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January 2025 . Volume 19 . Issue 24

A Conversation with Dr. Sharon DeVivo

President and CEO of Vaughn College

INSIDE

Masa Madre Bakery How AI is Reshaping Movie Making Port Authority Renames Laguardia Airport Career Center

THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

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TABLE OF CONTENTS 04, 05

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It’s In Queens! Sunny Jain’s Wild Wild East In February Dine and Discover Queens: Masa Madre Bakery

Queens Tech Corner: Pharmachute

10 “Always Be Closing” And The Reality Of Real Estate: My Journey In The Industry

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The President’s Cooperative And Condominium Council Announces J-51 Tax Credit Extension Port Authority Renames Laguardia Airport Career Center Celebrating 40 Years Of Impact: Tiegerman, A Family Of Services

19 Uncovering Passion Through Creativity

How AI is Reshaping Movie Making

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Dr. Sharon B. DeVivo, President and CEO of Vaughn College

Promotions, Announcements, and Appointments

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A Partnership with a Long Island City Non-Profit-Dance Entropy

14 Resourcefulness Over Resources

Walter Sanchez

- Publisher

John Sanchez

- Marketing Director

Olivia Graffeo

- Design

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January 2025 • Volume 19 • Issue 24

Close Out of Incredible Year FROM THE PRESIDENT AND CEO Dear Members, As we usher in a new year, it’s a fitting time to reflect on all that we achieved together in 2024.

From milestones that strengthened our borough to the resilience and growth demonstrated by our business community, this past year truly showcased the best of Queens.

Looking ahead, 2025 promises to be even more dynamic. We’re gearing up to expand our programs, advocate for policies that strengthen our small business community, host events that foster meaningful connections and provide educational opportunities to help you grow your businesses. We invite you to join us and get involved – our door is always open.

THOMAS J. GRECH PRESIDENT & CEO

Our borough continues to be a beacon of diversity and economic vitality, and I’m confident we’ll reach new heights together. On behalf of the Queens Chamber of Commerce, thank you for your unwavering support. Here’s to a prosperous and inspiring 2025!

Best, Tom Grech

Reflect on Achievements FROM THE CHAIR PERSON Dear Members, Dear Members, As we step into 2025, I want to take a moment to celebrate the incredible progress we made as a community in 2024. Together, we’ve strengthened the foundation for a thriving Queens, ensuring our borough remains a leader in innovation and opportunity.

This past year, the Chamber’s initiatives brought members together to network, learn, and grow.

From our educational workshops to our advocacy efforts on behalf of local businesses, we’ve made great strides in fostering a robust business environment.

HOWARD GRAF CHAIRPERSON

The year ahead will be one of exciting opportunities. In 2025, we aim to amplify our impact by introducing new programs and events, creating spaces where businesses of all sizes can flourish. We remain committed to championing the needs of Queens’ diverse business community and ensuring every voice is heard.

As always, thank you for being part of the Queens Chamber family. Together, let’s make 2025 a year to remember. Wishing you a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year!

Best, Howard Graf 3

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IT’S IN QUEENS! features several dozen restaurants offering samples to about 700 people. $150 Sunny Jain’s Wild Wild East and proceeds support Queens February 15, 8 PM Centers for Progress. Terrace This group creates hypnotic on the Park, 52-11 111th St., rhythms that intertwine with Corona.

Hindustani vocals, saxophone, and guitar. Drawing from his The year’s third month family’s story, Jain recasts features St. Patrick’s Day, the the immigrant as the modern- Spring Equinox, and March day cowboy, inspired by Madness on a national level.

Bollywood classics, Spaghetti Locally, Queens goes to the Westerns, Punjabi traditions, circus, grooves to several Jazz improvisation, and famous musicians, and rollicking psychedelic styles. appreciates art during the time Queens College, LeFrak span. Please read on.

Concert Hall, 153-49 Reeves Hotel California Ave., Flushing.

March 1, 8 PM Soul Science Lab The premier Eagles tribute February 15, 3 PM band, Hotel California’s MC Chen Lo and composer concerts feature incredible Asante Amin (aka Soul Science crowd participation and Lab) present work developed great lights. Queensborough during their Armstrong Now Performing Arts Center, 222residency. Expect an engaging 05 56th Ave., Bayside. blend of Hip-Hop, Jazz, and visual art. Louis Armstrong The Grand Shanghai House Museum, 34-56 107th Circus March 2, 4 PM St., Corona.

The Grand Shanghai Circus presents key performances Carnegie Hall Citywide: Krakauer &Tagg’s Good such as the Diablo (Chinese Vibes Explosion, YoYo), The Aerial Fish Ballet, February 23, 1 PM Cherish the Ladies. After a Conceived and created sold-out performance at KCA by Grammy-nominated in 2023, they’re back to dazzle David Krakauer and multi- audiences with beautiful i n s t r u m e n t a l i s t / p r o d u c e r vocals, captivating musical Kathleen Tagg, this arrangements, and stunning project showcases a multi- step dancing. Queens College, g e n e r a t i o n a l / h i g h - o c t a n e LeFrak Concert Hall, 153-49 group of collaborators from Reeves Ave., Flushing.

Canada, Iran, South Africa, and the United States. Flushing Cherish the Ladies: St. Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Patrick’s Day Celebration March 9, 3 PM Blvd.

Celebrate St. Paddy’s Day Evening of Fine Food with the Grammy-nominated, February 25, 7 PM Irish-American supergroup This 29th annual feast Cherish the Ladies. After a

By Rob Mackay

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POTUS March 14 - March 23 In this Selina Fillinger play, a four-letter word is about to rock the White House. Seven brilliant and beleaguered women must risk life, liberty, and the pursuit of sanity to keep the president out of trouble First Look after he unwittingly turns a PR March 12 - March 14 nightmare into a global crisis.

This 14th annual program Shows are March 15 at 8 pm; presents features and short March 16 at 3 pm; March 20 films; fiction and nonfiction; at 7:30 pm; March 21 at 8 pm; New York premieres and March 22 at 8pm; March 23 at works-in-progress; and 3pm. The Secret Theatre, 38experiments with form. 02 61st St., Woodside.

Museum of the Moving Image, 36-01 35th St., Astoria’s A Conversation with Jordan Klepper Kaufman Arts District.

March 14, 8 PM Former SNL star Molly QC String Quartet Kearney moderates this chat March 13, 7 PM A night of Classical music with Emmy-winning Daily as per a monthly concert series Show host and stand-up organized by Queens College comedy star Jordan Klepper.

College, LeFrak School of Arts, Forest Park Queens Trust, and NYC Parks. Free. Concert Hall, 153-49 Reeves Ave., Flushing. oak Ridge, Forest Park. sold-out performance at KCA in 2023, they’re back to dazzle audiences with beautiful vocals, captivating musical arrangements, and stunning step dancing. Queens College, LeFrak Concert Hall, 153-49 Reeves Ave., Flushing.

January 2025 • Volume 19 • Issue 24

IT’S IN QUEENS! Brooklyn Raga Massive: Tradition to Innovation March 15, 8 PM Brooklyn Raga Massive -- Neel Murgai (sitar), Arun Ramamurthy (violin), Damon Banks (electric bass), Kane Mathis (oud, kora), Mir Naqibul Islam (tabla), and Aaron Shragge (trumpet, shakuhachi) -- begins with pure classical ragas from India and grooves towards contemporary adaptations. Queens College, LeFrak Concert Hall, 153-49 Reeves Ave., Flushing.

Alex Cuba March 22, 8 PM Cuba-Canadian singersongwriter Alex Cuba’s sugarcane-sweet melodies, pop-soul hooks, and powerful guitar riffs distinguish his work from much of Latin music. He drawshisinfluencesfromAfroCuban Jazz, Funk, and Pop. The Latin Grammy winner has also been nominated for Grammys. Queens College, LeFrak Concert Hall, 153-49 Reeves Ave., Flushing.

Boda Mexicana (Mexican Wedding) March 23, 2 PM With 14 dancers and core of musicians, Calpulli Mexican Dance Company tells the story of two lovers who travel through time from the Mayan pyramids to the Pacific coast of Sinaloa, engaging in customs of courtship, engagement, meeting in-laws, ceremony, and a feast. In true telenovela style, an enchantress seeks to end the couple’s love.

LaGuardia Performing Arts Center, 31-10 Thomson Ave., Long Island City.

Invincible: The Ultimate Michael Jackson Tribute Show March 23, 7 PM A night of Michael Jackson’s legendary artistry, where every step, every beat, and every note resonates with the essence of his iconic presence.

Queensborough Performing Arts Center, 222-05 56th Ave., Bayside.

Alanis Obomsawin: The Children Have to Hear Another Story March 27, - August 25 Artist, activist, and musician Alanis Obomsawin (b. 1932) is one of Canada’s most renowned filmmakers. This exhibition spans six decades of her multidisciplinary practice, bringing together films, sculptures,andsound,aswell as rarely seen ephemera that sheds light on their production.

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

Step Afrika!

March 28, 8 PM World-renowned for its percussive dances and blend of African sounds, Step Afrika! has performed in more than 60 countries since its founding in 1994. With 18 full-time artists, the troupe uses the stage as a means of expression, combining songs, stories, and humor in its rhythmic dances.

Queens College, LeFrak Concert Hall, 153-49 Reeves Ave., Flushing.

Wonderful Women March 29, 4 PM Listen to music for piano and strings and learn about amazing women from all over the world who tell their stories through the music they write.

Hear the different influences that inspired them to create their artwork. The Church-inthe-Gardens, 50 Ascan Ave., Forest Hills.

Sal “The Voice” Valentinetti March 30, 3 PM Unsung Heroines: Valentinetti made his Celebrating Women’s debut on Season 11 of the History Month NBC hit show “America’s March 29, 7:30 PM Got Talent.” That night, the Sarah Pratt (violin), Liuh 20-year-old college student Wen Ting (viola), Roberta went from delivering pizzas Cooper (cello), and Barbara for his cousin’s restaurant to Podgurski (piano) perform delivering what’s considered to works by a diverse group of be one of the best performances female composers, including in “AGT” history. Now, the DoraPejacevic,FlorencePrice, world knows him as “Sal Vitezslava Kapalova, Cecile the Voice.” Queensborough Chaminade, Teresa Carreno, Performing Arts Center, 222Rebecca Clarke, Ethel Smith, 05 56th Ave., Bayside.

Whitney Claflin Louise Farrenc, and Helene de March 25 - August 25 Montgeroult. The Church-inMore information is available In her first solo museum the-Gardens, 50 Ascan Ave., at https://bit.ly/3JABukh. exhibition, Whitney Claflin (b. Forest Hills.

1983) presents works tracing her distinctive approach to painting and ongoing engagement with notions of infatuation, misrecognition, and waywardness. It features more than 20 new and recent paintings, which careen between subjects and styles ranging from lyrical abstractions and breezy sketches to snippets of text, renditions of logos, and scraps of mass-produced textiles.

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

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January 2025 • Volume 19 • Issue 24

DINE AND DISCOVER QUEENS

Masa Madre Bakery

It’s “Dine and Discover Queens’’ time! “Dine and Discover Queens” is a spotlight on some of the best food options from around the borough!

In this issue, we are featuring Masa Madre Bakery, an artisanal bakery that infuses Latin American flavors with pastry classics. Sunnyside’s Jose Luis is the owner of the establishment. To learn more, go to https://www.masasunnyside. com/ or visit them on Instagram @masamadrenyc.

What inspired the creation of your business, and how did you get your start?

My passion for pastries was instilled in me at a very young age by my grandmother in Mexico. My grandmother was a house manager who worked for the wealthiest families in Mexico City, where she

trained in classical French preparations and techniques.

She would often bring her pastries to us as presents. This is what inspired me to start my career in the food business and eventually specialize in bread and pastries.

Can you share a bit about your restaurant journey in Queens?

My culinary journey started when I migrated to Queens from Mexico City in the 90’s. I started working at China Grill, one of the hottest restaurants in New York City at the time, alongside sous chef Ramiro Mendez, the current owner of De Mole Sunnyside. I worked on their pastry team for four years, spending several months in English classes. Later, I began managing their pastry team. I started experimenting with different flavor combinations, developing specials, and creating my own style. In 1997, after dining at another restaurant specializing in New Latin Cuisine, I decided to concentrate on bringing my Latin roots into my cooking.

Eventually, I became the Corporate Chef of Richard Sandoval Hospitality, flying around the world, creating menus and concepts, and opening restaurants. I decided it was time to open a restaurant of my own, so in 2017, I opened de Mole Brooklyn with my sister, Mireya Mendez, and her husband, Ramiro Mendez.

What makes restaurant unique?

your

The bakery uses a unique natural ferment starter called Masa Madre, a natural leavening made from flour and water that’s left to ferment naturally. It’s used to make various foods and beverages, and it increases and preserves the microflora in the flour and environment. Everything in our bakery will be using this starter, which we have been working on for 4 years since the start of this business project.

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QUEENS TECH CORNER

Pharmachute

It’s Queens Tech Corner time! This month’s featured tech entrepreneur is Rohan Ramnarain, the founder of Pharmachute, a company that uses digital software to support independent pharmacies with e-commerce, digital advertising, and clinical trial recruitment. To learn more, go to https://pharmachute.com/.

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

During the 2010s, I worked as a floating pharmacy technician at different pharmacies throughout the city, filling in whenever a store needed extra help. I worked alongside pharmacists, and we realized independent pharmacies in New York weren’t taking advantage of new software advances in tech. We started Pharmachute to build out this software for these pharmacies and eventually formed the only comprehensive digital ecosystem for independent pharmacies in the world. We work with them on e-commerce, digital advertising, and clinical trial recruitment.

How did you personally get your start in tech?

It all started in a cold and lonely dorm room in 2012 when Nate Silver proved that technology at its best could predict the real world to a T. I was sitting there at St. John’s, watching him correctly predict every single state in the 8

election that year. He and his team did it with a lot of math, statistics, and programming.

This inspired me to invest my time in learning what we now call “data science.” I committed myself to learning Python. Over the course of the next decade, those skills increased in demand, and I began working with startups in all sorts of categories e-commerce, edtech, health tech, and prop tech - and eventually founded my own company.

What is your latest project, and why are you excited about it?

We’re now using AI with pharmacies to help clinical trials recruit patients, which is perhaps the most rewarding project I’ve worked on to date in terms of real-world impact on our communities.

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QUEENS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

“Always Be Closing” And The Reality Of Real Estate: My Journey In The Industry By: Brian Jaffe

real estate came through my father’s business, Industrial Investors (also known as Industrial Affiliates). We owned and managed over 500,000 SF near JFK Airport and another 800,000 SF near Miami International Airport. In the late ‘90s and early 2000s, while I was still a teenager, my father encouraged me to “just get my real estate license. It’s a good thing to have, and you’re a people person with the right personality.”

A.B.C., Always Be Closing... and of course, A.I.D.A., Attention, Interest, Decision, Action!” That classic line, made famous by Alec Baldwin’s character in Glengarry Glen Ross, is iconic in the world of sales. But as anyone in the real estate business will tell you, real estate is not always as glamorous as it seems in the movies. The business of buying, selling, and leasing property can be grueling, challenging, and at times, Real estate, especially unforgiving. commercial and industrial, is not for the faint of heart.

“Real estate takes brass It’s a world of high stakes, balls!”—this line from intense negotiations, and long Glengarry Glen Ross rings hours. Yet, in many ways, it true.Anyone who’s spent time has shaped me into who I am in the trenches knows that. It’s today. Looking back, I realize a cutthroat industry where you that the real test in this business need resilience, determination, is not about having the skills or and—yes—a bit of grit to knowledge alone—it’s about succeed. But despite the having the perseverance to challenges, there’s something keep going when things get about the thrill of the deal that tough. It’s about having what keeps you going.

I’ve come to call those “brass balls.”

In 2018, I founded Jaffe Realty, LLC, after years of After I obtained my real working at another firm in the estate license, I spent 16 years same outer boroughs of New working for a firm where I York City where I still operate focused on selling and leasing today—Queens, Brooklyn, and industrial and commercial the Bronx. But my journey properties. I stayed loyal to into the world of industrial and that company and learned from commercial real estate didn’t some of the best mentors in start with a formal office job or the business—mentors who a college degree in business. It remain friends today, even started in the family business. though we now often compete for deals. The industry is tightBorn and raised in Queens, knit, and relationships matter.

NY, my early exposure to But during those years, I often 10

wondered if I had what it took to go it alone. Like many agents, I had moments where I questioned whether this was the right path for me.

In Phil Jackson’s book Eleven Rings, the legendary basketball coach talks about the importance of reinventing oneself every 10 years. For me, it took a bit longer, but eventually, I realized it was time for a change. In 2018, I took the bold step of leaving the comfort of a firm and founding Jaffe Realty, LLC. I was ready to become what I jokingly refer to as the “One-Man Army.”

No more office meetings, no more customer registration cards (those in the business will understand), and no more relying on support from a big firm. Or so I thought.

While the idea of running my own show was exhilarating, I quickly learned that it’s not as solitary as it seems.

While I was the “OneMan Army,” I discovered the importance of surrounding myself with other professionals who were willing to share ideas, offer support, and help me navigate the challenges of being an independent agent.

The luxury of independence comes with its own set of challenges, but the truth is, no matter how independent you are, there is always someone to answer to—whether it’s a client, a landlord, or a tenant.

Being in the real estate business is about more than just the deal. It’s about building trust, learning from your mistakes, and having the courage to push forward when the odds are stacked against you. I’ve learned that, despite the challenges, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of solving a tough problem or helping a client achieve their goals. And as for those “brass balls”—well, let’s just say they’re essential for surviving in this business. The journey is never easy, but it’s always rewarding. Here’s to the next chapter.

January 2025 • Volume 19 • Issue 24

QUEENS NEWS

How AI is Reshaping Movie Making would decrease as AI could construct exotic places and situations using simple text commands. This initiative reflects a larger industrial trend where AI’s ability to replicate surroundings may eliminate the need for large-scale, physical production facilities.

By: Henry Collins The Future of Movie Making with AI The handwriting is on the wall. Tyler Perry saw it, as well as James Cameron and Lionsgate. We are talking about how generative AI is rapidly reshaping the future of the motion picture industry, presenting both challenges and opportunities. AI-driven innovations are augmenting or even replacing traditional filmmaking techniques, heralding a new era where the art of moviemaking may undergo a fundamental transformation.

The Impact of AI on Movie Studios Tyler Perry provided very telling evidence of artificial intelligence’s impact on the film business. Perry said in early 2024 that he would postpone a $800 million expansion of his Georgia studio after experiencing the potential of OpenAI’s Sora, a text-to-video model. Perry, famed for his large studio setup, predicted that the need for physical sets

may sign contracts with film companies to feature their likeness in films. Directors could utilize 3D body scanning to build computer models of actors. These scans would enable the fabrication of perfect digital duplicates, allowing filmmakers to cast based on precise physical or even Similarly, the inclusion of characteristics high-profile personalities such digitally revive performers as James Cameron on Stability for postmortem performances.

AI’s board of directors Another example is the realdemonstrates the industry’s time digital de-aging and aging shift toward embracing AI of Tom Hanks and Robin technology. Cameron’s visual Wright in the film “Here” by effects experience, paired Robert Zemeckis. with Stability AI’s advances Virtual Movie Sets: in generative AI, suggests With tools like Runway’s a collaboration intended at pushing the limits of what is AI models, filmmakers can edit sequences by altering visually feasible in cinema. components inside the video Lionsgate has also seen the using text prompts. When potential of AI, collaborating combined with Unreal Engine’s with Runway to train a new real-time 3D development generative AI model on their tools and massive LED video walls, filmmakers and visual vast film library. effects teams may work in a virtual world, modifying A Future Look at lighting, scenery, and character Filmmaking Imagine a world where movements on the fly without artificial intelligence augments the need for expensive physical or completely transforms sets. traditional filmmaking. Here Script-to-Screen are some examples of how Technology: generative AI is being used to Imagine converting a create future movies. 3D Body Scanning for Casting: Actors screenplay directly to film looking to extend their careers utilizing generative AI text-

to-video technology. At the present rate of text-to-video development, we could be witnessing a script-to-screen movie in the next six to twelve months using a future version of Sora or Runway.

Personalized Storytelling: Future films may not have predetermined storylines but rather interactive experiences where viewers can affect plot or character development through AI-driven selections.

Ethical and Creative Considerations: These advancements raise concerns about ethics, originality, and the essence of storytelling. The validity of AIgenerated content, the rights of actors and authors, and the essence of human creativity in cinema will all require careful study.

The use of AI in filmmaking promises a revolution in which innovation is limited only by the imagination rather than the physical limits of traditional techniques. However, it raises concerns about the future role of human creators in this business.

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PROMOTIONS, ANNOUNCEMENTS, AND APPOINTMENTS

Guttmann to succeed Seth Bornstein as Director of QEDC

Ben Guttmann, from Sunnyside, has been named executive director of The Queens Economic Development Corporation.

He has nearly 15 years of experience in small-business leadership, education, and tourism marketing. In 2011, he co-founded Digital Natives Group, a Queens-based marketing agency and early leader in the borough’s tech economy. As managing partner, he led engagements with more than 100 clients, including Empire State Development, Grand Central Terminal, the Empire State Building, the National Football League, and others.

Ben joined QEDC’s Board of Directors six years ago and served as an Executive Committee member and Board President before accepting the Executive Director position earlier this month. Since 2019, Guttmann has co-organized and hosted Queens Tech Night, which is now part of

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the Queens Tech + Innovation Challenge that QEDC administers with Borough President Donovan Richards Jr.’s Office. Additionally, he has served on the Long Island City Partnership Board of Directors and Queens Community Board 2.

Bornstein joined QEDC as a program manager in 1979 after working for two Borough Presidents. He helped coordinate the borough’s first commercial revitalization programs which led to the founding of many local development corporations and business improvement districts. After becoming Executive Director in 2009, he increased QEDC’s scope, opening the Entrepreneur Space, a commercial kitchen business incubator in Long Island City; launching MiQ ™ (Made in Queens), which helps local artisans market their products; and expanding the Queens Tourism Council, among other programs.

Mayor Appoints Stratford Mayor Eric Adams has appointed James Stratford as the new Executive Director of the NYC Young Men’s Initiative (YMI), a groundbreaking program within the Mayor’s Office of Equity and Racial Justice dedicated to empowering young men of color across New York City.

James Stratford’s story is as inspiring as his leadership track record. A Bronx native and former participant in NYC programs like the Summer Youth Employment Program, James brings lived experience to his work and a deep passion for creating equitable opportunities for young people. With over two decades of experience in nonprofit leadership and youth development, James has led impactful programs and managed multimillion-dollar budgets, including YMI’s

$30M annual investment in education, employment, health, and justice initiatives.

As the first in his family to earn a college degree and a graduate of NYU Wagner’s Executive Master of Public Administration program, James embodies the transformative power of mentorship and opportunity.

His previous roles include senior leadership positions at Phipps Neighborhoods, FAN4Kids, and A Second Chance, Inc., where he drove community-focused, systemic change.

James’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for YMI as it builds on over a decade of work addressing disparities among young men of color aged 1426. Under his leadership, YMI will continue to deliver high-impact programs while inspiring the next generation of leaders in NYC.

January 2025 • Volume 19 • Issue 24

QUEENS NEWS

A Partnership with a Long Island City Non-Profit-Dance Entropy By: Gerard Dolan Nonprofits like Dance Entropy serve as the heartbeat of Long Island City and Queens, fostering creativity and community through the transformative power of dance.

Dolan Associates Insurance & Financial Services has embraced a role that goes beyond traditional business operations, actively supporting Dance Entropy through board membership and strategic guidance.

Founded by Artistic Director Valerie Green, Dance Entropy is a nonprofit organization dedicated to using dance as a tool for artistic expression, community connection, and personal empowerment. The organization offers innovative performances, educational programs, and a wide range of community outreach initiatives that impact diverse audiences across Queens. Programs such as “Green Space” bring free or low-cost dance workshops and performances to local schools, senior centers, and community groups, fostering accessibility to the arts for all residents.

One of Dance Entropy’s standout community programs is its therapeutic movement workshops, designed to engage underserved populations, including immigrants, atrisk youth, and individuals suffering from trauma. These workshops provide participants

with a safe space to express themselves, build confidence, and connect with others through the universal language of movement. Such initiatives highlight Dance Entropy’s commitment to inclusion and its belief in the transformative power of dance to heal and unite communities.

Gerard Dolan, President of Dolan Associates Insurance & Financial Services, contributes his expertise as a member of Dance Entropy’s board, helping the organization achieve its mission. Through his involvement, Dolan provides strategic planning, operational management, and risk management insights that strengthen Dance Entropy’s infrastructure. These efforts ensure the nonprofit can continue delivering impactful programs and expanding its reach within the community. Dolan also supports Dance Entropy’s fundraising initiatives and promotes awareness of its events, creating opportunities for greater engagement and financial sustainability.

leaders for an evening dedicated to celebrating the power of dance. Guests will enjoy mesmerizing performances, connect with fellow supporters, and contribute to the growth of Dance Entropy’s transformative work.

Dolan Associates invites local businesses and individuals to join in supporting this inspiring event. Sponsorship opportunities offer a unique platform to showcase commitment to the arts and the community, while providing critical funding for Dance Entropy’s programs. For more information about becoming a sponsor or attending the Gala, visit Dance Entropy’s website at www.danceentropy.org or contact me directly at gerardd lan@gdolaninsurance.com.

Join the Mission: Support Dance Entropy Dolan Associates Insurance & Financial Services

encourages everyone to support Dance Entropy’s mission. Whether by attending the Gala, becoming a sponsor, or spreading the word, your involvement can make a significant impact. Together, we can celebrate the arts, strengthen community ties, and help Dance Entropy continue its extraordinary journey of transformation through dance.

Dance Entropy Gala Event: Celebrating Community and Creativity A highlight of the year for Dance Entropy is its upcoming Gala, scheduled for March 6th.

This highly anticipated event brings together supporters, art enthusiasts, and community 13

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QUEENS NEWS

Resourcefulness Over Resources relationships in ways that large companies often cannot.

By: Basant Pershad In today’s rapidly changing business environment, small enterprises often find themselves at a disadvantage when competing with larger companies.

With limited financial resources, fewer employees, and less market clout, small enterprises might appear to be at a disadvantage.

However, many of these businesses thrive and grow by relying on one crucial trait: resourcefulness.

The Power of Resourcefulness Resourcefulness is the ability to find quick and clever ways to overcome difficulties. For small enterprises, this quality can be more valuable than having extensive resources. Large corporations may have the luxury of abundant capital and vast teams, but resourcefulness allows smaller businesses to pivot quickly, innovate on a shoestring budget, and leverage 14

Innovation Through Constraints One of the most significant advantages of resourcefulness is the ability to innovate under constraints.

When resources are scarce, creativity flourishes. Small enterprises often come up with unique solutions that allow them to offer distinctive products or services. For instance, instead of investing in expensive marketing campaigns, a small business might leverage social media, build a strong local presence, or create strategic partnerships with other small businesses. Innovation born out of necessity often leads to the development of new business models, products, or services that fill market gaps.

This approach not only helps small businesses differentiate themselves but also positions them to adapt quickly to changes in the market or economy.

able to afford.

For example, instead of investing in an expensive piece of equipment, a small business might partner with another company to share the cost or find a local business willing to rent the equipment at a reduced rate. Networking also opens doors to valuable advice, mentorship, and potential new business opportunities that can lead to growth and success.

Lean Operations and Agile Practices Resourceful businesses operate leanly, making the most of what they have and avoiding waste. This mindset is particularly important for small enterprises, where every dollar counts. By focusing on efficiency and continuously improving processes, small enterprises can stretch their resources further than they might initially seem able to.

Agility is another benefit of resourcefulness. Small enterprises can quickly adapt Building Strong Networks to changing circumstances Another aspect of because they are often less resourcefulness is the ability bogged down by bureaucratic to build and maintain strong processes that can slow larger networks. For small businesses, companies. This agility allows relationships are often the them to take advantage of key to accessing resources they don’t have in-house.

By cultivating relationships with other businesses, suppliers, customers, and even competitors, small businesses can tap into a broader range of resources than they might otherwise be

new opportunities or adjust to market shifts faster than their larger competitors.

Investing in People Resourcefulness also means investing wisely in people. For small businesses, human capital is often the most valuable resource. By fostering a culture of creativity and problem-solving, small businesses can encourage their employees to think outside the box and contribute ideas that can lead to significant improvements or innovations.

Leveraging Technology While small enterprises might not have the budget for the latest technology, resourcefulness allows them to use what they do have to its fullest potential. Open-source software, cloud computing, and affordable digital tools can all provide small businesses with the means to operate efficiently and compete with larger firms.

For small businesses, resourcefulness is not just a survival trait; it is a pathway to success. While resources are finite, the potential for innovation, creativity, and growth through resourcefulness is boundless.

January 2025 • Volume 19 • Issue 24

QUEENS NEWS

J-51 Tax Credit Extension Signed onto their shareholders. The limited scope of this extension, however, means that many co-ops will continue to struggle to afford necessary improvements.

By: Geoffrey Mazel The President’s Cooperative and Condominium Council (PCCC) is pleased to announce that on Mayor Eric Adams has signed the Introduction 654-A, the renewed J-51 Tax Abatement Program bill into law. This tax incentive program, which has been a cornerstone of housing affordability for decades, provides tax abatements and exemptions to encourage property owners to undertake.

The PCCC played a pivotal role in advocating for the J-51 Tax Abatementt Extension, ensuring some financial relief for qualifying cooperatives and condominiums.

The J-51 tax abatement has historically been instrumental in maintaining affordable housing stock in New York City, especially in cooperatives that operate on tight budgets.

Many of these buildings rely on such programs to fund critical upgrades without passing significant financial burdens

The J-51 tax incentive is designed to alleviate the financial burden of property improvements and ensure buildings remain safe, habitable, and in compliance with New York City’s housing codes. This program is particularly vital for aging buildings in need of modernization. Especially in the current environment of dozens of unfunded mandates being issued by the New York City Council, including the Climate Mobilization Act (Local Law 97), the need for the J-51 tax abatement is greater than ever.

The extension reinstates the J-51 tax credit program for a limited period, allowing qualifying co-ops to apply for tax benefits retroactively or moving forward for eligible projects.

Unfortunately, Owners can only recover up to 70% of the cost of qualified work through tax abatements, available for up to 20 years. Previous versions of this law allowed for 100% cost recovery over 10 years.

Furthermore, the law is highly restricted in scope and applies only to cooperatives (co-ops) and condominiums with assessed valuations of

$45,000 or less per apartment.

Eligible improvements include necessary building upgrades such as plumbing, electrical, heating, and other infrastructure improvements. Specific details on the application timeline and implementation process are expected to be released by the city’s Department of Finance in the coming weeks.

While the PCCC celebrates the passage of this law, it also recognizes its limited applicability. Many cooperatives exceed the $45,000 assessed valuation threshold, leaving them ineligible for these muchneeded tax credits. The PCCC remains committed to advocating for a more inclusive version of the J-51 program that expands the eligibility criteria to include a greater number of cooperatives and condominiums. Adjustments to the valuation cap to reflect the rising property assessments in New York City. Improved outreach and transparency in the application process to ensure all qualifying buildings can access the program. The

limited scope of this extension, however, means that many co-ops will continue to struggle to afford necessary improvements, the PCCC will continue to work with city officials, housing advocates, and its member organizations to push for expanded tax incentives that benefit all cooperative and condominium owners.

The President’s Cooperative and Condominium Council (PCCC) is based in Queens County and a leading organization representing the interests of cooperative and condominium boards and their shareholders in New York City.

Founded to provide a unified voice for co-ops and condos, the PCCC works tirelessly to advocate for policies that promote affordability, sustainability, and equity in housing. Our members represent over 100,000 cooperative and condominium residents in New York City in buildings ranging from small, self-managed co-ops to large, professionally managed properties.

15

THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

queenschamber.org

QUEENS NEWS

Laguardia Career Center Named For Aubry By: The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey More than 2,700 People Placed in Jobs, Including More than 1,700 Queens Residents, Through Career Center in Corona Since Opening in 2019 at New LaGuardia Airport Creation of Economic Opportunities for Queens Residents at New LaGuardia Airport has Been the Assemblyman’s Top Priority Since Launch of $8 Billion Airport Redevelopment Project.

previously Queens borough president and served on the governor’s airport advisory council that created the plan for LaGuardia’s transformation.

From the outset of the project, New York state Assemblyman Aubry has been a staunch supporter of the $8 billion airport redevelopment program and of efforts to ensure that the communities that he represents near LaGuardia Airport share in the economic benefits of the project. Since it opened in 2019, the career center has placed more than 2,700 people in jobs at LaGuardia Airport, including more than 1,700 placements for residents of Queens. LaGuardia also set a New York state record for participation by minority- and women-owned businesses (MWBE), that accounted for $2.2 billion in contracts.

That record has only recently been surpassed by the redevelopment of John F. Kennedy International Airport, which has awarded more than $2.7 billion in contracts to MWBEs.

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, in partnership with the Council for Airport Opportunity (CAO), Neighborhood Housing Services of Queens Community Development Corporation Inc. and Elmcor Youth & Adult Activities Inc., announced the renaming and dedication this week of the LaGuardia Career Center as the Jeffrion L. Aubry LaGuardia Career Center in honor of New York state Assemblyman Aubry’s more than three decades of public service and his commitment to ensuring that Queens residents reap the benefits of the redevelopment “Assemblyman Aubry has of LaGuardia Airport. been an important partner in our work and a staunch The dedication ceremony advocate for a project that on Tuesday was attended by many people said could numerous elected officials and community leaders, including New York state Assembly Member Catalina Cruz and Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz, who was 16

never be done – transforming LaGuardia Airport from the nation’s worst airport to what is now the nation’s best airport,” said Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton. “The assemblyman has also been an advocate for the people of Queens, constantly emphasizing the need to ensure that the community most impacted by the airport will also realize the opportunities a new, world-class airport can provide.” “As a former state legislator, I recognize and appreciate the commitment and dedication to his community that Assemblyman Aubry has demonstrated throughout his career and throughout the construction of a new LaGuardia Airport,” said Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole. “We have witnessed firsthand how effective the assemblyman has been in

ensuring that a world-class airport becomes a gateway of opportunity for the people of Queens.”

“Assemblyman Aubry’s unwavering commitment to our community over the past 30 years has been instrumental in creating opportunities and fostering growth,” said Yoselin Genao-Estrella, executive director of Neighborhood Housing Services of Queens CDC. “This dedication is a celebration of Assemblyman Aubry’s enduring legacy of service and his profound impact on our community.”

First elected to the New York State Assembly in 1992, Assemblyman Aubry has represented the 35th Assembly District of Queens, which includes LaGuardia Airport.

After 16 terms in office, he did not seek reelection in 2024.

January 2025 • Volume 19 • Issue 24

QUEENS NEWS

Celebrating 40 Years Of Impact: Tiegerman, A Family Of Services communication barriers held people back—academically, emotionally, and socially.

Watching her father work tirelessly to help her sister communicate and learn sparked her mission to create a place where language and learning could flourish together.

By: Irene S. Scalfani, Director of Development – Tiegerman For four decades, Tiegerman, a family of schools and community services providing residential, vocational, day rehabilitation, and residential facilities, has been a beacon of hope for individuals with special needs and their families.

Founded in 1985 by Dr. Ellenmorris Tiegerman, this life-changing organization has helped countless children and adults with developmental disabilities and languagebased learning challenges find their voices, build their confidence, and lead fulfilling lives. As Tiegerman marks its 40th anniversary, it’s not just celebrating years—it’s celebrating lives transformed, dreams realized, and a future filled with promise.

A Vision Rooted in Compassion Dr. Tiegerman’s journey started with a simple yet powerful idea: everyone deserves to be heard. After watching her sister fall at the playground and lose her speaking ability, Dr. Tiegerman saw firsthand how

What began as the School for Language and Communication Development (SLCD), a small preschool program of 36 children focused on speech-language therapy, has grown into a comprehensive organization supporting over 700 students and adults annually. Today, Tiegerman’s reach extends from preschool through adulthood.

credits Tiegerman for giving him a strong foundation during his early years. Connor is a current student at Tiegerman with Down syndrome. During the day, Connor is a curious and kind boy, and after school, he is the author of I AM CONNOR, a book his family hopes will change how people see those with Down syndrome, and he is also the creator of Connor’s Canine Cookies, fresh pet treats made with love and an extra chromosome. Connor’s family has made it their mission to ensure that Connor is given every opportunity to live his life to the fullest. Thankfully, they see Tiegerman as an opportunity on this journey.

Creating a Community of Stories of Strength and Support Success At Tiegerman, education The heart of Tiegerman’s isn’t just about classrooms— success is its people. Families it’s about community. Parents often share stories of how become advocates, friends, their lives have changed. Take and support systems for Toya and her son Jonathan, one another. Teachers and one of Tiegerman’s first therapists go beyond their pioneer families. Jonathan roles, becoming trusted guides entered SLCD as an autistic boy with speech and language challenges. Jonathan found his voice through individualized attention and a supportive environment—both literally and figuratively.

through life’s challenges. The organization also partners with local businesses to create real-world job opportunities for its students and adults.

These partnerships are more than business deals—they are lifelines that open doors to independence and dignity.

Community partnerships with PVH have allowed students to learn about retail and customer service by running Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger clothing stores in three of their schools.

Honoring 40 Years of Impact This milestone anniversary is about more than looking back—it’s about moving forward with renewed purpose. Throughout the year, Tiegerman will host events celebrating its history and the people who have shaped it.

These include a gala honoring students, alums, families, long- time supporters, and the community.

Jonathan graduated cum laude from Howard University and praises Tiegerman for helping him grow and learn in less restrictive settings. Today, Jonathan works for the Nassau County Parks Department and 17

January 2025 • Volume 19 • Issue 24

QUEENS NEWS

UNCOVERING PASSION THROUGH CREATIVITY By: Matthew de Prado

“I want to style people for every facet of their adventurous and unique lives.”

What began as a New Year’s resolution in 2020 has evolved into a creative journey for aspiring artist Matthew de Prado. A soon-to-be graduate of St. John’s University’s Class of 2025, Matthew has established MysteryDestroysPassion, a brand that breathes new life into worn clothing through visible repairs and pattern alterations. His work reflects a deeper philosophy: embracing authenticity and showcasing individuality through creative expression.

Initially launched as a hobby to combat loneliness, MysteryDestroysPassion has grown into a movement connecting Matthew with fellow creatives. Denim, a staple of his creations, holds special meaning for Matthew.

Its rigid structure mirrors his constraints, while its ability to be reimagined and reconstructed reflects his personal growth.

By transforming denim into something freer and more dynamic, Matthew expresses his evolution as an artist and an individual. His customization work has adorned local artists and inspired collaborations with photographers to encapsulate a vision of embracing imperfection.

Starting as a Campus Orientation Leader, he rose to lead the program, harnessing his creativity and leadership skills. Putting himself into a position where he interacted with the entire St. John’s incoming freshman class allowed him to improve his social skills while exposing himself to new cultures and perspectives. This experience encouraged him to share his art more publicly, breaking free from societal expectations such as masking one’s true feelings and rather embracing his true self. Especially in the world of fashion where logos are currently seen as more of a representation of self rather than the clothing they are placed on.

In October, Matthew partnered with St. John’s University’s Office of Multicultural Affairs and content creator Amarra Danielle to host an upcycling workshop. Participants learned visible repair techniques, including Japanese sashiko stitching as well as on-thespot sewing. The class also explored creating scrap work materials that were painted in the punk crust aesthetic, an underground form of expression that celebrates rebellion and individuality.

By the end, over 30 attendees discovered how to transform old garments into wearable art, furthering Matthew’s mission Matthew’s campus to inspire purpose and passion involvement has also played through everyday creativity. a pivotal role in his journey. Ultimately, he would love

to expand this workshop class outside of his campus and into the greater Queens Community.

As an advertising major currently working in the field, Matthew envisions a future where MysteryDestroysPassion bridges fashion and advertising ethically and innovatively. His goal is to design and promote collections that redefine clothing as more than a logo or status symbol but as a true representation of self.

exploring the limitless potential of creativity and community.

Beyond clothing, Matthew has ventured into other artistic forms, recently documenting his journey into graffiti on social media under the MysteryDestroysPassion Looking ahead, Matthew brand. He’s also working envisions building a network of on a scrap work collection like-minded artists in New York using entirely recycled and City, continuing to challenge thrifted materials to craft norms, and encouraging others unique, sustainable pieces. to see not just what is—but To see more of his work, what could be. Through find him on Instagram and MysteryDestroysPassion, TikTok under the username @ he remains committed to mysterydestroyspassion.

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THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

queenschamber.org

A Conversation With Dr. Sharon B. DeVivo, President and CEO of Vaughn College The College’s commitment to academic rigor and handson learning is reflected in its state-of-the-art campus facilities. A $45 million renovation, completed in 2014 with significant support from the Federal Aviation Administration and The Port Authority as part of its sound abatement program, included renovated laboratories and classrooms, extensive engineering laboratories, a sophisticated and recently updated flight simulator lab, the addition of an air traffic control laboratory, and the construction of a new library.

Vaughn is among an elite group of institutions nationwide to offer an ABET-accredited undergraduate degree in mechatronic engineering, the only program of its kind in the Northeast.

Vaughn College has stood as a beacon of excellence and innovation in higher education since its founding in 1932. A private, nonprofit institution located in East Elmhurst, Vaughn specializes in engineering, technology, aviation, and management programs, offering master’s, bachelor’s, and associate degrees and certificate At the helm of the institution programs. is Dr. Sharon B. DeVivo, who has been part of Vaughn Rooted in a rich aeronautical College since 1996 and has history, Vaughn’s mission is served as its president since to cultivate personal growth, 2014. Dr. DeVivo is the leadership, and innovation in its College’s seventh president students, equipping them with and its first woman leader, and the knowledge and skills for under her tenure, Vaughn has successful careers in science, earned national recognition technology, engineering, math for being ranked as the top (STEM), and aviation. Vaughn institution in the United States is distinguished for its focus for upward mobility, helping on expanding access to STEM students rise from the bottom education for underserved 40 percent to the top 40 percent populations and has been in income. recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a Beyond her leadership at Hispanic-Serving Institution.

Vaughn, Dr. DeVivo is a prominent voice in the aviation 20

and education sectors. She was appointed by the U.S. Secretary of Transportation to chair the Youth Access to American Aviation Jobs Task Force, where she spearheaded recommendations to Congress in 2022 on expanding access to aviation careers for underrepresented youth. Her commitment to equity and representation extends through her service on numerous boards, including the Civil Air Patrol, the Federal Aviation Administration’s Management Advisory Council, and the Wings Club Foundation, among others.

How has its focus on aviation, engineering, and technology shaped your vision as President and CEO?

My background is in higher education, specifically marketing and communications, and I came to Vaughn 29 years ago as the director of communications.

What has kept me at this small, private, non-profit institution is our incredible students who have a passion for the career they want to pursue. It is my privilege to create an educational experience that supports their professional journey.

Return on investment is incredibly important to our students—they want to know that the education they are investing in will yield lifelong career benefits. This aligns perfectly with the regional and national need for welleducated and trained graduates who have the capacity to contribute to sectors like transportation, utilities, manufacturing, alternative energy, cybersecurity and more.

Vaughn’s students and families are most interested in the value that our educational experience provides and the outcomes it produces.

Fortunately, there is a tremendous demand now and into the future for many of the areas we specialize in including air traffic control, aviation maintenance training, flight operations, engineering and more. Families are also asking for a more flexible pathway that includes certificates, twoDr. DeVivo recently shared year and four-year degrees insights into her leadership that provide a variety of entry journey, her passion for points into the world of work. aviation and STEM education, and her vision for Vaughn Vaughn College is renowned College’s continued role in for its emphasis on STEM transforming lives through education, particularly in education. aviation and engineering.

Why do you believe this What drew you to Vaughn focus is critical in today’s College? educational landscape?

January 2025 • Volume 19 • Issue 24

How does Vaughn College Vaughn’s ongoing focus on prepare students for careers alignment with the industries in aeronautics? we serve is how we continue to deliver on that promise of One of the greatest strengths a “futureproof education.” of this institution has always We also back that up with been our close ties to the a guarantee that if for some industries we serve. The reason you do not find a position primary way that we do this is with one-year of graduation with industry advisory councils (and meet certain eligibility for each of our major program criteria such as meeting with areas: aviation, engineering, our career services team) we technology and management. will provide funding to pay These groups meet once or back your federal student loans twice per year and review for one year. To date, no one the current curriculum, make has needed that support. suggestions for changes and meet with students to hear Vaughn’s proximity to their perspective on our two major airports offers degree programs. That is significant advantages. why our career placement is Can you share how these always above 90% because connections provide realwe understand and provide world learning experiences, graduates who meet the needs internships, or career of the workforce. pipelines for students?

With advancements in aerospace technology and the rise of private space exploration, how is Vaughn positioning itself as a leader in training the next generation of innovators?

Over the last five years, I have seen an increasing number of students interested in pursuing a career in space.

In fact, we now have graduates employed with Space X, Lockheed Martin and NASA. The education and skill sets we provide are exactly what the space industry requires.

The promise of a “futureproof education” is central to Vaughn’s mission.

What does this mean, and how does the college deliver on this promise for its students?

Queens is an awesome borough for several reasons including diversity, opportunity and access to major transportation, cultural and recreational opportunities.

Aviation is the second leading employer in Queens and that demonstrates the high demand and employment opportunities.

Vaughn is so fortunate to have terrific partners such as The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (they manage both airports) who have offered scholarships, internships and employment. Delta, United and JetBlue also have dedicated internships and pathway programs for Vaughn students and provide financial support for scholarships, collegerelated travel and more. Those close industry connections are key to our students’ success.

Are there specific partnerships with aviation, aerospace, or engineering companies that have been instrumental in providing opportunities for Vaughn students?

use these tools in our daily operations.

For the past several years, we have used an AI chatbot to support students 24/7/365 when they have questions about everything from time In addition to the partnerships management tips to when the named above as well as the financial aid office is open. partners who assist us on our Not only does this work when industry advisory councils such students need it, but it also as Sikorsky, Dassault, John F. allows staff to spend time and Kennedy (JFK) International effort assisting students who Arrivals Terminal, AvPorts, have more complex challenges. and others, Vaughn is also part of several national internship What are Vaughn College’s partners like the Federal goals for the future, and how Aviation Administration and do you see the institution the Hispanic Association of continuing to lead in Colleges and Universities. aeronautics and STEM Probably most important, education?

Vaughn understands that providing students with a Vaughn’s vision is: To national platform to showcase change the world one student at their skills is also key to a time with a transformational securing internships and education that provides a employment and that is why we lifetime of opportunity. This provide funding for students year, more than 1,300 students to attend national conferences will work toward their own and events where they meet personal goal of achieving a with employers in person. degree or certification that sets them on the path to success.

AI and automation are Our job as a faculty and staff transforming industries, is to pay attention to where the including aeronautics. How world is headed, specifically is Vaughn preparing students the industries where our for these new technologies? graduates are employed, and to align our curriculum so that AI is contributing to Vaughn students are ready and able in two ways. The first is in to contribute when they are how we teach and learn. employed. At the same time, From providing our engineers the needs of students change with the tools to use artificial over time, and we need to be intelligence in a robot that flexible and responsive to needs to perform a task or ensure that the educational helping students to use it experience we provide meets ethically in their coursework, students where they are. faculty are developing course material that integrates the use of AI. The second way AI is changing Vaughn is how we 21

January 2025 • Volume 19 • Issue 24

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 pan-Asian non-profit organization representing a network of community service agencies in the Northeast.

BAYSIDE VILLAGE BID

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

$218,000 and over 350 members. Founded in 2007, the BID includes commercial property owners and residents on Bell Boulevard between 35th Avenue and Northern Boulevard, as well as a block east and west on 41st Avenue.

BAYSIDE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

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

baysideba.com QUICK GLANCE: Founded in

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.

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 low- and moderateincome entrepreneurs and their communities, and thereby create genuinely brighter futures.

US-BANGLADESH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

169-20 Hillside Ave, 2nd FL, Suite # 03 Jamaica New York, 11432.

212-347 6364 www.usbcci.org QUICK GLANCE: U.S. Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce & Industry (“USBCCI”) is an organization designed to enhance prosperity for Bangladesh and

American Businesses in USA & Bangladesh ,also committed to serving the needs of the growing business community.

CHHAYA CDC

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

CHINATOWN DISTRICT MANAGEMENT ASSOC. (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.

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.

GANYC – GUIDES ASSOCIATION OF NEW YORK CITY

115 Broadway, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10006 Associate Director: Harvey Davidson 908-499-3735 info@ganyc.org Ganyc.org QUICK GLANCE: GANYC was

founded in 1974 by licensed tour guides for licensed tour guides. We are one of the oldest and most active tour guides associations in America.

GATEWAYJFK

Interim Executive Director: Barbara J. Cohen 718.304.0119 info@GatewayJFK.org GatewayJFK.org QUICK GLANCE: GatewayJFK

is a public-private partnership providing neighborhood services, improvements and advocacy for the District’s off-airport cargo community and all who live, work or visit the area. A vital link in the global supply chain, GatewayJFK is a distinct and unique NYC neighborhood of major economic significance to the region, the nation, and the world.”

GREATER JAMAICA DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

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

1967, the group has 75 members. GJDC’s work expands economic opportunity and improves quality of life for the ethnically and economically diverse residents of Jamaica and

25

THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

queenschamber.org

QUEENS CHAMBER PARTNERS & AFFILIATES

for the region at large, which benefits from rational, wellplanned, and sustainable metropolitan growth.

GREATER NEWYORK NEPALI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

3766 74TH ST , APT 2F SUITE B2 JACKSON HEIGHTS, New York 11372 347-707-1044 info@nynepalichamber.org www.nynepalichamber.org QUICK GLANCE: To foster eco-

nomic growth, entrepreneurship, and collaboration among Nepali businesses in the Greater New York area. We aim to provide our members with opportunities to connect, learn, and succeed through various initiatives, programs, and events.

GREATER WOODHAVEN DEVELOPMENT CORP. WOODHAVEN BID

84-01 Jamaica Avenue, Woodhaven NY 11421 718.805.0202 gwdcbid@hotmail.com woodhavenbid.com QUICK GLANCE: Budget of

$257,000 with more than 350 businesses under its umbrella on Jamaica Avenue from Dexter Court to 100th Street. They are providing free benches for store owners along Jamaica Avenue.

They also provide 2.5 and 5 percent home improvement loans.

JAMAICA CENTER BID

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

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

With a budget of over $1 million, the BID’s goal is to promote and maintain Downtown Jamaica as

26

a thriving business hub and an enjoyable destination to shop, work, live and visit.

JFK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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

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

LONG ISLAND CITY PARTNERSHIP

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.

MASPETH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE P.O. Box 780265, Maspeth, NY 11378 President: David Daraio 718.335.1300 maspethchamberofcommerce.org QUICK GLANCE: Founded in

1953, they have 120 members and a budget of $115,000.

MASPETH INDUSTRIAL BUSINESS ASSOCIATION (MIBA)

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

roughly 600 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 80th streets. The mission is to improve the area and assist local businesses if they have any concerns or needs.

MYRTLE AVENUE BID

62-14 Myrtle Avenue, Ridgewood, NY 11385 Executive Director: Ted Renz 718.366.3806 QUICK GLANCE: Budget of $500,000 with over 300 retail and service businesses under its purview. Board meetings are held four times a year with the annual meeting in June. The district includes Myrtle Avenue in Ridgewood between Fresh Pond Road and Wyckoff Avenue. Program support is provided by the Ridge-

wood LDC.

QUEENS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

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

SUNNYSIDE SHINES

45-56 43rd Street, Sunnyside, NY 11104 Executive Director: Dirk McCall 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.

URBAN UPBOUND

40th Avenue, Long Island City, NY 11101 CEO & Co-Founder: Bishop Mitchell G. Taylor QUICK GLANCE: Urban Upbound, originally known as East River Development Alliance (ERDA), was co-founded in 2002

by Debra-Ellen Glickstein, a strong advocate of economic development inclusion, and Bishop Mitchell Taylor, a lifelong resident of Queensbridge Houses, with the intention to develop high-quality services that address resident-identified needs. Since then, the organization has grown to serve thousands of youth and adults living in public housing and other low-and moderate-income neighborhoods annually.

January 2025 • Volume 19 • Issue 24

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

NEW MEMBERS

Labor Compliance 101: What Every Restaurant Owner Needs to Know February 13, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (EST)

MAJOR CORPORATES

How SBA can help your business in 2025 February 13, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (EST) New Member Orientation February 19, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (EST) Turner and the NYC Football Club for a Workforce Resource Expo February 20, 2025 3:30 PM - 6:30 PM (EST) Financial literacy for the Novice Entrepreneur February 21, 2025 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM (EST) Building financial resilience in 2025 February 27, 2025 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM (EST)

Mike the Glazier Chad Lerner miketheglazier@aol.com

Diaz Electric of NY Inc. Ana Diaz ana@diazelectricny.com

The Astoria World Manor Tony Ji tony@awm.nyc

Edgewise Energy Samuel Chu edwyer@getedgewise.com

SMALL BUSINESS PARTNERS DCAP EAST MEADOW INC. Amit Sehgal amit@dcapusa.com

Dr. Darlene Williams Consulting Dr. DarleneWilliams drdarlenewilliams@gmail.com

Ecco Consulting Group John Vissichelli johnviss@eccoconsults.com

New York Life Insurance Company Richard Lofters rlofters@ft.newyorklife.com

C&J PRIME MEATS Ma. Michieline Mendoza-Mohabir michielinemohabir@gmail.com FEAT Solutions Robert Peras rperas@featsolutions.co

Venture House Liz Yakobashvili development@venturehouse.org Premiere Performing Arts Ashley Burke premiereartsny@gmail.com

Link Trade Partners Kwame Sieh kwame.sieh@yahoo.com

27

January 2025 • Volume 19 • Issue 24

Howard Graf

Patrick Yu

Richard Dzwlewicz

Michelle Stoddart

Chairperson

Thomas J. Grech President & CEO

Secretary

Joanne M. Persad Chief of Operations

Vice Chair

Associate Secretary

Treasurer

Immediate Past Chair

Patricia Mezeul Nash Roe

Arlene Diangkinay

Thomas J. Santucci

Neil Wagner

Brendan Leavy

Richard Grebinger

Sabrina Tanzin

Member Engagement & Retention Specialist

Daniel Gonzalez

Digital Program Manager

Outreach Specialist

Chief Financial Officer

Outreach Specialist

Manager, Legal Desk

Outreach Specialist

Restaurant and Hospitality Specialist

Business Support Specialist

Melbin Margoya

VP of Business Development

Jacqueline Donado

George Hadjiconstantiou Vice President, Strategic Programs

Kauri Kilburn

Business Support Specialist

Social Media & Outreach Specialist

Business Support Specialist

Franchette Zamudio

Social Media & Outreach Specialist

John Renda Edward Jones John.Renda@edwardjones.com Edwin Wong EWong@flushingbank.com

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

HEALTHCARE & WELLNESS

Prabhleen S. Virk Citrin Cooperman pvirk@citrincooperman.com

TRANSPORTATION

Jay Solly Sol Strategies jaypsolly@gmail.com

ENTREPRENEURSHIP & INNOVATION Ryan Letts Cleonmaye Corporation rletts@cleonmaye.com

FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESSES Michael Shoule JW Hampton mikes@jwhampton.com

FOOD, BEVERAGE & HOSPITALITY Jim Quent Statewide Public Affairs jquent@statewidepublicaffairs.com

CORPORATE MEMBERS

Creative Office Resources Crescent Consulting Associates, Inc. Crystal Window & Door Systems, Ltd Cushman & Wakefield Cygler Warren Street Corp Dack Consulting Solutions Davidoff Hutcher & Citron LLP Dedline AV DO & CO New York Catering, Inc. Douglas Elliman Real Estate Commercial Division EAC Network Edge Auto Rental Edward Jones EJ Stevens Group EKA Planning Services, Inc. EMCOR NY/NJ Emigrant Mortgage EMU Health ENT and Allergy Associates, LLP Episcopal Health Services EW Howell Construction Group Exo Industries Corp.

Expense Reduction Analysts F & T Group Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, Inc. First Central Savings Bank Firstlight Cloud Xchange Fluid Mechanics Corp Forest Hills Financial Group, Inc. Giant Industrial Installations

Christine Deska BellesBoard/Nonprofit Sector Strategies christine@nonprofitsectorstrategies.org

REAL ESTATE Kevin Louie RIPCO klouie@ripcony.com

Michael Wang Project Queens michael@projectqueens.com

Lina DeLaCruz lina@controlelectropolishing.com

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT Shahriar Hossain Shossain@queenschamber.org

Phil Jones LIME philip@li.me

Rachel Kellner Aigner Chocolates rachel@aignerchocolates.com

TECHNOLOGY COMMITTEE

ENERGY

NOT FOR PROFIT

Tom McFarland Tmcfarland@teamlogicit.com

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

Larry Grubler Transitional Services of NY lgrubler@tsiny.org

Jake Shild Jake@landsky.ai

Daphne Smirniotis Project Manager

Theresa Lenz

Manager of Strategic Projects

Strategic Program Manager

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

MANUFACTURING

Michelle Watson

Vicky Ferreira

COMMITTEE LEADERSHIP BANKING & LAW

RaeAnna Persad

Julio Perez

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Lorraine Chambers Lewis Bert Lurch Meredith Marshall Carl Mattone Patricia Mezeul Melinda Murray-Nyack Maria Odysseos

Capitol NY CareerPoint LLC Carver Federal Savings Bank Catholic Charities Brooklyn & Queens Catholic Health CBIZ Marks Paneth CBRE CDS-Mestel Construction Center for Automotive Education and Training Century Development Group Cerini and Associates, LLP. Certilman Balin Adler & Hyman, LLP Champion Elevator Corp Ciampa Organization Cine Magic LIC Studios, LLC Cipico Construction, Inc. CISO Global, Inc. City Underwriting Agency, Inc. CITYWIDE CONTAINER SERVICE CORP Clear Channel Outdoor CliftonLarsonAllen, LLP CMG Home Loans Comcast Business Compu-Phone Voice & Data, Inc. ConnectOne Bank Cornell Tech Cornerstone Land Abstract Corporate Loss Prevention Associates INC Cort CPower Energy Management

Joanna Chen

Outreach Specialist

Kirstie P. Gordillo

Vice President, Strategic Programs

A degree of freedom structural engineer A&L Cesspool Services Corp A+ Technology & Security AARP Abrams Fensterman ADS Engineers, DPC Advanced Technology Alliance AES Aetna Better Health of New York AFGO Mechanical Services, Inc Allegiant Home Care Allied Risk Management, Inc Andromeda Antun’s of Queens Village Apex Development Group LLC Approved General Contracting Inc., Astound Business Solutions Avison Young Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service BankUnited, N.A Barone Management LLC Bath Fitter Bayside Contracting Inc BedRock Real Estate Partners, LLC Berkshire HathawayHomeservices Laffey International Realty Bethpage Federal Credit Union Blumenfeld Development Group Bonanza Contracting LLC Capital One Bank Capitol Fire Sprinkler

Rony Kaliya

VP of Member Committees

Nicole Biscardi

VP of Tech Initiatives

Charles Everett, Jr. Joseph R. Ficalora Tamara Gavrielof Howard Graf Fran Gross Raymond Irrera Kenneth Koenig

Shahriar Hossain Suzan King

Financial Controller

Associate Treasurer

Kenneth J. Buettner Patricia Ornst Charles E. Callahan, III Salvatore Crifasi David Daraio Steven DeClara Richard Dzwlewicz

SENIOR ADVISORY COUNCIL

EXECUTIVE STAFF

EXECUTIVE COMMMITEE

Michelle Stoddart Terri Thomson Henry Wan Patrick Yu Daniel Zausner Patrick Jenkins John Mascialino

GOLDEN AGE HOME CARE INC Goodwill Industries NYNJ Graf & Lewent Architects Greater NY Automobiles Dealers Association Greenlion Cleaning & Maintenance Inc. H2M architects + engineers HANAC, Inc. HE2PD, Inc. Healthy Corner Pharmacy Heatherwood Communities HNTB Corporation HOK Holt Construction Corp Hugh O’Kane Electric Co., Inc. Hyatt Place Flushing Innovo Property Group International Shoppes LLC J.W. Hampton Jr. & Co., Inc. Jamaica Hospital-MediSys Health Network James E Fitzgerald JGM Construction Development, LLC JME Group LLC K-Four Construction Corp.

Kasirer, LLC Kelair Inc. Koeppel Auto Group Landeta Vargas Accounting & Business Solutions Corp Leather Street Realty LLC Lenoblelumber Co Lidl US LiveOnNY Loconsolo Paints M & R Concessions LLC M&T Bank Macerich Madison International Realty Mark Medical Care Marriott New York LaGuardia Mayer Malbin Company, Inc. MBJ Food Services Mc Gowan MD Squared Property Group LLC Mega Contracting Group LLC Mr. T Carting Corp.

MSN Air Service Inc Neutron Holdings, Inc New Empire Corp New York & Atlantic Railway New York Life Insurance Company (The office of Queens ) New York State Energy Coalition, Inc. Nonprofit Sector Strategies, PBC Northwell Go Health Urgent Care Northwell Health O&S Associates, Inc. On-trac Construction Associates Onegroup Park Ave Building & Roofing Supplies Parker Jewish Institute for Rehabilitation for Health Care and Rehabilitation Patrick B. Jenkins & Associates Perch Advisors LLC Priority 1 Security LLC Prudential Advisors The Empire City Financial Group QSIDE Federal Credit Union Queens Centers For Progress Queens College CUNY Queens Garden Florist Inc Queens Public Communications Corp.

Queensborough Community College Quent Capital, LLC Queensborough Community College Quent Capital, LLC

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

Lindsay Haggerty Michael Sullivan Richard Siu

Raising Cane‚Äôs Chicken Fingers Ripco Investment Sales RKTB Architects, P.C. Rosco Inc. Roy Farid LLP Royal Waste Services Russo’s on the Bay Sacco & Fillas LLP Safeguard Self Storage Salz Group Samaritan Daytop Village Santander Bank SASCO CONSTRUCTION SERVICE SB Vernon LLC Schroder & Strom, LLP Schuckman Realty INC. Sherwin-Williams Co. SiliconCore Technology, Inc. SkyTrac Access Group, LLC South Island Orthopedics SPARTA: Saint Paul’s Autism Research & Training Academy SpeakEasy Services, Corp.

Spectrum Reach St. Francis Preparatory School St. John’s University Starbucks Corporation Structural Engineering Technologies, P.C. SUMMIT BUILDING SERVICES LLC SUNation Solar Systems Superior Office Solutions Target Terrace On The Park The Bronx Parent Housing Network, dba Housing Solutions of New York The Child Center of NY The Excelsior Consulting Team - UBS Financial Services, Inc. The Federal Savings Bank The Ideal Supply Company The L Grp The Parkside Group Tri-Power Electrical LLC Tristate Plumbing Services Corp Tristate Safety Trucking Association of New York United Airlines United American Title Agency United Public Adjusters & Appraisers, Inc. Upfront Security Associates, Llc. USTA National Tennis Center, Inc. Valley National Bank Vassilaros & Sons Coffee Viega LLC Vivid Mortgages Inc. Voco Fiorello LaGuardia East Wasa Water Waste Management of New York LLC Watch Guard 24/7 Waymo White Coffee Corp Wildlife Conservation Society Work Better Now World Wide Flight Service YMCA of Greater New York - Jamaica YMCA Zara Realty

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THIS IS QUEENSBOROUGH

queenschamber.org MAJOR CORPORATE MEMBERS

30

January 2025 • Volume 19 • Issue 24 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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