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On Sunday, October 21, 2007, ACQC hosted its sixteenth annual signature fundraiser, the Gifts of Love Auction and Luncheon at Terrace on the Park. Co-hosted by Bobbi Eakes of All my Children, and John-Paul Lavoisier of One Life to Live, this sold out event consisted of a silent and live auction, raffle, and delicious luncheon. Three hundred and fifty guests attended and the event raised $82,000 to fund additional services for ACQC clients.
After an introduction by Executive Director Phil Glotzer and Board Chair Gail Gordon, ACQC presented awards to honor local politicians and AIDS activists. This year's honorees included Representative Gregory Meeks, of the Sixth Congressional District, and Reverend Gilbert Pickett, Sr., of the Mount Horeb Baptist Church in Corona. Representative Meeks covers all areas of Southeast Queens, including Far Rockaway and Howard Beach. The New York Daily News has acknowledged Congressman Meeks for being "at the forefront of a generational shift in the city's black political leadership," and featured a story on the Youth Conference on HIV/AIDS that the congressman sponsored in conjunction with ACQC and the HIV Network on June 8, 2007. In addition, Congressman Meeks, who is currently serving his sixth full-term, is recognized as a leader in Congress who advocates for services for people with HIV/AIDS.
The fourth pastor of Mount Horeb Baptist Church, Reverend Gilbert Pickett, Sr., has served his congregation since March 1998. Under his leadership, the congregation has grown to over 300 members, established over 20 ministries, and has started a Health and Wellness Education and Community Outreach Ministry. Before presenting Reverend Pickett with his award, Phil Glotzer, ACQC Executive Director, acknowledged the reverend's key role in aiding ACQC: "Pastor Picket is a visible force in fighting the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Queens. He personally advocates for people living with the virus, and his church is a safe haven. When a Syringe Exchange Program was proposed to the Corona vicinity, he immediately volunteered Mount Horeb for the ACQC site. It is because of his leadership that this program has become a reality."
Queens Borough President Helen M. Marshall, Deputy Borough President Karen Koslowitz, and City Council Members Jose Peralta and Hiram Monserrate also contributed to the success of the event. Entertainment was provided by Jim Altamore & Sonos Jazz Trio. Music, delicious food, and the convivial guests and made for a wonderful event!
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