Kings of Kings County crowned at 2016 networking and awards ceremony

Brooklyn saw a gathering worthy of royalty on Thursday, November 17 as Star Network presented yet another seamless blend of networking and community recognition at the 2016 Kings of Kings County Awards and Networking Event.

The Grand Prospect Hall (263 Prospect Avenue) served as the majestic backdrop to a ceremony that recognized some of Brooklyn’s finest and hardest-working businessmen and community leaders.

“The Home Reporter and Star Network are pleased to acknowledge the many extraordinary achievements of the men we are honoring tonight,” said Home Reporter and Brooklyn Spectator Co-publisher Victoria Schneps-Yunis. “These fabulous men have been so successful because they have a passion for what they do. It is my privilege to recognize them. We know it is a great business tool that will introduce you to a remarkable group of men.”

Along with a VIP cocktail hour, during which the night’s honorees were able to mingle and get to know one another, the evening also featured an opportunity for attendees to check out and chat with local businesses during a business expo portion of the night, followed by a dinner and awards ceremony.

“From a marketing perspective, it’s a wonderful opportunity for networking,” said honoree Vincent Chirico, founder of Chirico Law PLLC, “and, of course, puts your company in a great position within the community. But, aside from the fun of the nomination, you get to have a conversation about it afterwards and get to keep talking about it, which is great.”

Many of the night’s honorees, along with feeling grateful for their nominations, were excited to meet with like-minded peers.

“I’m very humbled, grateful and appreciative,” said A.J. Ciccone, who, alongside his father Tony Ciccone, was an honoree and received an Excellence in Business Legacy Award for his work with Allstate Insurance. “I think it’s good that it recognizes some of the people who give back to these communities and brings them all in a room so that we can really appreciate what other people do in different industries. I think it’s a great event.”

“Being born in Brooklyn, to have anyone honor me and what we do at the THRIVE Network is special,” added Charles Archer, Founder and CEO of The THRIVE Network, a 501(c)(3) social services agency dedicated to meeting the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities. “The work that we do on behalf of people with disabilities is not done for awards; it’s done because we recognize the need. But, it’s very nice and I’m humbled by the award and I appreciate anyone that had anything to do with me getting it.”

The night’s exhibitors were excited to participate in the event, as well.

“I’m actually a past recipient of the Staten Island Power Women award and I really like to follow Vicki and Lori around because I know what they do is very productive and very rewarding,” said Maria Palumbo, vice president of Kearny Bank. “Secondly, we are now in Brooklyn and we are looking to network and to grow our business, especially in this area, because our branch is four blocks from the Grand Prospect Hall. So, we think this is a great location, a nice opportunity to meet small business owners and meet influential people in the area.”

“We really enjoy coming to events like this,” added Robert Sabella, business development manager with AgeWell. “It’s important for the branding, but it also gets our name out there and makes sure people understand what’s available to them. A lot of people just aren’t sure so we’re here to help them and give them that information so they can properly go back into the community and help the people that are in this area.”

“It’s a great place to meet people, network and grow your contacts, and it’s always great to get honored and feel appreciated,” said honoree Roni Shoyfer, vice president and senior retail market manager for Investors Bank.

The evening was sponsored by Investors Bank, Admiral Insurance, Flushing Bank, Allstate Insurance, the NYCB Family of Banks, Chase, National Grid, MCU and Li-Lac Chocolates.