Queens Centers for Progress (QCP) hosted its 30th Annual “Evening of Fine Food,” a night that brought hundreds together for celebration, community, and purpose, as honorees expressed heartfelt gratitude.
Held earlier this year at Terrace on the Park in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, the event drew over 700 people who enjoyed dishes from Queens restaurants while supporting QCP’s mission to serve people with developmental disabilities.
Patricia Ornst (Delta Air Lines), Richard S. David (Con Edison), and Ben Guttmann (Queens Economic Development Corporation) were honored as “Chefs of the Year.” Each thanked supporters and valued the opportunity to give back.
“It’s incredibly meaningful to use something as personal as cooking to support a cause like this,” said David, who reflected on his connection to preparing traditional Guyanese dishes.
Guttmann called the evening an honor and a celebration of Queens’ diversity. He stressed the importance of supporting organizations that uplift the community.
Loycent Gordon, owner of Neir’s Tavern and recipient of the Claire Shulman “Spirit of Community” Award, also expressed gratitude and highlighted the need to support organizations serving the borough’s vulnerable residents.
The evening was emceed by PIX11 reporter Monica Morales with guest co-hosts Joe DiStefano, Rick Bedrosian, and Roslyn Nieves, who guided the program and highlighted QCP’s work.
Wendy Paff-Gennaro, QCP’s development director, said the event’s success was especially meaningful after a brief postponement.
“It was hard to postpone my event a month. It actually gave me time to be calm about it,” she said. “I think things went great. We have another amazing crowd, great restaurants, and we’re doing a great job for our community.”
Paff-Gennaro said about 40 food providers, including honorees, participated, despite a few cancellations due to the new date.
“We have plenty of people, plenty of food, and we’re really pleased,” she said.
She thanked the community and participating restaurants for their ongoing support.
“I just want to thank the community for always showing up for us,” Paff-Gennaro said. “Especially the restaurant community. Without them, where would we be? It’s such a warm, feel-good event, and we truly appreciate the love in the room.”
Attendees sampled dishes and drinks from dozens of local establishments, showcasing Queens’ culinary diversity. Proceeds support QCP’s programs, helping over 1,200 individuals lead more independent, fulfilling lives.
Now in its 30th year, the “Evening of Fine Food” proved a resounding success, highlighting the power of community, culture, and compassion in Queens.
