Contact: Colleen Roche or Jack Deacy (212) 788-2958
The Mayor visited Mr. Avena at his shop on August 6th after it was reported that the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) was going to evict Tony from the shoeshine parlor his father opened in 1922. Since then a compromise has been worked out between the MTA and Tony Avena that will allow him to remain at the original location under the Flushing station of the Long Island Rail Road for several more years with an increase in rent.
"We're gathered here at City Hall this afternoon to celebrate Tony's new lease which will allow him to celebrate his shop's 75th anniversary in 1997," Mayor Giuliani said. "But we're also here to celebrate Tony's life. When he was seven years old, he went to work as an apprentice to his father in his Flushing shoeshine shop. Years later, when he was enrolled in St. John's College and planning to go to law school, his father died of a stroke. Tony had to leave college, give up his plans, and support his mother, sister and six younger brothers. Over the years he has inspired many young people in the neighborhood to complete their education. He's always had a smile and a pleasant word for everyone. He's worked hard for his family and his neighborhood. As we celebrate Labor Day, no one knows more about labor than Tony Avena. He's a role model for all New Yorkers."
Joining Mr. Avena at the ceremony were his wife Helen, his sister Grace, his son Michael, his grandson Michael, daughter-in-law Judy and their daughter, Stacey. Also taking part in the ceremony was Deputy Mayor Rudy Washington, who received the first call for help from Tony's friends and neighbors and was helpful in working out a compromise with the MTA.