featured tech entrepreneur for Queens Tech Corner is Poonam Vasantha Kumar, co-founder and CEO of Saavor.

Tell us a little more about Saavor and how you got your start?

Saavor is an SaaS (software as a service) platform that enables seamless management and control of on-campus kitchens at schools and universities. Students use our technology to place orders at campus kitchens via their meal plan cards, credit cards, and debit cards.

We started out as a company that connects home chefs to consumers in their neighborhood, but pivoted during COVID due to the current market conditions.

When I was a student in Texas doing my MBA, I missed my mom’s home-cooked meals. But luckily, there was an Indian family near our campus that sold food to students, and that is how I first got the idea.

Before I started Saavor, I worked as a lead engineer in the Midwest.

What kind of an impact has COVID had on your company and your services?

During COVID, we thought we might be out of business since we lacked resources to move forward. But we pivoted and were able to raise funds via a GoFundMe campaign, through which we were able to serve thousands of meals to front line workers in New York City and New Jersey.

We also applied for several federal government contracts and then got a deal with a university. We are helping students order food from their campus kitchens, and using our platform provides them a safe environment to do so.

Moving forward, we hope we can help as many local vendors as possible.

We learned a lot during this whole process.

We are lucky that we have a very strong team who were supportive of the mission and vision of our firm.

Why are you excited about the future of tech in Queens?

Right now, a lot of tech companies are coming out of Queens. Exciting times! Our community has a lot to offer with its huge diversity of people. Plus, people are more supportive than ever before.

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I’d also add that it’s easy to raise funds in New York for an early stage startup firm if you have an MVP (minimal viable product), which is very easy to attain provided you have found your product market fit.

+

home languages

nationalities

82%

70

+

faculty holding advanced degrees

14

Get to Know Us! average class size

interscholastic athletic teams

15

+

20

+

clubs, including signature programs in Mock Trial and Model UN

Preschool through Grade 12 2021-22 and 2022-23 Admission

On-Campus Open Houses Saturday, November 13 - Lower School Saturday, December 4 - Middle & Upper School To register, scan the code or visit kewforest.org/visit

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THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

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EXPERT ADVICE

MORE EFFECTIVE OPEN ENROLLMENT

BY GLYNIS ROBERTS Just the thought of an approaching open enrollment period can cause stress for employers and their workers. But with proper planning and a well-developed strategy, open enrollments can be organized, effective and a positive experience for all involved.

First, the development of a detailed timeline well in advance of the start of open enrollment season is a must to assure a well-designed process.

The employer and their benefit consultant can analyze the company’s specific objectives, style and demographics to develop a customized approach.

Included in this stage should be the scheduling of webinars, benefit fairs, seminars and opportunities, as applicable. Likewise, the framework of an employee communication campaign can be developed, leaving specific details (like plan data, contribution schedules, etc.) to be inserted at a later time.

As soon as renewals are made available by the carrier(s), plans and contribution schedules can be selected by the employer and a communication piece should be distributed to all employees outlining the planned process, any critical information and any important dates and deadlines.

Benefit plan and contribution information should be presented to employees in a manner that encourages employees to become engaged in the process. The communication material should present the range of benefit details in a simple, understandable and even exciting, if possible, manner customized as much as possible to the profile of employees in each organization.

This year especially, for meetings, online presentations and when preparing communication material in general, employers and HR personnel should also be sensitive to the challenges that have faced employees and their resultant fears and anxieties.

8

By focusing on the tone and positioning of benefit communications with an acknowledgement of the struggles employees have faced within their families in light of the pandemic, company leaders can demonstrate a true concern for the physical and mental wellbeing of their staff.

In today’s world, technology is everywhere and open enrollment season should find it being used whenever possible. And whereas prior to the pandemic it was common for insurance brokers to present the open enrollment benefit package through in-office meetings, with the challenge of bringing workers together this year virtual meetings will again be the norm.

In addition to these virtual meetings, the distribution of supporting materials through emails, electronic newsletters and videos can also be utilized.

Most benefit administration programs also incorporate an online open enrollment portal that once only available to large groups, is now available to groups with just a few employees as well.

The bonus of utilizing an online platform is that employees can access all information remotely and electronic messaging, alerts and materials sent through the system can be tracked and archived.

Additionally, in many cases, the eligibility and enrollment data submitted by the employees can usually be sent electronically, direct to the insurance carriers. All these tools can enhance the experience for today’s technology-oriented workforce and help to streamline the entire process.

Finally, once open enrollment is completed and everything settles down, the process can be reviewed and employee feedback solicited in order to better understand the components that worked well and those that didn’t. In this way, the experi-

The Queens Chamber of Commerce offers its members access to My Benefit Advisor as a solution for employee benefits, including voluntary offerings. For more information about My Benefit Advisor, visit our website at qcc.mybenefitadvisor.com or contact Glynis Roberts at (212) 706-9451. ence can be further perfected for the following year’s open enrollment season.

BUSINESS TIPS FROM MICK JAGGER

BY ROBERT INTELISANO Earlier this month, I had the pleasure and privilege of flying to Pittsburgh to see the Rolling Stones play an outdoor concert at Heinz Field.

One of my favorite rock bands, I saw the Stones on their 1989 Steel Wheels tour in Philadelphia and at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas, to name a few. That 1989 tour is when the Stones changed what was a typical stadium tour into a theatre-like setting.

Other than perhaps Kiss, the Rolling Stones have mastered the marketing of their brand and logo, namely the famous big red lips and tongue. For Mick Jagger and the Rolling Stones, rock and roll is big business.

The Stones last played Heinz Field in 2015. Their revenue from that 2015 Pittsburgh show was $9,000,000 from the 50,000-plus fans that attended.

Mick Jagger, arguably the best front man in history, is what makes the Rolling Stones different from all other bands. Few people know that Jagger spent some of his teenage years studying finance and economics at the prestigious London School of Economics before quitting school to start a band.

Most bands concentrate on their craft and leave the day-today business operations to their agents. Not 78-year-old Mick, whose net worth is over $360 million.

The Rolling Stones operate like a well-oiled business with 300 employees, and it costs them $1 million per week to keep the show on the road. They had 11 people on stage and many more behind the scenes.

In a 1994 interview with Ed Bradley of 60 Minutes (the 14-minute interview can be seen on YouTube), Jagger referred

to himself as the “Chief Executive of Business Operations of a Mobile Virtual Corporation.”

Here are five lessons business owners can learn from Mick Jagger: 1. It is not enough to have a great idea or product. There have been many great bands over the years, however only a few have all members financially secure for life. It takes business skills to know what gigs to book, how to promote new albums, how much to charge for tickets, and how to manage employees.

2. Learn from your mistakes.

The Stones lost big money in the 1960s. Jagger was quoted in a 2002 Fortune Magazine article saying, “I’ll never forget the deals I did in the 60’s, which were just terrible. You say, oh, I’m a creative person, I won’t worry about this, but that just doesn’t work!”

3. Do not give up. One Stones song carries a message for small

November 2021 • Volume 17 • Issue 11

EXPERT ADVICE

CO-OPS NEED BACKGROUND CHECKS

BY GEOFFREY MAZEL, ESQ.

Leaders in the co-op community are greatly concerned with the momentum that Intro 2047 is receiving in the City Council. This bill has 26 sponsors, most of whom are term-limited out of office at the end of the year and therefore will not be in office when the effects of legislation are felt.

The proposed legislation would prohibit housing discrimination in rentals, leases, subleases, or occupancy agreements in New York City on the basis of arrest or criminal record.

Landlords, including co-op boards and real estate brokers, would be prohibited from inquiring about criminal record information at any stage in the process for applicants looking to purchase or rent in the business owners. “You can’t always get what you want, but if you try sometimes, you might just find, you get what you need!”

4. Stay relevant. One of the reasons the Stones have had staying power through generations is because they keep people talking.

Whether putting out new albums, licensing their old songs to new movies, the Stones continue to be a topic of conversation. Attending Queens Chamber events is a good way to stay relevant!

5. Understand the importance of collaboration. Jagger has made many savvy decisions about partners. Two band members, until drummer Charlie Watts recently passed away, have been with him since the 1960’s. Others have shuttled through the band over the years. It is important to know when to make changes for the betterment of the band or business.

Mick Jagger and the Rolling Stones have lived long and storied lives. Since Jagger has eight children with five women, it is

co-op.

If passed, co-op boards would have no way of knowing if any proposed applicants have been convicted of a serious crime that would otherwise impact their decision-making process.

Similar bills were passed in Seattle, Washington, and St. Paul, Minnesota, and are subject to judicial challenge. It is also very likely that if Intro 2047 was passed in New York City, it would be subject to judicial challenge by the many stakeholders who oppose the broad legislation.

The use of the criminal background check is an essential tool used by co-op boards to ensure a safe and harmonious community. Most boards are simply looking to make sure that anyone entering their co-op good that he has been prudent with his money. He made an excellent career choice, and when you do what you love, work will never be a chore. Rock on Rolling Stones!

Robert Intelisano has over 25 years of experience providing insurance-based solutions for individuals and families. Learn more at insurancedoctor.us.

is a fit resident and that there is nothing in their past that would render them unfit.

The current Intro 2047 provides no protection whatsoever to co-op boards and their residents. It does not even allow them to see if a person committed a particularly heinous crime or is a sex offender.

In addition, the law provides no protections to the co-op in the event a shareholder with a criminal history that was not reviewed commits a crime while residing in the co-op.

Other similarly drafted laws in other states do contain “hold harmless” language for the co-op board in the event there is an incident involving a shareholder who was not vetted and has a criminal past.

The backbone of the strong co-op community in New York City has been the ability of boards to vet incoming shareholders to make sure they will make good neighbors.

This proposed legislation clearly

Geoffrey Mazel, Esq. is founding member of Hankin & Mazel, PLLC, and legal advisor to the president of the Co-op & Condo Council. undercuts this ability and may serve to weaken a very precious housing sector in this area. Clearly, the co-op Board and its residents are in a no-win situation with regard to this legislation.

THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

queenschamber.org

EXPERT ADVICE

PUTTING TOGETHER YOUR ESTATE STRATEGY

The process of putting together an estate strategy may sound complicated, but it doesn’t have to be.

The first steps are to identify where you are today and where you want to be.

Step 1: Where am I today?

Make a list of everything you own. A financial advisor can help you group your assets and make beneficiary designations on your retirement accounts, insurance policies and annuities and make sure they’re up to date.

Things to consider include investment and retirement accounts, real estate, insurance policies or annuity contracts, wills, health care directives, and trusts.

you. Don’t be intimidated, this is just a conversation to help you get started. Things to consider: • What do you want to leave to your heirs?

• Do you want to leave money to charity?

• Are efficiency and privacy important to you?

• Are you concerned about estate taxes?

• Do you have a minor child or a child with special needs?

• Do you have specific wishes or desires you would like to ensure happen if you were incapacitated or passed away?

• Who would you like to handle your affairs if you become unable to handle them for yourself?

Step 2: Where would I like to be?

Identify your goals. A financial advisor can help you begin to answer these questions and prioritize what’s most important to

Step 3: Work with your team of professionals.

An estate-strategy team provides a comprehensive and streamlined approach to developing a strategy

THE ‘PRIORITY’ IS YOU

BY SEGUN OLANIYI

We work to suit any and all schedules and budgets, and can Contacting a company to provide even accommodate traveling disstaffing or service should not really tances. Priority Groups focuses on be a headache, but it normally values, transparency and reliability. is owing to its many Values means cusrules, requirements tomer demands are and processes. met with respect, care Many people tend and fairness. Transto also think that getparency is to ensure ting these services that customers know rendered on a smaller exactly what is going scale for individual on. Reliability in use or for small busithis case ensures that nesses is impossible. everything is done as The truth is that these Segun Ezekiel Olaniyi promised. services can be ren- is managing director This small business of Priority Groups. dered to anybody. was started to give Going about proback to the commucuring these services should not nity. We wanted to create an easy be difficult, and it is this clarity way for small businesses to access and simplicity that Priority Groups cleaning services, meet staffing wants to offer. needs, and process billings.

Priority Groups consists of PriWith Priority Groups, an indiority-Cleans, Quality Healthcare vidual or small business can easStaffing, Priority Billings and Pri- ily acquire services without the ority Cares. Each of these depart- requirements of many service and ments focuses on a specific task, staffing companies. Not only does but work in conjunction to deliver this benefit customers, but it also excellent service. creates jobs.

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that works for you. Each member of your team will have a different area of expertise.

A financial advisor helps you understand the process, prioritize your goals and coordinates with the other members of your estatestrategy team. We can also discuss how your investment and estate strategies can work together.

Your attorney reviews your estate options and drafts legal documents.

Your tax professional or CPA

advises you on the tax implications of your strategies.

Creating an estate strategy is a team effort Ask a financial advisor today about how you can work together to begin creating your personal estate strategy.

For more information, contact Edward Jones financial advisor John Renda at (718) 969-2606 or at john.renda@edwardjones.com.

A PRODUCT NO ONE WANTS

Many people dream of starting their own business, but there are many challenges surrounding entrepreneurship. Arguably, a lack of consumer interest in the product or service may be the primary reason why many businesses never reach their full potential.

Every new parent’s baby is the most adorable child they’ve ever seen, and entrepreneurs feel a similar way to their product or services.

They think their company is the best idea to ever exist and that the market will respond accordingly.

Often, however, entrepreneurs overestimate the potential success of their product, and they are left feeling discouraged when the revenue is not what they anticipated.

I would attribute this to wishful thinking: you, as a consumer, think you know what other consumers want and exactly how they want to get it.

Even worse, an entrepreneur might have their ego so invested in their “baby” that they become inflexible to growth and change, which makes success nearly impossible.

Unfortunately, there is no guarantee your product or service will cause consumers to push the “buy” button. Although there are no simple answers, we would like to pass along a few suggestions to help you tackle this challenge.

can, before and after your product launch, and listen carefully. Success requires that you develop a product the consumer not only needs, but wants and desires.

Social media can be a key tool for you to solicit criticism and advice on how you can improve your product.

Utilizing social media will allow you to get direct feedback from your consumers.

Do Your Homework!

Do not assume that you know what consumers want or need.

Talk to as many people as you

Continue the conversation with Warren Law Group’s office at (866) 954-7687 or emailing Paul Share at paul@warren.law.

Master the Art of Pivoting A second key strategy is being willing to pivot. In start-up lingo, pivoting means taking in the initial response to a product, and making changes in order to maximize its consumer appeal.

When launching a start-up, you will learn that everything takes longer than you expect, and a great deal of “stick-to-it-ivity” is required.

With that said, there is no virtue in delaying product changes in the face of negative reactions from users.

A good approach to designing a product is to develop a soft launch with the intent of redesigning it and adding features after receiving initial user feedback.

If you read about the history of successful start-ups, such as Dell Computers and Twitter, you will see that they solicited criticism from their customers and used that information to modify their approach and attain success.

November 2021 • Volume 17 • Issue 11

EXPERT ADVICE

‘TIS THE SEASON FOR INSURANCE CLAIMS

BY PHILIP MALTAGHATI Who doesn’t look forward to the holiday season? Families gatherings, traditions, fun, food, festivities, lighting, decorations, and of course, holiday presents. It truly is the most wonderful time of the year for most of us.

However, that joy can soon be dampened (literally) by an insurance claim for water damage. According to the Insurance Information Institute, water damage in nonoccupied homes while the family is away for the holidays is one of the most likely issues to occur during this season.

Property insurance claims due to water and ice are the leading types of claims that increase during the winter holiday season, along with theft, fire, or even a personal injury lawsuit.

WATER

Here are steps you can take now to avoid or prevent water damage from impacting your holidays: • While you are away, keep your thermostat set to 60 degrees.

• Install a water leak detection system such as Nest.

• Going away for more than a few days? No one at home? Have a licensed plumber winterize your property.

• Replace your hot water heater every ten years. Most condo and cooperative communities require it in their bylaws. For peace of mind and long-term cost savings, this is an imperative.

• Ice dams can damage roofing and cause interior damage as well. Clean gutters and install ridge vents.

• Ensure that your attic insulation meets recommended R-rating standards.

FIRE

But the leading cause of home-

owner’s insurance claims is holiday house fires. These are not just caused by poorly maintained fireplaces, but a more common source of flame: candles.

The National Fire Protection Association reports that candle fires peak on Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day. Protect your biggest investment by simply replacing open flames with battery operated LED candles that look incredibly lifelike and will not destroy your home.

Here’s how you can avoid holiday house fires: • First and foremost, make sure your smoke alarms are working properly. Change the batteries, and if hardwired perform a simple test by pressing the test button on the housing.

• For any source of open flame, candles to fireplaces, never leave them unattended, not even for a minute.

• If you must have lit candles, ensure that they are kept well away two feet minimum, from anything flammable. This includes presents, the holiday tree, decorations, etc.

• Cooking for the holidays? Even if your stove is electric, do not leave anything to cook or simmer unattended. This especially applies to countertop appliances such as rice cookers, steamers, and skillets.

THIEVES

Break-ins and even thievery at your entryway have increased in recent years.

Here are the top ways to avoid becoming a victim: • The sight of packages that proclaim their expensive contents on their labels left sitting outside on your porch provide temptation and easy picking for thieves. Installing a visible security camera from a hard-to-access eave or roof line will deter pilfering and vandalism.

• Do not leave expensive,

unwrapped presents near windows where they can readily be seen from outside.

• If you own expensive or heirloom jewelry or collectibles, invest in a safe or lock these valuables and other expensive items in one room or closet.

• Inherit or acquire anything of value recently? Be sure to update your insurance policy.

The holidays are not the time of year when anyone wants to think about the possibility of damage or loss. When this occurs, it can be upsetting to deal with.

The team at United Public Adjusters & Appraisers knows that submitting homeowners’ insurance claims, especially around the holidays, can be daunting. However, it is not necessary to go it alone.

Learn more about how our team can take care of every detail from claims preparation and submis-

Philip Maltaghati is president of United Public Adjusters & Appraisers, Inc. He can be reached at (800) 718-LOSS. sion to the final settlement check, including quote facilitation, loss and replacement estimates, negotiation with insurance companies, and even temporary living expenses if necessary.

As a valued neighbor of the Holiday Inn Express Maspeth, we would like to offer you a 15% Local Loyalty discount.

Pick up a Local Loyalty card at a participating Maspeth business, and present it at our front desk to receive your special 15% OFF rate! Scan the barcode to see the list of participating businesses.

November 2021 • Volume 17 • Issue 11

QUEENS CHAMBER MEMBER NEWS

WOODHAVEN ICON RECEIVES HISTORIC HONOR

BY KIM CHEREVAS The loyal customers of historic Neir’s Tavern are inherently aware of its rich legacy. It is so much more than just another neighborhood bar.

Having survived nearly shutting their doors for good in 2019 followed by the pandemic, owner Loycent Gordon and the entire Neir’s community last month celebrated the long-awaited unveiling of “Neir’s Tavern Way” at the corner of 78th Street across from the bar.

The street co-naming made history, as it is the first time a business has been awarded the honor.

Councilman Bob Holden spoke fondly of Neir’s and what it means to Woodhaven, as well as to the borough of Queens.

“Since 1829, this has been the center of Woodhaven,” said Holden.

Neir’s is also well-known as an attractive filming location since some of the famous scenes in Goodfellas were shot here in the 1990s.

Neir’s is a cornerstone of the community. Members of the NEIRS 200 Group, initially established by a small number of loyal customers that has now grown to include more than 300 people, volunteer their time and energy in a multitude of ways as Neir’s approaches its 2029 bicentennial.

But it’s not only about Neir’s, many of the group’s efforts benefit the greater community, as well as generate merchandise sales and fundraising, from which some of the profits are quietly donated to help out causes close to their hearts.

As we emerge from the pandemic, and from our individual homes, more and more people have the desire to come together in person.

Neir’s is a place where everyone

Councilman Robert Holden with Neir’s Tavern owner Loycent Green and his family at the street renaming. can gather together, and realizing this need for camaraderie, Neir’s is organizing events reminiscent of good old-fashioned fun.

Tuesday Trivia is back, and more events will be announced in the

near future, including bingo, karaoke nights, and live music.

Neir’s is open seven days a week, from 2 to 11 p.m. on weekdays & 12 to 11 p.m. on weekends.

THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

queenschamber.org

BUILDING AWARDS SPOTLIGHT

SKYLINE TOWER TAKES LIC TO NEW HEIGHTS

BY NICHOLAS LOUD

Rising high above Long Island City, Skyline Tower officially became Queens tallest building when it topped off in 2019. However, this new development is impressive for reasons beyond its height.

At this year’s Building Awards hosted by the Queens Chamber of Commerce, the development was recognized in the category New Construction Mixed Use. Developed by Queens-based United Construction & Development Group, Skyline Tower aims to enhance both the skyline and community of Western Queens.

“For us, we were always trying to do a building that was pushing the boundaries,” said William Xu, vice president of United Construction & Development Group.

“That’s why we wanted to build the tallest building in Queens.”

In addition to height, United Construction & Development Group was focused on giving people the opportunity to invest in Long Island City and the greater

14

Queens community.

“There have been a lot of other buildings going up in LIC, but a lot of those buildings are rentals only,” Xu explained. “Up until this point there was not a building of this scale that was a condo building where people could actually buy units.

“Long Island City does get a lot of people from out of the borough who are transplants, but they always live in these rentals and leave, which is making this area a lot like Manhattan,” he added.

“We believe that if you want a community to grow, you have to allow people to buy into the area.

It was a big risk, but we had faith that people would make LIC their home.”

Designed by Hill West Architects and located at 23-15 44th Drive, Skyline Tower rises 67 stories.

The building’s 802 condominium units have been on sale since 2018, including studios, one-bedroom, two-bedrooms, three-bedrooms, and penthouse residences running from $500,000 to $4 million.

The mixed-use development includes commercial space on the ground floor and sublevels, as well as a bevy of amenities for residents. These include a 75-foot lap pool, cedar-planked sauna, pet spa, children’s playroom, and business fitness centers.

However, Skyline Tower’s biggest selling point is its transit-rich location. Situated directly above the Court Square subway station, which serves the E, G, M, and 7 trains, the building offers direct access to the underground station, making it effortless for residents to commute into Manhattan, Brooklyn, or elsewhere in Queens.

Building above a subway station presents a unique set of challenges, and required United Construction & Development Group to work alongside the MTA. Together, the company and agency enhanced portions of the station and installed a new, ADA-compliant glass elevator, transforming Court Square into one of the most accessible stations in the city.

“We always want to not only come into the community, but also enhance it,” Xu said. “The cost of the subway station alone was almost $16 million, but it’s very important to understand that what makes a project successful is the neighborhood. Investing into the neighborhood is, in a way, investing into your property.”

United Construction & Development Group has worked on a num-

ber of projects throughout Queens, including Parkside Tower in Flushing, Fairfield Inn by Marriott near LaGuardia Airport, and the forthcoming Justice Avenue Tower in Elmhurst.

None of these projects come close to rivalling the scope of Skyline Tower, yet they taught United Construction & Development Group important lessons about investing in and strengthening local communities.

“We’ve been developers all over Queens since the beginning of our company,” explained Xu, who grew up in Bayside and Little Neck. “Because of that we know the areas and the neighborhoods and we know this is what we can do best.”

When United Construction & Development Group originally bought the lot where Skyline Tower now stands, they were bidding against massive companies from Manhattan and beyond. While he may never be sure for certain, Xu believes they won the bid because of their reputation and dedication to being a hometown developer.

“I’m not sure if we were the highest or the lowest bid, but I think we were chosen because we were from Queens and knew these neighborhoods,” he said. “Where better to develop than in your own backyard, where you know it better than anywhere else? Queens is our home and that’s where we feel we do the best.”

November 2021 • Volume 17 • Issue 11 AdGeneric4.833x10.972h.qxp_Layout 1 7/30/20 1:27 PM Page 2

BUILDING AWARDS

QUEENS SURGICAL EXPANDS SERVICES

Donna Furey, Esq.

John Samaras, Esq. Associate

LAW OFFICES OF

DONNA FUREY The Queens Surgical Center in Flushing features three operating rooms in its newly renovated facility.

BY EVAN TRIANTAFILIDIS A renovation of Queens Surgical Center in Flushing has made it the premier Ambulatory Surgery Center in the borough.

The upgrades made to the interior of the building were recognized by the Queens Chamber of Commerce in the category of Rehab/ Health Care Related Facilities during its Building Awards ceremony this past month.

The renovation updates the first floor and base of the existing nine-story building at 36-36 Main Street. The upgrades have enabled

the center to do multi-specialty procedures, including gastroenterology, gynecology, orthopedics and pain management. The modern facility also features leadingedge equipment and a dedicated healthcare team.

“It’s comparable to a small format of a hospital,” said Benjamin Clyburn, managing director at FSA Capital, which oversaw the development of the project. “It’s considered a more efficient format for procedures.”

The five-patient facility now has CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

ELDER LAW WILLS and TRUSTS ESTATE PLANNING MEDICAID PLANNING PROBATE ADMINISTRATION OF ESTATES SPECIAL NEEDS REAL ESTATE Donna and John received their law degrees from St. John’s University School of Law. John is fluent in Greek.

Donna is currently the Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Catholic Lawyers Guild of Queens and was past President of the Queens County Women’s Bar Association, past President of the Astoria Kiwanis Club, past President of the East River Kiwanis Club, and past President of the Catholic Lawyers Guild of Queens.

Co-Chair of the Elder Law Section of the Queens County Bar Assn. 2012-2019

Legal Proactive Care For Your Most Sensitive Life Planning Matters 44-14 Broadway, Astoria, New York 11103 Tel: 347-448-2549 Fax: 718-721-0851 E: dfurey@fureylaw.net Web: fureylaw.net

THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

queenschamber.org

BUILDING AWARDS

BUILDING AWARDS CELEBRATES BOROUGH’S BEST

BY NICHOLAS LOUD

The Queens Chamber of Commerce hosted its 110th annual Building Awards and Gala at the TWA Hotel in JFK airport, recognizing various development projects throughout the borough for achievements in construction, restoration, interior design, and more.

“I have the best job in the world, it really is my calling,” said Chamber President and CEO Thomas Grech.

“As a membership organization, 2020 was a terrible year. However, it was our board and our members who stepped up during that difficult time.”

Grech thanked a number of elected officials who helped secure relief money at the federal, local, and city level.

“As we move through the pandemic, private public partnerships will continue to be extremely crucial,” Borough President Donovan Richards said. “There are those who said we should go back to normal after the pandemic, but we know normal was never good enough for Queens county.”

Both Grech and Richards acknowledged the federal infrastructure bill currently stalled in the Senate, expressing hope the bill will pass and fund construction and repair projects for the borough’s roads, trains, and airports.

Carlo Scissura, head of the New York Building Congress, offered the keynote address at this year’s gala.

Although he is a native Brooklyn, Scissura discussed Queens’ history of dreaming big and encouraged the borough’s public and private leaders to continue that tradition.

“You have everything in Queens, and you have a future that I think the people in the city and the state need to learn from,” Scissura said.

“When people say New York is the center of the world, it’s because of a borough like Queens.

“Think about the vision people have in Queens,” he continued.

“One-hundred years ago, Jackson CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

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This year’s Building Awards Gala returned to the TWA Hotel at JFK Airport.

New York Building Congress President & CEO Carlos Scissura gave the keynote address, Borough President Donovan Richards spoke at the event, and Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato and Queens Chamber President & CEO Thomas Grech on the stage.

November 2021 • Volume 17 • Issue 11

COVER STORY

TAKING NEW YORK TO GREATER HEIGHTS

BY KERRY MURTHA As the former head of the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce, Carlo Scissura can appreciate the role a chamber plays in expanding the local economy, putting residents to work, and building the borough’s infrastructure.

During his tenure as the chamber’s president and CEO, the Bensonhurst native transformed the Brooklyn association into a nationally recognized model of business development and regional branding.

It’s a success that Scissura attributes to an early decision he and his team made to grow the organization’s membership. “I didn’t want to concentrate our interest only in Downtown Brooklyn, but include the borough as a whole,” he insisted.

Scissura said his earlier career as the chief of staff and general counsel to Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz gave him a broader perspective on the community at large.

As a result, he set out to create a more inclusive business alliance.

To that end, Scissura organized a mobile unit that traveled from Coney Island to East New York and neighborhoods in between in an effort to reach small business owners who might not otherwise take advantage of the chamber’s available resources.

He also increased exposure with events like a Brooklyn Night in Albany, a reception that highlights the success of local merchants and invites state legislators to sample a taste of Brooklyn fare, from microbrewed beer to the borough’s famed cheesecake. The event has since been replicated by the Queens Chamber.

“Imitation is the highest form of flattery,” Scissura happily noted, giving a nod to his longtime friend and former counterpart Queens Chamber of Commerce president and CEO Tom Grech.

Scissura, who now serves as the president and CEO of the New York

Building Congress, was asked by Grech to be the keynote speaker at the recent Queens Chamber of Commerce Building Awards, a 95-year tradition that honors the year’s best in construction. Scissura said he was eager to talk about development opportunities in Queens.

“Tom continues to build a strong organization that plays a vital role in the important economic development projects that are happening throughout the borough,” he said.

The seasoned businessman points to billion dollar investments in both LaGuardia and John F. Kennedy airports, as well as the major improvements to roadways like the Van Wyck Expressway and the Grand Central Parkway as proof of a growing local economy.

“Queens has great waterfront property being developed in Long Island City and the potential for building at Sunnyside Yard are signs of so many things on the right track,” he added. “Queens is the most diverse county in America, and ultimately it’s the people who come here to invest and build that drive the growth and change.”

Scissura’s position gives him a unique perspective on the industry as a whole. “[The Building Congress] is an advocacy organization that brings all facets of development and the key players, including architects, engineers, owners and others, to the table,” Scissura said. “This way we can ensure the best construction happens in New York.”

Since Scissura took the helm of the Building Congress in 2017, he’s grown its membership to 600, a 50 percent jump. What’s more, he increased the organization’s budget by more than $1 million and moved its offices to Midtown Manhattan to expand visibility and make room for additional staff.

“After spending a good portion of my career in Brooklyn, I felt it was time to take on a citywide role, one that would help me better understand the region and support building projects across the city and state,” said Scissura. He’s now

Governor Kathy Hochul with Carlo Scissura at the New York Building Congress breakfast last month. (Photo: Greg Morris Photography) looking to widen the focus of the building association to include farflung areas like Buffalo and Rochester. “We want to take this organization to the next phase,” he said.

The economic future for New York City as a whole looks bright, according to the Building Congress’s recently released forecast.

The next three years are expected to see a resurgence in activity and job creation as the industry continues to advocate for more public investment. According to the report,

spending is expected to increase to $60.6 billion in 2021, up 26 percent from 2020, when nonessential construction was shut down for 11 weeks.

Despite the deep cuts in activity in 2020, Scissura said the building industry fared better than others given that essential construction continued. “We are now the industry that is helping to get other people back to work,” Scissura said, “which is so important for the economy in New York.”

BUILDING AWARDS GALA CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16 Heights was fields and now it’s home to amazing apartment complexes. We transformed a valley of ashes into a park that hosted two World’s Fairs. Just look at the building we are in right now. It was the pinnacle of the aviation age and made you feel like a king or queen.

All of this was built right here in Queens.”

In addition to the keynote address, a number of guest speakers helped

distribute awards to the night’s recipients, including Assemblywoman Stacy Pheffer Amato and representatives from Maspeth Federal Savings Bank, the gala’s platinum sponsor.

This year’s gala event sold beyond capacity, another sign of recovery as Queens continues to build and grow after the pandemic.

“It’s great to see everyone in person,” said Thomas Santucci, chair of the Chamber’s board. “Nothing beats an event like this.”

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THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

queenschamber.org

BUILDING AWARDS SPOTLIGHT

FILM FACTORY OPENS IN RIDGEWOOD

BY JESSICA MEDITZ

After three years of construction from the ground up, The Film Factory stands tall and proud in an industrial part of Ridgewood. The massive space boasts four stories and 140,748 square feet.

The development was honored in the category of New Construction/Mixed Use at the Queens Chamber of Commerce’s Building Awards ceremony this past month.

Loreen Domijan, senior vice president at The Film Factory, said the team saw an opportunity to enter the Queens Chamber’s Building Awards, as the space is a great accomplishment that has developed the community.

The Film Factory became fully operational in January 2021 and is the site of various activities and companies, including catering, graphics, clothing and specialty art moving companies, as well as film industry giants like Enterprise Rent-A-Car’s movie and television production unit and Picture Car Services.

The work of G Builders LLC and architect Alta Indelman has resulted in a state-of-the-art facility with ample amenities for tenants, including a one-acre parking lot, several loading docks, 3,000-square-foot terrace with outdoor arrangements, and a rooftop with a perfect view of the city.

The Film Factory’s growth began as a vision not only for more creative space, but more activity in the area’s industrial sector. Ryder Washburn, president of Development at The Film Factory, is grateful for the company’s expansion and the accessibility available for other businesses to carry out their industrial work.

“All the support services and small businesses that are light manufacturing in the New York area don’t often find a home to do the activities they’re looking to do,” he said. “Because industrial space is not something that’s been developed a lot in the last couple of decades, there’s just not a lot of

18

A bird’s-eye view of The Film Factory, which stands four stories high and 140,748 square feet. new products. We wanted this new product to be a workspace where it has a good workflow and the users are more considered.”

Washburn is proud of The Film Factory’s finished product and

all of the tenants who utilize the space. He said he is excited to be honored by the Queens Chamber of Commerce.

“We thought it was a cool project to bring this facility to an

area that hasn’t seen a lot of new industrial development in the last 30 years,” he said, “And we’re really excited to be notified that they recognize the building and the project.”

November 2021 • Volume 17 • Issue 11

BUILDING AWARDS SPOTLIGHT

ROCKAWAY HOTEL BRINGS 1960’S BEACH VIBE

BY RAY VANN

The Rockaway Hotel has made quite an impact on the peninsula since its opening last year, and it seems that impact has been felt on the mainland as well. Honoring the unique construction, decor, and contributions that the Hotel has provided, the Queens Chamber of Commerce has recognized the Rockaway Hotel in the categories of New Construction / Hotels & Motels, Interior Design/ Hotels & Motels, and Open or Enclosed Public Space / Hotels & Motels.

The design of the building is meant to evoke the surrounding environment of the Rockaway Beach neighborhood, and Morris Adjmi Architects specifically crafted the building’s features to complement the neighboring bungalows and replicate the friendly, welcoming feel of the area’s many pubs and restaurants.

Curious Yellow Design also lent their design touches, reproducing a 1960’s beach culture vibe to further connect the hotel with its surroundings near the shore.

The interiors of the hotel were designed using Scandinavian design philosophies of minimalism and functionality, and feature

The hotel’s exterior was designed to complement the neighborhood’s bungalows and replicate the friendly, welcoming vibe of local pubs while also replicating a kind of 1960’s beach culture vibe a clean base of neutral tones in soft white, flax and black are comple-

The interior of the hotel utilizes Scandinavian philosophies of minimalism and features a number of artworks from local and international artists, all carefully curated by Michi Jigarjian, Managing Partner and Creative Chief Social Impact Officer of The Rockaway Hotel.

mented by a gentle color palette of rose pink, dusty blue and yellow, and layered with design details.

Additionally, the hotel also features a collection of local and international artwork that was carefully curated by Michi Jigarjian, Managing Partner and Creative Chief Social Impact Officer of The Rockaway Hotel, adding another layer of aesthetic pleasure for visitors to the property.

“The Rockaway Hotel is honored to be recognized by the Queens Chamber of Commerce, and to have won the categories of New Construction, Interior Design and Open or Enclosed Public Space for Hotels & Motels,” said Terence Tubridy, Founder and Managing Partner of IGC Hospitality. “The entire Rockaway Hotel team has worked tirelessly over the past year and a half to create a year-round destination and cultural hub for the Rockaway community and guests

alike. We’re pleased to be able to provide a space for all to gather and enjoy delicious food and drink, live music as well as participate in one of the many onsite activities or initiatives in our beautifully designed indoor and outdoor spaces. We’re so grateful to be a part of this community and are looking forward to continuing to offer the best in lodging, F&B, arts, and culture in the Rockaways.”

QUEENS SURGICAL CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

three operating rooms with pre-op and post-op recovery rooms.

“We’re very honored to be recognized by the Queens Chamber of Commerce,” said Clyburn. “A lot of effort went into building a state-of-the-art facility. We’re proud of the achievement and recognition.”

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THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

queenschamber.org

BUILDING AWARDS SPOTLIGHT

RWNYC STAYS ON TRACK DURING COVID

BY NICHOLAS LOUD Building a hotel is no easy task, especially during a global pandemic. However, those roadblocks didn’t prevent Resorts World New York Casino from staying on track with its original construction timeline.

This past August, the casino opened the 400-room Hyatt Regency JFK directly next to the casino.

In October, it was honored at the Queens Chamber of Commerce’s Building Awards ceremony in the category of New Construction/ Hotels & Motels.

“Building a project of this magnitude was always going to be complicated, but the pandemic created unprecedented challenges to overcome,” said Edgar Choi, senior vice president of Design and Construction for Resorts World Casino.

“I’ve spent more than a decade working on construction projects, and I never could have imagined what the last 18-plus months would have in store for the team.”

The eight-story hotel features spacious rooms, premium suites, a fitness center, and conference spaces. It also offers guests easy access to various gambling spaces, restaurants, and other amenities.

The Resorts World team had to contend with the idea of delaying hotel construction partially or completely during the pandemic, but resolved to forge ahead and fulfill their commitment to serving the people of Queens.

As he helped cut the ribbon on the new hotel, Choi had a great sense of pride, accomplishment, and excitement.

“It was the culmination of years of hard work and a dedication that no matter what challenges we faced, we were going to open this world-class hotel,” Choi said.

“More than anything, I was proud to share that moment with my colleagues whose tireless efforts led to this moment.”

State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr., chairman of the Senate Committee on Racing, Gaming, and

20

Wagering, was impressed by the project’s ability to stay on schedule.

“Their ability to stay on track and complete construction on the hotel, even during the pandemic, is a testament to Resorts World’s commitment to being an integral part of the community,” Addabbo said. “This new hotel will allow visitors to stay right here in Queens instead of fleeing to Manhattan and elsewhere and boost our local economy.”

Over the past ten years, the Resorts World Casino has worked alongside a number of local organizations, including the Boys and Girls club of Metro Queens and the Greater Jamaica Development Corp.

Most recently, the Casino launched the “Good Neighbor Network,” a new community partnership designed to inspire, empower, and advocate for social and economic good in Queens focused on a broad range of issues including workforce development, arts and culture, and health and wellness.

The Resorts World team believes that their commitment to completing the hotel project on time is not only a testament to their own resilience, but to the resiliency of

Queens as a whole.

“There truly is no place in the world quite like Queens and we are so fortunate to call this our home,” Choi said. “As we know, Queens was hit very hard by the pandemic and we wanted to do our part in helping to rebuild our community.

We want to show the world that Queens is open for business and at Resorts World they have New York’s only stay, play, dine, shop and be-entertained destination.”

As the pandemic slowly subsides, the Resorts World New York

Casino and Hotel stands as a shining example of how construction can continue to grow and thrive in Queens.

“In construction, you need to be resilient, flexible and goal-oriented, especially when trying to build a new hotel during a pandemic,” Choi explained. “We are very grateful to be recognized by the Queens Chamber of Commerce and owe it to our amazing team, construction partners, and the entire Queens community that helped to build and open this hotel.”

“We’re very proud of the project and we’re pleased with the results,” said Steve Lewent of Graf and Lewent Architects. “The loca-

tion was fantastic and it’s a flexible space. The furniture is movable.”

MORE THAN A CAFETERIA

BY EVAN TRIANTAFILIDIS A new 5,000-square-foot cafeteria is the fulfillment of a long-awaited goal of Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology. It was recognized during the Queens Chamber of Commerce’s recent Buildings Awards ceremony in the category of Rehab Schools and Colleges.

Designed by Graf and Lewent Architects, the new cafeteria was built partly in an underutilized maintenance space at the center of the East Elmhurst building, which was originally used as an airplane hangar in the 1930s.

Located in the middle of the school, the new dining area features high ceilings, skylights and full kitchen.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

November 2021 • Volume 17 • Issue 11

BUILDING AWARDS SPOTLIGHT

MAKEOVER REFLECTS CHANGES IN BANKING

BY JESSICA MEDITZ Maspeth Federal Savings, a neighborhood bank trusted by residents since 1947, has worked to further develop its presence in Queens. Its Ridgewood branch, located on the bustling Fresh Pond Road, first opened in 1998 and celebrated its grand re-opening in 2019 after it doubled in size.

The Queens Chamber of Commerce recognized the revamped building in its 2021 Building Awards in the category of Rehabilitation/Commercial.

Maspeth Federal Savings operated the Ridgewood branch only from the corner frontage at 60-60 Fresh Pond Road over the years, despite owning the neighboring 60-58 storefront as well.

The nonprofit group Polonians Organized to Minister to Our Community, Inc. (POMOC) operated out of the second storefront. Upon their decision to reconfigure the building, Maspeth Federal Savings developed an accessible workspace on the second floor for POMOC, which features new offices and amenities such as an elevator.

The process of remaking the entrance to the bank took nearly a

year to complete, and it was a challenge. The building went through a total makeover — after a year of construction, visible bars on the windows transformed into a modern, sleek retail space adorned with beautiful glass windows.

Architect Chuck Whidden of B + W Architecture D.P.C., who specializes in commercial architectural design, and contractor Dan Storey of Setauket Contracting Corp. were instrumental in helping Maspeth Federal Savings achieve their desired finished product.

“Our goal was to provide an innovative and expanded banking experience to all members and visitors by bringing our vision for an open and engaging layout,” said David Daraio, senior vice president & COO of Maspeth Federal.

As for the interior design, Arthur Gilmore of Gilmore Group assisted with the building’s new layout in an optimal way. The goal was to maintain Maspeth Federal Savings’ relationship with its customers, but also evolve its services to the Universal Banker model.

“The key was to thoughtfully leverage their strongest asset: presence within the community,” according to Gilmore Group’s

Maspeth Federal Savings’ chic exterior brings pops of color to the Madison Avenue and Fresh Pond Road corner. website. “We balanced their existing identity elements with modern branch design components, and developed a modernized façade, thereby designing for customer retention while building greater brand awareness and boosting attraction.”

Daraio recognizes the changes occurring in the industry.

“As the retail landscape is rapidly evolving, Maspeth Federal recognizes the need to continue our commitment to our communities with branch advancements to meet more complex demands,” he said.

VAUGHN COLLEGE CAFETERIA CONTINUED FROM PAGE 20

The new cafeteria replaces an outdated facility in the basement of Vaughn’s main campus building. It includes an audio/visual setup, programmable lighting and landscaped outdoor courtyard.

The new addition is also acces-

sible to a nearby campus courtyard and 23rd Avenue.

“Graf and Lewent have been involved one way or the other in the long term Campus Master Plan,” said Lewent, who also worked with Vaughn College for nearly 20 years.

“They’re good people to work with.”

The interior, designed by Gilmore Group, provides employees and customers with an updated office layout with high-tech equipment, new furniture and various amenities.

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BUILDING AWARDS SPOTLIGHT

INNOLABS FINDS IDEAL SPACE IN QUEENS

BY NICHOLAS LOUD Boston-based King Street Properties came to Queens for its first project in New York City. Innolabs, a state-of-the-art life science lab and office space, is located in the heart of Long Island City just a few blocks from the subway station.

Labs pose particularly complex construction challenges, yet the team at King Street Properties found that Queens was particularly well suited to support such a project.

“The challenges of building a lab — the central systems, the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing requirements — are quite complex,” explained Ed Jaram, senior director at King Street Properties.

“You need to have a really good design team that understands what labs need and able to integrate that into a cohesive whole in 3D vision with a constructible set of drawings. Then you also need a great contractor who knows how to build all of that.

“The barrier for entry for this product type is quite high, and it’s not an easy thing to create in a dense urban environment,” he added. “However, Queens actually has a lot of building stock that is quite good for building labs.”

According to Jaram, the ideal lab building is short and stocky, with

22

expansive floors that encourage collaboration while minimizing disruption.

“Our space in Queens made for an efficient lab building,” Jaram added. “The floor plates are very large in a stack that’s relatively short, only six floors, which lays out really well as a lab. The net gross on each floor is very high as a result.”

King Street Properties broke ground on Innolabs in late 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic

reached Queens. However, the project was designated as essential by the city due to its nature as a life science lab, allowing construction to continue throughout lockdown.

The special designation was just one of many ways that King Street Properties benefited from working in New York City. The Innolabs project has been successful thanks in large part to its location in Long Island City, near many convenient transportation options.

“We were agnostic as to where to build a lab in New York City when we first started looking at the project,” Jaram said. “Queens and Long Island City ended up making sense to us for a few different reasons. The proximity to major New York institutions, like hospitals, universities, and good transport is extremely good.”

Innolabs is within walking distance of seven different subway lines, which supply easy access to Manhattan and JFK Airport. Jaram explained how easy access to these amenities is especially important for a lab building.

“The ability to easily work throughout the city and world is very attractive and helps retain

life science staff,” he said. “Long Island City is also a really excellent mixture of work and play environments. It’s a place where people want to be and live, but also has great access to other spaces and amenities.”

In addition to lab and office space, Innolabs offers a wide selection of other features. These include a bike storage locker, cafe, multi-purpose lobby, and locker rooms with working showers. The building also comes equipped with a massive loading dock that can fit 48-foot trucks, allowing lab tenants to easily receive chemicals, equipment, and other materials essential to their work.

Lab construction is no easy feat, but with the right set of priorities and a great set of accommodations, it can make for a very successful project.

“My advice is to know your market, get the best team you can, and really know the details of what you are doing and why,” Jaram said.

“I’m very grateful to be working in Queens, which is such an encouraging and rapidly growing urban environment. It’s very rewarding to be doing this project here.”

November 2021 • Volume 17 • Issue 11

QUEENS OPENINGS

PIG BEACH BBQ OPENS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

Beach, Florida.

With chef backgrounds at Manhattan upscale eateries Balthazar and Del Posto, both McBride and Abdoo say they are enjoying themselves like never before in their

newest venture.

“It’s really all I’ve ever done, I’ve been in the restaurant business for 30 years,” said McBride, who sports a pig tattoo with all the different cuts of pork. “This is the most fun I’ve had in the restaurant business in a long time.”

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November 2021 • Volume 17 • Issue 11

QUEENSBOROUGH CALENDAR OF EVENTS NOVEMBER 11/4, 9 AM

MORNING SPEED NETWORKING

You know how it works. It’s the fast paced event that takes you outside your comfort zone. It’s guaranteed to build your professional network and increase your business bottom-line. Within a matter of minutes you’ll be introduced to numerous new contacts.

Register at queenschamber.org Four Points by Sheraton 33-68 Farrington Street Flushing, NY 11/8, 1 PM

QCIC STUDENT SERIES: CAREERS AT JETBLUE VENTURES

Are you a Queens college student interested in exploring potential careers? Queens Chamber of Commerce Internship Connection (QCIC) has partnered with JetBlue Ventures to showcase the work they’re doing in Queens and opportunities within their company.

VIRTUAL Register at queenschamber.org 11/9, 1 PM

FINANCING YOUR BUSINESS

This complimentary workshop will serve as a guideline to help you start on the right track for your start-up or operating business. You will walk away with information about the importance of utilizing a business plan, various financing options, resources for start-ups, and an overall better understanding of the fundamentals for business.

VIRTUAL Register at queenschamber.org 11/4, 9:30 AM

NYS COVID-19 SMALL BUSINESS RECOVERY GRANT PROGRAM

Join Peter Aust, executive director of Chamber Alliance of NYS, as he explores the New York State Small Business Recovery Grant, which was created to provide flexible grant assistance to currently viable small businesses, micro-businesses and for-profit independent arts and cultural organizations.

VIRTUAL Register at queenschamber.org 11/11, 9:30 AM

NYS COVID-19 SMALL BUSINESS RECOVERY GRANT PROGRAM

Join Peter Aust, executive director of Chamber Alliance of NYS, as he explores the New York State Small Business Recovery Grant, which was created to provide flexible grant assistance to currently viable small businesses, micro-businesses and for-profit independent

arts and cultural organizations.

VIRTUAL Register at queenschamber.org 11/16, 6 TO 8 PM

NETWORK FOR SUCCESS

Network with brokers, bankers, attorneys and other professionals close to the Queens real estate market. Topics to be discussed include evictions, moratoriums, 1031 exchanges, relief for landlords and more.

Register at queenschamber.org SHI 47-20 Center Boulevard Long Island City

Register at queenschamber.org 11/19, 9:30 AM

EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION SKILLS IN THE WORKPLACE

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 which will make for a more successful organization.

VIRTUAL Register at queenschamber.org

11/17, 10 AM

DECEMBER

NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION

The Queens Chamber of Commerce is committed to maximizing your membership. If you’re a new member and have yet to participate in an orientation, please register to join us virtually.

VIRTUAL Register at queenschamber.org 11/17, 1:30 PM

HOW TO GET MORE CUSTOMERS USING ‘GOOGLE MY BUSINESS’

Learn how to get more customers using “Google My Business,” the reason why you’re not getting found online, and why you don’t have to hire a world-class SEO guru to get world-class results. The guest speaker will be Edward Cresci of Thryv.

VIRTUAL Register at queenschamber.org 11/17, 2 PM

BOOKKEEPING WITH QUICKBOOKS ONLINE

In this webinar, a Certified QuickBooks Pro Advisor will discuss the functions of manual data entry in creating customer invoices, debit card expenses, checks, and credit card expenses, demonstrate how to receive a payment from a customer and make the deposit, and explain how online banking works.

VIRTUAL Register at queenschamber.org 11/18, 9:30 AM

NYS COVID-19 SMALL BUSINESS RECOVERY GRANT PROGRAM

Join Peter Aust, executive director of Chamber Alliance of NYS, as he explores the New York State Small Business Recovery Grant, which was created to provide flexible grant assistance to currently viable small businesses, micro-businesses and for-profit independent arts and cultural organizations.

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12/1, 3 TO 7 PM

JOB FAIR

Have the chance to interface with 60 companies who are currently hiring. There will be something for everyone as all job sectors will be represented..

Commonpoint Queens 67-09 108th Street Forest Hills 12/10, 9:30 AM

MANAGING DIFFICULT PEOPLE IN THE WORKPLACE

This program offers practical strategies for managers and supervisors and workers who need to work with employees who are exhibiting difficult or disruptive behavior.

VIRTUAL Register at queenschamber.org

CEO’S MESSAGE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3

one of the most critical aspects of business: effective communication.

Each of these programs will benefit your business and set you on the path for stainable success. To learn more and find how to participate, visit our website queenschamber. org.

I don’t need to tell you what to be thankful for the during this season, however, I implore you to pause and focus on those things which are of importance. My hope is you’ll come away with a grateful heart.

My heart is made glad day in and day out serving as president of this amazing organization and knowing that you and Queens residents thrive. Thank you for your continued support of Queens Chamber.

Remember, together we’re STRONG!

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QUEENS CHAMBER PARTNERS & AFFILIATES 82ND STREET PARTNERSHIP

37-06 82nd Street, Jackson Heights, NY 11372 Executive Director: Leslie Ramos 718.335.9421 82ndstreet.org QUICK GLANCE: Budget of $224,000 with

more than 200 businesses under its umbrella. The district is on 82nd Street from 37th Avenue to Baxter Avenue. The board meets quarterly with the annual meeting in June.

ASIAN AMERICAN FEDERATION

120 Wall Street, 9th Fl., New York, NY 10005 aafederation.org QUICK GLANCE: The Asian American Federation’s mission is to raise the influence and well-being of the pan-Asian American community through research, policy advocacy, public awareness and organizational development.

Established in 1989, the Federation is a panAsian non-profit organization representing a network of community service agencies in the Northeast. These agencies work in the fields of

health & human services, education, economic development, civic participation, and social justice.

BAYSIDE VILLAGE BID

213-33 39th Avenue, Bayside, NY 11361 Executive Director: Christine Siletti 718.423.2434 info@baysidevillagebid.com QUICK GLANCE: Budget of $218,000 and

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

BAYSIDE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

41-16 Bell Boulevard, Bayside, NY 11361 President: Ed Probst Vice President: Judith Limpert 718.229.2277 info@baysideba.com baysideba.com

QUICK GLANCE: Founded in 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.

ACCOMPANY CAPITAL (FORMERLY BCNA)

78-27 37 Ave., Ste. 1 Jackson Heights, NY 11372 Business Development: Tshering Gurung 347.730.6468 tgurung@accompanycapital.org QUICK GLANCE: Accompany Capital is an

award-winning Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) and Small Business Administration (SBA) micro lender that provides small and micro business owners in New York City with low-cost loans, access to business training & technical assistance, and one-on-one counseling.

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November 2021 • Volume 17 • Issue 11

QUEENS CHAMBER PARTNERS & AFFILIATES York City since its founding as Business Center for New Americans (BCNA) in 1997, as well as provided workshops and one-onone advice on business management and marketing to over 10,000 businesses.

marketing initiative, Lunar Stages outdoor film screenings, and Taste of Chinatown street events, Chinatown Partnership helps promote the area as a special destination to live, work, and visit.

BUSINESS OUTREACH CENTER NETWORK (BOC, INC.)

FOREST HILLS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

85 S. Oxford Street #2 Brooklyn, NY 11217 718.624.9115 bocnet.org QUICK GLANCE: Business Outreach Center Network’s mission is to improve the economic prospects of traditionally underserved groups, with a focus on low- and moderate-income entrepreneurs and their communities, and thereby create genuinely brighter futures.

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

CHHAYA CDC

37-43 77th Street, #2 Jackson Heights, NY 11372 718.478.3848 chhayacdc.org QUICK GLANCE: Core to our strategy is organizing and advocating for systemic changes that remove the barriers to well-being, housing stability, and economic mobility for our communities. For over 20 years, Chhaya has served tens of thousands of individuals and led the charge on key policy issues for immigrants, such as basement legalization, language access, tenants’ rights, and more.

CHINATOWN DISTRICT MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION (CHINATOWN PARTNERSHIP)

217 Park Row, 2nd Floor, Suite 9 New York, NY 10038 chinatownpartnership.org QUICK GLANCE: Chinatown Partnership, led

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

With the highly popular Weekend Walks street festive series, Mid-Autumn Festival, One Day in NYC, annual Beautification/Earth Day, East West Parade with Little Italy, Double Valentine’s Day to promote the softer side of Chinatown and the Jewelry District and all the cafes, eateries in the area. Explore Chinatown

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.

GATEWAY JFK

Executive Director: Scott Grimm-Lyon 516.730.3400 info@GatewayJFK.org GatewayJFK.org QUICK GLANCE: Formerly the Greater JFK

Industrial BID and founded in 2016, the group seeks to provide support to the off-airport air cargo and services district through supplemental services and improvements, technical and professional services for its members, and advocacy and administration.

GREATER FLUSHING CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

39-01 Main Street, Suite 511, Flushing NY 11354 Executive Director: John Choe john@flushingchamber.nyc 646.783.8985 flushingchamber.nyc QUICK GLANCE: Founded in 2014 and repre-

senting over 200 businesses.

GREATER JAMAICA DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

90-04 161st Street, Jamaica, NY 11432 President: Hope Knight 718.291.0282 gjdc.org QUICK GLANCE: Founded in 1967, the group

has 75 members. GJDC’s work expands economic opportunity and improves quality of life for the ethnically and economically diverse residents of Jamaica and for the region at large, which benefits from rational, wellplanned, and sustainable metropolitan growth.

GREATER WOODHAVEN DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION WOODHAVEN BID 84-01 Jamaica Avenue, Woodhaven NY 11421 718.805.0202

gwdcbid@hotmail.com woodhavenbid.com QUICK GLANCE: Budget of $257,000 with

more than 350 businesses under its umbrella on Jamaica Avenue from Dexter Court to 100th Street. They are providing free benches for store owners along Jamaica Avenue. They also provide 2.5 and 5 percent home improvement loans.

JAMAICA CENTER BID

161-10 Jamaica Avenue, Suite 419 Jamaica, NY 11432 Executive Director: Jennifer Furioli 718.526.2422 jamaica.nyc @JamCenterBID (Twitter) @jamcenterbid (Instagram) @Jamaica Center BID (Facebook) QUICK GLANCE: Founded in 1979, the

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

JFK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

P.O. Box 300687, Jamaica, NY 11430 Executive Director: Clorinda Antonucci President: Al DePhillips Vice President: Joseph Morra JFKCoCExec@gmail.com jf kairportchamberofcommerce.org QUICK GLANCE: Founded in 1978, the group

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

LONG ISLAND CITY PARTNERSHIP

President: Elizabeth Lusskin 718.786.5300 longislandcityqueens.com QUICK GLANCE: 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 mixed-use community. The LIC Partnership operates the LIC

27

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QUEENS CHAMBER PARTNERS & AFFILIATES Business Improvement District and the LIC Industrial Business Zone.

MASPETH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

P.O. Box 780265, Maspeth, NY 11378 President: David Daraio 718.335.1300 maspethchamberofcommerce.org QUICK GLANCE: Founded in 1953, they have

120 members and a budget of $115,000.

MASPETH INDUSTRIAL BUSINESS ASSOCIATION (MIBA)

BOC: 96-11 40th Road, Corona, NY 11368 Coordinator: Quincy Ely-Cate 718.205.3773 qelycate@bocnet.org mibanyc.org QUICK GLANCE: Covering roughly 600 busi-

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

MIDDLE VILLAGE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

79-47 Metropolitan Ave., Middle Village, NY 11379 President: Salvatore Crifasi 718.894.8700 Sal@Crifasi.com QUICK GLANCE: Budget of $8,000 with

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

MURRAY HILL MERCHANTS ASSOCIATION OF NY

P.O. Box 1897 New York, NY 10156 212.886.5867 murrayhillnyc.org QUICK GLANCE: Murray Hill is a unique residential neighborhood in midtown Manhattan. While there is no formal boundary for the neighborhood, the area served by The Murray Hill Neighborhood Association and its sister organization the Manhattan East Community Association (MECA) extends from Fifth Avenue eastward to the East River and from 42nd Street down to 26th Street (encompassing the 10016 postal code).

28

MYRTLE AVENUE BID

62-14 Myrtle Avenue, Ridgewood, NY 11385 Executive Director: Ted Renz 718.366.3806 QUICK GLANCE: Budget of $500,000 with

over 300 retail and service businesses under its purview. Board meetings are held four times a year with the annual meeting in June. The district includes Myrtle Avenue in Ridgewood between Fresh Pond Road and Wyckoff Avenue. Program support is provided by the Ridgewood LDC.

QUEENS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

12-55 Queens Boulevard, Room 309 Kew Gardens, NY 11424 Executive Director: Seth Bornstein 718.263.0546 queensny.org QUICK GLANCE: Budget of $1.5 million

the Rockaway Peninsula REMA works alongside businesses, civic groups, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. REMA works to inform the public about opportunities that exist to strengthen the community, and to create a welcoming and safe environment to help expand economic opportunity in the Rockaway Peninsula.

STEINWAY ASTORIA PARTNERSHIP BID

25-69 38th Street, Suite 1C, Astoria 11103 Executive Director: Marie Torniali 718.728.7820 info@steinwaystreet.nyc steinwaystreet.org QUICK GLANCE: Founded in 1991, the BID

and a resource for over 2,000 businesses in the borough of Queens. Register online for upcoming virtual events, including:

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

ROCKAWAY BUSINESS ALLIANCE

SUNNYSIDE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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.

$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 throughout the neighborhood.

info@rockawaybusinessalliance.org QUICK GLANCE: Budget of $40,000 and

ROCKAWAY DEVELOPMENT & REVITALIZATION CORPORATION

1920 Mott Avenue, Far Rockaway, NY 11691 President: Kevin Alexander 718.327.5300 www.rdrc.org QUICK GLANCE: Founded in 1978, the

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

ROCKAWAY EAST MERCHANTS ASSOCIATION (REMA4US)

1032 Beach 20th Street Far Rockaway, NY 11691 rema4us.org QUICK GLANCE: REMA 4 US, Inc. seeks to engage in economic development and revitalization in the Rockaway Peninsula. To strengthen our community revitalization programs and community development efforts in

PO Box 4399, Sunnyside, NY 11104 President: Vanessa Ceballos 718.729.4688 sunnyside-chamber.org QUICK GLANCE: With an annual budget of

SUNNYSIDE SHINES

45-56 43rd Street, Sunnyside, NY 11104 Executive Director: Jaime-Faye Beam 718.606.1800 director@sunnysideshines.org sunnysideshines.org QUICK GLANCE: The BID has a budget of

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

SUTPHIN BOULEVARD BID

89-00 Sutphin Boulevard, Suite 204C Jamaica, NY 11435 Executive Director: Glen Greenridge 718.291.2110 sutphinblvdbid@verizon.net QUICK GLANCE: The BID was founded in

2004 and represents 134 businesses, 56 properties and 39 property owners along Sutphin Boulevard between Hillside Avenue and 94th Avenue in Jamaica.

November 2021 • Volume 17 • Issue 11

NEW MEMBERS

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71-24 35th Avenue Jackson Heights, NY 11372 homesmartcrossisland.com With over 27 years of experience, we are the number one source for complete information on New York Real Estate. We specialize in the Queens, Long Island and Brooklyn Real Estate market. We assist with relocation, foreclosure issues, property management and lots more.

James E. Fitzgerald, Inc.

48 W. 38th Street, Floor 9 New York, NY 10018 jefgc.com Founded in 1907, James E. Fitzgerald, Inc. has established a reputation for excellence in the construction industry. Our firm specializes in commercial interiors and has successfully completed thousands of projects ranging in size and scale from minor partition changes to full scope renovations consisting of multiple floors, high end finishes and the integration of state-ofthe-art infrastructure and technology.

Krispy Kreme

22-02 31st Avenue Queens, NY 11105 krispykreme.com To make the most awesome doughnuts on the planet every single day. Giving back to our communities through fundraising and philanthropic work is at our core. Things are better enjoyed together, especially the sweet fluffy clouds of deliciousness we call doughnuts.

R.A.M.S. Mechanical, Inc.

15-25 132nd Street College Point, NY 11356 ramsmechanical.com R.A.M.S. Mechanical Inc. is a one-stop shop for heating, ventilation, air conditioning and contracting. Our craftsmen are not only trained in the latest BIM system to allow streamlined coordination and execution, but carry your work from beginning to end: in-house sheet metal and piping fabrication, fitting, installation, controls, and maintenance.

RXR Realty

625 RXR Plaza Uniondale, NY 11556

RIPCO Investment Sales

100 Jericho Quadrangle, Suite Jericho, NY 11753 ripcony.com RIPCO is a full-service firm specializing in commercial real estate, combining experience in both owner and tenant retail representation, and investment sales to advise our clients along every step of their journey. Unique to the industry, our platform allows us to integrate our expertise and relationships in the retail market with our expertise in the investment sales market to identify value and opportunity for our clients.

Standard Group

57 Mahan Street West Babylon, NY 11074 standardgroupny.com We are a one-stop shop for all of your fire protection needs. From commercial fire suppression systems to residential sprinklers and everything in between, we understand the intricacies of this incredibly important safety feature, and we make sure that everything is well-built and working as it should be. We stand out from the competition by constantly integrating new technology into our services and matching our world-class craftsmanship

with outstanding customer service.

Vista LIC Hotel, Best Western Premier Collection

2705 39th Avenue Long Island City, NY 11101 vistalichotel.com Take It Easy. You deserve quiet comforts and a convenient location. Our beautiful hotel has you covered. Whether you’re here for business or pleasure, the Vista LIC Hotel a Best Western Premier Collection will be your home away from home.

INTRODUCTORY HomeSmart CrossIsland 24214 Merrick Boulevard Rosedale, NY 11422 homesmartcrossisland.com Jabba Dorado Ent (The Migrant Kitchen) 4115 36th Street Long Island City, NY 11101 themigrantkitchennyc.com MJM+ A Architects PLLC 14 East 38th Street, 11th Floor New York, NY 10016 mjmacaluso.com Oculus Consulting Group 14 East 38th Street, 11th Floor New York, NY 10016 oculuscorp.com Payco 708 3rd Avenue New York, NY 10017 paycor.com PS Family NYC 2807 Jackson Avenue Queens, NY 11101 psfamilynyc.org ReCap Inc-Real Estate Capital of America, Inc. 1185 Avenue of America, 37th Floor New York, NY 10036 recapny.com The Mary Jane Consulting Group 4206A Bell Boulevard, 318 Bayside, NY 11361 themaryjaneconsultinggroup.com Vibrant Women Wellness Counseling 75-80 184th Street Fresh Meadows, NY 11366 vibrantwoman.me

29

THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH EXECUTIVE COMMMITEE

queenschamber.org

Thomas Santucci

Nash Roe

Thomas J. Grech

Brendan Leavy

Susan Browning

Richard Dzwlewicz

Joanne M. Persad

Jacqueline Donado

Chairperson

Associate Treasurer

Vice Chairperson

Associate Secretary

Patricia Mezeul Treasurer

President & CEO

Business Development Manager

Chief of Operations

Strategic Program Coordinator

Alejandra Espejo

Jef Gross

Financial Controller

Patrick Yu

Neil Wagner

Secretary

SENIOR ADVISORY COUNCIL

EXECUTIVE STAFF

Business Service Program Manager

Manager of Committee Development

William Blake Vincent L. Petraro, Esq. Dominick Ciampa George Rozansky Joseph Farber Gerard Thornton Louis D. Laurino Jeff Levine Joseph M. Mattone, Sr

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 Stephanie Baldwin Fran Biderman-Gross Susan Browning Kenneth J. Buettner Charles E. Callahan Ali Chaudhry

Sal Crifasi Steven DeClara Mayra DiRico Richard Dzwlewicz Charles Everett, Jr. Joseph R. Ficalora

Tamara Gavrielof Howard Graf Dr. Cameron Hernandez Raymond Irrera Kenneth Koenig Neil Levin

Bert Lurch Carl Mattone Patricia Mezeul Melinda Murray-Nyack Maria Odysseus Stephen Preuss

Nash Roe Jeffrey Rosenstock Juan Santiago Thomas Santucci Mark Scheinberg Sher Sparano

Michelle Stoddart Terri Thomson Henry Wan Mark Weprin Patrick Yu Daniel Zausner

CORPORATE MEMBERS 365 Data Centers A&L Cesspool Services Corp AARP Above All Pressure Cleaning Abrams Fensterman Aeroterm Andromeda Aora Development Approved General Contracting Inc., ARK Development LLC Aurora Contractors, Inc. Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service Bank of America BedRock Real Estate Partners, LLC BJ’s Wholesale Club Blumenfeld Development Group, Ltd. Capital One Bank

Carter Milchman and Frank CBRE Center for Automotive Education and Training Cerini and Associates, LLP. Champion Elevator Corp.

Cine Magic LIC Studios, LLC Cipico Construction, Inc. Citibank CitizensRx City National Bank Clearcell Power Complete Supply Cord Meyer Development LLC Cornell NYC Tech Corporate Development Systems, Inc. Cort CPower Energy Management Crescent Properties, Inc

Crown Castle Cushman & Wakefield, Inc. Dedline AV DG Construction East Coast Energy Group EDGE AUTO INC Einbinder & Dunn LLP Enterprise Fleet Management EOS Electrical Corp Evolve IP EW Howell Construction Group Farrell Fritz, P.C. Fastsigns South Ozone Park First Central Savings Bank Fluid Mechanic’s Corp.

Gatsons Electric, Inc. Gil-Bar Industries, Inc. GoPuff Graf & Lewent Architects Greater NY Automobiles

COMMITTEE LEADERSHIP ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Leonard Jacobs Jamaica Center for Arts & Learning leonard@jcal.org Adrienne Whaley Queens Underground Black & Brown Film Festivals queensunderground718@gmail.com

BANKING & LAW

Paul Harrison Chase paul.harrison@chase.com Jackie Harounian Wisselman, Harounian & Associates jackie@lawjaw.com

COMMUNICATIONS HEALTHCARE & WELLNESS

Bert Lurch E Central Medical Management bertl@ecmmgt.com Prabhleen S. Virk Citrin Cooperman pvirk@citrincooperman.com

ENERGY

Marshall Haimson E-Capital Development marshall@e-capitaldevelopment.com Jay Solly Sol Strategies jaypsolly@gmail.com

ENTREPRENEURSHIP & INNOVATION Bill Staniford bill@staniford.com

FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESSES Chad Callahan Plaza College cec4@plazacollege.edu Michael Shoule JW Hampton mikes@jwhampton.com

FOOD, BEVERAGE & HOSPITALITY

Jim Quent Statewide Public Affairs jquent@statewidepublicaffairs.com Vincent Gentile Vassilaros & Sons Coffee vincent@vassilaroscoffee.com

MANUFACTURING Lina DeLaCruz Control Electropolishing Corp. lina@controlpublishing.com

30

NOT FOR PROFIT

Larry Grubler Transitional Services of NY lgrubler@tsiny.org Maria Odysseus Investors Bank modysseus@myinvestorsbank.com Wendy Phaff Gennaro Queens Center for Progress wphaff@queenscp.com

REAL ESTATE

Martin Cottingham Avison Young martin.cottingham@avisonyoung.com Kevin Louie RIPCO klouie@ripcony.com Michael Wang Project Queens michael@projectqueens.com

TECHNOLOGY Bobby Giurintano TGI Office Automation bgiurintano@tgioa.com Fred Canone fc1281@gmail.com

TRANSPORTATION Marlon Taylor NY & Atlantic Railway mtaylor@anacostia.com Phil Jones LIME philip@li.me

Dealers Association HANAC, Inc. Healthy Corner Pharmacy Heatherwood Communities Himmel + Meringoff Properties Holt Construction Corp.

Horticultural Creations Inc IKEA Queens INDA, Association of Nonwoven Fabric Industry INF Associates, LLC Innovo Property Group J.W. Hampton Jr. & Co., Inc. JGM Construction Development, LLC Kasirer Consulting Kaufman Astoria Studios, Inc. Laffey Real Estate Littler Mendelson, P.C. Lyons Mortgage Services, Inc. M & T Bank Madison International Realty Madison Realty Capital McBride Consulting & Business Mega Contracting Group LLC Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, Bank of America Corporation Metropolitan Taxicab Board of Trade Molloy College Mondial Automotive Mount Sinai Hospital of Queens Mr. T Carting Corp.

My Benefit Advisor, LLC NBCUniversal New York + Atlantic Railway New York Crystal Cleaning New York Islanders Hockey Club New York Life Insurance Company New York State Energy Coalition, Inc. Nonprofit Sector Strategies, PBC Nuvo Solutions NYC Cooling Tower Inspections and Services, LLC NYC Ferry Operated by Hornblower Owareco, LLC Patrick B. Jenkins & Associates

PGA Mechanical Contractors, Inc. Pi Capital Partners Priority 1 Security LLC ProCleanings Co QSIDE Federal Credit Union Queens College Reef Technology Related Retail Corporation Safety Facility Services Samaritan Daytop Village Securitech Group, Inc. Signature Bank SL Green Realty Corp.

Solve Together LLC Soter Technologies, LLC. Spectrum Reach Squad Security Inc. St. Francis Preparatory School St. John’s University Starbucks Corporation Sterling National Bank Sterling Sanitary Supply Corp Structural Engineering Technologies, P.C. Sullivan Engineering LLC Target TC Electric TGI Office Automation The Center for Musculoskeletal Disorders The First National Bank of Long Island Transmission Developers, Inc. TSC Training Academy, LLC Ultrasound Solutions Corp.

United Airlines United Construction & Development Group Corp.

United Public Adjusters & Appraisers, Inc. USTA National Tennis Center, Inc. Valley National Bank Vanguard Building Solutions, LLC Vassilaros & Sons Coffee Verus Commercial Real Estate Finance Watch Guard 24/7 WellLife Network White Coffee Corp Xin Development Group International York College - CUNY Zara Realty

November 2021 • Volume 17 • Issue 11 MAJOR CORPORATE MEMBERS

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

31

1,095

$

That’s how much your employees may earn for their health savings accounts (HSAs) with UnitedHealthcare Motion®

Rewards for meeting fitness goals? We have that.

With wellness programs like Motion, employees may earn rewards for meeting certain daily activity goals — which may help them get healthier and reduce their out-of-pocket costs. Just one more way health plans from Oxford may help your employees and your bottom line stay healthier.

Contact your broker or learn more at uhc.com/oxfordnow

Oxford insurance products are underwritten by Oxford Health Insurance, Inc. Motion may not be available with all Oxford plans.

UnitedHealthcare Motion is a voluntary program. The information provided is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be nor should be construed as medical advice. You should consult an appropriate health care professional before beginning any exercise program and/or to determine what may be right for you. Receiving an activity tracker and/or certain credits and/or purchasing an activity tracker with earnings may have tax implications. You should consult an appropriate tax professional to determine if you have any tax obligations under this program, as applicable. If any fraudulent activity is detected (e.g., misrepresented physical activity), you may be suspended and/or terminated from the program. If you are unable to meet a standard related to health factor to receive a reward under this program, you might qualify for an opportunity to receive the reward by different means. You may call us toll free at 1-855-256-8669 or at the number on your health plan ID card, and we will work with you (and, if necessary, your doctor) to find another way for you to earn the same reward. Subject to HSA eligibility, as applicable.

B2B EI21772705.0 9/21 © 2021 Oxford Health Plans LLC. All Rights Reserved. 21-660766-F