Robert H. “Bob” Stern (d. 1998) owned “Sig Stern Inc.” a popular children’s store on Steinway Street until 1975, when he embarked on a second career as a real estate broker. He successfully led the Steinway Merchants in their efforts to establish a Steinway Street Business Improvement District and was its president until his death. Bob Stern’s opinion was solicited on all matters concerning “the street” and he firmly believed that Business Improvement Districts (BID’s) would be the salvation of commercial strips throughout the City. In recognition of his many years of outstanding leadership and service to his community Steinway Street, between 31st Avenue and Broadway, the location of his original store, was named “Bob Stern Way” in his honor.