Queens Food, Philanthropy Shine at QCP 30th Annual Gala
By MOHAMED FARGHALY
mfarghaly@queensledger.com
Queens Centers for Progress marked a major milestone on March 24 with its 30th Annual Evening of Fine Food, bringing together more than 550 attendees at Terrace on the Park. The signature culinary fundraiser raised $165,000 to support QCP’s programs and services for over 1,200 children and adults with developmental disabilities.
The event showcased the borough’s rich food scene, featuring dishes and beverages from dozens of local restaurants and purveyors, while celebrating Queens’ spirit of generosity and inclusion.
“This 30-year milestone is a testament to the strength of the Queens community and the unwavering support for the people we serve,” said Terri Ross, executive director of Queens Centers for Progress. “Because of the generosity of our attendees, sponsors, and restaurant partners, QCP can continue expanding opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities to live with dignity, independence, and purpose.”
Queens Public Television’s Roslyn Nieves and PIX11 reporter Monica Morales, an eight-time Emmy Award winner, served as emcees, joined by special guest co-host and Queens foodie Rick Bedrosian. The evening was broadcast live on QPTV’s website, guiding guests through dining, networking, and celebration.
Elected officials in attendance included New York City Council Members James Gennaro and Shanel Thomas-Henry, along with representatives from the offices of Assembly Member David Weprin and Borough President Donovan Richards.
This year, QCP recognized its 2026 Chefs of the Year: Patricia Ornst of Delta Air Lines, Richard S. David of Con Edison, and Ben Guttmann of the Queens Economic Development Corporation. Each prepared a specialty dish reflecting their cultural or family traditions for guests to sample.
Ben Guttmann, who recently became executive director of QEDC, said, “It’s a real honor to be named one of the chefs of the year. They’re an incredible organization doing essential work in the community, and to be recognized alongside the other honorees is truly special.”
Guttmann described his work at QEDC as an extension of his connection to Queens. “I’ve loved it. It’s been a lot of fun. I live in Queens, I love Queens, and I’m grateful I get to work in and for this community every day,” he said. Under his leadership, the organization has launched new programs focused on access to capital, tourism tied to the World Cup, and partnerships with local entrepreneurs.
Richard David, who grew up in Jamaica, Queens after emigrating from Guyana, reflected on his lifelong commitment to community service. “I wake up every day really thankful and feeling blessed, and I’m so committed to everything that I do. I put my best foot forward, I work really hard and I want to achieve even more than I have achieved,” he said. David’s career spans nonprofit work, politics, and currently directing Queens Regional & Community Affairs at Con Edison, where he engages with local stakeholders on major energy projects.
Patricia Ornst, Delta’s managing director for New York State and local government affairs, emphasized the importance of trust in both business and community work. “There’s a real economic impact that we bring to Queens. But building off of that is important,” she said. Ornst has guided major aviation projects, including the $8 billion redevelopment of LaGuardia Airport, while supporting neighborhood investments, volunteer programs, and MWBE contracts.
QCP also presented the Claire Shulman “Spirit of Community” Award to Loycent Gordon, founder and owner of Neir’s Tavern in Woodhaven. Gordon, who emigrated from Jamaica at age 10 and served over two decades in the NYC Fire Department’s HAZMAT unit, has preserved one of Queens’ oldest bars while fostering community initiatives.
“It really is a huge, purpose-driven initiative. It’s too important to fail. That’s what’s in the back of my head, and that’s what keeps me going,” Gordon said. He credited his mother for inspiring his dedication: “She’s my role model. She made a sacrifice for me, and I have to make sure that her sacrifice is not in vain. I hope to never let her down.”
