Gus Prentzas, candidate for NYC City Council 6/13/2013
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OURLIC VIDEO CONVERSATION: Gus Prentzas. First Press Interview as Candidate for City Council, Astoria District 22
Gus Prentzas, a 30th Avenue business owner and Queens Community Board #1 Member, steps up to run for City Council District 22, Astoria.
Gus Prentzas, a 30th Avenue business owner, Queens Community Board #1, and community activist, wants your vote as City Council Member for District 22, Astoria.
OurLIC NEWS met with Prentzas for his first media interview on June 13, 2013, to learn about his background, what he wants to achieve as City Council Member. Full VIDEO is presented with this article in progress. Watch here for a summary and additional background.
The VIDEO CONVERSATION takes place at HAVANA EXPRESS Restaurant on 31st in Astoria, near Ditmars Blvd.
Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for OURLIC VIDEO CONVERSATION: Gus Prentzas. First Press Interview as Candidate for City Council, Astoria District 22
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Peter Vallone. Jr. NYC Council Member ~ Candidate for President of Borough of Queens ~ speaks at Hunters Point Civic Association. 6/11/2013
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Peter Vallone Jr., Candidate for Queens Borough President, Meets with Hunters Point Civic Association 6/11/2013
Vallone says he wants to change the way Queens Borough President does things.
Cutting across a wide range of topics, City Council Member Peter Vallone Jr., candidate for Queens Borough President said he wants to change the lens that the Borough Presidents Office's looks through to make it more business friendly and expand areas of opportunity for everyone by fighting to get a fairer share of NYC resources, and by bringing in non-political experts in all areas of priority and administration. He also emphasized the continued commitment to safety on streets and in areas that need crime prevention.
Vallone, recognized for his independent thought, spoke out on a number of topics including the fact that he wants to see the City Council return the name of the Queensboro Bridge to simply that name, rather than the Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge. Never pulling a punch, he spoke openly and candidly about his fight to prevent the renaming of the bridge, and that he had lost discetionary funding, as well as funding for the Judge Charles J. Vallone Scholarship Fund from Speaker Quinn, because of his strenuous objection to the renaming of the Queensboro Bridge.
Other candidates for Mayor and elected positions have questioned the descretionary budgets, use of them in punitive ways, and the need for accountability of the taxpayers money.
The meeting was co-hosted by Hunters Point Civic Association and the Hunters Point Community Development Corporation. Brent O'Leary and Terry Adams as Presidents lead the meeting and participated.
Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for Peter Vallone Jr., Candidate for Queens Borough President, Meets with Hunters Point Civic Association 6/11/2013
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Scott Stringer, President of Borough of Manhattan, Candidate for NYC Comptroller, Speaking at Hunters Point Civic Association, Long Island City. 6/11/2013
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Scott Stringer, President, Borough of Manhattan, Candidate for NYC Comptroller, says Unresolved Union Contracts with City Workers are the most Critical Issue Facing the City
Speaking at the Hunters Point Civic Association in Long Island City, Scott Stringer, cadidate for NYC Comptroller and current President of the Borough of Manhattan, said that none of the city unions have a contract at this time, and that the contract negotiations are a critical issue. He called for the Mayor and the responsible parties to come to the negotiating table and resolve the problem that will hang over into the next Mayor's term if not fixed now.
The meeting was co-hosted by Hunters Point Civic Association and the Hunters Point Community Development Corporation. Brent O'Leary and Terry Adams as Presidents lead the meeting and participated.
"The Hunters Point Civic Association was very pleased at the success of our meeting and especially all the people who have come forth to become active in making our neighborhood a better place to live and we are
thankful for Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer and City Council Member Peter Vallone Jr. for taking time from their busy schedules to come to our event to discuss their plans with regards to Hunters Point and take questions from our members. " Brent O'Leary, President, Hunters Point Civic Association
OurLIC was at the meeting and presents full VIDEO coverage of Scott Stringers remarks.
Watch here for summary HIGHLIGHTS.
Also, watch for separate article and video of Peter Vallone, Jr. addressing the same meeting of the Hunters Point Civic Association. Video, being processed, appears with this article.
RELATED OURLIC NEWS
Peter Vallone Jr., Candidate for Queens Borough President, Meets with Hunters Point Civic Association 6/11/2013
Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for Scott Stringer, President, Borough of Manhattan, Candidate for NYC Comptroller, says Unresolved Union Contracts with City Workers are the most Critical Issue Facing the City
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Local Companies participate in CAREER DAY 2013 at Information Technology High School in Long Island City 5/31/2013
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Cisco recruits from Information Technology High School in Long Island City
Photojournalist, Tony Vaccaro, talks to two Information Technology High School Students
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Arthur Rosenfield, President of Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce, offers thoughts to students on being 'COMPETITIVE and RELEVANT' during his Keynote Speech.
Information Technology High School, located at the intersection of 44th Drive and 21st Street in Long Island City, offers curriculum that both trains students in the application technology for regular studies, such as English, but also has special curriculum to teach and train in the use of modern technology tools, software, and equipment. Student studying at Information Technology High School are being prepared for careers in all areas of information processing and general web services. The school includes a Video Academy.
On May 31st, over 300 juniors and seniors studying at the school were able to participate in a Career Day organized by the instructors and Principal Joseph Reed. Approximately 30 companies displayed on tables and coached students about their career opportunities.
OurLIC attended the Career Day and presents VIDEO coverage with this article including a Keynote Speech by Arthur Rosenfield, President of the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce. The Keynote speech included an announcement of the early stages of formation of Friends of Information Technology High School.
Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for Local Companies participate in CAREER DAY 2013 at Information Technology High School in Long Island City 5/31/2013
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Prepare Yourself. Welcome to the VIDEO WORLD of the Students at Information Technology High School's Video Academy in Long Island City!
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OurLIC brings you inside the Video Academy and the evolving "Media Lab" at ITHS on 44th Drive and 21st Street.
A few months ago, OurLIC took an interest in Information Technology High School because it seemed that NYC's plan to place an APPLIED SCIENCES campus, Cornell Technion, a short distance away created an unusual opportunity for the students and the community. The school's instructors, and its Principal, Joseph Reed, were interested in creating more awareness of the Information Technology High School, and were interested in gaining more support from the community.
After receiving permissions from the Department of Education, OurLIC produced a SPECIAL REPORT on Information Technology High School: OurLIC VIDEO CONVERSATION & TOUR: Principal Joseph Reed, Information Technology High School. Giving Students Access to Opportunity
After that article, we met with an instructor, Michael Vanderputen, to discuss the idea of creating a "Media Lab" at the school, and found that much of what was needed, already existed....especially the talent.
Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for Prepare Yourself. Welcome to the VIDEO WORLD of the Students at Information Technology High School's Video Academy in Long Island City!
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OurLIC CONVERSATION: David Thorpe, President of ERDA's Merchant Association. Tourism Survey 2013
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The East River Development Alliance's Merchant Association conducted an important survey of over 100 Long Island City hotel guests visiting the community.
The East River Development Alliance (ERDA) under the leadership of Bishop Mitchell Taylor, plays a key role in virtually all aspects of life and business in Long Island City.
During 2012, ERDA formed a Merchants Association to assist retail and other business owners in the markets where they are active. David Thorpe, became President of the ERDA Merchants Association and began to tackle one of the key areas of opportunity...Tourism.
OurLIC met with David Thorpe, who is an active member of the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce and the Chamber's Travel and Tourism Council for Long Island City. This article is a work in progress. An OurLIC VIDEO Conversation is presented with the article. Watch for summary points and a copy of the Tourism Survey to be made available here.
Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for OurLIC CONVERSATION: David Thorpe, President of ERDA's Merchant Association. Tourism Survey 2013
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David Thorpe, President, East River Development Alliance (ERDA) Merchants Association
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COSTCO Queens offers discounted Sacs Place GIFT Certificate.
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Queens COSTCO on Vernon Blvd in Astoria, Long Island City
Sac's Place Restaurant at Queens COSTCO 6/6/2013
Anthony Sacramone, Partner, Sac's Place, Broadway in Astoria
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LIMITED TIME Members buy four $25.00 Gift Certificates for $50.00
COSTCO Queens has teamed up with Sac's Place Restaurant (Broadway in Astoria) and Sacramones (East Meadow, LI) to offer its members a special discount on four $25.00 GIFT  CERTIFICATES.
Customers of COSTCO lined up on Thursday June 6th at the store to taste the famous Sac's Coal Oven Pizza being sampled. On Friday, Sac's Place owner will be sampling other items like their Madeline's Hand Made Ravioli and the restaurants Lasagne.
OurLIC stopped by the COSTCO store and presents a VIDEO report of this innovative promotional event. Everyone WINS!!
Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for COSTCO Queens offers discounted Sacs Place GIFT Certificate.
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Community Board #2 REJECTS Zoning Variance Request by David Wolkoff for a Plan to Develop Property at the Site of the 5Pointz Building. 6/6/2013
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5Pointz building has become an ICON in Long Island City.
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Long Island City Community Listens to David Wolkoff's Plan for 5 Pointz Development at Public Hearing
ULURP Application (1301901 ZSQ)
22-44 Jackson Ave (aka 5 Pointz)
On May 22, 2013, Community Board #2 held a public hearing regarding the plan for development of the property at 45-46 Davis St, Long Island City, NY, known as 5 Pointz.
ULURP Application (1301901 ZSQ)
22-44 Jackson Ave (aka 5 Pointz)
G&M Realty L.P. has filed an application with the Department of City Planning for a Special Permit pursuant to section 117-56 of the Zoning Resolution for an increase in floor area to facilitate the development of BLOCK 86, LOTS 1, 6, 7, 8, 22 and BLOCK 72, Loty 80 in Community Board #2 with a mixed use development containging approximateley1,000 housing units, 250 public parking spaces, local retail and service uses, and artists strudios and approximately 31,000 square feet of public open space.
The outside space of the building has become a large pallete for Graffitti Art. Because of this art, the building has taken on a contemporary art destination directly across the street from MoMA PS1, with visitors and locals both enjoying the expression of this artform.
Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for Long Island City Community Listens to David Wolkoff's Plan for 5 Pointz Development at Public Hearing
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34th Annual Bicycle Race : Astoria Civic Association and City Council Member Peter Vallone Jr.
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300 Queens Kids Ride in 34th Annual Children’s Bicycle Race in Astoria Park
Astoria Civic Association and City Council Member Peter F. Vallone Jr. hold Bicycle Race for children ages 4 through 11
Children ages 4 through 11, parents, and a host of elected officials converged at Astoria Park for the 34th Annual Bicycle Race on June 9, 2013, "An Astoria Tradition", that also promotes the Judge Charles J. Vallone Scholarship.
Master of ceremonies Former Speaker Peter Vallone Sr., Chair of the Astoria Civic Association, along with Paul Halvatzis, President, and Peter Vallone Jr, City Council Member, kept the event moving from the bandstand on Shore Drive at the foot of the park. Civic leaders and member of the Astoria Civic Association kept this orderly and safe on the street, making sure the races were safe and fair for all the kids.
"Medal" Awards were given to all participating cyclists. First place through fifth place winners were awarded Trophys.
Seventeed races were run in total with some requiring two heats for an age group in order to include all participants without overcrowding the raceway.
OurLIC NEWS was at the Bicycle Race and presents photos and video coverage with this article.
RELEASE FROM COUNCIL MEMBER VALLONE
On June 9th, Council Member Peter F. Vallone Jr. and the Astoria Civic Association hosted the 33rd Annual Children’s Bicycle Race in Astoria Park – one of the City's oldest and longest running children's bike races.
Over 300 children – ages three to11 – from across Queens participated in the race, with over $1,900 in prizes and awards distributed. The event featured 16 total bike races, with eight in each the girls and boys divisions.
The Astoria Civic Association was founded by Council Member Vallone’s grandfather, Judge Charles J. Vallone, and is one of the oldest and most prestigious civic associations in Queens. The bike race was started by his father, former City Council Speaker Peter Vallone Sr., over three decades ago.
"For over 30 years, this bike race has been filled with fun for the whole family at one of New York City’s most beautiful locations. It was no different today, and it won't be for the next 30 years either," said Council Member Vallone.
Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for 300 Queens Kids Ride in 34th Annual Children’s Bicycle Race in Astoria Park
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Halletts Point Community Approved by Community Board #1 5/21/2013
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Over 2,000 Units on East River
On May 21, 2013 Lincoln Equities Group, the Development Partner, presented a plan for "Halletts Point ~ A New Queens Community" to the Queens Community Board #1. The plan was substantially approved.
Hallets Point is a peninsula on the East River that is located just north of the tip of Roosevelt Island, and just South of Randalls Island, forming a narrow tidal strait called Hell Gate.
Project Objects for the area of development include:
Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for Halletts Point Community Approved by Community Board #1 5/21/2013
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Diana Reyna, Chair of New York City Council's Committee on Small Business [ SPECIAL RECEPTION AND MEETING May 16, 2013: Meet with Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce ]
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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
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OurLIC.TV launched as a Community TV Platform.
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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
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OurLIC VIDEO CONVERSATION: Tokumbo Shobowale, Chief Business Operations Executive, NYC 5/1/2013
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Tokumbo Shobowale is the Chief Business Operations Officer of the City of New York. In this role he serves as the Bloomberg Administration’s lead official in implementing business-friendly practices.
Mayor Bloomberg at his desk in the City Hall Bullpen. 5/1/2013
Inside City Hall. Statue of Geoge Washington (L).
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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:
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The DOE Unilaterally Decided to Place 1,000 Students in 70 High Schools with Selective Programs that Normally Require an Audition
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John Catsimatidis Endorsed for Mayor by the Liberal Party of New York 5/7/2013
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Liberal Party Executive Director Martin I. Hassner said, "I am confident that the candidacy of John Catsimatidis will be a step towards helping the Liberal Party rebuild on a sound foundation of principles
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Director Martin Hassner Praises Catsimatidis and discusses the Fusion of the Liberal Party with the Republican Candidate
The Liberal Party of New York State today endorsed John Catsimatidis, the successful businessman and independent Republican as their nominee for Mayor of the City of New York. The endorsement was made Tuesday morning at a City Hall area news conference by Liberal Party Chairman Jack Olchin.
Chairman Jack Olchin said "John Catsimatidis understands history and respects the power of a successful Republican-Liberal Party fusion in New York City electoral politics. In addition, John also understands the concerns and aspirations of all New Yorkers and we feel he will be a people's Mayor just like the first Republican-Liberal Party fusion Mayor, Fiorello LaGuardia in the 1940's. For those and many other reasons the our party is proud to endorse John Catsimatidis as the Liberal Party nominee for Mayor of New York City.
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"A member of the Liberal Party recently described John Catsimatidis as an 'uncommon common man', an individual who will speak to all New Yorkers in a language they understand; with a genuine feeling and concern for their well-being that will be recognized in every neighborhood in the city and by all of us who care about New York's present and future."
Liberal Party Executive Director Martin I. Hassner said, "I am confident that the candidacy of John Catsimatidis will be a step towards helping the Liberal Party rebuild on a sound foundation of principles that will not only benefit the party but, will benefit the people of New York City as well. John will fill the void left by Tom Allon who was our standard bearer until his recent withdrawal from the race. The only thing we ask of John is that like Mr. Allon, he works to ensure that the Liberal Party has the signatures need to qualify for the November ballot.
"The Liberal Party appreciates Catsimatidis' acceptance of its principal campaign issue: a comprehensive reform of the city's public school system with a concentration on teaching children, not testing them, and providing intensive training and a Master Teacher Program to help teachers to the best job possible in their crucial work.
"John Catsimatidis is a real businessman and manager who will open the city's books as he would at any business so as to find the waste, the mistakes, the bad judgment and the total lack of oversight that has caused the budget to go up 55% in the past eleven years and forced the raising of taxes and fees to meet those expenses…mostly at the cost of our middle class.
"This is a manager who has dealt with unions his entire business career and understands the needs of union leadership and the men and women who belong to unions. He will negotiate as an individual who understand how to relate to the leadership and the rank and file, so as to hammer out new municipal union contracts that will save the city millions while providing the best possible deal for our city employees.
"John Catsimatidis understands that with hands on training our police force will minimize the difficulties experienced with 'stop, question and frisk' until the arrival of new electronic detection technology which will totally eliminate the need for the existing program.
"And finally John Catsimatidis has created tens of thousands of jobs over the course of his business career. Few in public life have such experience. But, John recognizes that times have changed…that making New York the high tech city of the world is simply not enough. Jobs for the middle class without a high-tech educational background are critical for our city. Whether it is the return of manufacturing, an expansion of basic healthcare employment in a new attempt to bring healthcare to within ten minutes of every city resident, or a combination of new ingredients, Catsimatidis is personally committed to make jobs happen.
"He's going to be a great Mayor and we're proud to help him when and where we can".
John Catsimatidis said, "I am proud to accept the nomination of the Liberal Party and with their support and the support of the Republican Party create the coalition needed to win in November. "
Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for John Catsimatidis Endorsed for Mayor by the Liberal Party of New York 5/7/2013
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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!
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Council Member Diana Reyna, Chair of Small Business Commitee for the City Council, will be a Guest Speaker May 16, 2013 at 11:00 AM
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Assisting Government with Regulation Reform for Small Business
 On Thursday May 16th, the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce will host a meeting of executives from other Chambers of Commerce so that we can begin to pool our resources and strengthen our advocacy for small businesses.
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:
'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.'
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!
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Steinway & Sons is the Setting for 'MAKE IT HERE' Focus on Manufacturing in Long Island City, Astoria, and Queens.
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Peter Vallone. Jr. NYC Council Member ~ Candidate for President of Borough of Queens ~ speaks at Steinway & Sons to Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce. 4/18/2013
Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce Members meet at Steinway to focus on
(R) Andrew Horbachevsky, Vice President, Manufacturing - Steinway & Sons, Astoria, New York conducts tour of Steinway & Sons piano factory for members of Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce.
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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.
 Steinway & Sons sets an extremely high standard for manufacturing, sales, and service. It's pianos are a remarkable success story worldwide. It also sets a good example for other companies that want to succeed.
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.
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Mayor Bloomberg Signs Legislation Easing Regulatory Burdens on NYC Small Businesses 4/23/2013
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Mayor Bloomberg Signs Legislation Easing Regulatory Burdens on NYC Small Businesses 4/23/2013
Christine Quinn, Speaker of the New York City Council pushes bill to ease regulations and fines for small business..
Diana Reyna, Chair of New York City Council's Committee on Small Business
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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.
[ SPECIAL RECEPTION AND MEETING 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 Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce. ]
 The NY City Council voted on April 9, 2013 to take action on the Regulatory Review Panel recommendations originally presented in 2010. The small business community has been watching the legislation because one major element is the identification of regulations which can be eliminated by agencies, and also other regulations which can be administered with warnings and time to cure before violation turn to fines.
Mayor Bloomberg signed the bill into law April 23, 2013.
Council Member Peter Vallone, Jr., one of the sponsors of the warnings bill, said that the bill "requires agencies to come back to us in August with their recommendations. I would expect action in the fall."
The following contains:
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Gwenael Apollon, Secretaire General; YMCA Haiti
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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
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City Council Member Peter Vallone Jr. Joins Coalition of Latin American Consul Generals to Discuss Public Safety in Latino Neighborhoods of Queens 5/6/2013
CLACNY is comprised of the 21 Consul Generals from Latin American countries to New York City.
On May 6th, Council Member Peter F. Vallone Jr. – Chair of the Public Safety Committee – met with 10 Consul Generals and/or diplomats from the Coalition of Latin American Consul Generals (CLACNY) at the Centro Español of Queens to discuss safety initiatives within the Latino communities of Queens.
Among the issues discussed at the meeting were methods by which consulates can learn of the arrests of citizens, stop and frisk, Vallone’s racial profiling ban, the dangers of the "Community Safety Act" and the re-establishment of the Vallone Scholarship.
"It is vital that communication is maintained between the NYPD and the Latin-American communities of Queens," said Council Member Vallone. "Responsible leaders like the Consul Generals here today must work with the police to keep us safe from crime and terror, as well as reform the NYPD when necessary."
CLACNY, which is comprised of the 21 Consul Generals from Latin American countries to New York, is an advocacy group working towards the betterment of the Latino population in the City. The Consul Generals and diplomats who attended the meeting were from Mexico, Argentina, Chile, El Salvador, Guatemala, Ecuador, Brazil, Columbia, Honduras and Peru.
"Queens has the largest population of Latinos in the city of New York, and therefore, this is a natural and important forum to discuss actions the Coalition of Latin American Consul Generals can take to improve public safety," said Consul General Julio Fiol of Chile, who is the former coordinator of CLACNY.
OurLIC attended the meeting and presents Full Video coverage with this article. Please also watch OurLIC.TV, a new, multi-Channel Community TV platform for Greater Long Island City.
Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for City Council Member Peter Vallone Jr. Joins Coalition of Latin American Consul Generals to Discuss Public Safety in Latino Neighborhoods of Queens 5/6/2013
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Taste of Romania Brings Together Two Communities. Welcome by Romanian Consul General for New York
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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
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John Catsimatidis. KEYNOTE Speaker. Candidate for Mayor of NYC. Symposium on Valuation Strategies, Long Island City / Astoria Chamber or Commerce February 27 / 28, 2013 |
Long island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce Presents 'Community Leadership Resolution' to Hon. Peter F. Vallone, Sr. First Speaker of the City Council for the City of New York |
Lindsay J. Thompson. Lindsay Thompson is an Associate Professor at the Johns Hopkins Carey Business School in Baltimore, Maryland, |
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David J. Wilk, CRE, MAI, National Director, Corp RE & Advisory Services, Sperry Van Ness and Corporate Valuation Advisors (moderator) |
Kathrine Gregory, Entrepreneurs Space. Panelist at Community Symposium February 28, 2013 hosted by Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce. |
Kip McMahan, Principal, Fletcher Thompson Architects |
Full Video Coverage of Community Symposium made available by Sponsors: Alma Bank, 30th Avenue Business Association, and OurLIC NEWS.
On February 27th and 28th, the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce presented a Symposium as part of a Community Development Symposium Series it is organizing. The theme of this Symposium was “Place-making Economic Development and Corporate Real Estate/Social  Value Creation Strategies" which presented innovative ideas on strategies for corporations, municipalities, and entrepreneurs to create new economic development and jobs within the communities. The Symposium was created by Corporate Valuation Advisors and Sperry Van Ness, leading national real estate and valuation consulting firms recognized for their work with corporations, private equity firms, universities, governments, and communities throughout the United States (www.valuecreaterealestate.com)
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
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APRIL 18th 2:00 pm: 'Make it HERE!' Advocating for 'Manufacturing' in Long Island City / Astoria / Queens.
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(L) Terry Walsh, Chief Factory Technician (R) Andrew Horbachevsky, Vice President, Manufacturing - Steinway & Sons, Astoria, New York
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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.
Steinway & Sons is an Astoria company that has set the highest worldwide standard for manufacturing for over 100 years. It sets an example for success worldwide! That success is clearly observable by the fact that this company, and its pianos, have influenced the entertainment and music industries worldwide for decades. If a performing artists wants to create the most perfect concert quality music, they must use Steinway. There is no equal. There is no compromise.
The Case for Manufacturing in Long Island City / Astoria / Queens will be the to pic of a special meeting of the Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce on April 18, 2013 at the Steinway & Sons manufacturing headquarters.
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.
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OurLIC VIDEO CONVERSATION & TOUR: Principal Joseph Reed, Information Technology High School. Giving Students Access to Opportunity
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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
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Joseph Reed, Principal, Information Technology High School. Long Island City, New York
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Diana Reyna, Chair of New York City Council's Committee on Small Business
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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
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Leaders from Roosevelt Island Meet with Long Island City Business Community to Discuss Emerging Relationship Opportunities 3/26/2013
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Janet Falk, Publich Relations entrepreneur and member of Roosevelt Island Business Networking organization.
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'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
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People's United Bank Opens its Third Queens Branch inside Stop & Shop in Long Island City
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People's United Bank opens branch inside Stop & Shop in Long Island City
People's United Bank opens branch inside Stop & Shop in Long Island City
Ribbon cutting ceremony. People's United Bank opens branch inside Stop & Shop in Long Island City
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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
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Danielle De Stefano, Local Youth Coach, Throws Hat in Ring to Represent Astoria / Jackson Heights District 22 in NYC City Council
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Danielle De Steffano, Local Youth Coach, Throws Hat in Ring to Represent Astoria / Jackson Heights District 22 in NYC City Council
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On May 9, 2013, Danielle De Stefano announced her candidacy for City Council District 22 in Astoria. Her key platform points are:
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OURLIC SPECIAL REPORT: NEIGHBORHOOD LIFE in Astoria, Sunnyside, Long Island City
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NY Marathon along Vernon Blvd |
30th Avenue Astoria Neighborhood Life |
Ditmars Blvd Astoria Neighborhood Life |
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Madera Cuban Grill - Vernon Blvd LIC |
Sugar Freak - 30th Avenue Astoria |
Grand Cafe - 30th Ave Astoria |
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.
Now, we are opening a new chapter of this service with the announcement of "NEIGBORHOOD LIFE". With OurLIC NEIGHBORHOOD LIFE we will reach deeper into the changes on each major Avenue, Street, Road, and Boulevard of NYC where we can spot the trends that are changing our lifestyle, quality of life, neighbors, restaurants, shops, and quality of business in Astoria, Long Island City and perhaps catch the shifts in the NYC experience.
Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for OURLIC SPECIAL REPORT: NEIGHBORHOOD LIFE in Astoria, Sunnyside, Long Island City
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VIDEO COVERAGE: Long Island City Tourism Project Part 2
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Interested parties can receive a copy of the DRAFT PROPOSAL for Long Island City Tourism Project by contacting Arthur Rosenfield at email to Arthur@LICChamber.com
NY State Senator Michael Gianaris speaks to Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce 1/17/2013
Proposed plan to develop tourism for Greater Long Island City presented by Arthur Rosenfield, President, Long Island City / Astoria Chamber of Commerce.
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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 Trend is Blend
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Blend Restaurant on Vernon Blvd in Long Island City.
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Blend is a restaurant that brings together the rich, savory, flavorful foods from many different Latin cuisines.
The goal of Blend, a very successful Latin Fusion restaurant on trendy Vernon Blvd. in Long Island City, is to offer “close to home cooked” delicious and nutritious foods from countries that are the homelands of so much of the population here. And, the more authentic the better.
Restaurant goers who know Latin cuisine flock to Blend. They know what authentic is and what "home cooked" tastes like.
Blend's food is delicious! It is also abundant and beautifully presented. The restaurant is casual, but the amenities say fine dining. Cloth napkins, sparkling glassware, an attentive waitstaff and other touches are what makes your experience such a pleasure. Blend knows that good food should be presented in a quality manner and they do just that!
Go to full Dining GUIDE Restaurant Review, Video and Photos for The Trend is Blend
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OKEANOS Greek Seafood Restaurant Earns Recommendation from CityEntree
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Fresh from the market, grilled fish at OKEANOS Greek Seafood Restaurant on Ditmars Blvd in Astoria
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Put OKEANOS at the top of your
"to go" list. It is on Ditmars Blvd in
Astoria.
OKEANOS is definitely one of the best Greek restaurants in New York for both traditional and innovative Greek cuisine. Their excellent chef has been honing his skills for the past 30 years; and, the perfecting of his dishes are the reward that you will enjoy!
We are excited about the food at OKEANOS Greek Seafood Restaurant. It is delicious and world class, offering diners a great value. Food is abundant and presented in an appetizing way.
OKEANOS is a CityEntree RECOMMENDED restaurant.
Go to full Dining GUIDE Restaurant Review, Video and Photos for OKEANOS Greek Seafood Restaurant Earns Recommendation from CityEntree
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Terry Walsh, "Tone Meister", Steinway & Sons
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VIDEO TOUR: Steinway & Sons...It's on a different scale!
OurLIC tours the Steinway & Sons
factory with Terry Walsh, "Tone
Meister" at Steinway & Sons.
Steinway concert pianos, like the concert pianists who play them, are legendary...and for good reason. Each piano manufactured by Steinway & Sons in Astoria takes over a year to build. Then there comes the task of tuning a Steinway piano to perfection so that it matches the artistry of the pianist with the unique acoustics of each hall.
A customer of a Steinway will pay over $100,000 for the joy of owning and playing an instrument that is capable of producing the most perfect sound of music known to man. Regardless of what is tried to match the sound of a Steinway, the human ear can faithfully distinguish the rich tonal quality of a Steinway piano. It has since the early 1800's.
For those who live in Astoria / Long Island City, this is something to be proud of. The people who make these incredible pianos live and work in this community. The hands that make these pianos are OUR hands. These pianos are used by top performing artists all over the world, and owned by people who represent the highest standards in their appreciation of music.
Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for VIDEO TOUR: Steinway & Sons...It's on a different scale!
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Long Island City Tourism Initiative Encouraged by New York State Department of Tourism and NYC & Co.
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| Exclusive Video and Photo Coverage
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MTA Proposes New Bus Line connecting Williamsburg, Greenpoint, and Long Island City
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MTA Plans New Bus Line to Connect Brooklyn's Williamsburg and Greenpoint with Long Island City
Proposal Presented to Community Board #2 January 3, 2013
On January 3, 2013 The MTA presented a proposed plan for new bus service to connect Western Brooklyn with Long Island City. Primarily, the service would connect Williamsburg and Greenpoint with Long Island City.
The bus would cross the Pulaski Bridge, run down 11th Street, turn right on Jackson Ave, and return over the Pulaski Bridge.
Chairman of the Community Board, Joe Conley, introduced the MTA spokesmen with a comment that he views this as a "first phase" leading to improved bus service for Hunters Point area.
Go to Full OurLIC Article, Video and Photos for MTA Plans New Bus Line to Connect Brooklyn's Williamsburg and Greenpoint with Long Island City
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PREVIEW OurLIC VIDEO CONVERSATION: Kirk Karabelas, Chairman; and Charles Koehler, Executive Vice President; ALMA Bank
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Kirk Karabelas, Chairman; ALMA Bank |
Charles Koehler, Executive Vice President, Chief Lending Officer; ALMA Bank |
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