This Is Queensborough Sept. 2022

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September 2022 . Volume 18 . Issue 9

Giving her all for Woodhaven BID’s executive director, Raquel Olivares, goes above and beyond for businesses and community

ALSO

· A Slice of Queens: Rosa’s Pizza · Maspeth Federal’s ‘75 Days of Giving’ · Tech Spotlight: Johnathan Baldock

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September 2022 • Volume 18 • Issue 9

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT & CEO

Where does the time go? It feels like summer came and went in a f lash. In the days of my youth time seem to pass much slower as I navigated through the warmth of the sum mer season. I hope you took an oppor t unity to recharge and reset as we ramp up to fall.

Queens Chamber is committed to ensuring you’re out and about as we look to the fall season. Never let it be said we don’t provide you with adequate opportunities to network with your fellow business owners as well give you a frontrow seat to key individuals in our community.

A mongst t he nu me rou s events happening this month, we’re excited to bring Speed Networking back. It is by far one of our most popular networking events.

Out and About

This fast-paced session guar- fast event here in our Café at antees you’ll meet no less than Bulova. Our special guest will 20 new business contacts in a be District Attorney Melinda short period of time. Practice Katz. Aside f rom providing your elevator pitch remarks regardand register to join ing her off ice us. Space is limited initiatives, small so sign up today. bu si ness ow nAre you interesters will have her ed in knowing what undivided attenMTA has going? tion to ask quesJoin us on the 22 tions relevant to nd here at Bulova you r needs of Cor porate Building your operation. in our auditorium These are just as we host Jan no THOMAS J. GRECH a few of the Lieber, Chair and opportunities PRESIDENT & CEO CEO of MTA. He’ll we’re of fer i ng share updates on this month. All their Capital Improvements, designed to give you expof iscal standing, priority proj- sure to high prof ile individuects and more. This is one of als within our community who those front row seat opportu- can make a signif icant impact nities youdon’t want to miss. on your business bottom-line.

We’re closing out the month I count my blessings everywith a Small Business break- day for this role I serve as

President of Queens Chamber.

It’s the best job ever and it’s because of you our staff works tirelessly creating oppor tunities to educate you, put you face to face withpotential new clients by way of our networking events, and help achieve your goals of long term stainable successful.

Please visit our website www. queenschamber.org to register for the events I mentioned and those I didn’t as well as the numerous resources available to you. We look forward to shaking hands and r ubbing elbows with you this month.

Thank you for your continued support. Queens STRONG!

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

The most diff icult par t of early fall is getting back into the daily work routines that didn’t exist as you took some much-needed downtime over the sum mer. As the month wears on, you f ind you rself right back in the swing of things and focus on your business.

One of the most important aspects of any business is growth. No one wants to remain stagnate. The goal is always to increase last year’s numbers, t ur n a prof it and essentially set the stage for much-anticipated success.

As business ow ners, and many of you are small business owners, you know every moment cou nts. Resou rces made available to you from Queens Chamber is key to

Growth

jumpstarting that growth you that will assist in getting your seek three, six or nine months accounts set up. In addition, from now. you’ll access ou r Member Take a moment as you set- Events which promotes varitle back into your routine to ous oppor t unities hosted by reacquaint yourself ou r C h a mb e r with the website of members. the Chamber. Here If you’re a tech is where you’ll company, click f ind ou r Member on ou r Queens Di re ct or y wh ich Tech I ncubator gives you access to tab to f ind out numerous businesshow your orgaes and members n i zat ion m ig ht who you just might b e n ef it f rom be able to build a t he oppor t u n iconnection. ty available via On the Chamber HOWARD GRAF the Queens Tech website, o u r CHAIRPERSON Cou ncil mem“Events” tab list bers and resourcC h a mb e r eve nt s es provided by and Member events. There is the Small Business Resource an upcoming complimentar y Network (SBRN). two-part series on QuickBooks I’m certain after becoming

fam iliar with w w w.queenschamber.org you’ll be on the right t rack for the t y pe of growth you’re seeking for your business needs.

I look forward to interacting with you this month at one of our in-person activities, which one of the best ways to ensure business g row th. Increasing your network increases your bottom line.

Thank you for being a part of and supporting this 111-yearold organization K now n as Queens Chamber.

Remember, growth is essential.

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QUEENS QUICKLY

Jackson Heights resident starts fashion company, ‘Peachi’

By Jessica Meditz

In an age of online shopping, many people find themselves spending more time and money trying to find the look that’s right for them.

In fact, about 30 percent of online shoppers say they purchase clothing items in three different sizes, in the hopes that one fits.

With this knowledge, Justin Ramos, a Queens Village native and Jackson Heights resident, built the fashion company, Peachi.

Peachi is an AI-powered digital dressing room application that’s partnered with 400 brands, allowing users to develop their own personal style.

It’s an interactive platform that offers various features to get to know one’s style, such as styling games, the ability to pin and save items, as well as photographing clothes already owned to determine what to work around.

Ramos, 31, attended Amherst College in Massachusetts, where he played baseball and football.

He said that while he’s a software engineer by trade, key events earlier in life such as his sports career are what inspired him to develop this app.

“My football coach was really big on the whole idea of ‘look good, feel good, play good.’ When I graduated college, I understood how to do that in the athletic fields, but thought about how that translates to a profession,” Ramos said.

“I said, ‘Let me build something that helps people look and feel great every day, so that they can be their best selves, and just feel confident when they walk outside the house.’ That’s how Peachi was born,” he continued. “I wanted to build a tool that really helps people understand their

style and find great pieces for them in a much easier way than currently exists.”

One of Peachi’s most personalized features is its sizing calculator, which uses sizing data from various brands to calculate a user’s size in a different brand.

Because the program is only about six weeks into development, the sizing calculator is currently available for men’s sizing.

Ramos plans to expand the tool to meet women’s needs in the near future.

“We ask you a series of questions, such as what the brand of your favorite shirt is. If someone says they have a shirt from H&M that fits perfectly, or another one from Zara, they’d click on that. Then we ask what size that shirt is,” he explained.

“We’re able to use that information for a bunch of different brands, and figure out what is the best size for you. Then we send an email with brands that we work with, and the sizes you should wear in that brand,” he continued. “So we might say, ‘You said you’re a large at Zara, but you’re actually a medium at H&M. That’s a big problem we found, where sometimes you can be a large in one, but a small in another brand.”

While the brand does not manufacture clothing itself, it is connected with hundreds of big name brands including Balenciaga, Calvin Klein, Burberry and Adidas.

Peachi is participating in an accelerator run by Antler, a global venture capital firm with offices worldwide, including in New York.

“Antler has been really helpful. They have this idea called ‘first principles,’ which identifies what must be true in order for this vision of the future to happen. We know that people have

issues right now shopping online, so that’s what kind of started us to go down that path of figuring out the problems people have,” Ramos said.

“We’ve been scientists the last six weeks, having hypotheses, asking questions, learning and just doing small experiments on each step,” he continued. “It’s really helpful to have people in your corner who have invested in and built a lot of businesses before, giving you guidance along the way.”

About 1,000 people around the world are currently using Peachi, and Ramos expects that number to grow.

Those interested can visit Peachi’s website, download the app on their mobile device and follow the brand on social media @staypeachi on Twitter and Facebook, and @keepitpeachi on Instagram.

TABLE OF CONTENTS Queens Quickly: Peachi, 116th Precinct, Innovation QNS............... 4, 5

Maspeth Federal Savings stays true to mission.................................................18, 19

Promotions, Announcements & Appointments .................................. 6

Get to Know the Chamber’s Newest Members ...............................................28, 30

Green Spotlight: SUNation......................................................................... 7 Slice of Queens: Rosa’s Pizza of Jackson Heights............................... 8 Tech Spotlight: Jonathan Baldock of Glimpse Social ........................ 9 COVER STORY: Raquel Oliveries for Woodhaven............................11 Trading in my American Dream................................................................17 4

PUBLISHER Walter H. Sanchez

MAGAZINE EDITOR Alicia Venter

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

September 2022 • Volume 18 • Issue 9

QUEENS QUICKLY City tops off steel for new 116th precinct

By Alicia Venter

The new 116th Precinct is gaining headway in southeast Queens, as a celebration was held this week for the topping off of the structural steel. On Monday, Aug. 22, Mayor Eric Adams joined the NYC Department of Design and Construction and local elected officials in front of the Rosedale site for a topping off ceremony that signified the installation of the last beam utop the new building.

The precinct will serve the neighborhoods of Rosedale, Brookville, Laurelton and Springfield Gardens. Currently, the 105th Precinct, covers those neighborhoods, as well as Queens Village, Cambria Heights, Bellerose, Glen Oaks, New Hyde Park and Floral Park — more than 350 lane miles. The new precinct is meant to alleviate the strains of the 105th precinct.

Construction for the new precinct began in August 2021, with a projected cost of $104.8

million. It is being designed by the Department of Design and Construction, and is on-time to be completed in early 2024.

“Across the five boroughs, New Yorkers have made it clear that they want a safe city and responsible policing, and the new 116th precinct will help us deliver that,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “This precinct will make New Yorkers safer, not just in this neighborhood, but across Queens and the entire city. And with the [Department of Design and Construction] keeping this project on time and on budget, we will bring this new precinct to the community as soon as possible, helping officers build stronger connections with the communities they serve.”

The precinct will be 48,410 square feet and feature a built-in community center. Other accommodations the building will provide include administrative offices, staff commons areas, a stress reduction room, locker rooms,

charging stations for electric vehicles, client booking and processing areas, a detention area with secure cells and evidence and vehicle storage.

The announcement of the topping off of the precinct came on day one of Queens Borough President’s “Borough on your Block: Southeast Queens,” a series of public events throughout the week designed to provide services and transform the region.

“Public safety and public trust in our police department are not mutually exclusive. The new 116th Precinct is going to be proof that we can, in fact, have both here in Southeast Queens, where families have been pushing for faster response times and a tighter-knit relationship with their officers for decades,” said Richards.

“It’s the least they deserve. I’m deeply proud to have secured funding for this precinct and I am deeply grateful to all our city and community partners who have made this day possible.”

Update: Innovation QNS

By Alicia Venter

Innovation QNS is entering the third state of the Universal Land Use Review Procedure to determine whether it will be implemented in Astoria.

Most recently, on August 5. Borough President Donovan Richards shared in an editorial published with the New York Daily Eagle that he did not recommend the Innovation QNS be approved.

Now, the City Planning Commision has 60 days to decide whether they approve, modify or disapprove of the application.

The main reason that Richards stood against Innovation QNS was affordability, “the word with more weight than any other,” he stated.

Richards cited a study of the Queens rental market by MNS Real Estate to illustrate his point.

The study shows that Astoria saw the highest rent increase in the borough in June, as prices rose by 12.76 percent and the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom home was $2,553. July’s report showed that Astoria’s year over year price change was a 30.34% increase, illustrating the intensity of the housing crisis the neighborhood faces.

According to Richards, the additional 2,000 market-rate housing units that Innovation QNS would bring to Astoria would be detrimental to

the Astoria families already feeling the weight of the city wide housing crisis.

“The pressure placed on the surrounding community would become simply unsustainable,” Richards said.

There were positive aspects of Innovation QNS that Richards addressed: thousands of square feet of community and retail space, as well as a below-market incubator space for local small businesses.

However, the size of the proposal would require a commitment to affordability that “just weren’t good enough” for him to support.

The project is predicted to cost over $2 billion if enacted, and is led by developers from Kaufman Astoria Studios, BedRock and Silverstein Properties. Designed by ODA’s New York design studio, the development is expected to yield up to 2,700 apartments and more than 400,000 square feet of commercial area.

In the pitch to Community Board 1, the project detailed how 711 units would be at 60 percent AMI, and how the project would add eight new publicly accessible areas. However, this was not enough for Community Board 1, who voted 24-to-8 against the project in late July.

Both the Community Board and Borough President’s decisions come as recommendations to the City Planning Commision. If they disapprove of the application, then Innovation QNS nearly entirely dies; all items are defeated except for special permits, zoning map and text changes if the Mayor certifies as necessary; if they approve it, then Innovation QNS moves to the city council for approval. From there, the city council and Mayor Adams will make the final decision on whether Innovation Queens is approved.

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PROMOTIONS, ANNOUNCEMENTS & APPOINTMENTS

QCC supports the new Latina Mentoring Initiative

The Queens Chamber of Commerce proudly partners with New York State Mentoring Program (NYSMP), a statewide provider of sitebased mentoring services, in supporting the new Latina Mentoring Initiative (LMI). On October 21st, 2021, Latina Equal Pay Day, the New York State Mentoring Program stepped up to level the playing field for young Latinas across New York. NYSMP is honored to roll out the Latina Mentoring Initiative to schools, nonprofits, and foster care agencies statewide. In line with all statewide programming, they will provide virtual and hybrid, supervised, one-to-one mentoring to youth ages 8 to 21 years old. The unique focus of this initiative will be to connect Latina mentors with mentees to empower and support them by promoting self-advocacy, building soft skills and confidence, and nurturing aspirations.

The Queens Chamber of Commerce encourages those who would like to become a valued

mentor or support the program to sign up. Join the movement to uplift our young women, while celebrating heritage and creating community where success looks like our youth!

The Latina Mentoring Initiative is set to officially kick-off during Hispanic Heritage month, September 15th - October 15th; a fantastic way to open the new academic year. Volunteers are asked to commit one academic year, just 3 to 5 hours a month to impact the life of a young woman who can benefit from the guidance and encouragement of a mentor.

There are several ways to give back and become a champion of change in the life of a Latina mentee! If you would like to support the efforts to elevate our young Latinas, but can’t commit an academic year as a mentor, consider offering the following options (virtually or in-person): hosting a career day or workshop; job shadowing; or sponsoring a mentoring session or field trip for a youth partner.

To learn more on how to contribute to or become involved in the Latina Mentoring Initiative, please reach out to Samantha McQuibban,

Deputy Director (c) 518-646-1590 or Samantha.

McQuibban@ocfs.ny.gov, for more information.

LIC Partnership announces LIC Summit Historically a home for the innovation economy and sitting at the geographical center of the New York City region, LIC has experienced monumental growth over the past decade. From new mixed income housing to a burgeoning life sciences sector and world-class retail, LIC has become the nation’s quintessential live-work-play talent hub and destination.

At this year’s LIC Summit, we will highlight the unique qualities of LIC that have kept the neighborhood resilient through COVID-19, explore the investments in physical and social infrastructure needed to maintain momentum, and discuss how LIC can be a model for New York’s economic recovery. The LIC Summit will take place on Tuesday, November 15, 2022 from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm at the Museum of the Moving Image.

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September 2022 • Volume 18 • Issue 9

GREEN SPOTLIGHT

Queens Chamber of Commerce 75-20 Astoria Boulevard, Suite 140 Jackson Heights, N.Y. 11370-1131 Entire Contents Copyright 2021 by Queensborough. All letters sent to the QUEENSBOROUGH should be brief and are subject to condensation. Writers should include a full address and home and office telephone numbers, where available, as well as affiliation, indicating special interest. Anonymous letters are not printed. Name withheld on request. No such ad or any part thereof may be reproduced without prior permission of the QUEENSBOROUGH. The publishers will not be responsible for any error in advertising beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error. Errors must be reported to the QUEENSBOROUGH within five days of publication. Ad position cannot be guaranteed unless paid prior to publication. BQE Media assumes no liability for the content or reply to any ads. The advertiser assumes all liability for the content of and all replies. The advertiser agrees to hold the QUEENSBOROUGH and its employees harmless from all cost, expenses, liabilities, and damages resulting from or caused by the publication or recording placed by the advertiser or any reply to any such advertisement.

The Queens is Green Initiative works to connect Chamber members and industry leaders in an effort to help businesses become more energy efficient and ensure that Queens is leading the way in the fight against climate change.

Through educating, advocating and networking the Queens is Green Initiative strives to make Queens the greenest county in the largest city in America.

This energy partnership will help Queens Chamber members conserve energy and save money.

Bringing together Chamber members Reliable Power Alternatives Co., SUNation Solar Systems, Green Energy Technology, CPower Energy Management, National Grid and Con Edison, we will help our businesses become more energy efficient and assure that Queens is the greenest and most energy efficient borough and county in New York.

This month’s Green Spotlight features the work of Chamber member SUNation Energy and their efforts to fight climate change with Solar Power.

SUNation Energy Queens is Green Initiative For almost 20 years SUNation Energy has been providing Long Island and Queens residents and businesses with a choice. The headlines will always point to Decarbonizing, energy efficiency and climate change. The reality is that every solar panel deployed checks those boxes but also supplies financial relief to those that have made the choice to produce their own power.

Now coupled with Tesla Powerwall’s residents also have power reliability in the home.

Soon, all of you will be opening up your August/September Con Ed bills. This after a few weeks of an oppressive heat wave coupled with all of the additional energy costs of SUMMER LIVING. Residential rates in January were 30- 40% less than the bills you are opening today, mostly due to increased fuel costs. Regardless, you are paying more and have no control.

Thankfully your Queens Chamber has partnered with several reputable companies committed to driving energy efficiency, borough leading decarbonization and yes reducing the net costs to operating your homes and businesses through the Queens is Green initiative.

Queens residents receive industry leading incentives including Federal and State Tax credits, NYSERDA rebates and even property tax reductions to those making the decision to go solar. SUNation is also front and center on the first Tesla Powerwall project to be approved in Queens.

Some quick benefits of going solar: • Immediately reduce your monthly electric bills.

• No money out of pocket.

• Stabilize your energy costs against inflation.

• Help decrease your environmental footprint.

To find out more information about SUNation Energy visit https:// www.sunation.coM. To inquire about the Queens Chamber of Commerce Queens is Green Imitative reach out to us at info@queenschamber.org

Produced by BQE Media 45-23 47th Street, 2nd Floor Woodside 11377• 718.426.7200 Send articles & photos to:

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A ‘SLICE’ OF QUEENS

Slice of Queens: Rosa Pizza

BY ROBERT INTELISANO

One of the best aspects of writing this column for the Queens Chamber of Commerce is that I meet pizzeria owners and new interesting people every month, and I invite different people to share the experience.

On Thursday July 14th, I attended the Queens Chamber of Commerce boat cruise around the island of Manhattan. Tom Grech, President of the Queens Chamber of Commerce introduced me to Lisa LiCausi, who handles business development for the chamber. A fellow foodie of Italian descent, we immediately bonded talking food while enjoying the music and panoramic sights around New York City via boat at sunset. Any food conversation with me will eventually get to pizza.

We compared our favorite pizza spots and decided on Rosa Pizza for lunch.

The “American Dream” became real for the Troia Family when Erasmo Troia and his son Salvatore (one of his 9 children, 8 boys and 1 girl) came to the USA from Sicily in 1969. The rest of the family would follow in 1972.

It was music to my ears listening to Sal Troia, owner of Rosa’s Pizza in Middle Village, shared the story of where they came from, a

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small town called Carini (population 37,752) Sicily, a suburb about 12 miles northwest of Palermo, the capital of Sicily.

Sal worked for Rosario’s Pizza on Springfield Boulevard and Casetta Pizza in Jackson Heights before working at the original Rosa’s Pizza 55-26 69th street in Maspeth. The way the story goes, the original Rosa Pizza owner was going back to Italy, so the Troia Family bought the shop and trademarked the Rosa Pizza name.

My first Rosa’s Pizza experience was at their 62-65 Fresh Pond Road, Ridgewood location back in 2009.

I had torn all 3 ligaments in my ankle playing basketball by land-

ing on Big Lou’s size 18 shoe and was in a walking boot. I was rehabbing at ProMet Physical Therapy on Metropolitan Avenue on the Middle Village/Ridgewood border and the owner, Ryan Martin, said he was taking me to his favorite spot for pizza and chicken rolls. I haven’t had a better chicken roll since!

We walked in and the aroma of 20 different types of pizza was intoxicating! We tried multiple slices including their Sicilian, Grandma and Sfincione slices. Lisa had not heard of Sfincione and I was excited for her to taste it.

Rosa’s pizza is known for their Sicilian slice, which is called “an upside-down Sicilian” or the “Red Sicilian” as some people might call it. The reason it is called “upside down” is because it is different than a traditional Sicilian slice. The order is first crust, then cheese, sauce and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. It is red, not white on top. One of the beauties of going to Rosa Pizza is that they use original multi-generational family recipes from “the old country” in Palermo, Sicily.

Very few people (including Italians) are aware of what Sfincione is or means. The name is derived from “Sfincia,” which is loosely translated as “thick sponge.” It originated in Palermo on the northwestern side of Sicily in the early 17th century then spread to Catania on the eastern side of Sicily, where my

family originates.

Sfincione was originally created as special bread for Christmas eve and has the characteristics of Palermo Street food. It is soft, so even those with no teeth could eat it. It is tasty and inexpensive to make. I call Sfincione “The Paella of Pizza” as it was a common meal for the poor. There are breadcrumbs on top instead of cheese, as most commoners couldn’t afford cheese.

Rosa’s makes their Sfincione with a light airy crust (about 1 inch thick) with sauce, onions and breadcrumbs. No cheese! It was a surprise that Lisa LiCausi’s favorite was the Sfincione slice. I usually go to Rosa for their Grandma slice, which is more condensed than their Sicilian and it is served with marinara sauce and fresh garlic. No matter which slice you decide to try, you cannot go wrong with Rosa Pizza!

America was built by immigrants, hard-working families who came here from overseas many years ago for more opportunities for their children and grandchildren. The Troia family is an excellent example of this. They came here with little money and a dream. Sal got goosebumps on his forearms when he was talking about his father as we looked at his family photos on the wall.

Now there are 9 Rosa Pizzerias to choose from, owned by a combination of Sal’s siblings, where many of their 3rd generation children work. You can find a Rosa Pizza in Maspeth, Ridgewood, Astoria and Middle Village Queens. They have also expanded to Williamsburg, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Great Neck and Huntington, Long Island. Two of Sal’s siblings, Irene and Mauricio, own an Italian Restaurant in Queens called Villa Erasmo, named after their father.

You cannot go wrong no matter which Rosa’s Pizza Restaurants you visit. Try it, you will thank me later!

Tell me what you think at Rob@ InsuranceDoctor.us.

Email me at Rob@InsuranceDoctor.us to share your favorite Queens pizzeria and slice.

September 2022 • Volume 18 • Issue 9

TECH SPOTLIGHT Jonathan Baldock of Glimpse Social

This week’s featured tech entrepreneur is Jonathan Baldock, founder of Glimpse Social, a free app for businesses and individuals designed to safely reconnect our communities as COVID-19 restrictions ease.

Can you tell us a little more about your company and how you got your start?

I started as a technology recruiter in 1996 and moved into this industry from retail. It was a huge step for me. I had to go through 13 interviews to get the initial job.

In terms of Glimpse Social, it’s an app that will help to connect our communities to local businesses and engage with them directly. It came about on a vacation in Greece. It dawned on me that there should be an app that can tell you what to expect wherever you are traveling in the world. How is the view, is the beach busy, what is a great local restaurant?

Out of those thoughts, Glimpse was born, and there are so many other potential uses for the technology.

What excites Glimpse Social?

you

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Glimpse Social has the power to connect communities and drive revenue for minority-owned, un-

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derserved, and independent businesses who need some help attracting customers. I’m excited to be able to provide a technological solution that’s scalable and free for everybody.

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

Both LaGuardia and JFK Airports are undergoing multibillion dollar renovations; these are huge government investments which will allow more people to move in and out of Queens specifically.

This increase in traffic will drive more opportunity for Queens’ businesses. Tech, such as Glimpse Social, will really help lift the community as consumers and businesses can better support one another.

Also, I was recently a judge for a “plan and pitch” contest for start-ups in New York, many of which were based in Queens. I was seriously impressed with the caliber of minority-owned businesses and the way they used tech.

It was very inspirational and I’m excited to be part of helping these start-ups broaden their reach and potential. .

To learn more, visit https:// glimpsesocial.com/.

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July 2022 2022 • Volume 18 • Issue September • Volume 18 • 7 Issue 9

COVER STORY

Raquel Olivares: Leading theWoodhaven BID

By Alicia Venter

aventer@queensledger.com Raquel Olivares has been hard at work since she became the Executive Director of the Woodhaven Business Improvement District (BID) in 2017.

Bridging the gap between the Woodhaven community and its businesses along Jamaica Avenue, Olivares is partnering with neighborhood organizations, city institutions and small businesses to keep her district feeling supported and accelerating its growth.

She is our fearless leader,” said Maggie Schmidt of Schmidt Candy at 9415 Jamaica Ave. “She is doing an excellent job.”

Getting her hands dirty Woodhaven residents aren’t going to only see Olivares in her office, filing away papers and updating their outdated online database (both of which she is also doing). Olivares isn’t afraid to get her hands dirty and her feet on the ground to make sure the job is done right.

Olivares is constantly walking from business to business to better understand their needs and to ensure that they understand the resources available to them. One of the greatest struggles she faces is to explain to people the benefits of joining the BID, and that can only be done through conversation.

While sending mass emails can be useful, there is something to having the hardcopy of a flyer in one’s hand, she explains, both to explain the benefits of joining the BID and so members can be reminded of the resources they have.

When businesses were required to transition to outdoor dining during the COVID-19 pandemic, Olivares met with each business owner to explain the change and offer support in any way.

Despite her loyalties to Woodhaven, Olivares did not limit her help to the small businesses along Jamaica Avenue.

“I had so many businesses calling

me, especially with outside dining.

I never said no, even if you are in Richmond Hill — I don’t care where you are,” she said. “You’re a business owner. You need help. I’m going to be there for you.”

An initiative that Olivares took upon herself is that she would prevent unnecessary fines from hurting businesses.

To do so, she has walked with the Commissioner of Consumer Affairs to help explain to businesses how they can prevent unnecessary fines, walked Jamaica Avenue with the Department of Transportation and organized an information session with the 102nd Precinct to guide restaurant owners about e-bike rules and regulations.

Partnering with the community The Woodhaven BID has partnered with the Woodhaven Residents Block Association (RBA) in an effort to keep the neighborhood clean. Together, they paint over graffiti on Jamaica Avenue and nearby streets.

Olivares secured materials and grants to get power washers, spray guns and other supplies.

The RBA, according to president Martin Colberg, works to get volunteers to remove the graffiti.

When volunteers run low, Olivares can be found herself working with spray paint, cleaning the streets of Woodhaven.

Paving her own way Before Olivares became executive director, Maria Thompson, a beloved member of the Woodhaven community, served in that position for 30 years. Despite having to follow a legend, Olivares has found her own rhythm to leading the BID — in her own way.

“One of the first things people used to tell Raquel is ‘hey, you have a big set of shoes to fill,’” Colberg said. “But I think Raquel has done

a great job in the past few years of just putting on her own shoes and setting her own path. Taking the BID into different directions that were not touched yet.”

One of those directions included the utilization of social media, which has become much more accessible and powerful since Thompson was the executive director.

The Woodhaven BID has an ongoing ‘shop local’ campaign where they advertise local businesses, services and products. A glance at the BID’s social media pages will show how Instagram and Facebook powerfully spread information to locals.

“I think Raquel has taken a different path and is utilizing the tools she had today that maybe Maria didn’t have in the past,” Colberg said. “That just shows how she is able to think out of the box and to continue and want to grow our BID.”

Woodhaven BID is the annual “Woodhaven Street Fair” on Sunday, September 25th from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

The fair, one of the largest in New York City, runs from Woodhaven Boulevard all the way to 80th Street and contains rides, vendors, live music, food and lots of fun.

“Everyone kept telling me how much the street fair meant to them so I wanted to do whatever I could to keep this tradition alive for Woodhaven,” Olivares said.

You can contact the Woodhaven BID at 929.460.5808 or at woodhavenbid@gmail.com.

For more information, visit www. woodhavenbid.com

There are 13 BIDS across Queens, each facing their own struggles and with its members working to grow their community. Olivares’ fresh face and approach as executive director is propelling Woodhaven businesses forward.

Up next for the

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QUEENS CHAMBER NEWS & EVENTS

Ezome-US Textile & Apparels Trade Show

The United States is one of the most open markets in the world, a significant trading partner of China, and an important export market for Chinese companies. Annual U.S. merchandise trade imports total more than $240.75 billion, accounting for 14.9 percent of total U.S. trade in goods, and more than $435.4 billion of products made in China enter the United States each year.

From October 18-20, 8:30 am-5:30 pm, the first EZONE-US Textile & Apparels Trade show will be held online.

Facing the sudden up of the big epidemic crisis, the exhibition organizers and exhibitors of the watchful eye, with confidence and strength from the source to help accelerate the recovery of the textile industry, stabilize the industrial chain, and provide new momentum for industrial upgrading.

The company’s exhibition and marketing center is an O2O exhibition and marketing platform under the organic combination of traditional face-to-face communication in overseas exhibitions and virtual display with the support of mobile Internet technology.

The exhibition center and the world’s top virtual exhibition platform service providerVfairs have joined hands to provide a customized online exhibition platform for the exhibitors and attendees of the exhibition center.

This O2O overseas digital sample room can meet the needs of enterprise commodity display, live promotion, one-to-one video communication, small procurement matchmaking meetings, Etc. Ezone-US Virtual, the new virtual companion to our in-person show, is designed to deliver qualified leads, promote product launches and initiate meaningful engagement through face-to-face meetings, networking sessions, and more.

Bringing the apparel & textile community to you, no travel required!

The exhibitors at EZONE-US are all hardcore companies brave enough to rise to the occasion amid a crisis and win the opportunity to develop with their “best work.”

They need the exhibition as the most direct business platform to release new products, show their products to U.S. buyers, understand the U.S. textile market demand, exchange and

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share new textile technology, and expand sales channels.

The textile exhibition gathered exhibitors from Asia in various textile fields, including fabric, apparel, Curtains, Carpets, Bedding, shoes, luggage, socks, accessories, manufacturers, Etc. The exhibition attendees are wholesalers, retailers, designers, importers & exporters, Etc. The EZONE-US Virtual Show is an excellent opportunity for you to discover the products and services offered by suppliers from Asia.

Here’s what you can expect from our virtual experience: Connect with qualified manufacturers, stay connected with networking events, schedule face-to-face meetings, find out about new products, services & technology, and get specials, discounts, samples, and 3D booth options for a more immersive & vibrant experience.

Why Should you plan to attend?

Because Ezone Exhibition has developed a deep partnership with 500 of the best manufacturers throughout Asia, and together they are dedicated to serving your need. You can meet these manufacturers virtually, from the comfort and safety of your office, knowing that Ezone has done all of the QC legwork for you by verifying that each of these vendors has an impeccable reputation, premium quality merchandise, the best price, and ensuring prompt delivery.

As a bonus, Ezone can quickly and efficiently deliver samples to your doorstep from its eleven domestic warehouses in the US. With Quality, logistics, timelines, and delivery schedules facilitated by Ezone to ensure your needs are met, and the Experience is easy and seamless.

September 2022 • Volume 18 • Issue 9

Invites you to join us for our

2022

Building Awards Gala Keynote Speaker

ERIC ULRICH Commissioner of the New York City Department of Buildings

October 13, 2022 • 6:00 PM TWA Hotel at JFK Terminal 5, JFK Airport TICKETS AND SPONSORSHIP INFORMATION AT QUEENSCHAMBER.ORG

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QUEENS CHAMBER NEWS & EVENTS

Chamber hosts roundtable with Senator Gillibrand

On Wednesday, August 31, dozens of tech, business and community leaders gathered at the Bulova Corporate Center in Queens for a roundtable conversation with United States Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), who currently sits on the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. The event was hosted by the Queens Tech Council and the Queens Chamber of Commerce.

“Technology impacts the lives of all people, including the lives of our small business owners across the country who work tirelessly to try and protect customer information and their intellectual property. The work I am doing in cybersecurity is not only imperative for our nation’s security, but also for the private sector. My proposal for a state-of-the-art Cyber Academy would focus on the training of qualified personnel and would provide civic-minded young people with a free, unparalleled postsecondary technological education and a way to serve their country outside of the military,” saidU.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand.

Attendees heard opening remarks from Tom Grech, President and CEO of the Queens Chamber of Commerce, introduced Gillibrand and served as a moderator for the conversation which focused mainly on the Senator’s dedication to cybersecurity, including a proposal for the creation of a Cyber Academy.

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“Throughout her years in government, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand has dedicated herself to being both accountable and transparent to her constituents. Her attendance at our event to discuss the ways we can better protect ourselves in this digital world highlighted that dedication,” said Tom Grech, President and CEO of the Queens Chamber of Commerce.

“The Queens Chamber of Commerce knows that supporting a strong tech ecosystem requires more than just attracting the world’s most prominent tech companies to Queens, but also protecting their private data and information from threats, both domestic and abroad.

Through our innovative programming, including the launch of our Queens Tech Incubator, we remain dedicated to training individuals in the most sought-after areas of technology, including the cybersecurity realm.”

The Queens Tech Council, which was launched in February 2021, focuses on building an economy that embraces innovation and promotes tech adoption, from existing giants in established industries to startups working on cutting edge applications. This means ensuring Queens is producing the talent that companies look for, that Queens-based tech companies are able to get the resources and capital they need, and that businesses in traditional industries are able to adapt to the changing economy, successfully integrate new technologies, and upskill their workforces to remain competitive and thrive in the years to come.

“The persistent gaps in our federal tech workforce call for bold, innovative solutions to sustainably bring in young talent, build out our digital capabilities, and maintain our strength and influence in cyberspace. Many of these leaders will go on to work in the private sector, where they will take the skills they learned in government to protect businesses across the country, including here in New York. Queens is a hub for diversity and education, and it was wonderful hearing from leaders in the area and their ideas on how we can build a secure future for all,” Sen. Gillibrand added.

September 2022 • Volume 18 • Issue 9

this is...

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

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.

They read it.... so should you!

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

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QUEENS CHAMBER MEMBER NEWS

Your customer just landed in JFK...

She Media NY, LLC takes flight in LaGuardia and Kennedy Airports

By Teresa Rampulla

One of the Queens Chamber’s newest members has certainly landed in the right place. You may have met her and her team at the 2022 Queens Business Expo where her aeronautical business cards were all the rage, but this marketing guru has something more than multidimensional creativity, she has the eyes and ears of the travelers in and out of the PANYNJ Airports.

The phrase “She has arrived” has never been more powerful than it was for the boutique New York based media agency, She Media NY, LLC. Founded in 2014 by Teresa A. Rampulla; a New York City resident, partnered with CCA, as its ACDBE/DBE/WBE local sales subcontractor to the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey (PANYNJ): the largest airport advertising and sponsorship contract in the U.S. This 12 year deal is certainly something to celebrate for Rampulla and She Media NY. She Media NY, LLC Founder Teresa Rampulla said, “We are happy to be on board and have the NY/NJ area airports high-value media displays. As a sole source ACDBE/WBE partner for both the Airports and Ferry Advertising, we deliver both business commuters and tourists to a much broader range of the market.

As much as we are proud to have, She Media win this contract; we also believe this is a major step forward for all women businesses. We highly encourage other women-owned businesses - really any small business - to look for and aggressively pursue these large contracts and RFPs. This is a win for us all.”

Through She Media NY, LLC’s LaGuardia and Kennedy Airport advertising displays, you introduce yourself, your service, and your product to local as well as international travelers. Your airport campaign can share the best of Queens and what to do, eat, work and explore in our area.

Airport Advertising Works It taps into a receptive audience Airport advertising acts as a welcoming distraction to a truly captive airport audience.

Let’s face it, passengers wander the same spots and spend quite some time waiting for their

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flights or luggage pickup. Placing ads in strategic locations within the airport increases the chances of passengers looking at your ad campaigns in greater detail while they wait.

Engages passengers in long wait times At the airport, most people tend to engage more with ads than in other settings where they may be too distracted with other daily routines. Coupled with long dwell times, whether the hours waiting for pre-flight or the baggage carousel, your brand will have enough time to communicate and tell stories to the captive airport audience.

It adds brand value An example is the Broadways Beetlejuice

campaign at LaGuardia’s baggage claim section that displays: that Beetlejuice may be “Uncouth, Unkempt and Undead, and you thought You had Baggage!”. This campaign was so powerful that it led to two other theater/tourism campaigns, and countless more looking to reach this captive audience.

In LaGuardia and Kennedy airport, She Media NY, LLC has Street furniture, Airport terminal displays, Huge wallmurals, baggage claims, digital campaigns, and charging stations all ready to share your message and campaign.

A diverse market for professionals and leisure travelers On average, about 61% of airport passengers are professionals, focused and welcoming to business-related products or services, also looking for venues to host business events or entertain clients. The remaining 39% are leisure passengers who not only invest in travel but also consider shopping as part of the experience. Airport advertisement increases your product or brand getting the attention, cooperation, and investment needed to succeed.

So, whether by air, land, or sea She Media NY, LLC has the media to fit every media plan, campaign, and budget.

To learn more about PANYNJ offerings contact, Teresa Rampulla @ 212-949-6160 or 718-351-2557 www.shemediany.com Teresa Rampulla is the CEO Of She Media NY, LLC a New York-based media/marketing firm, ACDBE provider for the PANYNJ and Advertising Manager for Ferryads (Manhattan and SI Ferries and Terminals).

Rampulla is a member of the Queen’s Chamber of Commerce, Kennedy Airport Chamber, Staten Island Chamber, and the Orange County Chamber of Commerce, an SIEDC Ambassador, (Economic Development) where she serves on the Women’s Council, member of the National Organization of Italian American Women (NOIAW), and National Association of Professional Women (NAPW).

She is a professional public speaker for business and college organizations on marketing, business, and PR. She lives in Monmouth County with her husband David and their 3 children Siena, Isobel and Vittoria and her minpoodle, Caleb.

September 2022 • Volume 18 • Issue 9

QUEENS CHAMBER MEMBER NEWS

Trading in My American Dream

By Paul King, Founding Partner, Orion Development Group

Queens is the land of one million dreams – like my American Dream to start a business, own a home and raise my family in a great neighborhood. Having lived much of that dream, I am now stepping away from the business I’ve nurtured for decades to make sure everyone in Queens –and America– has that same chance.

Back in 1999, I had a vision.

My colleagues and I had mastered systemic problem solving and were ready to teach these skills from coast to coast. I had the plan, the desire and the work ethic. Like any other start-up, Orion Development Group needed good local team members, cost-effective office space, and enough capital to cover six months of overhead.

Leasing a good location in Rockaway Park was easy enough.

(We started out over the surf shop!) Finding people with the right mix of talents was much harder. Getting the capital we needed was almost impossible.

Even though Orion had customers and contracts, no commercial bank would give us credit. Indeed, some seemed offended by the notion.

The local economic development corporation gave us a government pamphlet.

Fortunately, my parents were able to use the equity in their home to float me $35,000 for six months.

Would my company have survived the first year without that family loan? Maybe not. What about all of today’s aspiring, deserving entrepreneurs -- can they get a fair shot at their American Dream?

This year, I am stepping away from Orion and running for Congress (NY5) with the theme, “The American Dream for Every American.” The campaign is not all about business but based on my

experience with Orion there are three keys to success that I will focus on in Washington: •

•

.

Talent – Many people assume business skills are acquired in college but most Americans do not have college degrees.

We must learn essential skills in K-12. Too many children do not get that foundation.

My plan is to fix the problem via innovation. Targeted online education can be a gamechanger, giving parents the tools they need to supplement what is taught in public school classrooms.

Operating Environment – Office or store space must be safe and affordable. Employees don’t want to accept jobs in unsafe neighborhoods or that require an unsafe commute.

Employers cannot afford the overhead burden of excessive rents. Somehow, we have both burdens simultaneously in parts of Queens. At all levels of government, we must and will take a holistic approach to reducing crime

•

Fair Access to Capital – Just as I struggled to get initial funding (and funding for growth), today’s entrepreneurs face big capital barriers – that will only get worse as the prime rate goes up and the economy goes down. The underwriting rules applied by big banks are not intentionally unfair but when your dream is out of reach because your company is denied credit, who cares about “fair.”

We will create new avenues of funding for small businesses and start-ups.

In the face of difficult economic challenges, these three steps will help revive our small business engine in Queens. And what about Orion? My company will live on whether or not I am elected to Congress. My partners and team members are picking up the slack

now and we have proven business processes that will deliver sustainable solutions for companies in Queens and across America for years to come.

For me, Orion has been more than a means to put food on the table. It has been a mission and passion. Our little company from Queens has helped hundreds of companies, hospitals and government agencies across America solve systemic problems and achieve measurable bottom-line improvements. We have trained more than 30,000 professionals in these skills. As Congressman, I look forward to helping many people in Queens (and beyond) start successful businesses, own homes and build thriving communities… to live out their American Dreams.

Paul King teaching an Operational Excellence program at Baldwin Wallace University.

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QUEENS CHAMBER MEMBER NEWS

Maspeth Federal Savings stays true to mission Community bank reflects on ‘75 Days of Giving’ campaign

CEO Thomas Rudzewick announces the winner of the Mustang Mach-E.

Maspeth Federal Savings’ “75 Days of Giving” campaign culminated last month with a ‘60s hits concert featuring The Crystals, Bobby Wilson and The Happenings, along with a grand prize giveaway of a 2022 Mustang Mach-E. The campaign celebrated the institution’s 75th anniversary by giving back to its customers all summer long.

Maspeth Federal Savings was founded in 1947 to help returning American soldiers put down roots in the neighborhood.

Since then, it has become a cornerstone of the surrounding area, supporting community organizations and providing criti-

18

cal assistance to customers, first responders and local hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Our 75-year celebration has been a great opportunity to remember why we’re here and who we’re serving,” said the bank’s president and CEO Thomas Rudzewick. “I’m proud that we’ve stayed true to the mission of our founder, Alexander E. Frontera.”

Nostalgia was in the air throughout the “75 Days of Giving,” which featured more than 12,000 in-branch giveaways ranging from Brooklyn Seltzer Boys egg creams to Italian ices by local favorite Isabella’s.

Altogether, the campaign totaled: $50,000 worth of prizes, $26,000 in contributions across 18 charities, including the United Veterans & Fraternal Organizations of Maspeth, The Ronald McDonald House and the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, as well as $6,000 in small business support via giveaways and events.

The raffle for the Mustang Mach-E garnered over 3,000 entries, drawing more than 1,000 attendees who stayed for the show after the giveaway on Aug. 10.

“To me, it’s a win when everybody feels like they came away with something,” Rudzewick said.

He added that going into 2023, MFS will continue its heritage of service with a renewed focus on digital convenience, financial wellness and customer protection.

According to the FBI’s 2021 Elder Fraud Report, people 60 and up lost nearly $1.7 billion to online fraud in 2021, marking a 74 percent increase over 2020.

“Our opportunity is to continue to serve and be a safe haven for people and their dollars,” Rudzewick said. “Over the next 10, 20, 50 years, Maspeth Federal Savings will continue to offer a different perspective on the role that community banks play in their neighborhoods.”

PHOTOS ON PAGE 19

September 2022 • Volume 18 • Issue 9

QUEENS CHAMBER MEMBER NEWS

The Crystals performed classics such as “Da Doo Ron Ron,” “He’s A Rebel,” “Then He Kissed Me” and more.

A crowd gathered to watch the free performances.

Wilson performed songs by his father, famed soul singer, Jackie Wilson, along with other R&B and Doo-Wop classics.

Bobby Miranda, frontman of The Happenings, serenaded the crowd.

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NONPROFIT NEWS

Fogo de Chão partners with Queens Together to feed locals

By Jessica Meditz

Fogo de Chão, an internationally renowned restaurant founded in Southern Brazil in 1979, will soon make its Queens debut.

Later this year, the restaurant will open a brand new location next to Queens Center Mall in Elmhurst—marking its first Queens location, fifth in New York and 67th globally.

In preparation and celebration of the upcoming opening, Fogo de Chão partnered with Queens Together, an organization formed during the COVID-19 lockdown to address food insecurity.

Last Friday, the two groups came together at First Baptist Church of Elmhurst to provide fresh, high quality meals to over 1,500 community residents.

Fogo de Chão and volunteers worked together to provide people with meats butchered and prepared on their full-sized mobile churrasco grills.

Folks enjoyed their signature churrascostyle meats—Fraidinha and Picanha—along with mixed greens and their well-loved potato salad.

“Coming to Queens is such an amazing opportunity for us because it’s the most cultur-

20

ally diverse city and borough, and that’s what we love to do at Fogo,” Katie Calvin, general manager of Fogo de Chão, said.

“Especially for people who are from Latino or Hispanic countries, they often don’t have somewhere to go that feels like home,” she continued. “That’s why we love that we’re coming to Queens; we’re really excited.”

In addition to the Queens event, Fogo de Chão is committed to providing for the communities they serve, and arranges for mobile events to take place across the U.S. Queens Together was also proud of their presence at the event, continuing their mission of empowering, representing and supporting the local restaurant community, as well as Queens residents in need.

We’re just trying to be a forward-facing program. We try to close all the gaps and connect people with food and services, and with restaurants in general, our biggest thing is trying to help them stay in business,” Devin Kloss, media director at Queens Together, said.

“Our goal is just to be somebody that they can call when they have a question, and then either we’ll find out the answer, or we’ll find the person to get them the answer,” he continued.

“That’s really our goal.”

Also in attendance was third baseman for the Mets, Eduardo Escobar, who is a big fan of the restaurant.

“It was actually a really organic, beautiful connection that was made with Eduardo. He started to eat at Fogo, and we started to hear him saying, ‘Fogo power,’ and ‘I play better after Fogo,’” Calvin said.

“Now we have luckily have a really tightbonded relationship, and a percentage of our sales go to his foundation, where he provides to kids mostly in Venezuela with baseball materials, opportunities, food and supplies.”

Escobar spoke fondly of Fogo de Chão as he helped prepare the meats that went out into the community, and is happy that the restaurant so close to his heart is now physically close to him, where he plays baseball.

“The food is just so delicious, and I love everything about it. The people are also so nice,” Escobar said.

“Everything they’re doing to help the community is so important and special, and this is an amazing opportunity,” he continued. “God bless this restaurant. The food helps me feel at home.”

September 2022 • Volume 18 • Issue 9

NONPROFIT NEWS

New York Junior Tennis & Learning Celebrates 50th Anniversary

By Bahar Ostadan

A squad of tiny zombies stumbled across the playground at I.S. 204 at 28th Street and 36th Avenue in Long Island City this past Friday morning.

Arms out, huffing under the July sun, the 10-year-olds cycled through tennis warm-ups.

These young players are just a few of the 85,000 that New York Junior Tennis & Learning serves (pun intended) every year.

As the largest nonprofit tennis program in the country, NYJTL offers community and after school tennis classes in all five boroughs for free.

Long Island City site director, Giovanny Ramos, grew up as a student in the program himself.

After a few labored lunges, the kids teamed up on either side of the net. Six on six, The Average Joe’s versus Team Star.

“The rules are easy!” Ramos yelled. “The ball cannot stop, nor can it roll.”

Just as the players settled into position, gripping rackets twice the size of their heads, Ramos lowered his voice for one last detail, “Remember, we want the ball to go over the net.”

NYJTL was co-founded in 1971 by Arthur Ashe, the first and only Black man to win the U.S. Open and Black American man to win a Grand Slam title.

“Our idea is to use tennis as a way to gain and hold the attention of young people in the inner cities and other poor environments so that

“

we can teach them about matters more important than tennis,” Ashe is quoted on NYJTL’s website. “[Ashe] was an incredible example of access to opportunity and perseverance,” said Udai Tambar, president of NYJTL. “We’re trying to make sure that DNA of the organization continues on.”

“By low-income communities of color, tennis is seen as inaccessible,” he continued. “Like, this is a country club sport. This is not for us.”

Today, 83 percent of NYJTL’s students are Black, Asian, Latino or “other,” and come from families with an average household income of $37,500—a stark departure from the city’s private tennis programs that can cost over $1,000 per week.

NYJTL set up mini nets and painted court lines at 32 sites around the city this summer, often in school gyms or even cafeterias.

This year they trained 110 gym teachers across the city who now can teach tennis to their students in schools, where NYJTL provides balls and equipment.

A hallmark of the program is their 3 million hours of court time teaching and training each year.

“We’ll bring the tennis courts to you,” said Tambar. “We’re saying, you belong in this sport, and if you belong in this sport, you also

belong in other spaces, which you think you are excluded from.”

Tambar, who grew up playing tennis in Queens, said he didn’t expect to be running a nonprofit one day, let alone one with a $20 million operating budget.

“I don’t think there are many Asian American or South Asian American CEOs of nonprofits,” said Tambar. “To feel comfortable in this role means that you have to be able to overcome discomfort in other places in life.”

In fact, he’s in the 2 percent of nonprofit CEOs who identify as Asian, according to 2017 data from the National Index of Nonprofit Board Practices.

“Playing tennis…it was part of the building blocks that prepared me for this current role,” he said.

At I.S. 204 that morning, parents lined the court, scattered among tiny backpacks and frozen water bottles.

A boy on Team Star, barely standing taller than the net, stared blankly at a ball spinning toward him.

Seconds later, Ramos leaped and yelled, “That’s 3-1 for The Average Joe’s!”

WE’LL BRING THE TENNIS COURTS TO YOU. WE;RE SAYING, YOU BELONG IN THIS SPORT, YOU ALSO BELONG IN OTHER SPACES, WHICH YOU THINK YOU ARE EXCLUDED FROM.” - UDAI TAMBUR, PRESIDENT OF NYJTL 21

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

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

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September 2022 • Volume 18 • Issue 9

QUEENSBOROUGH CALENDAR OF EVENTS SEPTEMBER

ANNUAL DINNER

GOLF

OUTING

AND

Sept. 19, 2022 from 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.

You are invited to the 2022 Queens Chamber Foundation Golf Outing and Dinner! This is a fun event filled with food, drink, and professional networking. You are welcome to attend the full day of golf or simply join us for the dinner/awards ceremony. You do not want to miss out on this once-a-year opportunity, so register now.

Garden City Country Club, Garden City NY Register at queenschamber.org

MORNING SPEED NETWORKING: GET UP, GET MOVIN...BUILD YOUR NETWORK

Sept. 20, 2022 from 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.

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

Your business cards and best elevator are the only tools you’ll need to succeed during fast paced networking event.

The Cafe at Bulova Corporate Center 75-20 Astoria Boulevard - The Café Jackson Heights, NY Register at queenschamber.org

QUEENS CHAMBER PRESENTS: MTA CHAIR AND CEO JANNO LIEBER

Sept. 22, 2022 from 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Queens Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with our Transportation Committee is proud to present MTA Chair and CEO John “Janno” Lieber. Join us for unique opportunity as he highlights some of the challenges and accomplishments since assuming his role. In addition to his annual recap, Chairman Lieber will touch on some of MTA’s priority projects such as congestion pricing, capital improvements, ridership, equity and their fiscal standing.

The Auditorium at Bulova Corporate Center 75-20 Astoria Boulevard Jackson Heights, NY Register at queenschamber.org

TEXTILE CRAFTS FOR WOMEN: RAG TO RICHES!

Sept. 24, 2022 from 3 p.m. - 4 p.m.

In collaboration with NOLAK, New Americans Program and Queens Chamber of Commerce.

Join to learn basic sewing, crocheting, knitting, and hand embroidering with NOLAK. You will learn basics of fabric fun and experimenting to create unique and fun tote bags, skirts, pocket book and many more. No experience is

required. All the supplies needed to complete your project will be provided at no charge. We will be teaching basic skills needed to complete your project Queens Public Library at Queens Village 94-11 217 Street, Queens Village Register at queenschamber.org

IMMIGRANT WORKER FAIR

Sept. 25, 2022 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Celebrating the contribution of the Hispanic American Business Community in Queens.

A large selection of ethnic food restaurants, local businesses, city agencies, music and folklore at the large parking lot of Terrace on the Park. Complimentary admission and parking Terrace on the Park, Flushing Register at queenschamber.org

OCTOBER

2022 BUILDING AWARDS GALA KEYNOTE SPEAKER: NEW YORK CITY DEPARTMENT OF BUILDINGS COMMISSIONER ERIC A. ULRICH Oct. 13, 2022 from 6 p.m. - 10 p.m.

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 will once again be at the TWA Hotel at JFK, the Eero Saarinen’s landmark 1962 Flight Center at JFK. Central Terminal Area 5, Jamaica, New York Register at queenschamber.org

SO, YOU WANT TO START A BUSINESS: THE ABC’S OF STARTING YOUR OWN BUSINESS Oct. 14, 2022 from 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

EVOLVE WITH TECHNOLOGY Join the Chamber Breakfast Workshop series AND THE CHANGING TIMES for this online discussion about The Nuts & Sept. 27, 2022 from 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.

You are invited to a webinar presented by Thryv on how to evolve with technology and the changing times in a post-COVID world.

VIRTUAL Register at queenschamber.org

FALL 2022 MIXER

Sept. 27, 2022 from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Join us as we kick off Fall 2022. Come mix and mingle with fellow business owners and Queens Chamber members in this beautifully remodeled M Club Lounge. Have your business cards ready and meet new contacts to build your professional network. We’ll raffle wonderful prizes during the evening provided by our Chamber members. You have to be present to win!!!

Enjoy complimentary appetizers, soft drinks with a cash bar offering beer and wine.

New York LaGuardia Airport Marriott 102-05 Ditmars Blvd - Club M Lounge Main Floor, East Elmhurst, New York Register at queenschamber.org

Bolts of Starting a Business: A Guide for the Aspiring Entrepreneur, beginning Fall 2022 through Spring 2023. Special guest speaker Joshua Bienstock, director of NYIT School of Manangment, will be there to discuss how protect the name of your new business, how to get incorporated, where to start the business and how to get capital.

VIRTUAL Register at queenschamber.org

THE BUSINESS OF WE (WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS) ENTREPRENEUR SUMMIT Oct. 22, 2022 from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Let’s Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and Entrepreneur Week! We Invite You to the Business Event of the Year. ALL DAY EVENT Saturday and half-day on Sunday for Entrepreneurs & Small Business Owners.

Central Terminal Area 5,6. Jamaica, New York Register at queenschamber.org

SMALL BUSINESS BREAKFAST 10 YEARS LATER: HURRICANE WITH QUEENS DA MELINDA SANDY REMEMBERED KATZ Oct. 22, 2022 from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sept. 28, 2022 from 8:30 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Queens Chamber is proud to host a Small Business Breakfast with special guest Queens DA Melinda Katz. During this event small business owners will meet and greet with DA Katz.

In addition, she’ll provide remarks on officerelated initiatives.

Queens Chamber of Commerce 75-20 Astoria Boulevard, Suite 140 Jackson Heights, New York Register at queenschamber.org

Join the Queens Chamber of Commerce along with our community partners friends of the for a commemoration of the Tenth Anniversary of the terrible Hurricane Sandy that created so much destruction and took some lives. Let’s get together for a moment of prayer and silence as we reflect on those who are still struggling to rebuild their lives.

The Rockaway Hotel + Spa, Rockaway Beach Drive 108-10, Rockaway, New York Register at queenschamber.org

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IT’S IN QUEENS

By Rob MacKay, Director Public Relations, Marketing & Tourism, Queens Economic Development Corporation The U.S. Open Grand Slam tennis tournament broke attendance records over the past two weeks in Flushing Meadows Corona Park.

This week, Queens continues the groove with James Caan, Charlie Brown, Little Amal, Billie Joel, the Boomer Brothers, a corn labyrinth, Korean art, and spotted lantern flies.

The Amazing Maize Maze Sept. 16 - Oct. 29, 1 p.m.

Try to navigate New York City’s only corn maze. The adventure begins with a Stalk Talk about finding clues, solving puzzles, and making the way to Victory Bridge. Advance online tickets are required. Times vary.

Queens County Farm Museum, 73-50 Little Neck Pkwy., Glen Oaks.

The Caan Film Festival Sept. 18, 1 p.m.

Watch movies celebrating the life, career, and legacy of actor James Caan, who grew up in Sunnyside. They include “El Dorado” (1966), “The Godfather” (1972), “The Gambler” (1974), and “Misery” (1990).

Museum of the Moving Image, 36-01 35th Ave., Astoria’s Kaufman Arts District.

Movin’ Out Band Sept. 18, 5 p.m.

The Queensborough Performing Arts Center presents this Billy Joel tributeband outdoors (Raindate: Sept. 24).

Fort Totten Park, Totten Avenue and 15th Road, Bayside.

Adichie and the International Band Sept. 18, 3 p.m.

Green Space Founder and Executive Director Valerie Green leads these activities that address everything from PTSD to anger, body image, depression, shame, self esteem, and addiction.

Sessions include movement, expressive work, and group dynamics to promote physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual growth. They run on alternating Tuesdays from 7 pm to 9 pm until Jan. 31, 2022.

Green Space, 37-24 24th St., Long Island City.

Celebrate the annual Mexican festival Guelaguetza at Socrates Sculpture Park on July 31 at 2 p.m.

Beekeeping Workshop Sept. 20, 7 p.m.

Master Beekeeper Walter Blohm discusses the benefits of beekeeping and how bee enthusiasts can get started. Delicious local honey will be on sale. Bayside Historical Society, The Castle, 208 Totten Ave., Bayside.

Little Amal Sept. 21, 11 a.m.

Little Amal is a 12-foot-tall puppet representing a 10-year-old Syrian refugee girl.

Since July 2021 she has travelled almost 6,000 miles across 85 cities and 12 countries to bring attention to children fleeing war,

Come explore the Amazing Maize Maze through Oct. 29. violence, and persecution.

She visits Corona’s Garden of Hope, Queens Museum, and Jackson Heights on Sept. 21.

Jumana Manna Sept. 22 - April 17, 2023 Palestinian artist Jumana Manna’s first major museum exhibition in the United States brings together nearly 20 works, including two recent films, along with a series of new and existing sculptures.

Across the works, the land

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Mirror Meditation Sept. 22, 6 p.m.

Tara Well discusses her book on mindful practices to develop selfcompassion and increase selfassurance and personal presence as part of Queens Public Library’s LiteraryThursdays program.

It’s virtual. John by phone via 1-408-418-9388 with access code 2334 285 6255.

Henrike Naumann: Re-Education Sept. 22 - Feb. 27, 2023 This Berlin-based artist’s firstever United States exhibition features dozens of furniture and domestic objects that press the question: What is the relationship between design and ideology?

SculptureCenter, 44-19 Purves St., Long Island City.

Jungle Spotted Lantern Flies and More Sept. 22, 6:30 p.m.

Nigerian performer Adichie and his band play world dance music as part of Bayside Historical Society’s Passport Concert Series.

The Castle, 208 Totten Ave., Bayside.

Artist Process Groups Sept. 20 - Jan. 31

and its rhythms are explored as the basis for ways of life that have undergone duress while also resisting, evading, and transforming hegemonic power structures.

MoMA PS1, 22-25 Jackson Ave., Long Island City.

Visit Little Amal at Corona’s Garden of Hope, Queens Museum and Jackson Heights on Sept. 21.

Local naturalist Angela Carcione teaches how to protect nature from spotted lantern flies and other invasive species during this virtual event facilitated by the Alley Pond Environmental Center.

For more information, visit www. itsinqueens.com.

September 2022 • Volume 18 • Issue 9

QUEENS CHAMBER PARTNERS & AFFILIATES 82ND STREET PARTNERSHIP

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

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

ASIAN AMERICAN FEDERATION

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

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

BAYSIDE VILLAGE BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT

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

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

BAYSIDE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

41-16 Bell Boulevard, Bayside, NY 11361 President: Ed Probst Vice President: Judith Limpert 718.229.2277 info@baysideba.com baysideba.com QUICK GLANCE: Founded in 1997, the

Bayside Business Association services all of Bayside business to address issues and concerns those businesses have with regards to running their businesses.

ACCOMPANY CAPITAL (FORMERLY BCNA)

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

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

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

BUSINESS OUTREACH CENTER NETWORK (BOC, INC.)

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

At the heart of our mission is the belief that whatever their differences, people and communities share a common goal: to achieve economic stability and growth.

Working in partnership with culturally diverse individuals and organizations in support of this shared goal is the hallmark of BOC.

CHHAYA CDC

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

CHINATOWN DISTRICT MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION (CHINATOWN PARTNERSHIP)

217 Park Row, 2nd Floor, Suite 9 New York, NY 10038 chinatownpartnership.org QUICK GLANCE: Chinatown Partnership, led by Wellington Chen, was formed in 2006 as new start-up from grounds up to bring residents, business owners and community groups together to rebuild Chinatown following 9/11, and to preserve the neighborhood’s unique culture while ensuring its vitality in the future through strategic positioning.

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

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

FOREST HILLS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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

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

WHAT’S NEW: A Street Fair on Sunday, September 18th is their second street fair of the year. Thousands of people, hundreds of vendors fill Austin Street

GATEWAY JFK

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

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

WHAT’S NEW: They released in interesting study recently on a truck f low management

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QUEENS CHAMBER PARTNERS & AFFILIATES system, and how it would improve logistics at the airport. Check it out at gatewayjf k.org

GREATER FLUSHING CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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

resenting over 200 businesses.

GREATER JAMAICA DEVELOPMENT CORPOR ATION

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 BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT

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.

WHAT’S NEW: The centerpiece of this month’s issue, Raquel Olivares is the dynamic executive director there and sheand tells us the office has been planning the Street Fair slated for September 25th on Jamaica Avenue. “The Woodhaven-Jamaica Avenue Street Festival has a 30-year history. We wont disappoint,” said Olivares. The BID also recently published a membership directory and a District Needs Assessment Booklet.

They have a pretty robust social media presence @Woodhavenbid.

JAMAICA CENTER BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT

161-10 Jamaica Avenue, Suite 419

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

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

WHAT’S NEW: The three BIDs in Jamaica are going through a re-structuring. Trey Jenkins, the executive director left in February for a position on the BID on 161st Street in the Bronx.

JFK INTER NATIONAL AIRPORT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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

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

WHAT’S NEW: They have their golf outing September 12th at Brookville County Club.

LONG ISLAND CITY PARTNERSHIP

718.786.5300 longislandcityqueens.com QUICK GLANCE: Founded in 1979, the

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

WHAT’S NEW: The LIC Partnership contin-

ues to have a full calendar of events every month. They ended their Summer Movie Series at Hunters Point South Park with a showing of ElCanto on September 9th. They have a great mentor program starting . You can find out more on September 20 or the 28th. IMentor Virtual Mentor Orienttion.

Find out how you can make a huge impact on the life of a young person. Just go to their web site.

They have a Philanthropy Roundtable on September 22nd for Entrepreneurs, nonprofits and business professionals. Their Fall Gala is October 12th. They have an ‘Urban Green Conference’ on October 12th as well and the LIC BID Annual Meeting is on October 19th.

M A SPET H C H A M BER COMMERCE

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

have 120 members and a budget of $115,000.

MASPETH INDUSTRIAL BUSINESS ASSOCIATION (MIBA)

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

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

MIDDLE VILLAGE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

79-47 Metropolitan Ave., Middle Village, NY 11379 President: Salvatore Crifasi 718.894.8700 Sal@Crifasi.com QUICK GLANCE: Budget of $8,000 with 35

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

September 2022 • Volume 18 • Issue 9

QUEENS CHAMBER PARTNERS & AFFILIATES MURR AY HILL MERCHANTS ASSOCIATION OF NY

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

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. WHAT’S NEW: Their weekly Farm Stand every Saturday on Cypress and Myrtle is going strong through mid-November. The Myrtle Avenue Street Festival is slated for September 25th They are hosting a Columbus Day Sidewalk sale in cooperation with their merchant members October 7th through the 10th.

QUEENS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

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

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

WHAT’S NEW: The ever-present Rob MacKay was the source for a report at the US Open on NY1, explaining how the Open has helped tourism and the economic growth in Queens. QEDC and Queens Tourism had a nice presence at the US Open in the walkway between Ashe and Armstrong. Thousands of out-of-towners stopped by the booth to as questions about Queens. They are talking about the second annual scavenger hunt involves 28 stores along Metropolitan Avenue in Forest Hills. It includes ore than

150 prizes.

ROCK AWAY 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.

ROCK AWAY DEVELOPMENT & REVITALIZATION CORPOR ATION

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

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

WHAT’S NEW: RDRC is having their 35th Annual Community Builder’s Awards Gala on September 15th at Russo’s. They are honoring Brandon Jeffries from Queens Defenders, Jesse Batus Community Builders, Valerie West, and legislators Khaleel Anderson and Selvena Brooks-Powers. The money raised at this event support the 2,500 youth and families they serve on a yearly basis. They are most excited to re-start the College and Cultural Tours. They will take 30 high-school students to see colleges in Maryland and Washington DC.

ROCK AWAY EAST MERCHANTS ASSOCIATION (REMA4US)

1032 Beach 20th Street Far Rockaway, NY 11691 rema4us.org QUICK GLANCE: REMA 4 US, Inc. seeks to engage in economic development and revitalization in the Rockaway Peninsula. To strengthen our community revitalization programs and community development efforts in the Rockaway Peninsula REMA works alongside businesses, civic groups, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.

REMA works to inform the public about opportunities that exist to strengthen the community, and to create a welcoming and safe environment to help expand economic opportunity in the Rockaway Peninsula.

WHAT’S NEW: REMA had the Black Tie

Gala on June 16th at Vetro. More than 150 made it to the event, which featured

STEINWAY ASTORIA PARTNERSHIP BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT

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.

SU N N YSI DE COMMERCE

CH A M BER

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

SUNNYSIDE SHINES

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

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

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

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

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NEW MEMBERS

CORPORATE BRP Companies 100 Park Avenue New York, NY 10017 https://www.brpcompanies.com Contact: Andy Cohen, acohen@brpcompanies.com At BRP, we’re reimagining what real estate can be. An innovator in our industry, we recognize that real estate can advance both community interests and commercial investments. And every day, we make this happen across a wide range of urban initiatives—from residential buildings to retail spaces, from market-rate developments to workforce housing.

Bulova Restorations Inc. 1/5 Mount Vernon Avenue Patchogue, NY 11772 https://www.bulovasrestorations.com Contact: Rory Bulovas, rbulovas@ bulovasrestorations.com There is a reason why Bulovas Restorations Inc. is the leading damage restoration service in Long Island. Our disaster recovery professionals are always on standby, waiting 24 hours a day to service any type of damage emergency. And yes, we are even ready to restore your home on weekends and holidays. Whether it is from water, fire, smoke, soot, puffback or mold, your damage emergency is our top priority.

Catholic Charities Brooklyn & Queens 191 Joralemon Street Brooklyn, NY 11201 https://www.ccbq.org Contact: Lucy Garrido Mota, lucy.gmota@ccbq.org Since 1899, Catholic Charities Brooklyn and Queens has been changing lives and building communities while serving our neighbors in need with mercy and companion. We currently sponsor more than 160 programs and services for children and youth, adults and seniors, persons with developmental disabilities, those who are mentality ill, and isolated. In addition, we are one of the largest faith-based providers of affordable housing in the country.

Catholic Health 992 North Village Avenue Rockville Center, NY 11570 http://www.chsli.org Contact: Ron Steimel, ron.steimel@chsli.org Catholic Health is an integrated system encompassing some of the region’s finest health and human services agencies. The health system has nearly 16,000 employees, six acute care hospitals, three nursing homes, a home health service, hospice and a network of physician practices.

Coastal Flooring Solutions 800 Central Park Avenue, Ste 201 Scarsdale, NY 10583 https://www.coastalflooringsolutions.com Contact: John Posimato, jposimato@ coastalflooringsolutions.com Our commitment to the quality, personal service and fair value sets up apart whether it is a large Commercial Project or Residential Renovation.

Our repeat clients remain loyal because of our high-quality products, personalized service an professional installers. We’ve assembled an experienced team with a service-first attitude who will bring your vision to life.

Diehl & Sons Inc. D.b.a New York Freightliner 129-01 Atlantic Avenue Richmond Hill, NY 11418 https://www.diehlstruckworld.com Contact: Douglas Austin, Dougf@nyfreightliner.com Diehl’s Truck World is an authorized Freightliner dealership serving the Richmond Hill area. We are proud to carry a large selection of new and pre-owned inventory. We value the opportunity to create a long-term relationship with our customers, and we do that by giving you the best customer service available.

EMU Health 83-40 Woodhaven Blvd Glendale, NY 11385 https://www.emuhealth.com Contact: Daniel Lowy, djlowy@emuhealth.com EMU Health is a multi-specialty outpatient medical facility, featuring a state-of-the-art Ambulatory Surgery Center and newly renovated multi-specialty Physician Offices. Equipped with the latest technology, warm staff, large parking lot, and easy access via public transportation; EMU is becoming widely known for bridging the gap between quality healthcare and a convenient patient experience.

Jamaica Multiplex Cinemas 159-02 Jamaica Avenue Jamaica, NY 11423 https://www.showcasecinemas.com Contact: Thalissa Sautai, tsautai@nationalamusements.com National Amusements, Inc., operates movie screens in Massachusetts, New York, Rhode Island, Ohio, Argentina, Brazil, and the United Kingdom. It owns the Showcase SuperLux, Cinema de Lux, Showcase Cinemas, and Multiplex Cinemas brands. National Amusements, Inc., offers theater rentals for meetings, sales conferences, product launches, and private events. Its facilities include restaurants, cocktail lounges, food courts, and concessions stands.

MORE NEW MEMBERS CAN BE FOUND ON PAGE 30

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Ponce Bank 37-60 82 nd Street Jackson Heights, NY 11372 https://www.poncebank.com Contact: Safain Naguib, naguibsafain@gmail.com Ponce Bank, an American banking institution with community spirit, opened for business in March 1960. Today, Ponce Bank maintains branch locations in the Bronx, Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens and Union City (New Jersey).

Regal Heights 70-05 35 th Avenue Jackson Heights, NY 11372 https://www.rhrhcenter.com Contact: Michael Hampton, mhampton@rhrhcenter. com Regal Heights is a multi-faceted health care center that includes inpatient long-term care as well as short-term physical rehabilitation.

We have developed innovative and creative approaches to address specific health challenges, making Regal Heights a leader in long-term care.

The Liquidity Source 9 Mitchell Drive Great Neck, NY 10024 https://www.theliquiditysource.com Contact: Stuart Gelb, stuart@theliquiditysource.com We’re built to deliver unparalleled client experience. Our process is designed to deliver the right solution for clients across industries in an efficient, seamless manner. We’re known for quick response, creative thinking, broad range of deal sizes, and the ability to simplify complexity.

SMALL BUSINESS PARTNERS

A-1 Professional Cleaning & Maintenance Services Inc. 61 Carolyn, Suite D Farmingdale, NY 11735 https://www.a-1cleaning.com Contact: Wayne Lustberg, wayne@a-1cleaning. comcomplexity.

AHS, LLC 97-77 Queens Blvd, Ste 802 Rego Park, NY 11374 https://www.homecare4all.org Contact: Olga Aronshtein, mfainshtein@ homecare4all.org Anne Napolitano Consulting 25 Melville Park Road, Ste 201 Melville, NY 11747 https://www.napolitanoaccounting.com Contact: Ann Napolitano, anne@napacct.com Beauty Clinic Manhattan 25 Melville Park Road, Ste 201 Melville, NY 11747 https://www.napolitanoaccounting.com Contact: Ann Napolitano, anne@napacct.com

September 2022 • Volume 18 • Issue 9 EXECUTIVE COMMMITEE Howard Graf

Patrick Yu

Thomas J. Grech

Brendan Leavy

Richard Dzwlewicz

Michelle Stoddart

Joanne M. Persad

Jacqueline Donado

Chairperson

Associate Treasurer

Vice Chair

Associate Secretary

Treasurer

Immediate Past Chair

Patricia Mezeul Nash Roe

President & CEO

Thomas J. Santucci

Secretary

SENIOR ADVISORY COUNCIL

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

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

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

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Kenneth J. Buettner Stephanie Baldwin Chad E. Callahan Sal Crifasi David Diraio Steven DeClara

Richard Dzwlewicz Charles Everett, Jr. Joseph R. Ficalora Tamara Gavrielof Howard Graf Raymond Irrera

Kenneth Koenig Lorraine Chambers Lewis Bert Lurch Meredith Marshall Carl Mattone Patricia Mezeul

Melinda Murray-Nyack Maria Odysseus Stephen Preuss Nash Roe Jeffrey Rosenstock Juan Santiago

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

Mark Weprin Patrick Yu Daniel Zausner

CORPORATE MEMBERS 365 Data Centers A&L Cesspool Services Corp AARP Above All Pressure Cleaning Abrams Fensterman Ads Engineers, DPC Aeroterm Amna Construction Corp Antun’s of Queens Village Aora Development Approved General Contracting Inc., ARK Development LLC Aurora Contractors, Inc. Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service Bank of America BedRock Real Estate Partners, LLC Berkshire HathawayHomeservices Laffey International Realty

BJ’s Wholesale Club Blumenfeld Development Group, Ltd. Capital One Bank Carben Construction Inc. Carter Milchman and Frank CBRE CDS-Mestel Construction Center for Automotive Education and Training Cerini and Associates, LLP. Champion Elevator Corp.

Ciampa Organization Cine Magic LIC Studios, LLC Cipico Construction, Inc. CitizensRx CLEAR Secure, Inc. Combs & Company Complete Supply Cord Meyer Development LLC Cornell Tech

Cort CPower Energy Management Crann Integrated Solutions Crescent Properties, Inc Cross County Savings Bank Crown Castle Crystal Window & Door Systems, Ltd Dedline AV Direct Clean Service Solutions East Coast Energy Group Eastern American Technologies EDGE AUTO INC Emigrant Mortgage Company Enterprise Fleet Management EOS Electrical Corp EW Howell Construction Group First Central Savings Bank FLUID MECHANIC’S CORP Forest Hills Financial Group, Inc. Gatsons Electric, Inc.

COMMITTEE LEADERSHIP ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Adrienne Whaley Queens Underground Black & Brown Film Festivals queensunderground718@gmail.com

BANKING & LAW

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

COMMUNICATIONS

Jay Solly Sol Strategies jaypsolly@gmail.com

ENTREPRENEURSHIP & INNOVATION Bill Staniford Rentigo bill@staniford.com Deepti Sharma Food To Eat deepti@foodtoeat.com

FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESSES

Jake Oliver Anat Gerstein jake@anatgerstein.com Henry Ramos Dedline AV henry@dedlineav.com

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

HEALTHCARE & WELLNESS

FOOD, BEVERAGE & HOSPITALITY

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

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

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

MANUFACTURING Lina DeLaCruz Control Electropolishing Corp.

lina@controlpublishing.com Azra Khalfan-Kermali Plaques by Azra azra@azra.com

NOT FOR PROFIT

Larry Grubler Transitional Services of NY lgrubler@tsiny.org Christine Deska Nonprofit Sector Strategies & BellesBoard cdeska@nonprofitsectorstrategies.com

REAL ESTATE

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

TECHNOLOGY

Sean C. O’Rourke Combs & Company sorourke@combsandco.com

TRANSPORTATION Phil Jones LIME philip@li.me

Gil-Bar Industries, Inc. GOLDEN AGE HOME CARE INC goPuff Graf & Lewent Architects Greater NY Automobiles Dealers Association HANAC, Inc. HE2PD, Inc. Healthy Corner Pharmacy Heatherwood Communities Himmel + Meringoff Properties HNY Ferry, LLC Hydro Quebec IKEA Queens INDA, Association of Nonwoven Fabric Industry INF Associates, LLC Innovo Property Group Instacart J Strategies, Inc J.W. Hampton Jr. & Co., Inc. James E Fitzgerald Jason Office Products JGM Construction Development Kasirer Consulting Kaufman Astoria Studios, Inc. Knights Collision Experts Inc. Krispy Kreme Laffey Real Estate Levine Builders Littler Mendelson, P.C. Lyons Mortgage Services, Inc. M & T Bank Madison International Realty Madison Realty Capital McBride Consulting & Business Mega Contracting Group LLC Mesirow Financial Metropolitan Taxicab Board of Trade Molloy College Mondial Automotive Mount Sinai Hospital of Queens Mr. T Carting Corp.

My Benefit Advisor, LLC NBCUniversal New York + Atlantic Railway New York Crystal Cleaning New York Islanders Hockey Club New York Life Insurance Company New York State Energy Coalition, Inc. Nonprofit Sector Strategies, PBC Northwell Health Nuvo Solutions Onegroup Owareco, LLC Patrick B. Jenkins & Associates PGA Mechanical Contractors, Inc. Popular Bank

Priority 1 Security LLC ProCleanings Co QSIDE Federal Credit Union Queens College R.A.M.S. Mechanical Inc. Red Eye Group LLC REDI Group, LLC Reef Technology REIL Capital Related Retail Corporation Ripco Investment Sales RXR Realty Safety Facility Services Samaritan Daytop Village Securitech Group, Inc. Signature Bank SL Green Realty Corp.

Solo Energy & Electrical, Inc. Solve Together LLC Spectrum Reach Squad Security Inc. St. Francis Preparatory School St. John’s University Standard Group Starbucks Corporation Sterling Risk Structural Engineering Technologies, P.C. Sullivan Engineering LLC SUNation Solar Systems Target TGI Office Automation The Center for Musculoskeletal Disorders The First National Bank of Long Island TLC Virtual Resiliency Total Fire Protection Transmission Developers, Inc. TSC Traning Academy, LLC Ultrasound Solutions Corp.

United Airlines United Construction & Development Group Corp United Public Adjusters & Appraisers, Inc. USTA National Tennis Center, Inc. Valley National Bank Vassilaros & Sons Coffee Vista LIC Hotel, Best Western Premier Collection W & M Fire Protection Services W. SCULLY, CPA, P.C. Waste Management of New York LLC Watch Guard 24/7 White Coffee Corp Wisselman, Harounian & Associates, P.C. York College - CUNY

29

THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

queenschamber.org

NEW MEMBERS SMALL BUSINESS PARTNERS Can We Sign, LLC 121-01 197 th Street Springfield, NY 11413 Contact: Jeanette Wilson, MsJWnotary@gmail.com Chiddy Astoria 92-38 246 th Street Bellerose, NY 11001 Contact: Matthew Geisperger, Matt.chiddy@gmail.com Community Options Inc. 218-14 Hempstead Avenue Queens Village, NY 11429 https://www.comop.org Contact: Fatimat Adekoya, Fatimat.adekoya@comop.org Corporate Development Systems Inc. 22-26 76 th Street, Suite A3 Jackson Heights, NY 11370 https://www.cdsysinc.com Contact: Carl Smith, info@ dcsysinc.com Dispute Resolution Institute N.Y. 85 Choir Lane

Westbury, NY 11590 https://www.nyit.edu Contact: Joshua Bienstock, jbienstock@nyit.edu

Contact: Maria Borrero, freshmeadows@mygym.com

Contact: Joseph Ferrick, joe. ferrick@flyinglocksmiths.com

New York Life 520 Broadhollow Road Melville, NY 11747 https://www.newyorklife.com Contact: Ian Ratner, ianratner047@ gmail.com

The Law Office of Evelyn Gong, PLLC 3418 Northern Blvd Long Island City, NY 11101 Contact: Evelyn Wong, evelyn@ gong.legal

Optic Communications 1134 49th Ave Long Island City, NY 11101 https://www.optec.net Contact: April Leong, aleong@ optec.net

Tio Square 108-14 72nd Ave, 2 nd Floor Forest Hills, NY 11375 https://www.tiosq.com Contact: Keiffer Ramirez, info@ tiosquare.com

LLQ 221-10 131 Avenue Laurelton, NY 11413 Contact: Lizette DeBaptiste, debaptiteliz@gmail.com

Premier Dental of Woodhaven 80-32 Jamaica Ave. Woodhaven, NY 11421 https://www. premierdentalofwoodhaven.com Contact: Jose Ladino, premierdentalofwoodhaven@gmail. com

WALTER 138 Hinsdale Street Brooklyn, NY 11207 https://www.waltelectronicsrecycling.com Contact: Jonathan Torn, jonathan@ walt-electronicsrecycling.com

My Children’s Fitness CTR of Fresh Meadows 176-60 Union TPKE Fresh Meadows, NY 11366 https:// www.mygym.com/queens

The Flying Locksmiths 12 East 48th Street, 11 th Floor New York, NY 10017 https://www.flyinglocksmiths.com/ locations/newyorkcity

Ethan & Logan Multiservices Corp.

143-30 38th Ave., Suite C1 Flushing, NY 11354 Contact: Edwin Fajardo, erthantaxservice@gmail.com LGBT Network 125 Kennedy Dr. Hauppauge, NY 11788 https://www.lgbtqnetwork.org Contact: Robert Vitelli, robert@ lgbtqnetwork.org

MAJOR CORPORATE MEMBERS

30

Wild Fig 41-17 Bell Boulevard Bayside, NY 11361 https://www.mywildfig.com Contact: Ali Ugan, ugan@ optonline.net

September 2022 • Volume 18 • Issue 9 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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