State Sen. John Liu presented 12 Northeast Queens businesses with the New York State Empire Award, which is the highest honor the state senate grants to businesses and organizations that have made significant contributions to their communities.

A ceremony was hosted last Friday at Sheraton Laguardia East Hotel in Flushing — in collaboration with the Flushing and Bayside Village business improvement districts — to celebrate a diverse array of businesses spanning Flushing, Bayside and Fresh Meadows.

This year’s honorees are Avli The Little Greek Tavern, Eye and I Eyecare, Bell Formal Wear, C2A Campus SAT Prep and Tutoring, Fresh Meadows Pizza, Krave It Pizza and Sandwich Joint, Ludus Jewelry, Champion Martial Arts, Lu Ning Architect, Eglance Bookstore, Coffee Factory and One Station Plaza.

According to a news release from Liu’s office, recipients of the award demonstrate achievements in leadership, innovation, economic impact and service, as well as exceptional commitment to customers, employees and the communities they serve.

“Our state would not be what it is without all of the hardworking entrepreneurial business owners in our community,” Liu said. “With all of your continued efforts — and you have me as a partner to do whatever I can for small businesses — we make our community better, safer and more prosperous, create more jobs, and, of course, return to you what you need and what you deserve in exchange for the risks that you take.”

Liu praised Queens businesses for driving the local and state economy, vowing to continue his support during his time in office.Photo by Ramy Mahmoud

Dian Yu, executive director of the Flushing Business Improvement District, emphasized that each business honored with this year’s award is crucial to driving economic traffic in the communities they serve.

“These businesses are a great representation of the diversity of businesses our community has to offer,” Yu said. “From the best food in the city to a full spectrum of retail and service businesses, these entrepreneurs offer unique services that keep our community fresh and innovative and their customers coming back for more.”

Noah Sheroff, executive director of the Bayside Village Business Improvement District, added that the district was proud to boast diverse businesses that neighbors and tourists alike could visit and enjoy.

“These businesses have deep roots in the community and represent the very best of northeast Queens,” Sheroff said. “Their commitment to doing business here helps strengthen our economy and provides residents and visitors with a wide variety of services. We’re proud to see them recognized with the New York State Empire Award.”

Photo by Ramy Mahmoud
Photo by Ramy Mahmoud
Photo by Ramy Mahmoud
Photo by Ramy Mahmoud
Photo by Ramy Mahmoud
Photo by Ramy Mahmoud
Photo by Ramy Mahmoud
Photo by Ramy Mahmoud
Photo by Ramy Mahmoud
Photo by Ramy Mahmoud
Photo by Ramy Mahmoud