State Senator John Liu Presents Eight Northeast Queens Businesses With NYS Empire Awards During National Small Business Week

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Friday, May 9, 2025
Contact: Soojin Choi |347-556-6335| press@johnliusenate.com 

Queens, NY - In honor of National Small Business Week, State Senator John Liu presented eight northeast Queens businesses with the New York State Empire Award. The Empire Award is the highest honor the Senate bestows upon businesses and organizations that have made significant contributions to their communities and the state. It recognizes dedication to customers, employees, and the wider community, as well as successful business practices, innovative approaches, and a positive impact on economic growth.

State Senator John Liu stated, “It’s no secret that northeast Queens is replete with innovative small businesses who pour their hearts and souls into not just their own businesses, but also the communities their businesses serve. These eight local businesses have made a name for themselves for their leadership, innovation, economic impact, and community partnership, and they are truly deserving of our recognition and thanks.”

Dian Yu, Executive Director, Flushing Business Improvement District, stated, “Flushing has a thriving business community that continues to grow and innovate every day. This recognition by the State of New York affirms the dedication and community spirit of our local entrepreneurs, and we’re proud to see their hard work honored with the Empire Award.”

Noah Sheroff, Executive Director, Bayside Village Business Improvement District, stated, “These diverse business owners and representatives have not only enhanced the Bayside and greater Queens economy but have helped grow the local neighborhood through their unwavering commitment to charity, small business and workforce development and community building and engagement.”

The following businesses were presented the Empire Award: 

KM Pharmacy
Founded in 2016 by Flushing native Henry Lee, PharmD, KM Pharmacy is a trusted neighborhood pharmacy known for its compassionate, personalized care. With a multilingual team and deep community roots, the pharmacy has become a cornerstone of health in Flushing, offering accessible services, including vaccinations and health outreach, while prioritizing relationships and equity in care.

Crispy Burger
Crispy Burger, a growing local chain founded by Fred Zhang, has earned a loyal following with its high-quality, flavorful chicken burgers and community-focused spirit. From its Main Street Flushing location, the restaurant delivers excellent service and a welcoming atmosphere while remaining active in local events and initiatives.

Shanghai You Garden
Since opening in 2016, Shanghai You Garden has brought the rich flavors of Shanghainese cuisine to Flushing, offering beloved dishes like soup dumplings and dim sum. With expanded locations in Bayside and Long Island, the restaurant is celebrated for its authenticity, quality, and commitment to sharing Chinese culinary traditions with the broader New York community.

Flushing Kent Realty Management
As it approaches its 75th anniversary, Flushing Kent Realty Management remains a family-run leader in Queens commercial real estate, managing over 25 properties with a personalized, hands-on approach. Known for supporting local, family-owned businesses, the firm is deeply embedded in the fabric of the Flushing business community.

New Golden Wine & Liquor
Owned by longtime Bayside residents Herbert and Michelle Cheng, New Golden Wine & Liquor has been a neighborhood fixture since 2007, with roots dating back to 1979. Beyond running a successful business, the couple is actively involved in civic life, supporting local schools, churches, law enforcement, and community events, while Herbert serves as Treasurer of the Bayside Village BID.

Papazzio
Papazzio, an Italian restaurant founded in 1990 by Dominick Bruccoleri, blends culinary tradition with community leadership. Located on Bell Boulevard, the restaurant honors family legacy while Dominick’s longstanding service in local business associations and nonprofits reflects a deep commitment to Bayside’s growth and civic engagement.

JMV Associates and Architect
JMV Associates and Architect, led by Jacqueline Velez and Tarek M. Zeid, PE, are MWBE-certified firms based in Bayside with a combined legacy of over 30 years in zoning, permitting, and architectural services. Their transformative redevelopment of the historic Bell Boulevard theater into Bell Towers reflects their commitment to innovation, community impact, and preserving local heritage.

Turn the Page… Again!
Turn the Page… Again! is a unique nonprofit bookstore offering employment and training for individuals with mental health diagnoses. Operated by TSINY since 2010, the store is a vital part of Bayside, supporting education, hosting community events, and fostering inclusive job opportunities while actively participating in local initiatives.

Photo 1: Senator Liu, Flushing BID, KM Pharmacy, Crispy Burger, Shanghai You Garden, and Flushing Kent Realty Management

Photo 2: Senator Liu, Bayside Village BID, Papazzio, JMV Associates and Architect, New Golden Wine & Liquor, and Turn the Page… Again!