On Tuesday, February 25, a large crowd of over 500 people assembled at Terrace on the Park in Flushing Meadow Park to support the Queens Centers for Progress (QCP) and to enjoy an evening celebrating fine food. Wendy Phaff Gennaro, Director of Development at QCP, shared that this year was the first year that two kosher restaurants were added to the program, Union Bistro which included some famous Bukharin dishes, and Simcha Palace on Main Street in Kew Gardens Hills.
The Queens Centers for Progress marked a milestone anniversary – 75 years of empowering individuals with developmental disabilities – by bringing the community together for an evening of celebration, generosity, and gourmet cuisine. The 29th annual “Evening of Fine Food” honored three outstanding individuals whose leadership and service embody the spirit of QCP’s mission.
The event recognized Dr. Sharon B. DeVivo, EdD, President and CEO of Vaughn College, and Uzoamaka N. Okoye, Chief of Staff at the New Terminal One, as this year’s “Chefs of the Year.” Both honorees have made a profound impact on Queens through their professional and community-driven efforts. In a fun and heartfelt twist, each honoree also showcased their culinary talents, sharing a beloved family recipe with attendees. QCP also proudly presented the Claire Shulman “Spirit of Community” Award to Rachel Kellner, owner of Aigner Chocolates, for her dedication to strengthening the borough through philanthropy and community engagement.
Rabbi Manes Kogan opened the ceremonies, and there was a special appearance by Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz and Council Member James F. Gennaro, who provided proclamations for the Honorees.
The event featured food tasting from 48 different restaurants, beverage companies, and dessert companies. People walked around tasting the delicious offerings.
This event is about bringing the community together to enjoy culture and cuisine. Wendy Gennaro shared that food transcends everything.
There was a diverse selection of restaurants from many communities, including a group of African restaurants, a vegan restaurant from Astoria, and Bevos vegan restaurant, a Halal restaurant, and more. Everyone came to help support this nonprofit organization.
The organization is grateful for the tremendous support from the community. It was a happy event. “We have such admiration, appreciation for the honorees and for the community coming out, and the restaurants who provided food and time. We are deeply indebted,” Wendy shared. She hopes next year to include a whole kosher section in the event.
