May 2023 • Volume 19 • Issue 5
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT & CEO
City & State
THOMAS J. GRECH PRESIDENT & CEO
Queens Chamber hosts a number of signature events throughout the year which I’ve referenced here in this space. Each has their own specific meaning and purpose designed
to create opportunities for business owners such as yourself, our members and future members. The single most important event takes place this month every year, it’s Queens Day in Albany. In a single day you have access to our electeds, both the Queens Assembly and Senate delegation where you can express your concerns as well as show gratitude for the work they do on behalf of our borough. In addition, tour the Capitol building and legislative chambers to witness firsthand where decisions are made that impact not only our community but also your business. The occasion is topped off with a reception where some of Queens’ finest food and drink purveyors showcase what they do best. It's a full day bringing together city and state in hopes of creating new alliances that will leave you feeling a sense of satisfaction as well encouragement that your voice
has been heard. From our cover, which was taken on the “Million Dollar” staircase to the various images throughout this issue you’ll get a sense of what this day means to so many. If you missed it, make this trip a priority in 2024. This month is packed with a number of activities that span various industries and topics we hope will educate, inform and spawn business growth. The Chamber in partnership with MTA will present a complimentary webinar for contractors looking to build their business with the nation’s largest transportation network. Gary T. Davis, Training Coordinator at MTA, will lead the session. If you’re M/W/DBE, SDVOB or small business want to be a part of this important meeting. As the month comes to a close, we’re hosting our first outdoor networking event this spring at Pig Beach in Astoria. Mark your cal-
endar, register and join us for two hours of mingling with individuals seeking to grow their business connections. You don’t want to miss this chance to expand your network. Visit our website at www.queenschamber.org for more information regarding these opportunities and so many more. Make it a priority to engage with our elected officials, they work tirelessly on your behalf day in and day out. When city and state unite great things happen. Thank you for your support of Queens Chamber. I’m grateful everyday to serve as President of this wonderful organization. Hats off to each and every one of you for making a difference in our community. Always remember Queens STRONG!
MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
One Year Later…
HOWARD GRAF CHAIRPERSON
It has always amazed me how quickly time passes. Back in my younger years it felt as if the days and months seemingly lasted forever. Fast forward to the present
day, life moves at a record pace. 12 months ago, I began my term as Chair of our Board of Directors. It goes without saying I’m honored to serve in this capacity and experience the organization from a different perspective. As I reflect over the past year, I encourage you to evaluate the amount of engagement you’ve had with the Chamber since spring 2022. As a member, are you actively involved on one of our 13 volunteer committees lending your industry expertise and knowledge? Have you taken advantage of submitting content for this publication? Sharing what your organization is doing to impact the community or celebrating a milestone or perhaps an innovative new way you’re moving forward. Have you attended one of our Signature Events where you’ll no doubt interact with a Major
Corporate member on your prospect list to partner with for a business transaction. There’s also a number of small-scale educational events the Chamber hosts in partnership with any one of the city agencies designed to elevate both you and your business. You’re probably wondering how you might access some of these opportunities I mentioned. I’m glad you asked and I’m happy to point you in the right direction. Regarding our volunteer committees, contact Shahriar Hossain, Manager of Committee Development, shossain@queenschamber.org. He’ll be happy to share how you can participate. If you’re interested submitting content for this publication contact Jef Gross, Manager of Media Relations, jgross@queenschamber.org for specific information and details required for your content which will
get your organization a tremendous amount of exposure. Visit our website www.queenschamber.org to review our Chamber Event calendar and register to attend any one of our upcoming Signature and/or educational events. I’m excited to see what my second year as Chair holds and ways I can make a greater impact on behalf of our Queens business community, more specifically our members. I hope you tap into the benefits and opportunities I mentioned made possible to you as a member. Thank you for your continued support of Queens Chamber.
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