This Is Queensborough - Ocotber 2019

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October 2019 . Volume 15 . Issue 10

RUNWAY SUCCESS

THE TEAM BEHIND THE TWA HOTEL AT JFK WILL BE HONORED AT CHAMBER GALA

“THE OPPORTUNITY TO BRING IT BACK TO ITS FORMER GLORY WAS A ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME OPPORTUNITY.”

ALSO

• MEET THREE OTHER BUILDING AWARDS HONOREES • CHAMBER LAUNCHES ‘POP UP’ PROGRAM • REPORT: STOREFRONT VACANCIES ON THE RISE MCR AND MORSE DEVELOPMENT CEO & MANAGING PARTNER TYLER MORSE

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October 2019 • Volume 15 • Issue 10

A MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

OUR MEMBERS GUIDE OUR MISSION

When Tom Grech joined Queens of our initial volunteer commitChamber of Commerce in July of tees, the first of which was the Energy Committee.

2015, the organizaSince that time, eight tion’s landscape was additional committees slightly different. have formed spanning We’ve always proevery industry alignvided a vehicle to ing with our member measure the value of businesses. membership, mostly Via these committhrough building contees, lead by two conections to increase chairs and an active business. With Tom’s working group, memarrival, direct from TOM SANTUCCI bers lend their experthe energy world, he tise and knowledge felt it necessary for CHAIRPERSON to Queens Chamber, Chamber members to placing the organizahave a vertical path to tion in a position to facilitate profocus their attention and contribgrams and presentations that align ute via their individual industries.

This was behind the formation specifically to your industry.

That’s not the only benefit; committee participation affords you the opportunity to be experts on certain subjects while creating a pathway for business transactions to occur.

It’s very strategic on the organization’s part, building a sustainable means for you to grow your business while developing relationships that thrive.

As I reflect on my time spent thus far with Queens Chamber of Commerce, I’m fortunate enough to see the impact these committees are making in Queens. The wealth of knowledge shared through any number of the panels presentation and seminars is priceless.

It’s really your call as a Queens

Chamber member or future member to tap into the variety of educational and participation opportunities that exist, whether as a business owner seeking critical information to stimulate growth within your own organization or from a volunteer prospective seeking to share your professional expertise.

Everything you need is in one place: the Queens Chamber of Commerce. For information regarding upcoming events, business resources or participating on a committee, visit queenschamber.org.

Thank you for all the support you provide the Queens Chamber of Commerce.

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT & CEO

A NEW CHAPTER FOR THE QUEENS CHAMBER On September 17, the Queens needs of our membership to move Chamber welcomed guests to our our organization from one that is new offices at Bulova Corporate transactional to relationship-based.

Center. Among those At the end of the in attendance were day it’s about buildnumerous elected ing community, and officials, various that can only be done Board members and through the power of Borough President building strong relaMelinda Katz, who tionships. delivered heartfelt On October 3, remarks. we’ll celebrate the We were excited to accomplishments of share the beginning those architects and of Queens Cham- THOMAS J. GRECH builders who are ber’s next chapter impacting our comPRESIDENT & CEO with the individuals munity at our 93rd we serve and those Annual Building who have provided us with out- Awards Gala, which will be hosted standing support throughout the at the iconic TWA Hotel. years.

These awards are an opportunity Introducing this new workspace to showcase the best and brightest paves the way for new oppor- building projects in Queens and tunities that will have a signifi- the people behind them. cant impact on the community we Make plans to join the third serve. installment of Breakfast Speed From our new state-funded pro- Networking on October 16 in the gram, the Queens Chamber Intern- Café at Bulova Corporate Center. ship Connection, to the develop- It’s fast-paced, high-energy netment of three new volunteer mem- working that guarantees you 20 ber committees (Arts & Entertain- new business contacts in a conment, Entrepreneurship & Innova- densed time frame. tion, and Bankers & Lawyers), On October 17, the Queens we’re constantly assessing the Chamber will host a Korean Busi-

ness Expo at Daedong Manor Wedding Venues in Jamaica. It will be a great opportunity to discover and explore some of the rich diversity Queens offers.

On the 24 of the month, our Healthcare & Wellness Committee will host “Breast Cancer Awareness 2019: What Everyone Should Know” at the Forest Hills branch of the Queens Library with Dr. Susan Lee from Northwell Health.

As Queens Chamber moves through its next chapter, we seek to raise the bar on our educational opportunities, as well as increase networking and participation verticals designed with you in mind.

For details on our upcoming events and additional information, visit queenschamber.org. I sincerely thank you for your continued support of the Queens Chamber of Commerce.

The Queens Chamber officially opened its new office last month.

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QUEENS QUICKLY STRINGER: RETAIL VACANCIES ON RISE

Despite New York City’s continued economic expansion, a new in-depth analysis by Comptroller Scott Stringer shows that the rate of empty and vacant storefronts across the five boroughs has skyrocketed by nearly 50 percent over the past decade, rising to a high of 5.8 percent in 2017.

“Even as our economy has grown, many mom-and-pop stores have been left behind, transforming spaces once owned by local small businesses into barren storefronts,” said Stringer. “This isn’t just about empty buildings and neighborhood blight, it’s about the affordability crisis in our city.”

Using never-before analyzed data, Stringer’s report found that the dramatic rise of retail vacancy citywide – which doubled to over 11 million square feet between 2007 and 2017 – has been fueled by the growth in online shopping, rising commercial rents, and burdensome regulatory hurdles.

The rise of online retail in particular has dramatically reshaped the mix of New York City’s retail space away from traditional retail stores in favor of service-oriented establishments such as restaurants, barbers, and exercise studios, contributing to the growing vacancy trend as landlords and retailers struggle to adjust.

Although Manhattan is home to areas with some of the greatest amounts of vacant squarefeet, the highest vacancy rate neighborhoods lie outside of Manhattan – particularly in Staten Island and Queens.

To support local small business growth, Stringer proposed a series of measures, including a tax incentive for retailers in high-vacancy areas, reforming the city bureaucracy that stalls the construction, inspection, and permit processes, and improving planning for how retail spaces are developed.

the Food Arts Center, a state-of-the-art kitchen training facility in midtown Manhattan.

The remaining six weeks of the program will offer participants on-the-job training in respected NYC restaurant kitchens. Participants will be paid a weekly stipend of $125/week during the initial 8 week training and will then be hired as an apprentice by a restaurant partner, at $16/ hour, for the 6 weeks of on-the-job training.

It is intended that qualified apprentices who successfully complete their training will continue with their employer as full time entry-level line cooks.

For more information or to sign up for an information session, visit nyc.gov/firstcourse.

SBS PROGRAM TRAINS CHAMBER RELEASES NEXT TOP CHEFS GUIDE TO NABE Department of Small Business Services (SBS) Commissioner Gregg Bishop last month launched First Course NYC, a culinary apprenticeship to train New Yorkers and connect them to quality entry-level line cook jobs in leading New York City restaurants.

With over 24,000 restaurants across the City, SBS is meeting the growing demand for qualified kitchen employees and increasing access for New Yorkers to start their careers in the culinary arts.

“New York City’s restaurant industry is vital to the local economy,” said Bishop. “Empowering residents with the skills needed to succeed in the ever-evolving food landscape gives them the opportunity for growth and prosperity in the future.”

The 14-week program provides culinary knowledge, technical skills, on-the-job training and valuable industry exposure. The initial eight weeks of classroom kitchen training, delivered with the participation of esteemed Chef David Waltuck, will teach participants the fundamental skills required to be an entry-level professional line cook.

This training component will be delivered at

The Forest Hills Chamber of Commerce recently released a guidebook to the community.

Years ago, chamber president Leslie Brown developed her own pocket-sized guidebooks over the course of a four-year period. She used inspiration from those to create the first official guidebook.

The 40-page book highlights the chamber’s members and includes a directory of restaurants, shops and schools. Additionally, there’s a list of community organizations and elected officials in the area, as well as their contact information.

The chamber’s guidebook also contains public transportation information, history of the area, Forest Hills fun facts, and a list of architectural gems.

“This year we featured history, as well as the story behind the Hellen Keller mural,” Brown said. Each year we will feature something unique about the community.”

The guide also puts a focus on annual events hosted by the chamber, including two street festivals, summer jazz concerts, and an end-of-the-year “Celebrate Winter” event.

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

Chamber to Host Two Events Aimed at Importers/Exporters .........................21

Chamber Makes Move to New Office Official .......................................10

Partners & Affiliates News and Happenings ........................................................24

Alvista is the First Tower to Transform the Jamaica Skyline ..............12

Chamber Welcomes New Members .........................................................................29

History Meets Contemporary Design in Douglaston ............................14 New Concourse is Redefines Travel Experience at LGA ...................15 COVER STORY: TWA Hotel Brings Back the Jet Age .......................16 NONPROFIT NEWS: King Manor Celebrates Constitution ..............18 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

October 2019 • Volume 15 • Issue 10 “I wanted people to know in advance who supports the community and all of the events that we do,” Brown said. “We have a list of chamber members, and hopefully the community will support those businesses if they don’t already.”

With Forest Hills becoming a more popular destination due in large part to the Forest Hills Stadium concerts, the organization is hoping the guidebooks can be a resource for visitors and new residents alike, as well as encourage more businesses to join the chamber.

“We definitely want to attract more members, and that’s one reason why we chose to do it,” Brown said.

During the recent jazz concerts and street fair, the chamber gave out 1,500 copies to community members. Copies will also be given to advertisers and chamber members, who will distribute them to their customers.

Brown said they are also hoping to have

QUEENS QUICKLY copies at the office of Community Board 6 and Borough Hall.

A digital version of the guide can be found at bit.ly/2ksbSit.

NEW ESCAPE ROOM OPENS IN LIC The city’s first kitchen-themed escape room has opened in Long Island City.

Melanie Lemieux and Kyle Radzyminski, the owners and operators of ESScape Experience at 24-11 41st Avenue, opened the doors to their latest neighborhood venture.

The LIC couple also operate two bars and restaurants, The Baroness and The Huntress, as well New York Stage of Mind, a music and performance school.

“We’re escape-the-room fanatics,” Lemieux said. “We’ve done so many of them all over the globe.”

Lemieux found that their favorite escape rooms feature sets that “made you feel like you’re in a different room.” For example, they’ve done a prison-themed room where the participants are actually handcuffed.

Built like a real restaurant, “The Real Kitchen Nightmare” takes roughly 60 minutes to complete. It allows two to six participants.

As the storyline goes, a rogue chef closed his restaurant after a few sous chefs disappeared and their bodies were never found, Lemieux said.

The chef then decides to reopen the restaurant and hire new sous chefs - the participants - to come in for training.

“That’s all I’ll say for now,” she said.

ENSURING QUEENS BUSINESSES ARE AIRPORT STAPLES

Borough President Melinda Katz welcomed business owners and prospective concessionaires to an Airport Concessions Orientation Symposium at Borough Hall on September 19. The event was co-hosted by Katz and the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey. Dozens of entrepreneurs attended the orientation to learn strategies on operating successful concessions at either LaGuardia or Kennedy airports, both of which are in varying stages of redevelopment.

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THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

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

PROMOTIONS, ANNOUNCEMENTS & APPOINTMENTS Ahn joins office of Councilman Koo Councilman Peter Koo has hired Joonyong Ahn as his new Director of Community Affairs and Korean Community Liaison.

Ahn is a Flushing resident and a graduate of Yonsei University in Seoul. He is former editor and reporter for the Korea Daily, and he most recently returned from Korea where he spent the last four years working in marketing for a healthcare company. He is also trilingual, speaking English, Korean, and Chinese.

“Councilman Koo has long served as an advocate for Korean New Yorkers, from his efforts to improve the small business community on Union Street AHN and Murray Hill to his advocacy on behalf of Comfort Women,” Ahn said. “I am excited to get involved and look forward to working with him to ensure everyone in our community has a voice.”

As the Director of Community Affairs, he will work in partnership with community-based organizations to develop and implement programs that will assist the residents of Koo’s district, and to serve as a liaison to the Koreanspeaking community.

“Joonyong has a deep understanding of the city’s political landscape and a long-standing relationship with the Flushing community from his years serving as a reporter and editor here in Flushing,” Koo said. “I encourage our residents to get to know Joonyong, and look forward to working with him to continue our office’s legacy of advocacy with the community.”

an Queens in gastroenterology and advanced endoscopy.

Since 2008, he has been the director of interventional endoscopy at NewYork-Presbyterian Queens, and has trained numerous residents and fellows.

Through his advanced endoscopy skills, he has built a robust referral practice.

Dr. Ahmed Soliman has joined NewYorkPresbyterian Queens KIM as Chief of Anesthesia.

He arrived on August 5.

In this role, Soliman will provide clinical and operational leadership for the Anesthesia team. He most recently served as Chief of Anesthesia for Envision Physician Services/ Sheridan Healthcare at Day Kimball Hospital in Putnam, Connecticut.

In his previous role, he oversaw the methodology and protocols that decreased the same-day surgery cancellation rate and improved patient outcomes. Soliman brings more than 18 years of SOLIMAN clinical experience to NewYork-Presbyterian Queens.

He earned his medical degree from Cairo University School of Medicine in Egypt, and completed his residency at Jackson Memorial Hospital and Ryder Trauma Center in Miami.

He also received a Masters of Business Administration from the University of Tennessee.

Kim, Soliman in new posts at NYPQ

Bennett honored by Parker Jewish

Dr. Sang H. Kim has been named chief of the Division of Gastroenterology in the Department of Medicine at NewYork-Presbyterian Queens.

He assumes this role immediately after serving as interim chief for several months. He also holds an academic appointment as an assistant professor of clinical medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine.

Kim is a graduate of the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and Albany Medical College. After his internal medicine training at Mount Sinai St. Luke’s, he trained at NewYork-Presbyteri-

Samuel Bennett, the senior supervisor and dispatcher at Parker Jewish Institute’s Lakeville Ambulette Transportation, was named a 2019 LeadingAge New York Employee of Distinction Award recipient.

Bennett began working at Lakeville Ambulette in 2009. He has been instrumental in the essential and safe transport of patients and residents, even in harrowing weather conditions, including during critical evacuations prompted by hurricanes Sandy and Irene.

During Hurricane Sandy in 2012, Bennett

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served as an ambulette driver and a dispatcher, and during Irene in 2011, as both an ambulette and ambulance driver.

Over the course of Hurricane Sandy, there were hundreds of evacuations, which Bennett coordinated. During Hurricane Irene, Bennett assisted in the evacuation of patients and residents from a skilled nursing facility in Long Beach.

At the height of this storm, he served as part BENNETT of a caravan of ambulettes and ambulances traveling to Hunter College, where the gymnasium was set up to provide shelter and care for evacuees. The next morning, Bennett helped transport these evacuees back to their homes.

In his current role, Bennett coordinates the organization’s professional transportation services for Parker’s patients and residents when they travel to appointments with physicians, nursing homes and related destinations.

This service is also provided to adults in the communities that are served by Lakeville, including nursing homes, health care facilities and residences throughout New York City and Long Island.

“Sam is a valued member of our team, who goes above and beyond, each day, to safeguard our clients,” said Parker president and CEO Michael Rosenblut.

Queens Chamber of Commerce 75-20 Astoria Boulevard, Suite 140 Jackson Heights, N.Y. 11370-1131 Entire Contents Copyright 2019 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.

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LIJ Forest Hills nurses Tracy Basta, Sandra Spencer-Kingston and Shonda Ramirez with Amy Smith, LIJ Forest Hills nurse practitioner and SANE program coordinator, and nurse Dee Latham.

LIJ Forest Hills enhances the care of sexual assault victims Four Long Island Jewish Forest Hills emergency room nurses were among the first class to graduate recently from the Hofstra Northwell School of Graduate Nursing and Physician Assistant Studies sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE) program.

Tracy Basta, Dee Dee Latham, Shonda Ramirez and Sandra Spencer-Kingston along with 16 other Northwell Health nurses spent the last six months mastering the skills needed to provide emotional support and medical treatment to victims of rape and sexual assault while also collecting vital forensic evidence.

“It’s good to practice these things before you actually get into the situation so you have an idea of how you should present yourself and help the patient in the best way,” said Ms. Ramirez.

A SANE nurse is often the first person to help sexual assault survivors begin to heal, making sure they feel safe as they are treated in the emergency room. The absence of SANE nurses at hospitals often re-victimizes those who have suffered a sexual assault by having them recount what happened to emergency room personnel, and then again to a nurse, physician or other clinician.

“These patients are having the worst day of their life and we have to help them,” said Ms. Basta.

SANE nurses act as personal advocates staying upwards of six hours with their patients as they gain their trust, ask difficult questions, conduct physical exams to check for evidence and injury, provide emergency contraceptives and maintain evidence for law enforcement.

Sponsored by Long Island Jewish Forest Hills

From January 2018 to the present, there were 699 sexual assault victims seen in Northwell Health emergency departments across the region.

The Hofstra Northwell SANE program is the only university- and health systembased program in New York State. It is composed of 40 hours of classroom training and 300 hours of hands-on clinical training and is made possible through a federal grant that aims to increase the number of SANE nurses in New York.

“There aren’t many forensic nurses in the country so to have them at LIJ Forest Hills is a big step up in the care we provide,” said Ms. Basta.

To find care with a Northwell physician, call (888) 321-DOCS.

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FIRST-PERSON ACCOUNT

A BANQUET HALL THAT CELEBRATES OUR DIVERSITY

BY IKRAM BHUIYAN MANAGING MEMBER

New Yorkers take pride in so many things, including our diversity, especially when we talk about the food.

In the summer of 2015, I was walking in Jackson Heights and met a man named Mr. George.

“I am getting exhausted finding a quality catering venue for my daughter’s Sweet 15 in the neighborhood,” he told me. “Do you know of one by any chance?”

The words of that gentleman made me rethink the concept of Bellozino, and in August 2016 Bellozino opened as a banquet hall.

Traveling the world and trying authentic dishes from different culture is my passion. That passion is reinforced at Bellozino.

The clientele we serve includes South-Asian, Himalayan, Hispanic,

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Caribbean, Mediterranean, Italian and Guyanese, among others. We serve everything from Chicken Tikka Masala (Indian) to Magret de Canard a l’orange (French) to Chicken/Veg Momo (Himalayan), which our Nepali/Tibetan customers enjoy to the fullest.

“How can your Momo be so authentic in taste?” a guest named Tenzin from Tibet recently asked.

It’s because of our dedication and respect, I told him.

Other dishes include the braised beef shank steak served with parmesan-garlic crostini, side greens and saffron mushroom risotto and the Tandoori Prawn, a special chargrilled tiger shrimp served with Indian Basmati rice, house sauce and side salad.

Over the years, Bellozino has hosted wedding, birthday parties, baby showers, graduation and prom night parties, corporate lunches and

business expos. The three banquet rooms can accommodate 100, 250 or 400 guests.

On some occasions, we have hosted an Indian Wedding in De Hall (large room), a Quinceanera in The Reve (mid-sized room) and a baby shower in The Lujo (small

room). Three amazing halls under the same roof!

Bellozino is located at 72-11 Roosevelt Avenue in Jackson Heights. For more information, visit bellozino.com.

October 2019 • Volume 15 • Issue 10

EXPERT ADVICE ESSENTIAL PROGRAMS FOR FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESSES Families who own and run successful businesses are some of the busiest people in New York City.

Business-owning families who make the time early on to learn how to improve their operations, increase their revenues and profits, improve communications and relationships, and make family decisions together have a much better chance of surviving beyond one generation.

The NYC Family Enterprise Center has provided over 37 ses-

sions since 2016 specializing in helping train all family members who are key influencers (see graphic) within the family business system.

Sessions are led by experts f r o m around the country and family members from very inspiring, successful family businesses.

Some of the topics the fall sessions will cover include: • Boosting and monetizing family business innovation; • Developing your long-term vision and goals;

• Conducting effective family meetings; • Improving communication skills; • Protecting your business upon death, divorce or separation; • Supporting family entrepreneurship and family banks; • Growing your business with culture and value adjustments; • Family business innovation; and • Performance metrics for boards, shareholders, and trustees.

Sessions are confidential, private and small. In fact, you do not have to disclose your full name or identify your family business if you chose not to. There is also no commercial influence, selling or solicitation of any kind allowed.

And, Queens Chamber of Com-

merce members can attend sessions at a discount.

NYCFEC continues to expand its educational sessions and is driven by what families need and what NYCFEC members request. NYCFEC is governed by a Board of Trustees, who are business-owning families from the New York City area. NYCFEC is always focused on helping family businesses and their families.

If you are from a businessowning family and are interested in any of the fall sessions or receiving invitations, email info@ NYCFEC.org or CEO Warner Babcock at warnerb@nycfec.org or call (212) 889-8332.

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QUEENS CHAMBER NEWS & EVENTS

QUEENS CHAMBER CELEBRATES HQ MOVE After 25 years in the same space, the Queens Chamber of Commerce has moved to a new office.

Over the summer, the Chamber relocated its headquarters to a larger space within the Bulova Corporate Center in East Elmhurst.

On September 17, the Chamber’s Board of Directors and staff joined local elected officials and business leaders to officially cut the ribbon on their new home.

President and CEO Thomas Grech said the move comes amid an expansion of the organization’s programs and staff to better reach communities in Queens.

“Here’s to 25 more years until we buy our own building,” Grech said.

Borough President Melinda Katz expressed gratitude for the Chamber’s work helping businesses in Queens.

“We are facing new times here in Queens County, and we need

to stick together when it comes to businesses in our borough,” she said. “We need to make sure businesses want to come to Queens, and that they know we have the right workforce development for their business.

“We want to make sure you don’t have to go over a bridge or under a tunnel to get a great job,” she added. “You can get it right here in Queens.”

Congresswoman Grace Meng also gave her thanks, especially as a daughter of immigrant small business owners.

She said she was proud to have partnered with the Chamber to bring a Small Business Development Center into her congressional district at Queens College.

“Let’s work for even more opportunities for people to invest in Queens,” Meng said.

(BENJAMIN FANG)

Board Chair Thomas Santucci speaks at the opening ceremony.

AARON AMBROSE & SHEA UZOIGWE

CHAMBER ‘POP UP’ PROGRAM CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 CARL J. MATTONE & MICHAEL WANG

COUNCILMAN BARRY GRODENCHIK, ASSEMBLYMAN ED BRAUNSTEIN, CONGRESSMAN GREGORY MEEKS, STATE SENATOR JOHN LIU & ASSEMBLYMAN MICHAEL DENDEKKER

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The pop-up chamber compliments another Queens Chamber program, Chamber on the Go, which is funded by the city.

DenDekker, who represents Jackson Heights, East Elmhurst and parts of Woodside, helped secure the grant for the chamber. He said he wanted the organization to help mom-and-pops in his district, especially to get through the “bureaucracy of compliance.”

Despite a recent report by the state comptroller indicating that Jackson Heights had a low storefront vacancy rate, DenDekker said many stores could use the help of the chamber.

“A lot of small mom-and-pop

businesses that open up don’t know all the complexities of working with the city,” he said.

The assemblyman added that bringing the chamber’s services to the community is crucial because most small business owners don’t have the time to leave their stores for meetings.

If the pop-up is near their business and available during the day, owners can simply walk outside, ask questions, learn new information and set up follow-up appointments.

“I hope that many of my businesses take advantage of it,” DenDekker said. “Anything we can do to help those businesses so they can continue to employ people who live here is a positive benefit.”

October 2019 • Volume 15 • Issue 10

QUEENS CHAMBER NEWS & EVENTS

QUEENS CHAMBER LAUNCHES ‘POP UP’ PROGRAM

BY BENJAMIN FANG The Queens Chamber of Commerce is bringing its services on the road to Queens neighborhoods.

On September 12, leaders from the chamber joined Assemblyman Michael DenDekker at the Jackson Heights Shopping Center to launch the “Pop Up Chamber” program.

Funded by a grant from Empire State Development, the initiative allows the chamber to provide resources to small businesses at a hyperlocal level.

According to Thomas Grech, president and CEO of the Queens Chamber, of the organization’s 1,100 member companies, 90 percent have 10 or fewer employees.

“We help the mom-and-pops all over the borough,” he said. “They are the lifeblood of our economy.

“We not only help those businesses stay alive, but prosper and

grow,” Grech added.

Services that the chamber will offer include information on bidding opportunities, Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprise (M/WBE) certification, business loans and financing tools.

They will also provide access to small law firms and accounting companies that can help small businesses adhere to new rules and regulations coming from the city and state.

One example is sexual harassment training. According to Grech, the chamber is offering members a discounted rate for the training, which is now a requirement for businesses.

“We’re trying to work hard on the carrot part of the equation to minimize the stick down the road,” he said.

After conducting a few trial runs over the last few weeks, the pop-

Chamber President and CEO Thomas Grech and Assemblyman Michael DenDekker with a business owner who visited the Pop Up Chamber.

up chamber program will begin appearing throughout communities, usually in shopping centers, commercial strips or other main

street operations where small businesses operate.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

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BUILDING AWARDS HONOREE PROFILE

ALVISTA FIRST TO TRANSFORM JAMAICA

BY JEN KHEDAROO

big manufacturing use,” Alster said.

“It’s not like building in Manhattan Alvista Towers is the first build- where you can draw from archiing to alter the Jamaica skyline tecture from the past and make it and signify change coming to the current or where you have other Queens neighbuildings and borhood. imensions BUILDING AWARDS dthat The neighyou can HONOREE borhood is currelate to.

MIXED USE - RESIDENTIAL/ rently undergo“We had COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL ing a developto start from ment wave, and scratch and it the 25-story, was like start362,000-square-foot Alvista Tow- ing with a white canvas,” he added. ers at 147-36 94th Avenue is the The objective was to provide cornerstone. affordable housing as quickly as Shay Alster, managing partner possible, but to utilize architecture at architecture firm GF55, headed in a way to enhance the character of up the project. He feels like they the neighborhood. accomplished their goal of creating They went for an abstract look an affordable housing residential with strokes on the building using building that was both attractive affordable materials like Exterior and modern.

Insulation and Finish Systems “It was a big challenge, because (EIFS). By using EIFS, they were the Jamaica neighborhood is very able to play with the thickness of scarce and the entire area has a the lines, as well as the earthy col-

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“We don’t want people to think that affordable housing is something that doesn’t look as nice as high-end developments in New York.” - SHAY ALSTER ors and the different relationships between the lines.

The strokes created vertical movement to the tower, juxtaposing it against the horizontal train tracks behind it. Alvista Tower stands alone on an open field with a parking facility behind it.

To add warmth to the building, Alster and his team chose to work with brick on the base of the building. At street level, they added planters and continued the theme by using different bricks to create horizontal stripes. The street level also features angled walls to give it

October 2019 • Volume 15 • Issue 10

BUILDING AWARDS a unique feel.

The theme of lines is carried out in the interior with the modern lobby space and common areas.

“We knew we were bringing affordable housing to the neighborhood, but we don’t want people to think that affordable housing is something that doesn’t look as nice as high-end developments in New York,” Alster said. “We are true believers in affordable housing in our office, and it’s what we promote.”

While people may think affordable housing means less quality or less amenities, his designs prove otherwise. “We really want people to feel it’s an upscale lifestyle,” Alster said.

The second floor of the building boasts a recreation space that spans over half of the floor. There are seating areas, fitness center, yoga room, lounge, business area and children’s playroom, as well as a glass garage door that gives residents a blended indoor-outdoor living.

We now have seven projects all in

the same area,” Alster said. “Across the street from Alvista is where we’re about to start construction on a building that’s even bigger than Alvista at 500,000 square feet, but we do recall the concept that we have on Alvista.”

GF55 will also work on the Hilton Hotel that will be built next door.

“We’re really part of the architects who designed the neighborhood, not just a single building but an entire area,” he said.

The architects at GF55 did something similar in Harlem, where they built 35 new buildings block by block between 118th Street and 120th Street on the west side between Frederick Douglass Boulevard and Manhattan Avenue.

“In all of our projects we try to listen to what the community has to say, and when the developer thinks about how to develop a site they consider feedback,” Alster said. “It’s important to not come into a neighborhood and force your projects onto the people who live there.”

love WHERE YOU

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

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

THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

queenschamber.org

BUILDING AWARDS HONOREE PROFILE

HISTORY MEETS CONTEMPORARY DESIGN

BY BENJAMIN FANG

Douglas Manor, a planned garEven before he began the latest den community. rehabilitation project for the home Known simply of Daniel and Mary O’Byrne, as “The KnollDouglaston-based architect Kevin wood” because it Wolfe was already quite familiar sat on Knollwood with the house.

Avenue, the home Twenty years ago, he worked was designed by on the same house, which at the renowned architime had a different owner. The tect George Keisproject back then was a landscape ter. and restoration job, which Wolfe Keister, Wolfe described as a few “minor tune-ups said, was known here and there.” for designing This time around, Wolfe’s firm Broadway thewas tasked with a more compre- aters, includhensive two-part project, which ing the Belasco is being honored this year with a Theater. He also Queens Chamber of Commerce designed the Building Award.

Apollo Theater in The first part, focused on the Harlem. interior, was creating a playroom Like many of out of the attic. The playroom now his projects, Keister employed the contains a TV setup, a convert- “arts and crafts” interior style that ible billiards and ping pong table, was popular in the early 20th cencouch beds and new bathroom. tury for The Knollwood, Wolfe The project not only included said. design work, but also filings with When approaching this project, the city because the third-story Wolfe conducted a lot of research space required a Certificate of on the history of the house. What Occupancy. he found was that the site has an On the outside, Wolfe redid the “intense social history.” landscape, created a new outdoor For example, he found a story in space and driveway, and renovat- the Brooklyn Eagle about a party ed the back patio to mesh with hosted at The Knollwood. The host the house. He completely rebuilt who lived there at the time was the porch, which was demolished “famous for being a ladies man.” down to the base.

He had been married three times Wolfe also installed new interior by the time he moved into the light fixtures, home. some of which “I found stowere sourced BUILDING AWARDS ries about him HONOREE from a compaand jilted lovny in Boston. ers and all this SINGLE & TWO-FAMILY The architect crazy stuff,” RESIDENCES said part of the Wolfe said.

LANDSCAPE DESIGN, mission was to Wolfe also COURTYARDS, PLAZAS bring the archistumbled upon tecture back to another piece an older period, while combining it of history during the construction with furniture that is more modern. process, when his contractor’s “When you walk into this room, team found a stack of papers in the it’s very contemporary,” Wolfe corner of the attic, tied together said. “But the architecture is all with a ribbon. original.”

The papers were a series of love The Douglaston house dates letters, addressed to a young man back to 1907, when it was one named Emerson Smith who had of the first houses built as part of lived in the home in 1940.

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WOLFE

According to Wolfe, Smith had met a girl named Murial Spaeth during the summer of 1941, and spent time together for months. At the end of the summer, however, Spaeth and her mother went back to Fort Lauderdale, where they had lived.

“She starts sending him postcards and letters and it goes back and forth,” Wolfe said. “And then they just end when the war begins.”

The O’Byrnes, who also read the letters, along with Wolfe, were left wondering if Smith ended up in the war or if he ever got together with Spaeth.

“It’s kind of a mystery,” he said.

Wolfe even asked a friend of his, whose grandparents had owned the Knollwood Avenue house in the 30s, about the love letters. His friend replied that she had never heard of Emerson Smith.

“It’s not architecture, but it’s one of the fun things that happened while doing this,” Wolfe said.

“There are these threads along the way of all these different people.”

The project, while fun, also had its share of challenges. The house is a “very tight site” that presented some logistical complexities, Wolfe said.

Another challenge was that because Douglaston is a “very

leaky place,” and has been for 100 years, the O’Byrne’s basement was always pumping water out onto the street.

Daniel O’Byrne told Wolfe that he didn’t want to continue doing that to his neighbors. So Wolfe hired an engineer from Bayside who was an expert on drainage.

After observing some topography maps, the engineer found that the house sat at the base of a hill, which explains why the water was constantly getting in.

Wolfe ended up excavating from the front of the house to the hedge.

They added concrete seeps, drainage pipes and gravel to fix the problem.

“There’s not a drop of water in that basement,” he said. “That’s really important.”

By the time Wolfe had completed the project, he felt it was a “really thoughtful renovation” that the owners were involved in “every step of the way.”

He said it’s a winning project because it had a great client and a great team.

“When you have a team that’s working on all eight cyclinders, that’s when you get things done,” Wolfe said. “People sit back and say, ‘that was fun and it was a success.’”

October 2019 • Volume 15 • Issue 10

BUILDING AWARDS HONOREE PROFILE

CONCOURSE TRANSFORMS TRAVELER EXPERIENCE

BY BENJAMIN FANG

because they were leased to other airlines.

When LaGuardia Gateway Part“In the new Terminal B, the comners debuted the first 11 gates of mon use operation will run more the new Eastern Concourse at Ter- efficiently,” Steeves said, “resultminal B last December, visitors ing in a seamless experience for marveled at the achievement. passengers.”

The concourse, now with 18 Building the new concourse, gates, is 250,000 however, square feet and BUILDING AWARDS came with soars up to 55 its own set HONOREE feet high. of challengCOMMERCIAL Travelers are es. Steeves immediately said this was welcomed by the natural light “without a doubt one of the most and a park area with greenery and complex aviation projects underbenches, as well as newly designed taken,” especially because the restrooms, shops and restaurants. existing terminal remains operaThere’s also a new airport-themed tional as LaGuardia Gateway Partchildren’s play area, including a ners builds the new one.

16-foot interactive display.

Overcoming this challenge For Stewart Steeves, the CEO of required collaboration and coorLaGuardia Gateway Partners, a pri- dination with their partners, the vate organization selected by Gov- Port Authority, Skanska-Walsh and ernor Andrew Cuomo and the Port Vantage Airport Group, he said.

Authority to operate and rebuild “To address this, the project was Terminal B, the project has trans- specifically designed to open in formed the guest experience in the phases,” Steeves said. “We are gate area.

“We are incredibly proud of this facility,” Steeves said, “which also offers a glimpse of what you can expect to come from the overall LaGuardia redevelopment project.”

The $5.1 billion project, the largest public-private partnership in American aviation history, includes a new headhouse, the main part of the terminal, along with two concourses that feature 35 total gates.

In February 2018, the 3,100space Terminal B parking garage opened, followed by the Eastern Concourse in December. The headhouse and Western Concourse are slated to open in 2020.

One feature that guests may not be aware of is that when it’s complete, the entire terminal will be “common-use.”

Steeves said that means the airlines operating out of Terminal B can use any gate, baggage claim or check-in position if needed.

In the original Terminal B, an airline could only use a gate it had specifically leased. Therefore, there may have been empty gates, but the airlines could not use them

LAGUARDIA GATEWAY PARTNERS CEO STEWART STEEVES

building in front of, behind and even over top of the existing facility.”

LaGuardia Gateway Partners is now focusing on finishing the headhouse, which includes space

for check-in, security and baggage claim, as well as the first gates of the Western Concourse.”

“2020 is an exciting year as we continue to expand on the renovations,” Steeves said

15

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BUILDING AWARDS HONOREE PROFILE

HOTEL EMBODIES ‘EXCITEMENT OF TRAVEL’

BY BENJAMIN FANG

“I don’t think projects like this will ever come along again.”

The 512-bed TWA Hotel at JFK Airport opened this past May to much fanfare.

Built to replicate the iconic Jet Age terminal that first opened in 1962, the hotel is replete with modern amenities like high-end retail shops, a rooftop infinity pool, a 50,000-square-foot event space and the world’s biggest hotel gym.

Even Governor Andrew Cuomo complimented the project’s creativity and brilliance as “internationally spectacular.”

But for Tyler Morse, CEO and managing partner of MCR and MORSE Development, the company that converted the formerly abandoned terminal into a hotel, the project was particularly exciting.

A former baggage handler at Los Angeles International Airport, Morse fell in love with the aviation business. He was especially thrilled by the TWA Flight Center, which Tyler Morse stands high on a beam during the construction of the TWA Hotel at JFK Airport. ended operations in 2001.

“The opportunity to bring it back developer, architects and builder on the Jamaica Bay shoreline. after another,” Morse said about to its former glory was a once-in- had to overcome.

It will reduce the risk of storm the project. “The biggest challenge a-lifetime opportunity,” Morse told In total, Morse dealt with 22 gov- damage and flooding in neighbor- was doing all of that simultaneThis Is Queensborough during a ernment agencies and 14 preserva- hoods like Howard Beach, which ously.” recent interview. tionist groups, which led to a lot of was significantly impacted by But it was all worth it when the The project was lauded for its opinions and thoughts on how to Superstorm Sandy. hotel was finally built and opened painstaking attention to detail, preserve the historic building.

“It was one tricky challenge to the public. Morse said the hotel from the restoration of the red-car“Trying to incorporate all of that peted Sunken into the design Lounge to the BUILDING AWARDS was quite reproduction of tricky,” he said.

HONOREE the pencils and “And doing HOTELS & MOTELS swizzle sticks, that simultaall of which neously while had to be done in an environmen- opening it on time, which we suctally friendly manner. ceeded in doing.”

Morse even personally collectAnother challenge was figuring ed all of the David Klein posters out where to dispose of the soil for from that era. “Everything we did the massive project. After a long is authentic,” he said. “That was negotiation with the National Park important to us.”

Service, the TWA Hotel delivered While that focus required a lot 74,000 cubic feet of sand for the of time and resources, Morse said Spring Creek South Storm Resilit was a critical part of the project. ience and Ecosystem Restoration “People notice the details, and Project. it really matters,” he said. “The According to the company, the amalgam of the details makes the sand, valued at $5 million, will project.” help stabilize Spring Creek Park, The multi-year project had its which is a wildlife refuge in the own set of challenges that the Gateway National Recreation Area

16

October 2019 • Volume 15 • Issue 10

BUILDING AWARDS

The Capital You Need. The Attention You Deserve. has hosted a lot of former TWA employees for various events. He said when they walked into the building, many began to cry and reminisce about their workplace for decades. Some said the new version looks even better than it did in 1962.

“It’s a great feeling seeing the joy it brings to people,” Morse said.

“People took photos for Instagram and shared it with their families.”

He added that while MCR and MORSE Development are working on other hotels, none will “hold a candle” to this historic project.

“I don’t think projects like this

will ever come along again,” he said.

The TWA Hotel is one of the recipients of the Queens Chamber of Commerce’s 2019 Building Awards. This year, the award gala will be hosted on October 3 at the hotel itself.

Morse said hosting the awards is meaningful for him and his team.

He noted that the original Idlewild Airport, renamed in 1963 as JFK International Airport, has always been a big part of Queens.

“To be able to host the awards and honor people from Queens is very special,” he said.

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QUEENS CHAMBER MEMBER NEWS

WELLNESS LIFESTYLE AT HOME WITH MRSTEAM Millions of Americans across the country may be enjoying better health, wellness, and relaxation in their homes, fitness centers, and resorts thanks to the innovations from a Long Island City-based company.

Sussman Automatic, the world’s largest manufacturer of electric steam boilers, is also the nation’s leading manufacturer of steam shower systems for homes and steam room systems for spas. Sussman introduced MrSteam to the marketplace almost 60 years ago, adapting their boiler expertise to make steam bath generators.

“We say we feel good when you feel good, but that is just the start of the conversation,” says Michael Pinkus, president and CEO of Sussman-Automatic Corporation and MrSteam. “We believe that wellness is not a luxury, it’s a necessity.

“Adding a steam shower to a bathroom can bring a new level of relaxation to your life every single day,” he added. “It’s an ancient wellness therapy combined with advanced technology.”

It’s no surprise that steam is taking off. A steam shower transforms the bathroom into a wellness sanctuary where the user can find a balance of the mind, body, and spirit.

Beyond the simple joys of spending time in a tranquil steam room, regular steam baths offer a wide array potential wellness benefits from promoting optimal breathing, to loosening stiff muscles and promoting muscular flexibility. There’s no better way to relax and recharge after a stressful day or a satisfying workout than by luxuriating in a steam shower in the privacy of your own home.

Homeowners are often surprised by how easy and affordable it can be to install and operate a home steam shower. It typically costs only 25 percent more than a standard shower enclosure, including all required materials and steps to waterproof and seal the shower

18

space.

“The best time to install a steam shower is when you are remodeling a bathroom or building a new home when you are already working behind the walls,” Pinkus said.

MrSteam continually pushes boundaries, reimagining the commercial and residential spa experience, and always asking, “What’s next?”

The result is a thoughtfully designed and technologically advanced product line that includes swipe-touch controls, ultra-efficient steam generators, soothing aromatherapy, chromatherapy, and shower music systems that are designed, engineered, and assembled in Long Island City.

The company broke barriers several years ago with its iSteam Control, the first swipe-touch control for wet spaces. More recently, the minimalistic Linear SteamHead has earned several prestigious awards. The sleek opening emits steam in an eye-catching “reverse waterfall” that naturally distributes steam throughout the room.

Awards include the Innovation in Design Award from Connecticut Cottages & Gardens magazine,

Accessory Product of the Year by the Decorative Plumbing & Hardware Association, and a finalist in the NYCxDESIGN Awards.

MrSteam also designs an exceptional customer experience, starting with its exclusive Virtual Spa (virtualspa.mrsteam.com), an intuitive online tool that vastly simplifies steam generator sizing, control package selection, therapies, system specifications, and pricing with just a few clicks.

The MrSteam technical team provides its famous 5-Star customer service to guide homeowners and construction professionals through every step of the installation process.

A wealth of resources is also always available in a 24/7 “Virtual Steam Technical Support Center,” including video installation guides, operating manuals and spec sheets, and a searchable database of independent service providers.

An authorized MrSteam dealer can

provide further assistance and complete the purchase. In New York City, you can find MrSteam at Grande Central Showrooms, with working displays at East 56th Street and 1254 Park Avenue in Manhattan, as well as Ferguson and other fine plumbing showrooms.

Promoting wellness - and teaching homeowners to think outside the tub when it comes to bathroom upgrades - always has been and always will be a mission for MrSteam, a company that wholeheartedly embraces the tagline: Feel Good, Inc.

October 2019 • Volume 15 • Issue 10

QUEENS CHAMBER MEMBER NEWS

YPSS PROVIDES ACCESS TO OPPORTUNITIES

BY BRITTANY HEYWARD As an educator for over 20 years, Kimberly Mitchell has made serving her community her passion.

In December 2016, Mitchell transitioned from her regular 9-to5 job to an entrepreneur when she launched Young Professional Staffing Solutions (YPSS), whose mission is to assist professionals of all ages from Southeast Queens and the greater New York area prepare for and access to career opportunities.

Mitchell seeks to partner with local schools, businesses and city agencies throughout New York City to facilitate employment opportunities in various industries. YPSS opened its doors in November 2018 in the Franhill Mall in Hollis.

“Five years from now, we want to be a reputable staffing agency in Southeast Queens where local business leaders can confidently find highly skilled professionals,” Mitchell said.

YPSS offers traditional staffing services, including temporary and permanent placements in office administration, information technology, aviation, construction, health and public safety and event staffing.

They partner with local businesses in need of highly skilled employees and match them with the interests and skills of their young professionals. Additionally, YPSS provides resume writing, career coaching and financial planning services.

As an educator, Mitchell recognized the need for such services after witnessing numerous students return with the same stories of having trouble finding employment opportunities.

This led to YPSS’s unique approach to partner with local secondary schools, colleges and community organizations to implement its signature career preparation program, Career Ready

Kim Mitchell of Young Professional Staffing Solutions surrounded by supporters at the recent grand opening.

Young Professionals.

The program provides realworld career training, as well as a guide to entrepreneurship to ensure young professionals are prepared for the demands of the 21st cen-

tury workplace. Once candidates are deemed career-ready, they are placed in suitable internships.

“I believe it is time to teach our young professionals to be more than just workers, they must also be owners creating and sustaining wealth,” said Mitchell of the

entrepreneurship component of the program.

For additional information, visit youngprostaffing.com or contact Kimberly Mitchell at kmitchell@youngprostaffing.com.

MASPETH FEDERAL’S ‘SMILE ON’

BY BENJAMIN FANG Thousands of residents attended the 12th annual Smile on Maspeth Day carnival, a free, family-friendly event organized by Maspeth Federal Savings.

The carnival, which took place on September 15, featured games, prizes, live entertainment and much more.

Tom Rudzewick, president and CEO of Maspeth Federal, said hundreds of people were already lined up around the block when the gates opened at 11 a.m.

“We’re excited to see the smiling faces on all the kids,” he said.

Smile on Maspeth Day began as a

way to bring the community together during the Great Recession, when residents were beginning to feel the impact of the tough economy.

Rudzewick said the bank wanted to create a better atmosphere for the entire community. Today, it serves as a day to wrap up summer, during which Maspeth Federal puts on community events like concerts and movie nights.

“It really puts a warm spot in our hearts to know we can bring everyone together for a full day of fun,” he said. “It gets us motivated for the next year.”

This year, the marquee act was members of the Flying Wallendas, a family of high-wire performers

who have performed for almost a century.

The Flying Wallendas have made the Guinness Book of World Records for accomplishing the seven, eight and 10-person pyramid.

Rudzewick said the Wallendas have passed along their skills from generation to generation, which ties into Maspeth Federal’s emphasis on family.

“We want everyone to feel like they’re part of our family,” he said.

“The Wallendas are the same way.

“I’m not going to get up there,” Rudzewick added about the highCONTINUED ON PAGE 22

19

THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

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LOOKING FOR OCTOBER FUN? STAY IN QUEENS!

Octagon, octopus, and of course, the Octamom. Wow, The word “October” has some high-octane friends. Don’t worry, though, the prefix isn’t a problem in Queens over the upcoming month.

The world’s most diverse borough hosts fantastic events for everybody ─ from age eight to octogenarians ─ including ghost tours, mask dances, harvest fests, concerts, and an art intervention. Read on to learn more.

Oct. 5-27, Frights and Phantoms of Flushing. Discover Flushing’s ghostly spots and what has haunted residents (living and spiritual) for centuries. Five tours on Oct. 5 at 7:30 pm; Oct. 13 at 3 pm; Oct. 19 at 7:30 pm; and Oct. 26 at 3 pm and 7:30 pm. Meet outside Flushing Quaker Meeting House, 137-16 Northern Blvd., boroughsofthedead.com.

Oct. 8, Tiffany’s Iridescence Spring 2020. This exhibition explores the science and artistry behind Tiffany’s iridescent sheet and blown glass. Egon and Hildegard Neustadt, Flushing residents who were born in Austria, collected more than 200 Tiffany lamps of all shapes, sizes, and designs. They

donated many pieces to Queens Museum, which currently houses The Neustadt Gallery. Queens Museum, Flushing Meadows Corona Park, queensmuseum.org.

Oct. 13, Harvest Fest, 11 am to 5 pm. A family-friendly afternoon with a Pumpkin Patch, live music, and a petting zoo.

Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St., Flushing, queensbotanicalgarden.org.

Oct. 19, Open House New York Weekend, 10 am, 11 am, noon, and 1 pm. This annual, citywide effort organizes tours of architectural treasures. The Church-in-theGardens is on the docket this year.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the church features Gothic and Norman influences with touches of Romanesque.

Construction, which was funded by railroad magnate Russell Sage’s widow Olivia, was completed in 1915. 50 Ascan Ave., Forest Hills, ohny.org.

Oct. 19, Grupo Niche, 8 pm.

This Grammy-nominated Colombian group presents the Salsa Experience with vigorous, uptempo music as well as slow-paced romantic numbers. Hits include “Canoa Rancha,” and “Cali Pachanguero.”

KOREAN MASK DANCE

Kupferberg Center for the Arts, 153-49 Reeves Ave., Flushing, kupeferbercenter.org.

Oct. 19, Socrates Gets Flux’d, noon. Local art collective Flux Factory takes over Socrates Sculpture Park for an afternoon of performance, engagement, and installation activating. Residents and artists from Flux’s current show,

FLUX FACTORY

20

“Must They Also Be Gods,” demonstrate the entity’s main themes: collaboration, experimentation, and play. 32-01 Vernon Blvd., LIC, socratessculpturepark.org.

Oct. 27, Lucie Arnaz, 3 pm.

The daughter of “I Love Lucy” star Desi Arnaz shares stories and anecdotes about her co-stars and sings show tunes. St. John’s University’s Marillac Hall, 80-00 Utopia Pkwy., Jamaica, visitqpac.org.

Oct. 27, 18th Annual Totten Trot, 9 am. A five-kilometer race and children’s fun run (10 am) in Fort Totten Park. The route includes a loop on Little Bay Path, and runners pass through an historic district with buildings dating to the late 1800s. Bayside Historical Society, baysidehistorical.org.

Oct. 31, Korean Mask Dance, 6 pm (Mask Making), 7 pm (Dance Lesson), 8 pm (Show). Celebrate Halloween with the Bongsan Mask Dance-Drama Preservation Society. Twenty-two performers present dynamic choreography with live music. Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., flushingtownhall. org.

The monthly “It’s In Queens” column is produced by the Queens Tourism Council. More info at itsinqueens.com.

October 2019 • Volume 15 • Issue 10

QUEENSBOROUGH CALENDAR OF EVENTS OCTOBER 10/3, 6 PM

2019 BUILDINGS AWARDS GALA

Register at queenschamber.org Queens Chamber of Commerce 75-20 Astoria Boulevard Jackson Heights

For over 90 years, this marvelous tradition honors the architects, builders, engineers, lenders, interior designers and owners of buildings and building projects in Queens County. Our gala this year takes place at Eero Saarinen’s landmark 1962 Flight Center at JFK. Tickets at queenschamber.org Parking Compliments of Thales USA TWA Hotel at JFK Airport Central Terminal 5 Area Jamaica

10/17, 10 AM to 5 PM

10/16, 9 AM

10/19, 11 AM to 3 PM

BREAKFAST SPEED NETWORKING #3

A fast-paced event where you’ll build professional networks and increase your bottom-line.

FREE

KOREAN BUSINESS DELEGATION/EXPO 2019

Meet and Greet Korean exhibitors visiting Queens in a B2B opportunity for executives looking to expand their market.

Showcasing products and services in the beauty industry, fashion and skin care products.

FREE Register at queenschamber.org Daedong Manor Wedding Venue 150-24 Northern Boulevard Flushing

BURMESE-AMERICAN BUSINESS RESOURCES DAY

Participants will be displaying their traditional food, souvenirs, Myanmar handmade products,

and Burmese-American traditional food. More importantly, you will have the opportunity to learn more about the Burma/ Myanmar community, their businesses and the process to import/ export.

FREE St. James Episcopal Church 84-07 Broadway Corona

have a loved one who is battling or lost the struggle to breast cancer, please share a photo. We’ll honor these individuals during our presentation. Please email your photo to jgross@queenschamber.org. Deadline for photo submissions is October 21.

Queens Library 108-19 71st Avenue Forest Hills

10/24, 9 AM

10/25, 9 AM

BUSINESS OPEN MIC

Share your business expertise with a selected group of professional, start up and entrepreneurs.

FREE healme.nyc 44-02 23rd Street Long Island City 10/24, 5 to 7 PM

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS 2019: WHAT EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW

If you’re planning to attend and

EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION SKILLS IN THE WORKPLACE

This program will provide the necessary skills to manage and resolve conflict from a cultural perspective so that you can thrive in our ever-increasing business world of diversity.

FREE Register at queenschamber.org Queens Chamber of Commerce 75-20 Astoria Boulevard Jackson Heights

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NONPROFIT NEWS

QBG OPENS NEW UNITY GARDEN

BY BENJAMIN FANG For more than a decade, the Queens Botanical Garden (QBG) has wanted to renovate its Backyard Gardens exhibit, which was first installed in the 1970s.

Susan Lacerte, the garden’s executive director, said as the plants grew, the roots pushed up the paving stones, and the trelices started to deteriorate.

QBG’s Horticulture Committee and gardening staff finally decided it was time for a rehabilitation project.

Lacerte trekked to Albany in 2015 to meet with Assemblyman Jeff Aubry, who had a headache that day. Within 30 seconds of their meeting, Aubry asked Lacerte if she had a capital proposal, which she responded in the affirmative.

Later that year, Assemblywoman Nily Rozic, who represents the garden, informed Lacerte that she was also allocating dollars for the project.

“With $250,000 in capital funding, we were able to start realizing this dream we had for well over a decade,” Lacerte said.

QBG then hosted a community design session with members of the public. When the design was complete, it hired Scenic Designs Inc., a Long Island-based landscaping company, to install the garden, including making sure the irrigation system was in place.

Last month, the completion of the project was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The $250,000 not only renovated the Backyard Gardens, but also the Taiwan Garden and the Koreanthemed Circle Garden exhibits.

Part of the funding was used to create the Unity Garden, which is one-third of an acre within the “Gardens on Parade” exhibit.

The Unity Garden is mapped out with the 1964 World’s Fair in mind.

Gardens on Parade, according to QBG, was originally showcased at the 1939 World’s Fair.

22

QBG’s staff hosted a naming contest for their new space, and went with “unity” as a reflection of the diversity of Queens.

At the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Aubry said it makes sense for the borough’s elected officials to support the garden.

“Some might call this a hidden treasure, and in many ways it is,” he said. “But we in Queens know it is a special place, a place where everyone can come, find solace and comfort and enjoy the environment.”

Rozic added that while $250,000 may not sound like a lot of capital funding, after seeing the garden, she felt that the new space “goes a long way in bringing the outside in and the inside out.”

“It’s all about creating the social infrastructure for community members to come, sit, enjoy and relax,” she said. “We should all get here a little bit more often.”

Pictured from left to right are Assemblyman David Weprin, Borough President Melinda Katz, Assemblyman Jeff Aubrey, Assemblywoman Nily Rozic and QBG executive director Susan Lacerte.

BANK BRINGS BACK SMILE ON MASPETH CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19 wire acts. “But I’ll be here to cheer them on.”

The Wallendas performed a set that included juggling, pyramids and, of course, balancing on the high wire.

Tino Wallenda, who has been performing for 68 years, said he found the crowd in Maspeth to be appreciative.

“It’s more daring for them than for us because we really rehearse everything,” he said. “Of course, there is always the element of danger and something could always go wrong.”

Tino is the sixth generation of Wallendas to perform. His two kids, Aurelia and Alessandro, performed at Smile on Maspeth Day, as well as Tino’s daughter-in-law.

His two other daughters are also active performers. Of Tino’s seven grandchildren, he said, five are also actively performing.

“It’s important that if that’s what

they want to do, that they enjoy it and want to carry on the tradition,” Wallenda said. “Obviously it’s a plus if the tradition continues on, with pride in my children and pride in my family heritage.”

Wallenda added that it seemed that everyone had a “delightful and wonderful time” watching their performance.

“That’s the most important thing,” he said.

October 2019 • Volume 15 • Issue 10

NONPROFIT NEWS

CONSTITUTION & COCKTAILS AT KING MANOR

BY JEN KHEDAROO The King Manor Museum celebrated the 232nd anniversary of the signing of the United States Constitution with the fundraising event Constitution & Cocktails.

The historic house museum in Jamaica celebrates the legacy of Rufus King. King, a signer of the Constitution, was a leading voice in the early abolitionist movement.

The night’s honorees were Congressman Gregory Meeks and Andrea S. Ogle, vice president of the Assigned Counsel Association of Queens Family Court and a member of the Board of Managers of the Queens County Bar Association.

“More than 35 years ago, I raised my right hand and swore an oath to the Constitution,” Ogle recalled at the September 17th event. “Many naturalized Americans, like myself, have their own journey to share.

I am one version of the American dream.”

Ogle’s family immigrated from Guyana in 1969 and settled in Queens. She graduated from Queens College and Seton Hall University School of Law before managing her own law practice in Queens for over 20 years.

Her legal work includes Family Court and Supreme Court Family Law practice, but Ogle has organized countless community events as well.

She has organized various programs with elected officials, Department of Probation, Queens Engagement Strategy for Teens, and the Interfaith Council for Community Development.

“We should never take for granted the fact that America’s strength is in the diversity of its people,” Ogle said. “We are the fabric of our community and we must use our time, talent and resources as a renewed incentive to intensify our commitment and service to our people.”

Meeks’ wife, Marie, accepted the award on his behalf. She shared her husband’s story of rising to where

he is today.

“His parents came from South Carolina and he was the first person in his family to go to college,” she said. “His entire family paid for him to go to law school, and he slept on a beach chair the first two years. It shows the kind of dedication that he was going to have in his life.”

Now in his 11th term, Meeks is a senior member of the House Financial Services Committee, and sits on the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

King Manor executive director Kelsey Brow also honored museum caretaker Roy the Fox, who celebrated 30 years at the museum.

“He’s been living here longer than Rufus King has,” Brow joked.

“Fox cares about this place and all of us in it so deeply and is always going way above and beyond any contractual obligations for the caretaker agreement.”

King Manor executive director Kelsey Brow with honoree Andrea Ogle.

Attendees examine a poster-sized replica of the U.S. Constitution.

23

THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

queenschamber.org

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.

There are free immigration services every Monday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 71-29 Roosevelt Avenue. All services are free, confidential and open to any member of the community. Some of the services include DACA, TPS and document replacement and renewal. Call (212) 652-2071 with any questions.

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 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.

BUSINESS CENTER FOR NEW AMERICANS (BCNA)

78-27 37 Avenue, Jackson Heights, NY 11372 Business Development: Tshering Gurung 347.730.6468 tgurung@nycbcna.org QUICK GLANCE: Since 1997, BCNA has been serving New York City entrepreneurs.

BCNA is an approved Small Business Administration Intermediary Lender and a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI). BCNA’s Microloan program is the cornerstone of its services.

They provide small business loans and microloans to business owners who are not able to obtain loans from traditional lenders.

24

FOREST HILLS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

PO Box 751123, Forest Hills, NY 11375 President: Leslie Brown 718.268.6565 FHChamber11375@gmail.com FHChamber@aol.com QUICK GLANCE: Re-formed in 1995, the group has over 225 members.

Chamber meetings are held on the last Wednesday of the month at 9 a.m. at the West Side Tennis Club, 1 Tennis Place, in Forest Hills. This month’s meeting will take place on October 30.

GATEWAY JFK

Executive Director: Scott Grimm-Lyon 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.

GatewayJFK is seeking sponsors for banners on Rockaway Boulevard. Participating sponsors will have their logo displayed on the lower portion of the banners for one full-year. Sponsoring the banner will cost $1,000, but sponsoring three or more banners costs $750 per banner. If interested, contact GatewayJFK at 516-730-3400 or scott@gatewayjfk.org.

The BID recently launched the GatewayJFK Rideshare portal to match commuters with others who live and work close to each other.

Commuters are free to choose how frequently they want to carpool and with whom. If you are a member who regularly carpools and you need to leave work in an emergency, the free Guaranteed Ride Program will get you to your destination for free by public transit, taxi, Lyft or Uber.

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 representing over 200 businesses.

Upcoming events include: • Grow NYC Greenmarket - Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. - Visit the GrowNYC Greenmarket at Maple Playground at 136-50 Maple Avenue.

• The “In It Together” Gala on October 24 from 6 to 9 p.m. - The Chamber will celebrate its fifth anniversary as a multicultural membership association of entrepreneurs and civic leaders. It will take place at Daedong Manor at 15024 Northern Boulevard.

GREATER JAMAICA DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

90-04 161st Street, Jamaica, NY 11432 President: Hope Knight 718.291.0282 gjdc.org QUICK GLANCE: Founded in 1967, the group has 75 members.

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

GREATER WOODHAVEN DEVELOPMENT 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.

The Wonderful Woodhaven Street Festival will take place on Sunday, October 13, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. along Jamaica Avenue from Woodhaven Boulevard to 80th Street.

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: Budget of over $1 million.

Founded in 1979, the Jamaica Center BID serves over 400 businesses on Jamaica Avenue between Sutphin Boulevard and 169th Street.

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.

The BID’s sanitation team is out on Jamaica Avenue 360 days a year. The BID offers marketing and promotion for the district, includ-

October 2019 • Volume 15 • Issue 10

QUEENS CHAMBER PARTNERS & AFFILIATES ing a value card program, banner and rubbish bin sponsorship opportunities, and supports business owners in opening or expanding their operations.

The BID is the proud recipient of a threeyear, $300,000 Avenue NYC grant and is currently conducting a Commercial District Needs Assessment (CDNA), which will inform future programing.

On Saturday, October 26, the BID will host Trick or Treat on Jamaica Avenue from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

JFK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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

JFK Airport is the only airport in the country to have its own chamber of commerce wholly dedicated to the airport business communi-

ty, which employs 35,000 people. The airport handles more than 50 million passengers a year, using almost a half-million square feet of warehouse space to handle more than a million tons of air freight cargo a year.

LONG ISLAND CITY PARTNERSHIP

President: Elizabeth Lusskin 718.786.5300 longislandcityqueens.com 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 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.

• The Chamber’s Monthly Meeting will take place on Tuesday, October 22, at noon It will be held at Connolly’s Corner at 71-15 Grand Avenue.

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: Roughly 600 businesses with 30 active members.

The Maspeth Industrial Business Association, a project of the Business Outreach Center Network, provides a collective voice in advocating the needs and interests of industrial and

BAYSIDE BID HOSTS ANNUAL BELL STROLL The Bayside Business Improvement District held its annual Bell Boulevard Sunday Stroll this past weekend. The boulevard was closed to traffic between 38th and 42nd avenues from noon to 5 p.m.

Restaurants along the busy commercial strip set up makeshift outdoor dining areas, including a popular one near a stage featuring live music throughout the afternoon. Other vendors sold or

gave out samples of their food, and the entertainment also included dance and gymnastics performances.

Kids could enjoy inflatable attractions or play ping-pong. There was even a visit from the Ghostbusters, who brought their famous ghost-fighting vehicle and set up a table where children could make their own slime.

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THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

queenschamber.org

QUEENS CHAMBER PARTNERS & AFFILIATES 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.

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

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. One of the longest running BIDs is also one of the more innovative in its approach to helping maintain an active business corridor by helping landlords rent vacant properties. The website ridgewood-ny.com shows properties that are currently for rent in the district.

The BID has also been involved in a zoning initiative for Myrtle Avenue. Executive Director Ted Renz is working with, and has the approval of the community board, to preserve the integrity of the business feel of Myrtle Avenue by making it a special zoning district. City Planning is looking at the request now. The plan seeks to keep the look of the two- and three-story commercial infrastructure in tact.

Upcoming events include: • Ridgewood Youth Market on Saturdays in September from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. - The market is located at Cypress & Myrtle avenues.

• Columbus Day Sidewalk Sales from October 11 to 14 - The sales last all day along Myrtle Avenue.

• Ridgewood Seneca & Catalpa Avenue Stroll on Saturday, October 26, from noon to 5 p.m.

- Streets will be closed to traffic on Catalpa

26

Avenue from Seneca to Myrtle avenues and Seneca Avenue from Weirfield to Cornelia streets.

QUEENS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

12-55 Queens Boulevard, Room 309 Kew Gardens, NY 11424 Executive Director: Seth Bornstein 718.263.0546 queensny.org QUICK GLANCE: Budget of $1.5 million and a resource for over 2,000 businesses in the borough of Queens.

Funded by Department of Small Business Services, they strive to create and retain jobs via programs that grow neighborhoods and assist small businesses. QEDC assists by providing one-on-one consultations, hosting workshops, operating training courses and networking events. Upcoming events include: • Queens StartUP! Introduction: Your Business Idea on Saturday, October 5, from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. - This workshop focuses on providing tools and framework for you to test your startup idea and identify risks before deciding whether or not to pursue the business opportunity. It will take place at the Queens Library at 41-17 Main Street in Flushing.

• Queens StartUP! Testing Your Business Model on Saturday, October 12, from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. - This workshop focuses on using Business Model Canvas to run experiences and help you figure out how your startup creates and delivers value. It will take place at the Queens Library at 41-17 Main Street in Flushing.

• Queens StartUP! Startup Marketing on Saturday, October 19, from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

- This workshop will help you lay the foundation of what’s needed in a successful startup marketing strategy. It will also cover common channels and best practices. It will take place at the Queens Library at 41-17 Main Street in Flushing.

• Women’s Power Networking Breakfast: Marketing on October 24 from 9 to 11 a.m. Ada Rosales, founder and chief strategist at Bounce Marketing & Consulting, we will explore the basics of crafting ads to get your customers interested in your products and services. It will take place at WeWork at 41-21 27th Street in Long Island City.

• Get Business From New York City and State Government on October 24 from 10 a.m. to Noon - Learn about getting certified as a Minority/Woman Business Enterprise and what you will need to do to obtain government contracts. It will take place at The Entrepreneur Space at 36-43 37th Street in Long Island City.

• Queens StartUP! Entrepreneurial Financing on Saturday, October 26, from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. - This workshop focuses on provid-

ing financial model templates to help earlystage entrepreneurs with forecasting so they can be equipped to submit the application for the StartUP! Competition. It will take place at the Queens Library at 41-17 Main Street in Flushing.

ROCKAWAY BUSINESS ALLIANCE

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

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

ROCKAWAY DEVELOPMENT & REVITALIZATION CORPORATION

1920 Mott Avenue, Far Rockaway, NY 11691 President: Kevin Alexander 718.327.5300 www.rdrc.org QUICK GLANCE: Founded in 1978, the group has 30 members.

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. RDRC is governed by a twelve-member board of directors and a fivemember merchant advisory board.

RDRC’s current city and state collaborations include the Downtown Far Rockaway Storefront Improvement Program, The Downtown Far Rockaway Public Wi-Fi Project, The Rockaway East Workforce Development Program and most recently, the planned $288,000,000 Downtown Far Rockaway Redevelopment Project.

With over 250 businesses and 61,000 or 53 percent of the Rockaway’s entire population living within 2 miles of downtown Far Rockaway, one of RDRC’s goals is to reduce the over $91 million in market leakage to neighboring downtown shopping districts.

To address this challenge, in 2014 RDRC

this is...

The Business News of Queens & The Official Magazine of The Queens Chamber of Commerce

QUEENS CHAMBER PARTNERS & AFFILIATES

the Latest on the most infLuentiaL peopLe in queens Your inside scoop straight from the business community’s top leaders

Profiling Queens’ Most Dynamic People To subscribe to this monthly, glossy magazine, visit thisisqueensborough.com or call BQE Media at 718-426-7200.

To place an ad, call BQE Media at 718-426-7200.

THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

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QUEENS CHAMBER PARTNERS & AFFILIATES rejuvenated the Rockaway East Merchants Association (REMA). Today with RDRC as its administrator, REMA membership now includes 40-plus local businesses with an active calendar of events that includes an annual merchant’s fair, talent show, fashion event, holiday tree lighting and live concerts.

REMA membership meetings are held on the fourth Monday of the month at 1 p.m. at the corporation’s office at 1920 Mott Avenue in Far Rockaway.

STEINWAY ASTORIA PARTNERSHIP BID

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

The Steinway Street Business Improvement District encompasses all 300 business located on Steinway Street from 28th Avenue to 35th Avenue. National chain stores such as Victoria’s Secrets, The Gap, Benetton, and Express are side by side with local family owned shops some of them fixtures on the street for some 50 years.

Board meetings are held seven times a year.

The BID’s vision is to make Steinway Street user friendly, while highlighting the local businesses on the street and bringing together the Astoria

community in a positive way. Upcoming events include:

SUNNYSIDE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

PO Box 4399, Sunnyside, NY 11104 President: Vanessa Ceballos 718.729.4688 www.sunnyside-chamber.org QUICK GLANCE: Annual budget of $55,000.

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

At its recent annual meeting, Chamber members elected Vanessa Ceballos, owner of Firefly Petite Cafe & Bistro on 43rd Avenue, to serve as 2019-20 president.

SUNNYSIDE SHINES

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

The BID is still looking for sponsors for Sunnyside Street Banners along Queens Boulevard and Greenpoint Avenue. There are still a number of locations still available, call the office for more info. Companies that are not

INTRODUCTORY

Century Homes Realty Group 34-36 Union Street, Suite 201 Flushing, NY 11354 centuryhomesonline.com

Corbett Public Relations, Inc. 113 South Tyson Avenue Floral Park, NY 11001 corbettpr.com

Dominguez Agency, Inc. - State Farm Insurance 91-04 63rd Drive Rego Park, NY 11374

Intelisano & Associates, Inc. 111-14 76th Avenue, Suite 207 Forest Hills, NY 11375 insurancedoctor.us

Lanmarc Management, Inc. 217-17 36th Avenue Bayside, NY 11361 lanmarcny.com

28

located in Sunnyside are invited to participate as well. Sponsorships start at $350 and last for one year.

Upcoming events include: • Saturday, October 5 from Noon to 4 p.m.

- Sunnyside Shines inaugural 3x3 basketball tournament for kids in grades 4 through 7.

• October 22-28 - 7th Annual Sunnyside Restaurant Week.

• October 26 & 27 from 10 a.m. to Noon - Help Sunnyside Shines beautify the neighborhood at a tree mulching and bulb planting event.

• October 26 & 27 from Noon to 6 p.m. Inspired by La Placita of San Juan, celebrate various Latinx cultures though music, dance, crafts, and of course food! This two-day event under the 7 train will feature live music from local Latinx artists, traditional dance performances from different countries, and food from local vendors.

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.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29

MULT Lots, LLC

Starlite Holdings, LLC

NPC Merchant Services

Supporting Strategies

Phillips Lytle, LLP

The Bug Stops Here

Public Health Solutions

The Word Pavilion

48-05 Metropolitan Avenue Ridgewood, NY 11385 1209 Maple Avenue South Hempstead, NY 11550 npc.net 340 Madison Avenue New York, NY 10173 phillipslytle.com

40 Worth Street, 5th Floor New York, NY 10013 healthsolutions.org

Puzzle Break Rego Park

6233 Woodhaven Boulevard Rego Park, NY 11374 PuzzleBreakNY.com

21 Wallace Drive Plainview, NY 11803

444 East 82nd Street, #24A New York, NY 10028 supportingstrategies.com 600 Johnson Avenue Bohemia, NY 11716 thebugsstophere.com

73-20 Austin Street, 2D Forest Hills, NY 11375 my-alexandrageorge.com

Wentworth Management, LLC 31-00 47th Avenue, Suitte 3100 B Long Island City, NY 11101

October 2019 • Volume 15 • Issue 10

NEW MEMBERS CORPORATE

ARK Development LLC

78A North Boundary Road Cargo Area D JFK International Airport Jamaica, NY 11430 arkjfk.com The ARK at JFK provides pre- and post-travel animal care and veterinary services for pets, horses, birds, livestock and exotic animals in a competent and compassionate manner. The ARK provides an efficient, safe and low stress environment for both our human and animal clients.

LaGuardia Plaza Hotel

104-04 Ditmars Boulevard East Elmhurst, NY 11369 laguardiaplazahotel.com LaGuardia Plaza Hotel prides itself on service. The hotel is located directly across from LaGuardia Airport and a short distance from JFK International Airport, Manhattan, and Long Island. Interested exploring some of Queens’ most famous attractions? LaGuardia Plaza Hotel is minutes away the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, home of the US Open, and Citi Field, the home of the New York Mets and Flushing Meadows Park LaGuardia Plaza Hotel provides complimentary shuttle service to and from LaGuardia Airport train station and Queens Center Mall, houses 358 spacious guest rooms, provides complimentary Wi-Fi in both the guest rooms and public areas, is equipped with an indoor pool and jacuzzi (open year round), sauna, and fitness room.

The property also provides concierge services, business center, gift shop, guest laundry & dry cleaning services, lobby ATM machine, safe deposit boxes, on-site parking (fee) and on-site car rental services. The hotel’s friendly and attentive associates are prepared to ensure that LaGuardia Plaza Hotel becomes your “home away from home.”

MCT Fine Wine & Spirits

30-02 Whitestone Expressway Flushing, NY 11357 totalwine.com Total Wine & More is America’s Wine Superstore — the country‘s largest independent retailer of fine wine. They started in 1991 when brothers David and Robert Trone opened a small store in Delaware. Today, they operate 199 superstores across 23 states and continue to grow.

But it’s the team members who make the Total Wine & More shopping experience so special. Total Wine & More employs more than 4,000 dedicated men and women, including 600 wine service team members and 50 of the most knowledgeable wine experts, the Total

Wine Professionals. All wine team members participate in extensive training programs, weekly team wine tastings and monthly wineproducer seminars. Many travel to winemaking regions to meet our producers and learn about their wines firsthand.

The goal is to ensure each customer has an exceptional wine-buying experience. Do you need an expert recommendation for a wine?

Or do you know what you want, and just need directions to the right aisle? Whether you are new to the world of wine or a great wine enthusiast, Total Wine & More wants all customers to be confident and comfortable exploring the stores and selecting the wines they prefer. That’s the Total Wine Experience.

Millennium Dae Dong, Inc.

150-24 Northern Boulevard Second Floor Flushing, NY 11354 daedongmanor.com Forever Together Venue has been established for over 35 years operating under the former name of Dae Dong Manor. They have been hosting weddings, political and corporate events, galas, birthdays and other celebrations in the metro area. Unique table settings for Weddings, birthday parties, retirement parties, sweet 16 and other family events will make your event unforgettable. Creative balloon decorations, karaoke system, and moving lights will add more fun and excitement to your party!

Suffolk

1 Penn Plaza, Suite 5500 New York, NY 10119 suffolk.com Suffolk is leading the transformation of the construction industry with high-performing people, innovative processes and cutting-edge technologies that boost predictability, accelerate schedules, eliminate costs and minimize waste.

The Flying Locksmiths

212-43 Jamaica Avenue, Suite 209 Queens, NY 11428 flyinglocksmiths.com If it’s on a door, they handle it. Highly skilled locksmiths will install locks, cameras, access control systems, door hardware or even completely new doors and frames! Teams work on the entire opening to ensure that all components of your security system are properly installed, aligned and coordinated.

United American Title Agency

101-05 Lefferts Boulevard Richmond Hill, NY 11419 uatitleagency.com United American Title Agency is a full-

service title and real estate settlement provider that operates in the state of New York. At United American Title Agency, the client is always the first priority. The goal is to make the closing process a smooth one and as easy as possible for all parties involved. Experienced staff has handled thousands of closings throughout the state of New York. If you are buying, selling or refinancing a residential home, investment property, commercial building or vacant land, United American Title Agency staff will ensure the closing process is handled properly and in a professional manner.

Vanguard Building Soultions, LLC

620 Deer Road, Suite 17 Cherry Hill, NJ 08034 vbs-energy.com Vanguard Building Solutions (VBS) is an energy and infrastructure solutions company that puts clients first. Solutions include designbuild turn-key projects, project consulting, energy supply and cost reduction initiatives.

Executives need to focus on their core business and work with organizations they trust, let Vanguard Building Solutions show you how they can save you money and build that trust.

INTRODUCTORY

Big Apple Abstract Corp.

42-40 Bell Boulevard, Suite 300 Bayside, NY 11361 bigappleabstract.com

CardWorks

6900 Jericho Turnpike Syosset, NY 11791 cardworks.com CONTINUED ON PAGE 28 Statement required by the Act of August 12, 1970, section 3685. Title 39, United States Code, showing the ownership, management and circulation of Queensborough magazine, published 12 times per year, and owned by the Chamber of Commerce of the Borough of Queens, 75-20 Astoria Boulevard, Suite 140, Jackson Heights, New York 11370. Statement filed September 1, 2018. Publisher: Chamber of Commerce of the Borough of Queens Editor: Thomas Grech Known bondholders, mortgagees, and other security holders owning or holding one percent or more of total amount of bonds, mortgages or other securities, none. Extent & nature of circulation: Avg. each issue, Actual single issue, Preceding 13 mos., (Nearest to filing date). Total number of copies 3,110 (3,009). Paid and/or requested circulation: Dealer, carrier sales 579 (607), Mail subscriptions, 1,937 (2,002), Total 2,516 (2,609). Free Distribution By mail 0 (400), By other means 198 (200), Total 198 (200). Total distribution 2,714 (2,809), Office Use, leftover, spoiled 396 ( 2 0 0 ) , Return from news agents 0 (0), Total 3,110 (3,009), Percent paid 92.70 (92.88).

I certify that the statements made by me above are correct and complete. Thomas J. Grech, Editor

29

THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

queenschamber.org

EXECUTIVE COMMMITEE Thomas Santucci

Richard Dzwlewicz

Thomas J. Grech

Brendan Leavy

Nash Roe

Fran Biderman-Gross

Joanne M. Persad

Jacqueline Donado

Chairperson

Associate Treasurer

Vice Chairperson

Associate Secretary

Treasurer

Immediate Past Chair

Patrick Yu

Susan Browning

Mayra DiRico

Secretary

CHAIRPERSON’S ADVISORY COUNCIL

EXECUTIVE STAFF President & CEO

Business Development Manager

Chief of Operations

Strategic Program Coordinator

Alejandra Espejo

Jef Gross

Financial Controller

Neil Wagner

Business Service Program Manager

Manager of Committee Development

William Blake Dominick Ciampa Joseph Farber Louis D. Laurino

Joseph M. Mattone, Sr George Rozansky Gerard Thornton

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

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

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Fran Biderman-Gross Joshua E. Bienstock Michael Billia Susan Browning Kenneth J. Buettner Charles E. Callahan KY Chow

Carol Conslato Sal Crifasi Mayra DiRico Richard Dzwlewicz Joseph R. Ficalora Tamara Gavrielof Howard Graf

Raymond Irrera Kenneth Koenig Henry Kuykendall Neil Levin Jeffery E. Levine Carl Mattone Patricia Mezeul

Jeffrey Owens Nayan Parikh Albert F. Pennisi Vincent L. Petraro Esq Nash Roe Jeffrey Rosenstock Juan Santiago

Thomas Santucci Mark Scheinberg Caryn Schwab Sher Sparano Michelle Stoddart Terri Thomson Henry Wan

Patrick Yu Daniel Zausner

CORPORATE MEMBERS A&E Real Estate A&L Cesspool Services Corp A. Giannopoulos Architects AAA Northeast AARP Ackman-Ziff ADP Major Accounts Adria Hotel and Conference Center Aeroterm Airlogix Alma Bank American Lions LLC Amna Construction Corp AmTrust Title Andromeda Antun’s of Queens Village Apple Bank for Savings Apple-Metro, Inc. Ashnu International, Inc. Atco Properties Accounts Payable Aurora Contractors, Inc. AYC Properties LLC Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP Bank of America Merrill Lynch Bank of Hope BankUnited, N.A Bellozino Berkman, Henoch, Peterson, Peddy & Fenchel Bethpage Federal Credit Union BNB Bank Borchert & LaSpina, P.C. Boyce Technologies Inc. Broadway Stages Cactus Holdings Inc Capital One Bank Center for Automotive Education and Training Cerini and Associates, LLP. Ciampa Organization

Cipico Construction, Inc. ClearCell Power Complete Orthopedic Services, Inc Conference Associates, Inc Cord Meyer Development LLC Cornell NYC Tech Corporate Development Systems, Inc. Courtyard by Marriott CPEX Real Estate Crescent Properties, Inc Crown Castle Curaleaf Cushman & Wakefield DGC Capital Contracting Corp.

Daroga Power, LLC Douglas Elliman Real Estate DY Realty Services, L.L.C. E Central Medical Management East Coast Energy Group Ecosave Inc. Edge Auto Inc. Elmhurst Hospital Center Emigrant Mortgage Company EMU Health ENT and Allergy Associates, LLP Enterprise Fleet Management eXp Realty: Andrew Wu Exquisite Construction Fabiani Cohen & Hall, LLP Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, Inc. (FREE) Farrell Fritz, P.C. Financial Recources Brup Investment Services LLC First American International Bank Flushing Bank Flushing Council On Culture & The Arts Forest Hills Financial Group Inc.

GF55 Partners Global Industrial Goldenwood Property Advisors Goodwill Industries of New York & Northern New Jersey, Inc. Graf & Lewent Architects Grassi & Co. Greater NY Automobiles Dealers Association Greenberg Traurig Greenpoint Manufacturing & Design Center (GMDC) Greiner Maltz Company of NY Gum Studios Hampton Inn by Hilton JFK Airport Healthy Corner Pharmacy Inc. HiLine Construction Hilton Garden Inn Long Island City New York HK Capital Home2Suites Long Island City/ Manhattan View HSBC Bank Hyatt Place Flushing INDA, Association of Nonwoven Fabric Industry Innovative Lending Platform Association Innovo Property Group International Asbestos Removal Inc. iRCM, Inc. James F. Capalino & Assoc.

Jaros, Baum & Bolles Jason Office Products JetBlue Airways Corporation Jetro/ Restaurant Depot JFA Insurance Brokerage & Associates Inc. JGM Construction Development, LLC Jones Lang LaSalle

COMMITTEE LEADERSHIP COMMUNICATIONS Joshua Bienstock, NYIT bienlaw@aol.com Dayana Cabeza Be Growth Consulting contact@begrowthconsulting.com

ENERGY

Marshall Haimson E-Capital Development marshall@e-capitaldevelopment.com James Hendon Energy Economic Development Corp. jhendon@energyedc.com

HEALTHCARE & WELLNESS

Susan Browning Long Island Jewish Forest Hills sbrowning1@northwell.edu Bert Lurch E Central Medical Management bertl@ecmmgt.com

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HOSPITALITY

REAL ESTATE

Jim Quent Statewide Public Affairs jquent@statewidepublicaffairs.com Laura Altimari Fine Taste NYC finetastenyc@gmail.com

Martin Cottingham Avison Young martin.cottingham@avisonyoung.com Michael Wang Politan Real Estate mwang121@gmail.com

MANUFACTURING

TECHNOLOGY

NONPROFIT

TRANSPORTATION

Geoffrey Smith NY Grant Company Geoffrey@nygrants.com Thomas Powell Boyce Technologies tpowell@boycetechnologies.com

Larry Grubler Transitional Services of NY lgrubler@tsiny.org Maria Odysseus Investors Bank modysseus@myinvestorsbank.com

Bobby Giurintano TGI Office Automation bgiurintano@tgioa.com Fred Canone Telehouse mwang121@gmail.com

Kris Amato TD Bank Kristin.amato@td.com Nadir A. Jones MTA Small Business Development nadjones@mtahq.org

JRT Realty Group Inc. Kasirer Consulting Kaufman Astoria Studios Inc. Kimco Realty Corporation Klein Weath Management/Hightower Advisors Laffey Real Estate Laser Bounce of Brooklyn Inc. Lessing’s Food Service Management Levine Builders LimeBike Luxury Office Suites LLC Lyons Mortgage Services, Inc. M&V Provision Company Madison Realty Capital Main Street Radiology Manpower Marriott International, Inc Mazars USA LLP McBride Consulting & Business Medisys Health Network MedPlex Mega Contracting Group LLC MetroPlus Health Plan Metropolitan Taxicab Board of Trade MicroGrid Neworks, LLC Mikkeller NYC Molloy College Mount Sinai Hospital of Queens Mr. T Carting Corp.

MTA Long Island Rail Road Muss Development LLC NEOLEDGE Neuman’s Kitchen New York + Atlantic Railway New York Building Congress New York Business Corporation New York Health Plan Association New York Oil Heating Association New York Racing Assn. Inc. New York Restaurant Association New York Safety and Training NYC Ferry Operated by Hornblower Northwell Health OneGroup OTJ Architects Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation Patrick B. Jenkins & Associates Patrizia’s Italian Restaurant Petro Home Services Plastic Surgery of New York Portnoy, Messinger, Pearl & Assoc., Inc. Premier Paint Roller Co LLC Premier Payroll Solutions Prime Storage Priority 1 Security LLC Progressive Waste Solutions/IESI NY Corp QSIDE Federal Credit Union Quadlogic Controls Corporation Queens Center Mall Queens Public Communications Corp.

Queensborough Community College

Quontic Bank RCG Mortgage Radisson Hotel JFK Related Retail Corporation Royal Waste Services, Inc. Russo’s On The Bay Safeguard Global Samuel Goldstein & Co PC Santander Seagis Property Group, LP ShiftPixy Signature Bank Silvercup Studios Simon Baron Development Sivet, Paget & Riesel P.C. Skyline Risk Management, Inc. SL Green Realty Corp.

Solomon Agency Corp.

Spring Hill Suites New York Jamaica/JFK Airport Squad Security Inc. St. Francis Preparatory School St. John’s Episcopal Hospital St. John’s University Structural Engineering Technologies, P.C. Sussman-Automatic Corporation Target Terrace On The Park TFCU TGI Office Automation Thales USA Inc. The ALLCOT Group LLC The Botanist The Durst Organization The First National Bank of Long Island The Heskel Group The Marcal Group The New York Times The Sweet Construction Group T-Mobile Treasure Island Storage TSC Traning Academy, LLC Ultrasound Solutions Corp.

United Airlines United Nations Federal Credit Union United Public Adjusters & Appraisers, Inc. USTA National Tennis Center, Inc. Valley National Bank Vanguard Insurance Agency Vassilaros & Sons Coffee Venture House Vic Kessler Signs LTD Villa Russo Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP Waste Management of New York LLC Watch Guard 24/7 LLC Welby, Brady & Greenblatt, LLP WellLife Network Wells Fargo WeWork White Coffee Corp Windstream Enterprise York College - CUNY Zara Realty

October 2019 • Volume 15 • Issue 10 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.

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