Jan. 15, 2018 By Nathaly Pesantez

The Sunnyside Chamber of Commerce has selected Tony Tang, owner of the UPS Store on Queens Boulevard, as the recipient of the eighth Luke Adams Sunnysider of the Year award.

The Chamber will present a crystal plaque to Tang on Jan. 23 at Tangra, located at 39-23 Queens Blvd. in a ceremony called the “Blue Moon Ball” starting at 6 p.m.

Tang stood out among the nominees for this round due to his “30-plus years of small business diligence, community spirit, and honorable dealing,” according to the Sunnyside Chamber.

“Tony Tang’s modesty, generosity to the community, wonderful personality, unfailing courtesy to all, and work ethic have been a 30-year example of small town success, industry and quiet perseverance,” reads part of Tang’s biography on the Sunnyside Chamber webpage. “His wife, Leena Tang, has worked by his side for their often 7-day, 12-hour schedules.”

Patricia Dorfman, executive director of the board, added that the award is given to “unsung heroes”, like Luke Adams, who work hard behind the scenes to help others succeed.

Tang, 64, ran Flagship Entertainment, a photo and video store at 45-04 Queens Blvd., for nearly 30 years before it closed in 2011. Prior to that, he divided the space to create two store fronts, one of which is now UPS. The remaining space has gone through several restaurant concepts, and is now the site of Zen Yai restaurant.

The “Blue Moon Ball” will also honor five others who are the recipients of the first ever “Queens Impact Awards”. These awards are given to locals who made a positive difference in the community through personal drive and work ethic.

The ceremony, which will include dancing, a three-course-meal, raffles, and a free glass of wine, is open to all with a ticket, priced at $55. Tickets can be purchased via Eventbrite, or by calling Kris Czerniachowicz, event coordinator, at 646-552-8165.

Queens Impact Award Recipients

Manny Gomez – Sunnyside Chamber of Commerce

Melissa Orlando – Access Queens and Sunnyside Ballet

Ramiro Mendez of DeMole

Meridith Maskara- Girl Scouts of Greater New York

Sherilyn Jo Sabba – Woodside Herald