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Saturday May 25, 2013

Business Features

Saturday May 25, 2013

Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce Meets to Assist Government with Regulation Reform for Small Business

City Council Member Diana Reyna Speaks.  VIDEO WITH ARTICLE

NY City Council Member Diana Reyna, Chair of Small Business Committee meets with a Newly Formed Council of Chambers of Commerce in NYC

On Thursday May 16th, the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce hosted a meeting of executives from other Chambers of Commerce and Merchant Associations so that all can begin to pool resources and strengthen advocacy for small businesses.

Arthur Rosenfield, President of the LIC / Astoria Chamber, opened the meeting and discussed the importance of the opportunity that is presented by the review of regulations taking place by NYC Government.

NY City Council Member Diana Reyna, Chair of the Small Business Committee for the City Council, and Sponsor of recent bills regarding ease of regulations, spoke at the newly formed Coucil of President of Chambers of Commerce in NYC being organized by the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce. 

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce Meets to Assist Government with Regulation Reform for Small Business

City Council Member Diana Reyna Speaks.  VIDEO WITH ARTICLE

For questions, comments, and feedback please use our Optin Form or send an email about OurLIC Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce Meets to Assist Government with Regulation Reform for Small Business

City Council Member Diana Reyna Speaks.  VIDEO WITH ARTICLE to Arthur@CityEntree.com

BluePay, a Top Credit Card Processing Company, to Exhibit at New York Small Business Expo 2013

Leading credit card processor BluePay will support the New York Small Business 2013 Expo on May 16

CHICAGO – (May 2013) – BluePay, a leading provider of credit card processing solutions, will attend the New York Small Business Expo Annual Conference, held at Pier 92 (At 52nd Street and 12th Avenue) in NY, on May 16th.  This is the first year BluePay is attending the Expo and the company is excited about the opportunity to speak to and educate local businesses about the latest payment processing technology and security issues facing small companies today.  Staff from our New York office, located in Mid-Town Manhattan, will be on hand at the Expo, as well as to support businesses in the Tri-State area.  The conference will focus on helping owners make business to business connections as well as showcasing products and services to help businesses grow.

"The BluePay team is proud to be a part of the Small Business Expo," said Kristen Gramigna, Chief Marketing Officer of BluePay. "The event brings new opportunities to network and learn about innovative business strategies, technologies and advanced solutions. We are excited to present BluePay’s secure payment processing solutions at the conference, connecting with today’s business leaders to create growth and security.”   

The Small Business Expo is an organization committed to providing training, education and networking opportunities. Attendees at the conference are all business owners looking for ways to grow their companies. The schedule for the Expo includes workshops on social media, websites, technology, ways to build a better brand, and how to enhance customer experience.

“As leaders in the payment processing industry, we understand the importance of constant learning and networking,” said Gramigna. “The Small Business Expo is a hub where business owners come to network and see the newest products and services to help their companies grow. BluePay is excited to showcase the latest processing software and hardware, from online capabilities to mobile credit card readers and tablet solutions. We help our customers utilize secure, effective and innovative processing solutions.”

About BluePay: Providing the highest level of data security in the industry, BluePay (http://www.bluepay.com) helps local and global merchants to make payment processing simple and fast.  BluePay is a full-service, Tier 1 credit card processor based in Naperville, Illinois, with offices and data centers located across the United States, including New York City. The firm leverages extensive industry experience and a comprehensive suite of credit card merchant account services to provide a complete system of credit card processing solutions with competitive rates.

~ ~

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for BluePay, a Top Credit Card Processing Company, to Exhibit at New York Small Business Expo 2013

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Queens Taste 2013: Fantastic Food, Delightful Drinks and Nonstop Networking with the Borough’s Brightest in an Enthusiastic Environment.  CitiField May 14, 2013

"I look forward to Queens Taste all year," said QEDC Executive Director Seth Bornstein. "It is so fun on so many levels. The food. The drinks. The people. The venue. The celebration."

The Queens Economic Development Corporation and lead sponsors Citi and Fairway Market are proud to invite everybody to the borough’s premiere food-and-networking event, Queens Taste 2013, at Citi Field’s Caesars Club from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, May 14.

The reasons to attend are endless. First, the food, which will be as diverse as the borough. Expect everything from sweet to savory, Mexican to Trinidadian and crunchy to creamy. For example, Rego Park’s Ceviche Bar is planning to bring Peruvian delicacies such as ceviche (of course) and chicha morada, a refreshing drink made from purple corn and cloves. Meanwhile, Sunnyside’s Dog & Duck Gastropub will serve duck hamburgers, and Sac’s Place will go with pastas that are handmade at the Astoria establishment by the owner’s mother.

Plus, clients of the Entrepreneur Space, a food-and-business incubator that QEDC operates in Long Island City, will be on hand with their artisan specialties, including gourmet cheesecake balls and healthy chickpea concoctions.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for Queens Taste 2013: Fantastic Food, Delightful Drinks and Nonstop Networking with the Borough’s Brightest in an Enthusiastic Environment.  CitiField May 14, 2013

For questions, comments, and feedback please use our Optin Form or send an email about OurLIC Queens Taste 2013: Fantastic Food, Delightful Drinks and Nonstop Networking with the Borough’s Brightest in an Enthusiastic Environment.  CitiField May 14, 2013 to Arthur@CityEntree.com

Special Reception and Meeting ~ May 16, 2013 11:00 am at the Court Square Place Conference Center, 24-01 44th Road in Long Island City.

NY City Council Member Diana Reyna, Chair of Small Business Committee will meet with a Newly Formed Council of Chambers of Commerce in NYC

Join Us!

Assisting Government with Regulation Reform for Small Business

NY City Council Member Diana Reyna, Chair of the Small Business Committee for the City Council, and Sponsor of recent bills regarding ease of regulations, will meet with a newly formed Coucil of President of Chambers of Commerce in NYC being organized by the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce.   Council Member Reyna said in a recent interview:

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for Special Reception and Meeting ~ May 16, 2013 11:00 am at the Court Square Place Conference Center, 24-01 44th Road in Long Island City.

NY City Council Member Diana Reyna, Chair of Small Business Committee will meet with a Newly Formed Council of Chambers of Commerce in NYC

Join Us!

For questions, comments, and feedback please use our Optin Form or send an email about OurLIC Special Reception and Meeting ~ May 16, 2013 11:00 am at the Court Square Place Conference Center, 24-01 44th Road in Long Island City.

NY City Council Member Diana Reyna, Chair of Small Business Committee will meet with a Newly Formed Council of Chambers of Commerce in NYC

Join Us! to Arthur@CityEntree.com

OurLIC Announces New Community TV Platform at OurLIC.TV

Channels to provide news, information, entertainment, and public service for Greater Long Island City

On April 22, 2013, OurLIC launched a new community TV platform for Greater Long Island City. The service is available at OurLIC.TV

Like Cable or Broadcast TV, the idea of a community TV platform is that organizations and entrepreneurs can license a CHANNEL on contract.  The MIX of content on OurLIC TV CHANNELS will be of interest to residents and business people living in Hunters Point, Astoria, Sunnyside, Woodside, Dutch Kills, Roosevelt Island, and other relationally connected areas.

OurLIC.com has an established library of over 3,100 videos, and has been providing the Greater Long Island City neighborhoods with coverage of important events and conversations with important people since 2008. In many cases, the coverage of meetings has been complete and comprehensive. OurLIC NEWS has been the closest thing to community TV for some time. This is a natural extension of the OurLIC media services.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for OurLIC Announces New Community TV Platform at OurLIC.TV

For questions, comments, and feedback please use our Optin Form or send an email about OurLIC OurLIC Announces New Community TV Platform at OurLIC.TV to Arthur@CityEntree.com

OurLIC VIDEO CONVERSATION: Gwenael Apollon, Secretaire General; YMCA Haiti 5/3/2013

Gwenael Apollon... a man of courage, wisdom, and vision.

In October 2012, areas of New York and New Jersey were destroyed by Superstorm Sandy. We experienced a taste of the annual seasonal weather pattern of the Caribbean.

In January 2010, Haiti, a country bordering the Dominican Republic and in the path of almost every Hurricane, was devastated by a catastophic magnitude 7.0 Earthquake....followed by 52 aftershocks of 4.5 or larger. The government of Haiti estimated that 250,000 residences and 30,000 commercial buildings had collapsed or were severely damaged.

The earthquake in Haiti left 316,000 people dead and 1.6 million homeless.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for OurLIC VIDEO CONVERSATION: Gwenael Apollon, Secretaire General; YMCA Haiti 5/3/2013

For questions, comments, and feedback please use our Optin Form or send an email about OurLIC OurLIC VIDEO CONVERSATION: Gwenael Apollon, Secretaire General; YMCA Haiti 5/3/2013 to Arthur@CityEntree.com

OurLIC VIDEO CONVERSATION: Tokumbo Shobowale, Chief Business Operations Executive, NYC 5/1/2013

Bloomberg Administration's Objective for Legacy with Small Business Initiatives.

On May 1, 2013, OurLIC met at City Hall with Tokumbo Shobowale, Chief Business Opperations Executive for New York City.  The purpose was to discuss the Bloomberg Administrations objectives for Small Business after the recent signing of legislation to ease regulations and fines in order to make NYC more business friendly.

The interview covered a number of topics, including:

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for OurLIC VIDEO CONVERSATION: Tokumbo Shobowale, Chief Business Operations Executive, NYC 5/1/2013

For questions, comments, and feedback please use our Optin Form or send an email about OurLIC OurLIC VIDEO CONVERSATION: Tokumbo Shobowale, Chief Business Operations Executive, NYC 5/1/2013 to Arthur@CityEntree.com

People's United Bank Opens its Third Queens Branch inside Stop & Shop in Long Island City

Branch at 48th Street and Northern Blvd will be open seven days a week.

Long established People's United Bank, headquartered in Bridgeport, Connecticut, continues to expand its New York and Queens branches.

On April 25, 2013, executive from the New York Region, lead by Steven Santino, FIrst Vice President of People's United Bank, gathered at their newest branch for a ribbon cutting ceremony with Angel Miqui Jr.,  Manager.  Also participating in the ribbon cutting ceremony were Dan Miner, Senior Vice President of The Partnership;  Santiago Varga, representing NY Assemblywoman Cathy Nolan; and Arthur Rosenfield, President of Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce.


Santino presented The Partnership with a $1,000 donation as part of a tradition when opening a branch in a new community.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for People's United Bank Opens its Third Queens Branch inside Stop & Shop in Long Island City

For questions, comments, and feedback please use our Optin Form or send an email about OurLIC People's United Bank Opens its Third Queens Branch inside Stop & Shop in Long Island City to Arthur@CityEntree.com

Mayor Bloomberg Signs Legislation Easing Regulatory Burdens on NYC Small Businesses 4/23/2013

Long awaited implementation of Regulatory Review Panel recommendation from 2010 requires city agencies to come back to City Council and Mayor's Office in August 2013 with implementation plans.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for Mayor Bloomberg Signs Legislation Easing Regulatory Burdens on NYC Small Businesses 4/23/2013

For questions, comments, and feedback please use our Optin Form or send an email about OurLIC Mayor Bloomberg Signs Legislation Easing Regulatory Burdens on NYC Small Businesses 4/23/2013 to Arthur@CityEntree.com

Catsimatidis Steps in and Gives METRO OIL Another Chance. It's a wonderful thing!

John Catsimatidis saves 130 jobs at Greenpoint's Metro Oil in purchase from Bankruptcy

In a spontaneous visit, just over the Pulaski Bridge, to United Metro Energy Corp. in Greenpoint, John Catsimatidis meets with two employees, Jim Lapp (7 years) and Lee Powers (10 years).  Catsimatidis, owner and CEO of Red Apple Group, purchased United Metro Energy Corp. in March 2013,

Mayoral Candidate, John Catsimatidis, brings his 30 year experience in the oil energy business to the Long Island City local area ...Greenpoint...with the purchase of Metro Oil.


Catsimatidis says "It's just another PLUS for New York."

OurLIC captured the chance meeting on VIDEO and presents it with this article. Here is what we learned:

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for Catsimatidis Steps in and Gives METRO OIL Another Chance. It's a wonderful thing!

For questions, comments, and feedback please use our Optin Form or send an email about OurLIC Catsimatidis Steps in and Gives METRO OIL Another Chance. It's a wonderful thing! to Arthur@CityEntree.com

Steinway & Sons is the Setting for 'MAKE IT HERE' Focus on Manufacturing in Long Island City, Astoria, and Queens.

Peter Vallone, Jr., City Council Member and Candidate for President of Queens speaks to business leaders. Group tours factory.

Steinway & Sons operates its 440,000 sq. ft. factory on five floors in Astoria. The company has been making the world's premier pianos for 160 years in NYC.   It recently recommitted to continue its manufacturing at the Astoria, Queens location.

The Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce brought members together at Steinway & Sons to hear Peter Vallone, Jr, NYC Council Member and Candidate for President of the Borough of Queens, to speak about his views on creating the best environment to stimulate more companies like Steinway & Sons to "MAKE IT HERE" in Long Island City, Astoria, and Queens.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for Steinway & Sons is the Setting for 'MAKE IT HERE' Focus on Manufacturing in Long Island City, Astoria, and Queens.

For questions, comments, and feedback please use our Optin Form or send an email about OurLIC Steinway & Sons is the Setting for 'MAKE IT HERE' Focus on Manufacturing in Long Island City, Astoria, and Queens. to Arthur@CityEntree.com

SPECIAL RECEPTION AND MEETING RESCHEDULED TO May 2, 2013 8:30 AM:  Diana Reyna, City Council Member and Chair of New York City Council's Committee on Small Business to Meet with LIC / Astoria Chamber

'The Small Business Community has a great time to come together to put forth an agenda that is healthy for them. It would be wonderful to understand how every candidate is going to have a small business agenda at the forefront.'

Council Member Reyna will address the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce RESCHEDULED to Thursday, May 2nd, 2013 at 8:30 am at a special reception and meeting at the Court Square Place Conference Center, 24-01 44th Road in Long Island City.

As Chair of New York City Council's Committee on Small Business, Diana Reyna focuses on ways she can advocate for the over 220,000 small businesses across the five boroughs. She understands that they are crucial to New York City's economic rebound, and that the Council's efforts are not only for encouraging new small businesses, but on helping current business owners survive.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for SPECIAL RECEPTION AND MEETING RESCHEDULED TO May 2, 2013 8:30 AM:  Diana Reyna, City Council Member and Chair of New York City Council's Committee on Small Business to Meet with LIC / Astoria Chamber

For questions, comments, and feedback please use our Optin Form or send an email about OurLIC SPECIAL RECEPTION AND MEETING RESCHEDULED TO May 2, 2013 8:30 AM:  Diana Reyna, City Council Member and Chair of New York City Council's Committee on Small Business to Meet with LIC / Astoria Chamber to Arthur@CityEntree.com

OurLIC VIDEO CONVERSATION:  John Catsimatidis, CEO Red Apple Group. Real Estate Investments

Catsimatidis talks about his real estate developments, and creating jobs.

Press reports announcing the candidacy of John Catsimatidis for Mayor of New York City frequently mention the fact that he owns Gristides Markets. They sometimes refer to his "real estate investments". Few offer details.

Catsimatidis is a strategic real estate developer.  He falls in love with an area, and then finds the locations that are very close to public transportation. That is his strategy.  If residents in building can get from the location of their apartments/condo to all other parts of New York City by public transportation, it is a sure success and worth the development. The underlying strategy is "transportation centric locations". 

So it is with two curent properties under development. One is at Coney Island, just 30 minutes to Manhattan but facing the Atlantic Ocean plus views from Manhattan.  The other is along Myrtle Ave in Brooklyn near Flatbush Ave where Catsimatides is currently in the process of developing a cluster of residential and retail buildings.

OurLIC visited with John Catsimatidis at the headquarters of his company, Red Apple Group, to learn about Mr. Catsimatidis real estate portfolio. Some of it, we know, was established during the growth of Gristides because he knew he had to own the buildings in which his stores were located.  He needed to do that in order to protect the brand he was building in each neighborhood.

We think that understanding what John Catsimatidis does with his his various investments in New York City tells us a great deal about how he would approach the complex task of managing the City of New York.

His current real estate developments fit more of his proclaimed "visionary" profile, meaning that he is investing into the future strength of each of the neighborhoods.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for OurLIC VIDEO CONVERSATION:  John Catsimatidis, CEO Red Apple Group. Real Estate Investments

For questions, comments, and feedback please use our Optin Form or send an email about OurLIC OurLIC VIDEO CONVERSATION:  John Catsimatidis, CEO Red Apple Group. Real Estate Investments to Arthur@CityEntree.com

OurLIC VIDEO Conversation: Diana Reyna, City Council Member and Chair of New York City Council's Committee on Small Business

'The Small Business Community has a great time to come together to put forth an agenda that is healthy for them. It would be wonderful to understand how every candidate is going to have a small business agenda at the forefront.'

As Chair of New York City Council's Committee on Small Business, Diana Reyna focuses on ways she can advocate for the over 220,000 small businesses across the five boroughs. She understands that they are crucial to New York City's economic rebound, and that the Council's efforts are not only for encouraging new small businesses, but on helping current business owners survive.

In response to a question about the impact of the coming elections, Reyna says 'The Small Business Community has a great time to come together to put forth an agenda that is healthy for them. It would be wonderful to understand how every candidate is going to have a small business agenda at the forefront.' She follows by saying "This is your time."

OurLIC met with Council Member Reyna for a Video Conversation on March 26, 2013.  This article includes the full VIDEO interview as well as her comments to the Organization or Latino Entrepreneurs (OLE) at a Trade Event at LaGuardia Community College.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for OurLIC VIDEO Conversation: Diana Reyna, City Council Member and Chair of New York City Council's Committee on Small Business

For questions, comments, and feedback please use our Optin Form or send an email about OurLIC OurLIC VIDEO Conversation: Diana Reyna, City Council Member and Chair of New York City Council's Committee on Small Business to Arthur@CityEntree.com

OurLIC VIDEO CONVERSATION & TOUR:  Principal Joseph Reed, Information Technology High School.  Giving Students Access to Opportunity

Making Information Technology High School Competitive and Relevant

From the start, Prinicipal Joseph Reed emphasizes the opportunity that is made possible for the students at Information Technology High School.

It seems that the Information Technology High Schoool plays an important role in the future of New York City ...and Long Island City...for two reasons. 

First, ITHS is located at the intersection of 44th Road and 21st Street in Long Island City.  It is a short distance for Court Square and trendy Vernon Blvd.  Most importantly, this Queens location is in the shadow of Roosevelt Island, the planned location for the Cornell Technion Applied Sciences campus. The campus is part of a Bloomberg administration strategic commitment to lift New York City into a new, higher competitive position with other cities worldwide.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for OurLIC VIDEO CONVERSATION & TOUR:  Principal Joseph Reed, Information Technology High School.  Giving Students Access to Opportunity

For questions, comments, and feedback please use our Optin Form or send an email about OurLIC OurLIC VIDEO CONVERSATION & TOUR:  Principal Joseph Reed, Information Technology High School.  Giving Students Access to Opportunity
to Arthur@CityEntree.com

Leaders from Roosevelt Island Meet with Long Island City Business Community to Discuss Emerging Relationship Opportunities 3/26/2013

'Their message, however, ran counter to previous ones the chamber has heard, principally because, unlike those promoting the campus or accepting its presumed benefits, they are skeptical of what building the campus will mean to island residents.' writes Tom Cogan of the Queens Gazette 3/38/2013

Leaders from Roosevelt Island met with the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce, and made a presentation about the island, on Thursday, March 21, 2013 at the Court Square Place Conference Center.

This was a first step exchange.  The Long Island City / Astoria Chamber's objective was to learn about the emerging opportunities that are part of the new campus development, and begin to understand how Roosevelt Island and Long Island City / Astoria businesses can connect and establish business and other relationships.

Guest Speakers included:

Judith Berdy

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for Leaders from Roosevelt Island Meet with Long Island City Business Community to Discuss Emerging Relationship Opportunities 3/26/2013

For questions, comments, and feedback please use our Optin Form or send an email about OurLIC Leaders from Roosevelt Island Meet with Long Island City Business Community to Discuss Emerging Relationship Opportunities 3/26/2013 to Arthur@CityEntree.com

Inside Roosevelt Island and Its Future with Long Island City / Astoria

Leaders from Roosevelt Island will meet with the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce, and make a presentation, on Thursday, March 21, 2013 at 8:30 am at the Court Square Place Conference Center, 24-01 44th Road in Long Island City.

This is a first step exchange.  The LIC / Astoria Chamber's objective is to learn about the emerging opportunities that are part of the new campus development, and begin to understand how Roosevelt Island and Long Island City / Astoria can connect and establish business and other relationships.

Guest Speakers include:

Judith Berdy

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for Inside Roosevelt Island and Its Future with Long Island City / Astoria

For questions, comments, and feedback please use our Optin Form or send an email about OurLIC Inside Roosevelt Island and Its Future with Long Island City / Astoria to Arthur@CityEntree.com

Joseph Pistilli to be the Master of Ceremonies of the 86th Annual Semi Finals Golden Gloves benefiting Shareing and Careing on April 4, 2013

Shareing & Careing provides a full range of support services to all whose lives are impacted by breast and other cancers.

Joseph Pistilli, Chairman and CEO First Central Savings Bank (FCSB) and owner of Pistilli Realty Group, has been chosen to be the Master of Ceremonies of the 86th Annual Semi Finals Golden Gloves benefitting Sharing and Caring on April 4th, 2013 at CHIAN FEDERATION in Astoria.

In an email letter to busines friends,
Pistilli has reached out to propose a "perfect business opportunity" to get their businesses on nation Cable T.V and the Daily News by becoming a sponsor for that evenings event.

A contribution of $1500 dollars makes a company a sponsor supporting Shareing & Careing, providing  much needed support from the the organization that helps women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer.  Pistili appeals by saying "I know that we all know someone that has become a victim and we will know others in the future that will fall to some type of cancer."

He adds "When you become a sponsor I will personally mention your company name and your relationship to the organization as well as it will viewed by thousands on cable T.V. on banners that will be displayed behind me."

From the Shareing & Careing website:

Our Mission

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for Joseph Pistilli to be the Master of Ceremonies of the 86th Annual Semi Finals Golden Gloves benefiting Shareing and Careing on April 4, 2013

For questions, comments, and feedback please use our Optin Form or send an email about OurLIC Joseph Pistilli to be the Master of Ceremonies of the 86th Annual Semi Finals Golden Gloves benefiting Shareing and Careing on April 4, 2013 to Arthur@CityEntree.com

TASTE OF ROMANIA ~  A Festival May 7, 2013

Food, Culture, Trade, and Tourism Festival at Bucharest Restaurant co-hosted by Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce and the Romanian-American Chamber of Commerce

There is a large Romanian and Moldovan community estimated to be 400,000-500,00 people in NYC.  Many live and do business in Sunnyside, Astoria, and other areas of Greater Long Island City and Queens. Our Romanian neighbors are successful businessmen, importers, executives, real estate developers, professionals, doctors, lawyers, specialists in immigration, etc.

On May 7, 2013 a Food, Culture, Trade, and Tourism Festival will be held at the Bucharest Restaurant, 43-45 40th Street, Sunnyside, New York. The event will be co-hosted by the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce and the Romanian-American Chamber of Commerce.

The Taste of Romania Festival will serve as a way for business leaders;  hotel general managers and concierge; economic development leaders; United Nations Trade councils; elected officials; and community leaders to come together to meet and open relationships that can define and promote trade and tourism opportunities between Greater Long Island City and Romania / Moldova.  The object is to open a dialog and identify initiatives that can be productive for the communities, and serve as paths for follow through by decision makers. 

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for TASTE OF ROMANIA ~  A Festival May 7, 2013

For questions, comments, and feedback please use our Optin Form or send an email about OurLIC TASTE OF ROMANIA ~  A Festival May 7, 2013 to Arthur@CityEntree.com

APRIL 18th 2:00 pm:  'Make it HERE!' Advocating for 'Manufacturing' in Long Island City / Astoria / Queens.

Council Member Peter Vallone Jr. will address the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce on 4/18 at 2:00 pm at the Steinway & Sons manufacturing headquarters, followed by a tour of the plant.

New York City Council Member Peter Vallone, Jr., candidate for President of the Borough of Queens, will address the Chamber on the attractiveness of Queens as a location for manufacturing, industry, and companies seeking worldwide success.
Whether it is old world craftmanship, fabrication, or high tech engineering, the NEW Long Island City, Astoria, Dutch Kills, and Queens offer manufacturing and process companies definite advantage.

The meeting will continue as a TOUR of Steinway and Sons until 4:00 pm, followed by a networking event and an opportunity to meet other advocates of Queens development, business leaders, government official, as well as Steinway executives.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for APRIL 18th 2:00 pm:  'Make it HERE!' Advocating for 'Manufacturing' in Long Island City / Astoria / Queens.

For questions, comments, and feedback please use our Optin Form or send an email about OurLIC APRIL 18th 2:00 pm:  'Make it HERE!' Advocating for 'Manufacturing' in Long Island City / Astoria / Queens. to Arthur@CityEntree.com

Melinda Katz, Candidate for Queens Borough President, Meets with Greater Long Island City Business Leaders

Candidate for Queens Borough President

Melinda Katz, candidate for Queens Borough President, was the guest speaker at the February 21st monthly breakfast meeting of the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce held at the Court Square Place Conference Center.

Melinda Katz was formerly a New York State Assembly Member, a NYC City Council Member, and Director of Community Boards for the Burough of Queens. During her terms of elected office, she served as Chair of the Land Use Committee for the City Council at a time when Long Island City was under its early phases of development. She is candidate for Queens Borough President.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for Melinda Katz, Candidate for Queens Borough President, Meets with Greater Long Island City Business Leaders

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KEYNOTE SPEAKER: John Catsimatidis Addresses Community and Education at Symposium in Long Island City

Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce Community Symposium on "Place Making Economic Development"

John Catsimatidis, CEO of Red Apple Group and Candidate for Mayor of the City of New York, was the KEYNOTE speaker at a Community Symposium organized by the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce.

A number of high level panelists from the community as well as from professional and academic organizations that specialize in various aspects of real estate strategic marketing, national valuation insights and community value creation spoke at the event and answered questions.  Arthur Rosenfield, President of the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce said "This SYMPOSIUM was designed to take a fresh look at the Greater Long Island City area by very highly qualified people with a fresh set of eyes."   He said "Things are changing quickly; and, we need to step back and take a new look to understand where we are, where we are going, and what impact these changes have on value of all types.  We need to understand how to manage the 'value' being created in the community. We can learn from professionals and the academic community that have studied and helped similar communities, business owners, and developers elsewhere during their high growth periods."

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for KEYNOTE SPEAKER: John Catsimatidis Addresses Community and Education at Symposium in Long Island City

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SYMPOSIUM VIDEOS: Long Island City “Place-Making Economic Development & Corporate / Real Estate / Social Value Creation Strategies” for February 27 / 28, 2013

Full Video Coverage of Community Symposium made available by Sponsors: Alma Bank, 30th Avenue Business Association, and OurLIC NEWS.

In his Keynote comments, John Catsimatidis, CEO of Red Apple Group and candidate for Mayor of the City of New York, echoed the perspective of Peter F. Vallone, Sr. in his FIRST WORDS at the previous night's reception. Vallone had described a period in the history of Long Island City and Astoria when there was high crime.  He attributed the safer, more desirable neighborhoods to actions taken such as the formation of the Astoria Civic Association and the Boys and Girls Club.  Families appreciated that the community offered productive solutions for their children; and that the streets were made safe.  Catsimatidis made similar points with his views that education is the foundation for job qualification, especially in the trades. He talked about his own life. He said that "NYC is failing its children" by not preparing them properly. 

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for SYMPOSIUM VIDEOS: Long Island City “Place-Making Economic Development & Corporate / Real Estate / Social Value Creation Strategies” for February 27 / 28, 2013

For questions, comments, and feedback please use our Optin Form or send an email about OurLIC SYMPOSIUM VIDEOS: Long Island City “Place-Making Economic Development & Corporate / Real Estate / Social Value Creation Strategies” for February 27 / 28, 2013 to Arthur@CityEntree.com

Community Board #2 Monthly Meeting Hears Growing Feedback from Residents on Alternate Side Parking Proposed for Hunters Point by Department of Sanitation. 2/7/2013

Board agrees to postpone vote until all sides have been heard, and the impact of alternate side of the street parking is fully understood.

Queens Community Board #2 heard from a number of residents of Long Island City / Hunters Point who expressed strong points of view that they opposed a plan presented by the Department of Sanitation which includes proposed weekly alternate side of the street parking.

The community has been bursting with new residents, and there are limited parking spaces for residents because cars are sometimes parked for long periods of time.

A hearing was held in January because some residents of Hunters Point want the Department of Sanitation to clean the streets regulary.  The DOS has submitted a proposal that calls for weekly cleaning. A petition was submitted in support of street cleaning.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for Community Board #2 Monthly Meeting Hears Growing Feedback from Residents on Alternate Side Parking Proposed for Hunters Point by Department of Sanitation. 2/7/2013

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Mayoral Candidate, John Catsimatidis, says it is "Just Common Sense." Calls for MTA to Reconsider Providing 7 Line Service for 500,000 Asians Celebrating LUNAR Holiday.

FULL VIDEO COVERAGE: Catsimatidis holds Press Conference to say that 'It is just common sense" and that the MTA is wrong on the 7 Subway disruption for LUNAR New Year and Small Business.

John Catsimatidis, the businessman running for Mayor of NYC, today called for the MTA to re-think plans for shutting down the full 7 subway line service for both weekends of the Asian Lunar New Year.

At a Thursday press conference at Queensboro Plaza 7 line stop, Catsimatidis cited the fact that for the past five years, the MTA has had service disruptions that negatively impact passengers traveling between Manhattan and Flushing.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for Mayoral Candidate, John Catsimatidis, says it is "Just Common Sense." Calls for MTA to Reconsider Providing 7 Line Service for 500,000 Asians Celebrating LUNAR Holiday.

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The Waterfront Crabhouse to Open February 12 at 10:00am

Tony Mazzarella and his team have been working hard to get the Waterfront Crabhouse rebuilt after Superstorm Sandy.

After Superstorm Sandy destroyed the Waterfront Crabhouse, Tony Mazzarella and his crew immediately went to work with clean up and re-building.  The landmark restaurant in Long Island City, enjoyed by the community and visitors for over 30 years, plans to open February 12th at 10:00 AM.

February 12th is Mardi Gras and, of course, February 14th is Valentine's Day.  Both have been favorites at The Waterfront Crabhouse. It will be a Fat Tuesday celebration and  Valentine's Day for all of us who love the food, friendship, atmosphere, people, staff, and style of the Crabhouse. It has been missed by everyone in the community and by its long time loyal customers.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for The Waterfront Crabhouse to Open February 12 at 10:00am

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YOU ARE THERE: Five Candidates for NYC Public Advocate Speak at Forum 2/6/2013

The Powhatan and Pocahontas Regular Democratic Club of Queens hosts forum to introduce candidates, and hear responses during Q&A.

The office of Public Advocate for the City of New York is a citywide elected position in New York City, which is first in line to succeed the Mayor. The office serves as a direct link between the electorate and city government, effectively acting as an ombudsman, or "watchdog," for New Yorkers. The office is a non-voting member of the City Council. There have been three Public Advocates since the office was created:

Bill de Blasio - January 2010. Has now announced candidacy for Mayor

Betsy Gotbaum - January 1, 2002 – December 31, 2009

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for YOU ARE THERE: Five Candidates for NYC Public Advocate Speak at Forum 2/6/2013

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Melinda Katz, Candidate for Queens Borough President, to Address Business Community at Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce Breakfast Meeting February 21, 2013

February 21, 2013 - Reception and Guest Speaker: Melinda Katz; Candidate for Queens Borough President

Melinda Katz, candidate for Queens Borough President will be the guest speaker at the February 21st monthly breakfast meeting of the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce to be held at the Court Square Place Conference Center at 8:30 AM.

Melinda Katz was formerly a New York State Assembly Member, a NYC City Council Member, and Director of Community Boards for the Burough of Queens. During her terms of elected office, she served as Chair of the Land Use Committee for the City Council at a time when Long Island City was under its early phases of development. She is candidate for Queens Borough President.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for Melinda Katz, Candidate for Queens Borough President, to Address Business Community at Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce Breakfast Meeting February 21, 2013

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SYMPOSIUM Announced: “Place-Making Economic Development & Corporate / Real Estate / Social Value Creation Strategies” for February 27 / 28, 2013

Whether you are a small business owner planning your estate, a leader in government, a real estate developer, homeowner in the community, or anyone else interested in valuation; this SYMPOSIUM is very important to you.

RECEPTION: Long Island City, NY February 27, 2013 - 5:30 pm

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for SYMPOSIUM Announced: “Place-Making Economic Development & Corporate / Real Estate / Social Value Creation Strategies” for February 27 / 28, 2013

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VIDEO COVERAGE: Long Island City Tourism Project Part 2

Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce meets for Part 2 of Plan to Develop Tourism. NY State Senator Michael Gianaris speaks

The Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce met at Ponticello Ristorante on Thursday, January 17, 2013 to continue its planning process to develop tourism for the Greater Long Island City area.

NY State Senator Michael Gianaris spoke to the group about tourism as well as other topics.

The meeting followed a previous meeting held December 20, 2012.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for VIDEO COVERAGE: Long Island City Tourism Project Part 2

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The Waterfront Crabhouse to Open Soon

You cannot keep a good man down! Tony Mazzarella and his team have been working hard.

Tony Mazzarella lines the walls of The Waterfront Crabhouse with Boxing Memorabilia...and for over 30 years has served some of the best food in New York City as part of his highly acclaimed restaurant.

Superstorm Sandy wiped it all out, but not Tony's determination and grit.

Tony and his crew immediately went to work on the clean up, replace, repair, and rebuild of a new and better Waterfront Crabhouse.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for The Waterfront Crabhouse to Open Soon

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CHAMPIONS FOR TOURISM to Gather for Part II at Ponticello Ristorante, Thursday January 17th, 12:00 PM

TOURISM PLAN 2013: Destination Long Island City, NY

 

The meeting will begin early with a Reception for New York State Senator Michael Gianaris.

Part 2 - January 2013:  A Plan and "The Tourism Project for Long Island City" will be presented. Reception for New York State Senator Michael Gianaris, a Champion for TOURISM in Greater Long Island City.

The Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce took an important step in the process of implementing  a plan to promote and develop tourism for the Greater Long Island City area ~ including Hunters Point LIC, Astoria, Dutch Kills, Sunnyside, Woodside, and the adjacent LaGuardia Airport. [ Go to OurLIC NEWS: Long Island City Tourism Initiative Encouraged by New York State Department of Tourism and NYC & Co. ]

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for CHAMPIONS FOR TOURISM to Gather for Part II at Ponticello Ristorante, Thursday January 17th, 12:00 PM

TOURISM PLAN 2013: Destination Long Island City, NY

 

For questions, comments, and feedback please use our Optin Form or send an email about OurLIC CHAMPIONS FOR TOURISM to Gather for Part II at Ponticello Ristorante, Thursday January 17th, 12:00 PM

TOURISM PLAN 2013: Destination Long Island City, NY

  to Arthur@CityEntree.com

Long Island City Tourism Initiative Encouraged by New York State Department of Tourism and NYC & Co.

Long Island City takes a step to get organized to promote tourism.

The Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce took an important step in the process of implementing  a plan to promote and develop tourism for the Greater Long Island City area ~ including Hunters Point LIC, Astoria, Dutch Kills, Sunnyside, Woodside, and the adjacent LaGuardia Airport.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for Long Island City Tourism Initiative Encouraged by New York State Department of Tourism and NYC & Co.

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One Percent for Culture Campaign Seeks to Generate Increased Financial Support

Council Member Jimmy Van Bramer announces his support to increase the portion of the city budget to 1%

A campaign, ONE PERCENT FOR CULTURE, has been launched to seek a full 1% of the NYC Municipal Expense Budget to be allocated to the city's non-profits, artists of all types, and culture.

On January 8, 2013, City Council Member Jimmy Van Bramer announced his support for this initiative at a press conference held at MoMA PS1 in Long Island City.

On June 29, 2012, a $68.5 billion budget was approved by the New York City Council. According to the Council Member, the current spending on culture is one quarter of one percent (.25%) of the total budget.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for One Percent for Culture Campaign Seeks to Generate Increased Financial Support

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Costa Constantinides Starts 2013 with a Campaign Fund Raising Reception

Democratic Party candidate to replace Peter Vallone Jr. as New York City Council Member for District 22.

Democratic District Leader 36th Assembly District Part A; and, a staff member for Councilman Jim Gennaro, Consta Constantinides is running for the Distric 22 City Council seat being left open by Peter Vallone, Jr.

On January 10, 2013, Constantinides hosted a reception at Central Lounge on Steinway attracting a strong group of friends, City Council Members, Assemblymembers, and party supporters.

OurLIC NEWS was at the event and presents full video as well as photographs with this article.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for Costa Constantinides Starts 2013 with a Campaign Fund Raising Reception

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City Council Members Demand MTA Executives Honor Their Promise and Commitment to the Long Island City Community

Council Members Jimmy Van Bramer & Peter Koo Join Community To Protest The MTA’s Decision To Cancel 7 Train Service For 13 Consecutive Weekends, while Senator Michael Gianaris announce B24 Bus Service restored to Sunnyside.

Council Member Jimmy Van Bramer & Council Member Peter Koo joined a host of businesses, cultural organizations and residents from the Long Island City community to protest the MTA’s decision to cancel 7 train service for 13 consecutive weekends.

Community members are outraged over the MTA’s perpetual lack of communication & utter disregard for the people of Long Island City. The extensive cultural organizations in Long Island City are especially hard hit by the weekend closures. The vast majority of cultural performances and attendance happens on the weekends.

The community calls for the MTA to take community input into account when planning closures, to break up the consecutive number of weekend closures of the 7 train in LIC, to implement FASTRACK along this stretch of the 7 train, to increase the frequency of shuttle buses serving the community, and to schedule occasional summer weekend service. The New York City Council has set up an online petition for residents to sign calling on the MTA to break up the number of consecutive outages.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for City Council Members Demand MTA Executives Honor Their Promise and Commitment to the Long Island City Community

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Kelly Curtin, Senior Vice President, NYC & Co. to Speak at BREAKFAST FOR CHAMPIONS of Tourism in Long Island City, December 20th.

Kelly Curtin,  Senior Vice President of NYC & Co., will be a guest speaker at the BREAKFAST FOR CHAMPIONS of TOURISM being hosted by the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce December 20th, 8:30 AM, at Court Square Place Conference Center.

NYC & Co. is the Official Marketing, Tourism, and Partnership Organization for the City of New York.

Over 50 million visitors came to New York City in 2011. They spent $34.2 BILLION here.  New York City offers incomparable museums, attractions, restaurants, hotels, theaters, entertainment and shopping.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for Kelly Curtin, Senior Vice President, NYC & Co. to Speak at BREAKFAST FOR CHAMPIONS of Tourism in Long Island City, December 20th.

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OurLIC VIDEO CONVERSATION:  Valuation Experts say there is a "Place Making Phenomenon" Going on in Long Island City

Whether you are a leader in government, a small business owner planning your estate, a real estate developer, homeowner in the community, or anyone else interested in valuation; this article, and these two video conversations, are very important to you.

Valuation of real estate and corporations has been at the heart of the recent recession.  OurLIC wanted to know what people are thinking.  The original re-valuations of real estate in November 2008, called 'Mark-to-Market' valuation, an accounting principle, was part of the trigger that caused massive restructuring of the banking and financial industry.  At the time, the SEC required banks and corporations to value real estate assets on the basis of a very quick sale, disregarding any other material factors that might lead to higher valuations.  The requirement was ultimately reversed a short few months later.

David Wilk and Charles Hug are experts in valuation.  They work for one of the largest independent professional firms specializing in valuations, Corporate Valuation Advisors. The company specializes in valuations and value enhancement strategies for corporation, municipalities and small businesses around the United States

Klea Theoharris is Corporate Valuation Advisors's Astoria / NYC based Regional Director of Business Development. She has highlighted for them the unprecedented growth in Greater Long Island City.

OurLIC invited David Wilk, Managing Director, and Charles Hug, Vice President of Business Development, to meet for an OurLIC VIDEO CONVERSATION so that we could learn about their business as a resource for the LIC / Western Queens communities; and, to gain insight about the trends in valuation today.

Whether you are a leader in government,  a small business owner planning your estate, a real estate developer, homeowner in the community, or anyone else interested in valuation, their comments on these two videos are important to you.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for OurLIC VIDEO CONVERSATION:  Valuation Experts say there is a "Place Making Phenomenon" Going on in Long Island City

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Markly Wilson, Director, International Marketing for New York State’s Division of Tourism, to Speak at BREAKFAST FOR CHAMPIONS in Long Island City December 20th

Millions of visitors from around the globe come to New York States each year. The cornerstones  and Trademark of TOURISM for New York State is the marketing of "I LOVE NY".  New York State Tourism is a priority of the Empire State Development Corporation.

Markly Wilson, Director, International Marketing for New York State’s Division of Tourism, is responsible for generating increased international travel to the State of New York.

Markly Wilson will be a guest speaker at the BREAKFAST FOR CHAMPIONS of TOURISM being hosted by the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce December 20th, 8:30 AM, at Court Square Place Conference Center. 

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for Markly Wilson, Director, International Marketing for New York State’s Division of Tourism, to Speak at BREAKFAST FOR CHAMPIONS in Long Island City December 20th

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Peter Vallone, Jr. Announces Candidacy for Queens Borough President.

VALLONE: “I LOVE QUEENS, AND I WANT TO KEEP FIGHTING FOR OUR BOROUGH†Council Member enters Queens Borough President race

Surrounded by family, friends, colleagues, and constituents at a Christmas Holiday reception, Peter Vallone, Jr., NYC City Council Member for the maximum three terms, announced that he was committing to run for Queens Borough President in 2013.

OurLIC was at the event and presents a video with Vallone, followed by Public Advocate, Bill de Blasio speaking candidly about Peter Vallone to those gathered.

Vallone had hinted at a candidacy during a meeting with the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce in September. [ Peter Vallone, Jr,  Stands Up for Small Business....and Wants Drinking Water to be Safer in NYC ]

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for Peter Vallone, Jr. Announces Candidacy for Queens Borough President.

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Swim Strong Foundation to Hold Raffle Drawing 12/20 at LIC / Astoria Chamber Meeting.  Also Offers 15% Discount Coupon at Models (Good Through 12/24)

Profile of Swim Strong Foundation and announcements.

Swim Strong Foundation is a 501c volunteer, not for profit organization, that is saving and changing lives through the great sport of swimming.

At this time of year Swim Strong Foundation is holding its Holiday Raffle (drawing 12/20 at the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce BREAKFAST FOR CHAMPIONS of Tourism). The proceeds go to start the funding of our 2013 scholarship program for families who are unable to afford our swim lessons. In 2012 Swim Strong was able to provide 100 scholarships! In 2013 our goal will be 125 (or $30,000 in services). The prize is $1,500.00 and the tickets are $10 each; book of 10 for $100 and two books for $180 (yes, two free tickets!)

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for Swim Strong Foundation to Hold Raffle Drawing 12/20 at LIC / Astoria Chamber Meeting.  Also Offers 15% Discount Coupon at Models (Good Through 12/24)

For questions, comments, and feedback please use our Optin Form or send an email about OurLIC Swim Strong Foundation to Hold Raffle Drawing 12/20 at LIC / Astoria Chamber Meeting.  Also Offers 15% Discount Coupon at Models (Good Through 12/24) to Arthur@CityEntree.com

FEMA, SBA, and SBDC Land in Long Island City to Help with Applications and Information

US Congressswoman Carolyn Maloney and Community Board #2 Chair Joe Conley bring FEMA, SBA, and SBDC to LIC.

As a Zone A area, bordered by Newtown Creek and New York City's East River, Long Island City's homes and businesses suffered extensive damage from Hurricane Sandy. It is not the type of damage that has required food drives or the National Guard. In fact, many of the residents and businesses of Long Island City have been volunteering and assisting with relief in other parts of NYC.

Nonetheless, the destruction in Long Island City was widespread from the food pantry, to stores and restaurants, to its schools and residences.

After surveying the community, meeting with the Community Board, and then inviting the community to an information meeting November 19th with FEMA, SBA, SBDC, and Joe Conley, Chair of Community Board #2, US Congresswoman Maloney mobilized Federal Agencies, State and City resources to bring relief to Long Island City.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for FEMA, SBA, and SBDC Land in Long Island City to Help with Applications and Information

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Help from FEMA after a Disaster. The Facts

Applicants Guide to the Individual & Household Program is described in FEMA p-545 July 2008 document

The full services and financial assistance provided by FEMA are describe in clear detail in a document published in 2008.  Help After a Disaster  is a 30 page document containing the following:

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for Help from FEMA after a Disaster. The Facts

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ANNOUNCEMENT: Grant Program for Small Business Makes More than $45 million available by NYC to assist in recovery from the effects of Hurricane Sandy

Mayor Bloomberg Announces New $5.5 Million Matching Grant Program from Goldman Sachs and others for Small Businesses Impacted By Hurricane Sandy.

[ APPLICATION FORM ]

Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg today announced a new program that will make available $5.5 million in matching grants for New York City businesses most impacted by Hurricane Sandy. This grant program - which is being funded with $5 million from the Mayor's Fund to Advance New York City, as well $500,000 from the Partnership for New York City - will be administered by the New York Business Development Corporation and was developed in collaboration with the City's Economic Development Corporation and Department of Small Business Services. The matching grants are designed to provide additional financial assistance for local businesses already seeking low-interest loans through the City's existing Emergency Loan Fund. The Mayor also announced today that in addition to the $10 million Emergency Loan Fund launched by the City and Goldman Sachs immediately following the storm, an additional $5 million has been committed to the loan fund by a consortium of New York financial institutions through the New York Bankers Association, bringing the total amount of loans, grants, and other financial assistance available to businesses most affected to more than $45 million

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for ANNOUNCEMENT: Grant Program for Small Business Makes More than $45 million available by NYC to assist in recovery from the effects of Hurricane Sandy

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The Bank of America Charitable Foundation's Student Leaders® Program is accepting applications for the 2013 program.

Long Island City / Astoria Lions Club Youth Programs would like to spread the word

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation's Student Leaders® Program is accepting applications for the 2013 program. 
The Long Island City / Astoria Lions Club Youth Programs would like to spread the word about the Student Leaders Program.
Since its inception in 2004, the Bank of America Student Leaders Program has recognized more than 1,800 exemplary high school juniors and seniors who have a passion for improving their communities.  The program helps students gain a greater understanding of how nonprofits create impact in the community and helps develop them as the next generation of community leaders through two components:
·         A summer eight-week paid internship with a nonprofit organization selected by the bank. This internship is designed to provide opportunities for the students to develop and apply leadership skills through hands-on work experience, while raising their awareness of community issues addressed by their Host Organization.  
·         The week-long, all-expense paid Student Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C. from July 8-12, 2013. Conducted in partnership with the Close Up Foundation, the Summit introduces students to aspects of civic, social and business leadership and provides them with knowledge and skills they will use throughout their life to create positive community change.
In order to spread the word about the opportunity to your members, partners, and affiliates, please distribute this email.
We appreciate your help spreading the word about the Bank of America Student Leaders Program. Students can apply for the program by going to www.bankofamerica.com/studentleaders. Please note the application deadline of January 25, 2013.

For more information on the Bank of America Charitable Foundation, please visit www.bankofamerica.com/foundation or feel free to contact Arthur Rosenfield, Vice President, Long Island City / Astoria Lions Club, 646-920-4652

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for The Bank of America Charitable Foundation's Student Leaders® Program is accepting applications for the 2013 program.

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Shop Small and Dine Out on Saturday in Long Island City, Astoria, Sunnyside, and Woodside, November 24th 2012

Small Business Saturday November 24, 2012

Saturday  November 24, 2012 is a day to celebrate and support small businesses and neighborhood restaurants and all they do for their communities.

Please join the SBA and organizations across the country in  

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for Shop Small and Dine Out on Saturday in Long Island City, Astoria, Sunnyside, and Woodside, November 24th 2012

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SBA "SHOWS ME THE MONEY" AT FACE-TO-FACE WORKSHOP: US Small Business Administration Delivers the Details

LIC / Astoria Chamber of Commerce Emergency Relief Workshop offers details and answers to important question.

The very first thing that you need to know is that the SBA has a Disaster Recovery loan program that businesses can access directly. This is different than the various regular SBA programs.

Much of the confusion about what is possible for small businesses in Long Island City that were affected by property or economic loss; and, the emergency and recovery resources available to entrepreneurs and small businesses, were presented in great detail by Man-Li Kuo Lin of the SBA, and Rosa Figuroa of LaGuardia's SBDC at the LIC / Astoria Chamber of Commerce FACE-TO-FACE Workshop on November 19, 2012.

The SBA's Economic Development Specialist for the New York District Office, Ms. Man-Li Kuo Lin,  administered a powerpoint and a "Emergency Relief Workshop" to help with issues relating to FEMA, SBA Disaster, and NYC SBS. 

The information and procedures helped everyone in the room. 

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for SBA "SHOWS ME THE MONEY" AT FACE-TO-FACE WORKSHOP: US Small Business Administration Delivers the Details

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BREAKFAST FOR CHAMPIONS of Tourism - December 20th at 8:30 AM

TOURISM PLAN 2013: Destination Long Island City, NY

Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce to focus on Travel and Tourism at its December 20th and January 17, 2013 meetings.

Having taken a leadership role to establish the Travel and Tourism Council of Long Island City (TTCLIC),  the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce will meet on December 20, 2012 at 8:30 AM at Court Square Place Conference Center, Long Island City;  (RSVP) then,  again at PONTICELLO Ristorante in Astoria on Thursday, January 17, 2012at 12:00 PM for a presentation "TOURISM PLAN 2013: Destination Long Island City, NY" and to hear experts on Marketing and Promoting Greater Long Island City for 2013.

The facts are simple, Greater Long Island City; including Hunters Point, Astoria, Sunnyside, Dutch Kills, and Woodside; have extraordinary attraction for visitors from around the United States, around the world, and from regional and local communities.

The December 20th meeting at Court Square Place Conference Center will feature two VIP speakers:

Part 1 - December 2012: Where are we now? Where do we want to be? Presentation of Market Survey. 

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for BREAKFAST FOR CHAMPIONS of Tourism - December 20th at 8:30 AM

TOURISM PLAN 2013: Destination Long Island City, NY

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TOURISM PLAN 2013: Destination Long Island City, NY
to Arthur@CityEntree.com

America Recycles Day in Long Island City 2012 Yields Estimated 3,500 lbs of eWaste

Community residents and businesses bring out electronic equipment to be disposed.

America Recycles Day, a program of Keep America Beautiful, is the only nationally-recognized day and community driven national awareness initiative dedicated to promoting and celebrating recycling in the United States. Since its inception in 1997, communities across the country have participated to promote recycling awareness, commitment, and action. Last year 2 million people celebrated recycling at more than 2,000 events across the nation.

In Long Island City, America Recycles Day was November 17, 2012 on 48th Avenue at Vernon Blvd.  It yielded an estimated 3,500 lbs of eWaste.

The event was hosted by Guardian Data Destruction and sponsored by Stemp Systems, ALMA Bank, OurLIC, and the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce.  Other volunteers included Nick Vaglica, President of the Long Island City / Astoria Lions Club and Mark Entler, owner of Uncle Louie G Ice Cream.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for America Recycles Day in Long Island City 2012 Yields Estimated 3,500 lbs of eWaste

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MYTHS & REALITIES: Emergency Financial Support for Small Business. What are the FACTS?

There IS money available.

Learn more at FACE-TO-FACE WORKSHOP with SBA are presented below this article. Monday November 19, 2012 at 10:00 am at Court Square Place

[ Please note that details about FACE-TO-FACE WORKSHOP with SBA are presented below this article. Monday November 19, 2012 at 10:00 am at Court Square Place ]

Business owners from Hunters Point, Sunnyside,  Woodside, and Astoria had a briefing from NYC Council Member Jimmy Van Bramer at the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce meeting November 15, 2012.

The Council Member discussed a wide range of topics relating to relief and recovery, and reflected on lessons learned by the City and developers.  OurLIC  makes
available a full video of Council Member Van Bramer's comments with this article in two parts.

In addition, in the first of its type briefing, small business owners were told exactly how to access funds that are available from various City, State, and Federal agencies. The myths were exploded
and realities explained as new information was provided to help eliminate the confusion that has persisted after Hurricane Sandy.

Speakers who were able to provide direction and procedures for immediate solutions were:

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for MYTHS & REALITIES: Emergency Financial Support for Small Business. What are the FACTS?

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HOW TO HELP: People and Businesses Generously Helping

Details of Contact and Donation Information for the United Way. Red Cross, and others.

The damage to family homes, property, and businessess in NYC is devastating for many.

The tougher it gets, the stronger the hearts of New York City neighbors who are ready, willing, and able to reach out to help.

There are many examples of individual good deeds, retaurants and bars gathering food and clothing, corporate trucks being deployed to high priority areas where destruction has been the worst.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for HOW TO HELP: People and Businesses Generously Helping

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SHOW ME THE MONEY:  LIC CHAMBER FACE-TO-FACE brings US Small Business Administration, Banks, and Business Owners together on Monday, November 19, 10:00 AM

YOU are invited!

The Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce has arranged an "Emergency Relief Workshop" for the SBA to meet with small business owners and banks on Monday, November 19, 2012 at 10:00 am.

Getting the help you need is not easy. You need to know the facts and the procedures. The Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce is bringing the right people together in two separate, LIC CHAMBER FACE-TO-FACE events.

There is still great confusion about what is possible for small businesses, and how to access emergency and recovery resources for small businesses and entrepreneurs. In fact, we are hearing things that are often conflicting with the reports and announcements that are coming.

The SBA's Economic Development Specialist for the New York District Office, Ms. Man-Li Kuo Lin, will administer an "Emergency Relief Workshop" to help with issues relating to FEMA, SBA Disaster, and NYC SBS.  This will help with information and procedures and everyone will be in the same room.  Man-Li K. reports that Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez had successfully organized a similar session on November 9th in lower Manhattan.

Rosa Figuroa, Director, LaGuardia Small Business Development Center; LaGuardia Community College will also be available.The "Emergency Relief Workshop" will be held at:

Court Square Place
24-01 44th Rd
Long Island City, New York 11101

NOTE: The LIC Chamber has partnered to develop the Court Sqaure Conference and Traning Center into an important Conference Center for the Greater Long Island City area. This is actually an extremely convenient location. All four subways 7, G, E, M stop within a short block or two of the Conference Center. All new Hotel Development is nearby.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for SHOW ME THE MONEY:  LIC CHAMBER FACE-TO-FACE brings US Small Business Administration, Banks, and Business Owners together on Monday, November 19, 10:00 AM

YOU are invited!

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YOU are invited!
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SPONSOR OPPORTUNITY – America RECYCLES Day in Long Island City 11/17 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

At the August 2012 meeting, the LIC Chamber resolved to support the America Recycles Day in LIC event as a community service being organized by Glenn Laga’s company, Guardian Data Destruction.

Guardian Data Destruction has also been actively helping by having its truck parked in lower Manhattan and Staten Island to help people recharge their cell phones and other devices during their blackout.

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Recovery and Relief: Sharing,  Solutions,  and Answers for Small Business and the Community.  LIC Chamber Reception and Luncheon Meeting November 15, 2012

Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce

Hurricane Sandy, and the follow-up Nor'easter, have left restaurants, merchants, professionals, and many types of small business owners with agonizing questions of where to get help. Some have been fortunate enough to have quick response from their insurance companies. Others are hurt by water damage, wind damage, loss of customers, gasoline shortages ,and persistent electrical outages.

RECEPTION GUEST and SPEAKER: NYC Council Member Jimmy Van Bramer

GUEST RESOURCE EXPERT: 

Shin Mitsugi
Deputy Executive Director
NYCIDA and BUILD NYC RESOURCE CORP
New York City Economic Development Corporation
(NYCEDC)

Bernadette Nation
Director,  Business Outreach Team / Emergency Response Unit
NYC Dept. of Small Business Services


The City of New York is coordinating various programs and services to help businesses impacted by Hurricane Sandy.  New York City Economic Development Corporation is the primary coordinator of this effort. Shin Mitsugi is the person responsible and will address the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce on the programs that are available. [ More details below.]

"Recovery and Relief" are Bernadette Nation two middle names.  She is seasoned... and responsive to small business emergency needs, already working to help business owners in the Greater Long Island City area.


Government and first responders have been working hard.  Companies and institutions like Guardian Data Destruction, the New York Irish Center, and MoMA have been lending an extraordinary hand to others.

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Special Disaster Unemployment Assistance Available Due to Hurricane Sandy

Also...The United States Department of Labor awarded the New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) a disaster National Emergency Grant (NEG) for up to $27,792,296 to hire temporary workers to assist in recovery of damages caused by Hurricane Sandy

New York State Department of Labor has announced that it is making available special financial assistance available to people who have lost their income in the emergency counties.

Residents in Bronx, Kings, Nassau, New York, Queens, Richmond, Rockland, Suffolk, and Westchester. can qualify who might not normally qualify for unemployment.

Read Fact Sheet Page 1 and Page 2 then call Call 888-209-8124

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America Recycles Day in Long Island City Saturday, November 17, 2012 FREE eDisposal.

Annual computer recycling event in Long Island City. Hosted by LIC headquarted Guardian Data Destruction.

America Recycles Day in Long Island City is coming November 17th. 

The event will be located at 48th Avenue and Vernon Blv. between the hours10:00 am and 2:00 pm. 

More than a celebration, America Recycles Day is the only nationally recognized day dedicated to the promotion of recycling in the United States. It’s one day to inform and educate, one day to get our neighbors, friends and community leaders excited about recycling.  Guardian Data Destruction will be hosting the event with the support of Stemp Systems, OurLIC, and the Long Island City Astoria Chamber of Commerce. Other sponsors will be announced. Together they will be the hosts of this  2nd annual computer recycling event in LIC.

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Long Island City's Guardian Data Destruction Helps Over 1,000 Recharge Cell Phones in Lower Manhattan

Guardian Data Destruction, a Long Island City headquartered company whose business is normally to provide ON SITE data erasure and hard drive destruction, decided to help New Yorkers in distressed lower Manhattan.

Owner, Glenn Laga, decided his company could help people by parking his company's TRUCK at a lower Manhattan location on 14th Street for the purpose of recharging electric devices such as cell phones. 

The truck has 60 – 100 110v plugs available.

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SPECIAL REPORT: Congresswoman Maloney Surveys Long Island City to Assess HURRICANE SANDY Damage

Maloney connects with the Long Island City community while assessing damage at several location, and overall damage from Hurricane Sandy

Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney met with business and community leaders during a survey of damages at Long Island City / Hunters Point locations November 1, 2012.  She was accompanied by her Chief of Staff Shelby Garner; and, Arthur Rosenfield, President of the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce.

In addition to finding specific damage to businesses in the area, and offering suggestions for help, the Congresswoman identifed environmental and health concerns needing attention of the EPA, FEMA, and other agencies of Federal Government.

Noteably, the Congresswoman was impressed by the resiliance of the community, and also the fact that there were many anecdotal stories about people in the community helping eachother in dramatic and important ways.

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UPDATE: 7 Subway Line Restored. Bloomberg Cancels Marathon: MTA notice; Shortages Reported; Loans and FEMA

GOVERNOR CUOMO ANNOUNCES FEDERAL DISASTER UNEMPLOYMENT ASSISTANCE NOW AVAILABLE TO NEW YORKERS AFFECTED BY HURRICANE SANDY

Citing controversy, and saying that the NY Marathon would not divert resources...and would bring the City together, Mayor Bloomberg cancelled the 26.2 mile race at approximately 5:00 pm on Friday

Senator Gillibrand’s Guide to Disaster Assistance and Relief Funding

Senator Gillibrand’s Guide to Disaster Assistance and Relief Funding can be accessed by visiting http://gillibrand.senate.gov/download/?id=71f94e2c-88e6-4367-84eb-1be27428f77f. The guidebook will be updated daily as new information becomes available, the link will always provide the most updated version of the guidebook.

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UPDATE: Recovery from Hurricane Sandy Underway. Some Subway Service Restored 7:00 AM 11/1/2012

GOVERNOR CUOMO DECLARES TRANSPORTATION EMERGENCY Fares On All Mass Transit To Be Suspended For Thursday and Friday


FROM Deputy Mayor Wolfson OFFICE 5:00 PM 10/31/2012

Today Mayor Bloomberg updated New Yorkers on the efforts to get our city up and running after Hurricane Sandy.

Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for UPDATE: Recovery from Hurricane Sandy Underway. Some Subway Service Restored 7:00 AM 11/1/2012

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The Waterfront Crabhouse Needs Help! Dealt a Severe Blow by Flooding.

Mayor's NBAT Team does emergency assessment at request of Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce

OurLIC visited the site the The Waterfront Crabhouse on 10/31 and 11/1. The damage from flooding that literally covered the full height of the bar, is devasting.

Pumping was continuing today to bring water levels down, while the water was continuing to come in to the basement. Anyone with a portable gas powered pump should consider helping.

A location "walking survey" of Long Island City on October 31, 2012. revealed several areas of damage, but, none as completely devastating as The Waterfront Crabhouse.  It is yet another tragic event for the restaurant and its owner Tony Mazzarella and family.  [ Confirmed ]

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CONSOLIDATED Hurricane Sandy News Headlines and Links Pre 10/31/2012

The following represent articles and news about Hurricane Sandy, appearing in OurLIC, which have been archived:

UPDATE: Continued Assessment of Damage by Officials; Duration of Transportation Interruption is 'Unclear'. 10:00 AM 10/31/2012

Emergency loans will be available. Assistance for Small Business from Deputy Mayor Steele's Office regarding Hurricane Sandy

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UPDATE: Continued Assessment of Damage by Officials; Duration of Transportation Interruption is 'Unclear'. 1:15 PM 10/31/2012

Flooding in all East River and Hudson River Tunnels creating damage situation.

Due to the severity of Hurricane Sandy, Governor Cuomo and the Bloomberg Administration are still assessing damage to the critical infrastructure of New York City. An assessment update will be available this afternoon after a Helicopter Tour by Governor Cuomo and Press Conference.

New York City is on hold as millions of workers are unable to reach their job locations, and businesses that can open are short of staff that normally commute via the rail system.

Here are items that are important to know.

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Emergency loans will be available. Assistance for Small Business from Deputy Mayor Steele's Office regarding Hurricane Sandy

Special Memo from Department of Small Business Services

The following memo from Deputy Mayor Robert Steele details assets available to businesses recovering from Hurricane Sandy:

New York City, including the Department of Small Business Services (SBS) and the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC), is coordinating a set of services to assist small businesses in recovering from Hurricane Sandy. Below is an outline of available programs and relevant contact information.


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UPDATE: Hurricane Sandy Arrival in NYC Forecast Peak Gusts 70-80 MPH 4:30 pm 10/29/2012

Mayor's Announcement, Red Cross Alert, NYPD 108th Precinct, Governor Message, BRIDGES TO CLOSE at 7:00 pm

Follow ANNOUNCEMENTS and NEWS on the NEW OurLIC MOBILE service


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Business Preparation for Hurricane Sandy

Preparing against potential damage / disruption to businesses due to Hurricane Sandy

In preparing your business against damage caused by Hurricane Sandy, please review the guidance below. These recommendations will help you protect your business by providing ways for you to limit risks associated with damaged property, equipment, or information. It also offers guidance to help you better deal with the aftermath of severe weather.

 

Preparing against potential damage / disruption to businesses due to Hurricane Sandy:

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Hurricane Sandy Preparation: UPDATE 10/28/2012 12:38 PM.  EVACUATION ORDERED

GOVERNOR CUOMO ANNOUNCES MTA TO SUSPEND SERVICE IN ADVANCE OF HURRICANE

[ Go to HELPFUL INFORMATION FROM 2011 HURRICANE IRENE:  Hurricane Watch: Parts of Long Island City are designated as EVACUATION ZONES
New York City Hurricane Evacuation Zones  ]

GOVERNOR CUOMO ANNOUNCES MTA TO SUSPEND SERVICE IN ADVANCE OF HURRICANE

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PREVIEW OurLIC VIDEO CONVERSATION: Kirk Karabelas, Chairman; and Charles Koehler, Executive Vice President; ALMA Bank

Preview an OurLIC VIDEO Conversation with two top community banking executive helping owners of small businesses to grow.

Insight and innovation drives everything in business....including banks.  

ALMA is a local community bank that is setting a new standard. It has been growing, even during the Great Recession.  Learn how, why, and what is coming next.

If you have a small business, you will want to view this OurLIC VIDEO CONVERSATION: with Kirk Karabelas, Chairman; and Charles Koehler, Executive Vice President of ALMA Bank.

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US Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney Addresses Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce; then Honored for her "Community Leadership"

Maloney installs Officers and Directors, then HONORED for her "Community Leadership"

Carolyn B. Maloney, US Congresswoman, spoke before the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce, and then installed the first Officers and Directors of the newly incorporated organization with a "Charge and Oath".

Arthur Rosenfield , President, introduced Congresswoman Maloney by noting how much change there has been in Long Island City. He said "You can see the changes when you look out any window.  The thing that strikes me the most when you look out those windows is that no matter which window you stand at to look out in Long Island City, you are looking at Carolyn Maloney's work.  No matter what window you look out...The work that she has done, first as a City Council Member, and then as a US Congresswoman, and the money she has brought to the community from her good efforts, and the inspiration of leadership that she has brought to the community, her hand, and leadership, and investment has made Long Island City something very special as a community."

Following the installation, the Hon. Carolyn Maloney was surprised by a ceremony during which the organization presented her with a "Community Leadership Resolution" which recognized her accomplishments and results for the Long Island City community, and appointed her as a Lifelong Member of the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce.

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Taste of Sunnyside 2012 Brings Out the Foodies...and the Smiles

Let them eat cupcakes!

The Taste of Sunnyside 2012 brought an estimated 400 people to the Sunnyside Community Center where 19 neighborhood restaurants like Dazies, Bucharest Restaurant, Bliss Street Station, Murphy's Oyster Bar, Ariba Ariba, Dog and Duck, and Dee Thai offered samples of their menu items.

It was a great place for foodies who had a chance to explore restaurants that they have never visited.  Others, made a path to a table where their favorite restaurant was being just plain hospitable and friendly.

The Taste of Sunnyside is sponsored by the Sunnyside Chamber of Commerce and by the Sunnyside Shines BID.  The organizations presented a well organized MAP to attendees so that participants could make their way to the restaurant on another day.

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Acclaimed Bucharest Restaurant, "The Little Paris", participated in the annual 'Taste of Sunnyside' 2012

NYC Council Member Jimmy Van Bramer tastes the Stuffed Cabbage and says "Wow! It is delicious. This is really very good. This is terrific!"

Acclaimed Bucharest Restaurant, "The Little Paris", participated in the annual 'Taste of Sunnyside' sponsored by the Sunnyside Chamber of Commerce and Sunnyside Shines BID.

Over 400 people from the Sunnyside and other New York City communities were given a sample of the luscious, traditional Romanian home cooked dinner that is prepared by Chef Helena and always offered at Bucharest Restaurant at 43-45 40th Street in Sunnyside.

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Queens Restaurant Week 2012 is in Full Swing

Restaurant in Long Island City / Astoria / Sunnyside / Woodside are making excellent offers.

Queens Restaurant Week 2012 officially kicked off with a festive outdoor ceremony on Oct. 2 at Queens Borough Hall in Kew Gardens.

Despite a light rain, nine local restaurants gave away free samples of their specials to more than 500 appreciative diners. Borough President Helen M. Marshall was on hand to enjoy the cuisine and speak about Restaurant Week, which actually runs from Oct. 8-11 and Oct. 15-18 this year. Queens Economic Development Corporation Executive Director Seth Bornstein, Queens Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Jack Friedman, Melrose Credit Union Director of Marketing and Public Affairs Robert Nemeroff and Mabel Law from City Comptroller John Liu's office also gave speeches.

More than 125 restaurants are expected participate in Queens Restaurant Week 2012. Most eateries will offer one three-course, prix fixe meal for $25. Some establishments will also offer their specials Oct. 12-14 and beyond Oct. 18.

With more than 2.2 million residents -- about half of whom were born in a foreign country -- it's no surprise that Queens has an extensive array of top-quality but affordable restaurants. This diversity was on display during the kickoff event, where everything from Mexican to Cajun to Portuguese food was served. Add Cuban (Madera Cuban Grill), French, Greek, Irish, Italian, Japanese, Kosher, vegetarian and many other cuisines to mix for the entire promotion.

"We are thrilled to sponsor Queens Restaurant Week 2012," stated Melrose Credit Union CEO/President Alan Kaufman. "It is good for local businesses, good for consumers and a perfect match for Melrose's mission, which is to help local residents and business owners enjoy financial benefits for provident purposes as they purse their American Dreams. Plus, I can't wait to explore a few of the borough's great restaurants."

"Restaurant Week is one of our borough's most anticipated and popular annual events," stated Borough President Marshall. "It provides residents and visitors alike with great opportunities to sample at discounted prices the wide variety of gastronomical delights that can be found right here in America's most diverse county. I urge everyone to enjoy this opportunity while it lasts!"

"This eight-day campaign is the most delicious bargain in New York City because the prices are so reasonable and the food is so good. Plus, there truly is something for every taste bud," said QEDC Executive Director Bornstein. "It also fits in well with our Real Culture/Authentic Flavor program, which informs on the borough's cultural events and the wonderful places to shop and eat near those venues. Food, culture, fun, diversity, everything - It's in Queens!"

Queens Restaurant Week 2012 is a program of the Queens Tourism Council and is sponsored by Melrose Credit Union, jetBlue, Resorts World Casino New York City, Restaurant Depot, Tequila Sunrise of Bayside, the Queens Courier and The Best of the Boro.

For more information, including a list of participating restaurants, surf the web to www.itsinqueens.com.

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Thursday October 18, 2012 - Special Reception and Meeting of the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce. "BOOSTING YOUR PROSPERITY"

Meet Two Important Leaders. Learn About Changes, Challenges, and Opportunities for Your Business. Network. The Waterfront Crabhouse. 12:00 PM [ LIC CHAMBER ]

US Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney

The Congresswoman will address attendees.  TOPIC: "Defining the Future for Small Business: Opportunities and Challenges for Long Island City / Astoria Companies"

Tokumbo Shobowale, Chief Business Operations Officer of the City of New York, will also address attendees. TOPIC: "How NYC Government is Preparing to Boost Prosperity for It’s Small Businesses"

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OurLIC SPECIAL REPORT: Seth Pinsky, President of NYCEDC, Seven Panelists, and Three POLS Give Overview of Cornell Technion Impact on LIC

Queens Courier hosted a POWER Breakfast on October 11, 2012

Seth Pinksy, President of the New York City Economic Development Corporation offered a Keynote speech that continued to place Long Island City and Astoria at the top of the curve for Tech and Business Development for the future.

Other panelists, including Andrew Kirby of Plaxall Properties, described preparations being made now for tech companies, incubators, and future residential development to support the Cornell-Technion campus project on Roosevelt Island.

Speakers included:

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Tokumbo Shobowale, Chief Business Operations Officer of the City of New York, to Address Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce at Reception and Meeting 10/18/2012

Blockbuster RECEPTION and MEETING also features US Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney.

Following the announcement that the New York City and Mayor Bloomberg's Administration have agreed to ease regulations and improve inspection procedures, Tokumbo Shobowale, one of the architects of the new plan, will speak to the members of the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, October 18, 2012 at their blockbuster RECEPTION and meeting.

The Chamber will also hear US Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney speak on "Defining the Future for Small Business: Opportunities and Challenges for Long Island City / Astoria Companies."

The RECEPTION and Meeting will be held at 12:00 pm at the Waterfront Crabhouse, 2-03 Borden Ave, Long Island City and will include the installation of the first Board of Directors and Officers for this Chamber, recognized by the State of New York on September 5, 2012. Reservations are require. Please use Sign-in at LICChamber.org

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Community Children Plant Trees of Knowledge During Ceremony to Dedicate Site for New Queens Library at Hunters Point

EXCLUSIVE: Tom Galante, President & CEO of Queens Library, talks with OurLIC about the special relationship between the Queens Library, the business community, and residents.

Community leaders, elected officials, members of Friends of the Queens Library at Hunters Point, and residents turned out in full force to dedicate the site for the new Queens Library to be built on Parcel 8 land adjacent to the Gantry State Park.

Ed Sadowsky; Trustee of the Queens Library, former NYC Council Member, and long resident of Long Island City; delivered an inspirational  speech.  Saying it was a "homecoming for him", he said  "We promised that this site, perhaps one of the most important in the world...on the East River across from the United Nations, would be a library."  After reviewing the fourteen year history of the site during the development of Queens West, Sadowsky quoted Assemby Member Cathy Nolan who said that "This was a test of Democracy."  He continued  "This is what Democracy is all about.  The only way that you get to what you want is to have an aroused citizenry.  The community here was simply extradordinary....and is proof that Democracy does work after all." He said "We did it!" After fourteen years of advocating for this library, Sadowsky added that "It must be completed in my lifetime."

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Historic Site of Sunnyside Garden Arena is Dedicated by Ring 8 Veteran Boxers Association with a Monument to Boxers

Ring 8 Veteran Boxers Association dedicated a Monument to Old Sunnyside Garden Arena October 6 , 2012 at 12:00 noon at Wendy's 45th and Queens Blvd, Sunnyside. The site is now the location of a Wendy's Hamburger location, who graciously donated the use of their property for the historical Monument to commemorate the boxer.

The event was attended by several boxing dignitaries as well as the New York State Athletic Commissioner, Melvina Lathan.  New York Assembly Member Cathy Nolan and City Council Member Jimmy Van Bramer spoke about the importance of the history of Sunnyside Garden Arena and the importance of the sport of Boxing.

OurLIC participated in the event and presents full video coverage and photographs as part of this OurLIC NEWS article.

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US Congress Member Carolyn B. Maloney to Speak on "Defining the Future for Small Business: Opportunities and Challenges for Long Island City / Astoria Companies"

Congresswoman Maloney will administer oaths to install the first Officers and Directors of the newly incorporated Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce, Inc. at an October 18th Reception and Meeting to be held at the Terrace Room at the Waterfront Crabhouse.

Congresswoman Maloney will administer oaths to the first Officers and Directors of the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce.

The Congresswoman will address attendees. TOPIC: "Defining the Future for Small Business: Opportunities and Challenges for Long Island City / Astoria Companies"

The RECEPTION and MEETING will begin at 12:00 Noon at the Waterfront Crabhouse, 2-03 Borden Ave., Long Island City.

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NYC Sets in Motion Five New Programs to Support Small Business

New Legislation, developed by the City Council and Mayor, will designate agency liaisons to serve as points-of-contact with Chambers of Commerce and industry groups to assist with small business growth.

The measures announced today include:

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New Healthcare Laws  Explained: Sher Sparano, Benefits Advisory Service, Expert

Presentation given to business owners at the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce Meeting 9/20/2012

Now you can find out what you need to know about Obamacare and its impact on you as an employee and as a business owner...from an experienced expert!



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OurLIC SPECIAL REPORT: Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce and Industry

If you or your company have a relationship with the Caribbean, or want to, this is an organization you need to know about.

In 1985, Roy Hastick founded the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce and Industry. On a tip from Renos Kourtides, Chief Planning Officer for ALMA Bank and Chairman of Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce, OurLIC participated in a POWER BREAKFAST of CACCI for Small Business.

This OurLIC SPECIAL REPORT includes full video coverage of the September 27, 2012 POWER BREAKFAST and Membership  Meeting of CACCI.  If you or your company have a relationship with the Caribbean, or want to, this is an organization you need to know about.

Review of Carribean Region Economic Growth and Development, a cpmprehensive 324 page document, was made available by the US International Trade Commission in 2008.

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Peter Vallone, Jr,  Stands Up for Small Business....and Wants Drinking Water to be Safer in NYC

NYC Council Member Peter Vallone, Jr. speaks at Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce Meeting on a variety of topics 9/20/2012

On September 20th, Council Member Peter F. Vallone Jr. was a guest speaker during a meeting of the LIC/Astoria Chamber of Commerce.

During the meeting, Vallone stressed that he, like them, was a small business owner in Astoria and that his family firm had been at the same location since 1932, and he spoke of his support for lower taxes and fewer government mandates on businesses. The Council Member also fielded questions from the chamber members.

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Rally Opposing the Liquor License Application for "Racks" on Steinway

"When all of us come together like this, it is clear that this "bikini bar" has no place in our community," NYS Assembly Member Aravella Simotas said.

Working to protect the character of our neighborhoods, Assemblywoman Aravella Simotas hosted a rally opposing the liquor license for "Racks," a proposed "bikini bar."  Simotas was joined by Congressman Joseph Crowley, State Senator Michael Gianaris and community leaders in voicing the community’s objections to adult entertainment in the heart of Astoria.  There is no place for an adult entertainment venue in the heart of Astoria.  The rally was held Thursday, September 27, 2012 at the Woodtree Playground at 38th Street and 20th Avenue in Astoria.

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LIC / Astoria Chamber...Making the News 9/27/2012

The Queens Courier, The Queens Gazette, and The Long Island City / Astoria Journal each carried news articles.

The Queens Courier, The Queens Gazette, and The Long Island City / Astoria Journal each carried news articles in their September 20th editions that covered the newly incorporated Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce.

The Courier published "LIC & Astoria Chamber Gets Off the Ground" by reporter Christine Show.  Show did a round-up series of interviews with Arthur Rosenfield, President and founder of the Chamber; Renos Kourtides,  Chief Planning Officer of ALMA Bank; Raquel Salas, Owner of Bigcitygraph-x; Leslie Nilson,Owner of Sage General Store; and Marvin; CEO of WestGroup. The article focused on the values of the LIC / Astoria Chamber as a new resource for the business community.

Tom Cogan, Report for the Western Queens Gazette who has followed the development of the LIC Chamber since it's first formation meetings in May 2011, concentrated on the content of Peter Vallone, Jr. comments during his address to the LIC Chamber on September 20th.  In "Vallone Addresses LIC/Astoria Chamber of Commerce", he also recapped the content o that meeting's second speaker, Sher Sparano of Benefits Advisory Service, who presented inights into the implications of the new Obamacare law for small business owners. He also covered Dr. Charles Krieger's planned Community Wellness Day that is being coordinated wit NYS Assembly Member Aravella Simotas.

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Ring 8 Veteran Boxers Association of New York to Commemorate Location of Sunnyside Garden Arena with a Monument at Wendy's on Queens Blvd

Ring 8 Veteran Boxers Association will dedicate a Monument to Old Sunnyside Garden Arena October 6 , 2012 at 12:00 noon at Wendy's 45th and Queens Blvd, Sunnyside.


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'ADVOCACY' is Tony Meloni's Middle Name.

From event-to-event Tony Meloni is everywhere...shaping his platform, reaching out, defending the community he loves.

Tony Meloni is a long time ADVOCATE for Astoria and its people. He advocates for immigrants. He advocates to prevent crime. He advocates tirelessly for the best possible quality of life in his community.

An OurLIC VIDEO CONVERSATION with Meloni shows him as "Grass roots; Small business; Hands on experience". That's Antonio Meloni.

In this article, OurLIC presents video showing the different dimensions and messages of Tony.  One week he is demonstrating self-defense instruction at a women’s crime prevention and self-defense class sponsored by the New York AntCrime Agency, the 114th Precinct, Safe Horizons and the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).. The next week it a rally to voice opposition to an application for a liquor license for a "bikini" bar.  

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SPECIAL SEMINAR: What's Coming to Your Small Business with Obamacare.  Business Planning for Heath Care Reform 9/20 at Noon

The Supreme Court decision has broad implications on your company health plan. CEO’s, CFO’s and Senior HR Executives, do not want to miss this educational session discussing what’s next and what’s required with Health Care Reform.

The Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce will host a special segment of its meeting September 20, 2012 to present a seminar:

Business Planning for Health Care Reform

Now you can find out what you need to know...from an experienced expert!

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HILO Materials Handling Group Announces Additional Location Opening in Long Island City

Company positions itself to service New York City and Westchester County

Hauppauge, New York—Hilo Materials Handling Group, a full-service materials handling, forklift and warehousing supply company serving Long Island and the New York region, since 1977, will open a new 10,000 sq. ft. facility in Long Island City on September 18th. The new branch will be a Hyster factory authorized facility with fully-staffed sales, rentals, parts and service departments. "We are looking forward to our grand opening celebration where we have invited local dignitaries and our customers to mark our expansion into Long Island City," explained Steve LoPiccolo, President of HILO. The new location is the next step in the company’s plans to expand; HILO acquired Viccaro Equipment Corporation in 2011, further extending the company’s market reach and sales staff. Additional location announcements will come at a later time, as details are still being worked out.

HILO’s President, Steve LoPiccolo remarked, “It is our goal to bring more jobs to Long Island City. Our Hauppauge office has grown twofold in just over a year’s time. I anticipate a steady growth pattern in this location as well.” The company currently has over 80 employees at its headquarters with a service fleet of 26 vans supported by industrial carriers and boom trucks to handle the service and transportation needs of customers. "We are now better positioned to handle the Metro New York area with our Queens branch. Our goals are to support and grow Queens, Brooklyn, Bronx, NYC and Westchester counties based on individual market size and opportunity," he said.

About HILO Materials Handling: HILO is a factory authorized Yale dealer for Long Island’s Nassau and Suffolk Counties and a factory authorized Hyster dealer for Long Island and Metro New York. HILO through its full service dock and door divisions performs installations, servicing and maintenance of loading docks and overhead doors representing such major brands as Kelley, Serco and TKO. HILO has an award winning commercial lighting division; Hi-Light Energy Systems. The lighting division has won an award in LIPA’s Commercial Energy Efficiency Program for the last six consecutive years and was most recently recognized at the LIPA Trade Ally Recognition Breakfast in the first quarter of 2012.

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PEOPLE: Vasile Badaluta ~ A Renaissance Man.

Vasile Badaluta is a Renaissance Man. His weekly newspaper and his restaurant serve the appetites of the largest concentration of Romanian and Moldovan people outside of those countries, estimated to be 400,000 – 500,000 people. Vasilie Badaluta is a man of vision, leadership, and very high energy. He has an insatiable appetite himself. He is known to be driven to identify and pursue the very best of life for his fellow Romanian and Moldovan people.

Formerly an Economist in Romania, he and his wife, Adriana, immigrated to the United States 29 years ago seeking political asylum in 1983 from Romanians oppressive Communist rule under Nicolae Ceauºescu . Today, for his people, he has created a leading restaurant and cultural center in NYC. The Bucharest Restaurant in Sunnyside serves as a hub for residents as well as diplomats, entrepreneurs, and other leaders. Vasile passionately watches over every detail of Bucharest Restaurant. It warm, welcoming, and authentic. It contributes to the cultural exchange that is part of the fabric of NYC.

Vasile Badaluta has also established a voice and source of trusted news and information for Romanian and Moldovan people in the United States. As its Chief Editor of the weekly newspaper the Romanian Journal; and as Producer of Romanian Voice TV, Vasilie Badaluta shares his informed point of view and insights about politics, culture, world events and other topics with his readers and viewers.

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OurLIC VIDEO CONVERSATION: Costa Constantinides

Costa Constantinides is the Democratic Party District Leader for the 36th Assembly District. That District includes elected officials like NYC Council Member Peter Vallone, Jr, NYS Senator Michael Gianaris, and NYS Assembly Member Aravella Simotas.

Costa Constantinides is running for City Council. OurLIC met with Consta for a Video Conversation to learn about him, and hear his views on a wide range of topical issues affecting his community and City Council District 22.

Topics include his childhood in Astoria, his early career in public service, his views on the need for more Hospital services for his District, his commitment to reduce pollution, his support for small business owners expecially restaurants and food stores, and his position on the need for the Administration to be responsive to the people.

This article also includes a video of a rally that Costa helped to organize to restore the W Subway line and QM22 Bus service.

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OurLIC VIDEO CONVERSATION: Vlad Lupan, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Republic of Moldova to the United Nations

Mark A. Meyer, Esq, was honored as The Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Moldova in New York

Twenty-seven Consul Generals of the United Nations, from twenty-seven different countries, gathered at Sunnyside's Bucharest Restaurant for an event to announce the new Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Moldova in New York.  Mark A. Meyer, Esq. has been appointed Honorary Consul.  His duties are to promote relationships between New York business, cultural, and other areas with Moldova.

The Moldvan-American Chamber of Commerce sponsored the event.

OurLIC attended the event and presents an extensive VIDEO CONVERSATIONS with both Vlad Lupan, Ambassador, Permanentt Representative of the Republic of Moldova to the United Nations, and Mark Meyer as the county's new Honorary Consul.

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LIC Community GETS Chamber Made!

Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce Authorized by The State of New York. Certificate of Incorporation of Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce, Inc. Under Section 402 of the Not-for-Profit Corporate Law

The Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce has been fully incorporated in the State of New York on September 5, 2012.

The process began in May 2011 at a meeting oganized by Arthur Rosenfield, owner of OurLIC.  Members of the business community were invited to a meeting to discuss the merits of a formation of a Chamber of Commerce for the area.  The business Community was overwhelmingly  in favor, and the work began to draft by-laws, organize a Board of Directors and hold an election of Officers.

A group of business owners and executives representing approximately 200 companies of all types have participated. Varying from 45-80 people each month, the group began meeting monthly on the THIRD THURSDAY at The Waterfront Crabhouse to shape the vision and direction of the LIC Chamber. At the same time, the meetings acted as a forum for ideas and to listen to community leaders, NYC Council Members, Regional Planners, and others. As expected, business people had an opportunity to network and form new relationships.

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NYC Councilmember Dan Halloran Speaks at Long Island City Chamber of Commerce 8/16/2012

Dan Halloran is candidate for US House of Representatives seat.

Dan Halloran, Republican Candidate for US House of Representatives, was the Guest at Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce regular meeting August 16, 2012.  NYC City Council Member Dan Halloran was elected to the City Council in 2009 on the Republican, Conservative, Independence and Libertarian party lines to represent Northeast Queens. As a lifelong resident of Queens, he has launched a campaign for a seat in the US House of Representatives in New York's new Sixth Congressional District.

HIGHLIGHTS

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Ear to the Ground: Scoping out Pain D’avignon in LIC

Pain D'Avignon Bakery Moves Into New Long Island City Location...Breads and Rolls Galore!

From the outside Pain D’avignon is a non-assuming warehouse not unlike many others in the Long Island City (LIC) area. However, as soon as the door opens, even the aroma of the place is special. I was granted a private tour- Bread Galore! After just four months at the new LIC location the process has become smooth. Before LIC, the company was based only in the Hamptons and Cape Cod. From mixing the ingredients to cutting the shapes, the baking has expanded.
Pain D’avignon’s bread factory is open twenty-four hours, so the bread making never stops! Some of the bigger breads have to sit for up to ten hours before going into the oven. This local business employs ~70 people at any given time and on average they bake four times per day.
What sets them apart? They have a unique blend of flour imported solely for Pain D’avignon which makes for a wonderful texture and taste. Of course, it is all hand-made. The dough kneading process is different here and attention to detail is noticeable. The baguettes are bumpy and yeasty, which preserves the flavor in this artisan bread making it so delicious.

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NYC City Council Member Peter Vallone, Jr to Speak at Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce September 20th

The Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce became a fully incorporated organization of businesses on September 5, 2012 under Section 402 of the New York State Not-for-profit Incorporation Laws. For more information, visit LICChamber

Thursday, September 20, 2012 - Regular Meeting

GUEST SPEAKER: NYC City Councilmember Peter Vallone, Jr.

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OURLIC VIDEO CONVERSATION: Steven Schnall, CEO; and Michael Serao, Regional VP of Quontic Bank Discuss its Formation, the Bank's Future, and its Role in the Community.

In an era of high banking regulation, Quontic is a bank that will surprise you with its "go the extra mile" customer service commitment.

Not many people in life are able to start a new bank.

The odds of that happening during the period from 2008 through 2011 were slim because of the Recession and FInancial Crisis that brought many areas of growth and development to a halt.  In addition, new levels of regulation were being imposed on Community Bank and many other financial institutions.   It was a time when banks were failing to meet asset ratios, and were being forced to merge in order to survive.

Quontic Bank is an exception.

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OurLIC VIDEO CONVERSATION: Tony Meloni, Candidate for NY City Council

Grass roots; Small business; Hands on experience.... That's Antonio Meloni.

Tony Meloni breaks the mold of potential candidates for NYC Council.

Tony is a grass roots candidate with deep practical experience in the Astoria community as an advocate since the 1980's; and as an entrepreneur committed to helping immigrants. Founded in 1988, his company, Immigration Advocacy Services, provides support services to help people navigate the difficult immigration process. He also founded the New York Anti-Crime Agency in 1984. It helps fight crime, and helps to make the Astoria community safer and more beautiful.

At age 56, the spirit of community service lives deep in Antonio Meloni. He is a Member of Community Board #1 and is an active member of several charitable and community service organizations like the Kiwanis Club. He is Vice President Astoria Civic Association, a member of The Taminent Regular Democratic Club, and a member of the 114th Community Council.

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OURLIC SPECIAL REPORT: NEIGHBORHOOD LIFE in Astoria, Sunnyside, Long Island City

The attractive neighborhoods in Greater Long Island City are changing. New trends emerge.

Lifestyle trends  are often subtle. Transformations in a community are slow.  They sneak up on us, and suddenly, something has changed...and things are different. What we say "WILL" happen, is suddenly a reality.

When trends become reality, it changes the way we look at everything that is important to us.   Trends in a community influence where we live and what we do....where we shop and what we eat. They influence travel, entertainment, investments, relationships and just about everything else.  It is not unusual in history for trends to emerge during recessions. People have ways of adapting. Even policy makers, Community Boards, and others manage to spot trends and adapt their thinking and decisions, once their meaning is understood. Even politics change, as new voters move into districts in large numbers. Shifts in population effect everyone and everything.

Since its beginning in 2008, OurLIC has been like a SCOUT...looking under the surface and behind the doors to explore and reveal the hidden virtues of "our" Long Island City community.   We've identified the new things and tied them together with the old to help make sense of change that has been part of the vision of the community for its own future. The camera has been an incredible tool to chronicle the changes. "Everything Important. Everyone Important. Every Day"....has brought the photos and videos from economic development to block parties and kitten adoptions.

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Candidate for Comptroller of The City of New York, Dan Garodnick, Addresses the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce

Full Video Coverage of Dan Garodnick's comments and Q&A is presented with this article.

Since 2006, Dan Garodnick has been City Council Member representing District 4 in Manhattan. He recently announced his candidacy for Comptroller.

The Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce met on July 19th at the Waterfront Crabhouse.  Members were able to meet and greet Garodnik and hear his views on NYC Government financial management and administrative controls.

Dan Garodnick is currently Chair of the Consumer Affairs Committee for the City Council, and has been a strong advocate for tenant rights as well as credit reporting and control issues. He also recently introduced a Bill which would curb the use of new electric bikes on sidewalks, which have become a serious hazard to pedestrians.

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LIC / ASTORIA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WILL MEET THE CANDIDATE FOR NYC COMPTROLLER: 

DAN GARODNICK

Dan Garodnick, Candidate for NYC Comptroller. Guest at LIC / Astoria Chamber of Commerce Meeting Thurday, July 19, 2012.

LIC Chamber SPECIAL REPORT

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DAN GARODNICK

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DAN GARODNICK to Arthur@CityEntree.com

Queens: "Real Culture/ Authentic Flavor" Summer Promotion of Cultural Attractions Kicked-off

The Queens Economic Development Corporation, City Council Member Jimmy Van Bramer, Assemblywoman Grace Meng, City Council Member Peter Koo, the Queens Tourism Council, NYC & Co, and Chinese Acrobats kicked off the first ever "Real Culture/Authentic Flavor" summer promotion on Tuesday, July 11, 2012.  The promotion runs until November 30, 2012.

Real Culture/Authentic Flavor will let the public know about all the upcoming activities and special offers at Queens attractions through a social media campaign, networking sites and media advertisements in local papers and blogs. It will include tie-ins to business improvement districts, restaurants, stores and major venues such as Citi Field, the USTA and Resorts World Casino.

Speakers at the event included:

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George Fertitta, CEO NYC & Co., Presents View of LIC Tourism Opportunity at BID Annual Meeting 6/20/2012

Referring to the uniqueness of the "vision" that LIC has for itself, and the collaboration and committment of the leaders in the community, George Fertitta, CEO of NYC & Co., praised the Long Island City community and defined its opportunity for growth as a destination for both worldwide and local travelers.

Long Island City's bright future for tourism was the highlighted topic of annual meeting of the Queens Plaza/Court Square District Management Association, Inc., Long Island City's Business Improvement District (BID) that is part of The Partnership.

OurLIC attended the meeting and presents a full video as part of this OurLIC NEWS article.

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Kevin Cummings, Investors Bank CEO, says Bank Wants More Small Business Customers

Kevin Cummings, CEO Investors Bank, Speaks at Queens College Business Breakfast Forum following Scholarship Awards presented by Queens Chamber of Commerce.

Kevin Cummings, President & CEO Investors Bank, spoke at a gathering of Queens Chamber of Commerce members at a Queens College Business Breakfast Forum sponsored by the Chamber and Queens Economic Development Corporation on June 8, 2012. His primary message was that the bank has grown because of a commitment it has made to small business customers...and it wants more of them.

For nearly an hour, Cummings spoke about the changes at Investors Bank, even during the recession, which has let to dramatic growth in the banks assets and profits.  He pointed to a shift in banking strategy from risk free investments, to aggressive lending in the communities that Investors Bank serves.

In fact, the results have been so impressive that the bank believes that it has identified an underserved segment for which it wants to become the leading lendor.

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ANNOUNCING

OurLIC Value Merchanding packages: OurLIC is BETA TESTING OurLIC COUPONS, CARDS, FLYERS, and IN-STORE promotional packages. These services offer Print and Redeem features; and, appear on OurLIC NEWS as well as the sponsor's OWN websites with proprietary OurLIC Syndication technology. Value Merchandising Programs are fully integrated into the OurLIC PROFILE system. They are very easy to manage and support from an Admin Control Panel. In addition, we will offer low cost commercial printing and facilitate distribution of Value Merchandising SPECIAL Offers in order to help merchants and businesses reach their target customers effectively.

Examples are viewable at OurLIC Discount Coupons, OurLIC FLYERS, and OurLIC CARDS. For more information on OurLIC programs, please use our Optin page or contact us directly at Arthur@CityEntree.com or 646-920-4652. We are also accepting special advertising sponsorships for the new OurLIC CALENDAR.

'OurLIC Business' integrates with BizWiz Services for Business-to-business.

BizWiz Logo

OurLIC for Business provides companies, business people, and professionals in Long Island City with a platform offering the newest tools, technology, and space to communicate, share, publish, distribute video, exchange ideas, collaborate, seek solutions, and to reach out to accelerate their success.

BizWiz, The Internet's Largest Business Network and Resource Marketplace, has been providing business-to-business services to help companies get connected to their markets and customers since 1995. It is a self contained system of services that can help any size company improve its business.

BizWiz is owned and operated by Rainbow Pages Inc., the owner of OurLIC.com. Join BizWiz

Know Your Neighbor!

OurLIC Networking

An important part of the OurLIC platform, the OurLIC Networking service provides a way for residents, merchants, artists, business people and others to meet, social network, and get to know each other. It also provides a place to blog and publish for yourself and your organization. Please sign-up. It is a FREE service.

Know Your Neighbors

michellekawka

paulsalas

brentoleary

andrew

Jimmy_Van_Bramer

Join Today...Create your Space.

Here's Why =>Here's Why You Should Join OurLIC.com

Here's How  =>Here's How You Can Join OurLIC.com Network ...It's FREE!

Sponsorship, Advertising, and Guide Profiles

If you are interested in special promotions on OurLIC.com or advertising in OurLIC Newsletters. If you would like to have your company or organization profiled in our GUIDE, or want display advertising, please contact Arthur Rosenfield at 646-920-4652 for rates.

If your company or organization is not in our searchable MARKETPLACE for business-to-business, OurLIC Business MARKETPLACE, please let us know the details.

Reports

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Modern Spaces, Long Island City's leading Real Estate Brokerage firm today unveiled the first ever Long Island City Residential Sales & Rental Market Report.

The Inaugural report, which compiles data from over 100 transactions closed during the 2nd quarter of 2009 by Modern Spaces in the Queens neighborhood of Long Island City (Hunter's Point, Queens Plaza and Court Square).

Business Development

Trusted Care Card - Vernon Blvd Pharmacy

Vernon Blvd Pharmacy has introduced a new customer appreciation card for its Trusted Care program. The card offers reward points for EVERY purchase in the store including pharmacy prescriptions.

Special Trusted Care Cards can be ordered for your company's Employees through a Corporate Account Program offered by the Vernon Blvd Pharmacy. For details contact Joshua Schipper at VERNONPHA10@aol.com or 718-361-7390. For details on special loyalty card programs contact Arthur Rosenfield, OurLIC.com, Arthur@CityEntree.com or 646-920-4652.

'BID' Watch

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OurLIC for Business will provide companies, business people, and professionals in Long Island City with a platform offering the newest tools, technology, and space to communicate, share, publish, distribute video, exchange ideas, collaborate, seek solutions, and to reach out to accelerate their success.

BizWiz, The Internet's Largest Business Network and Resource Marketplace, has been providing business-to-business services to help companies get connected to their markets and customers since 1995. It is a self contained system of services that can help any size company improve its business.

BizWiz is owned and operated by Rainbow Pages Inc., the owner of OurLIC.com. Join BizWiz

People Watch

OurLIC Networking

An important part of the OurLIC platform, the OurLIC Networking service provides a way for residents, merchants, artists, business people and others to meet, social network, and get to know each other. It also provides a place to blog and publish for yourself and your organization. Please sign-up. It is a FREE service.

Know Your Neighbors

michellekawka

paulsalas

brentoleary

andrew

Jimmy_Van_Bramer
Join Today...Create your Space. Here's Why =>Here's Why You Should Join OurLIC.com Here's How  =>Here's How You Can Join OurLIC.com Network ...It's FREE!

Discount Travel

CityEntree offers Travel Discounts and Fares for all major airlines, hotels, car rentals, and cruise lines worldwide.

Go to CityEntree Travel

Requests for Proposal

Matches Commercial and Government Request for Proposal.

Requests for Proposal are sent by email to Authorized Participating companies and professionals that are part of the BizWiz Network across 186 industries. The RFP system is a worldwide business network. You can also POST your RFP.

Sponsorship, Advertising, and Guide Profiles

If you are interested in special promotions on OurLIC.com or advertising in OurLIC Newsletters. If you would like to have your company or organization profiled in our GUIDE, or want display advertising, please contact Arthur Rosenfield at 646-920-4652 for rates.



SAVE ON TRAVEL.

CHECK HERE FOR WORLDWIDE DISCOUNT AIR FARES, HOTELS, AUTO RENTAL, CUSTOM TRAVEL PACKAGES... EVEN EVENT TICKETS, AND ATTRACTIONS.

All Major Airlines, Cruise Lines, Rental Companies Worldwide

Discount Air Travel Reservations Lowest Rates for Hotels Worldwide Custom Trips Rental Car Reservations Tickets and Attractions


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Last Updated: Tuesday, January 1, 2012 - 12:10 a.m. Eastern Time
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