'A wonderful affair'

By Anya Tikka
WESTFALL — If you wanted to help a good cause, or simply sample lots of local great food to eat, Chefs Do Dinner annual fundraiser for the Center for Developmental Disabilities at the Best Western was the place to go.
Twenty-three area restaurants and caterers donated their time and food to the event, now in its 19th year. The hotel foyer buzzed with many local government and school officials, business owners, and other CDD supporters during the cocktail hour. The sit-down dinner was held in a spacious banquet room lined with tables laden with food.
Lisa Randazzo, CDD’s Executive Director, said it’s the premier event of the year for the organization. Nearly 300 guests from the tri-state area were registered to attend, she said, about the same as last year. But the number of participating restaurants has increased, despite the bad economy, she said.
“We have 23 restaurants and caterers participating," she said. "Our goal tonight is to raise $50,000,” the same amount raised last year.
All proceeds will be used to help the kids who come to the center.
Sharon and Peter Daniel, proprietors of The Fork in Shohola, started the event years ago.
"This is a wonderful affair that the whole community is involved in," they said as they rushed to take care of business. "We care for our children throughout the area. It’s wonderful.”
Each year, the event designates a featured child. The honor this year goes to Matthew Wagner, who needs help with a speech disorder. After receiving therapy at the center, he’s able to communicate with his sister and mom and others.
The event also honored Suzanne Wroblewski as “The Children’s Champion for 2017.” She has held many positions in the center and is currently its treasurer. She became involved in the center when her own daughter needed help.
Kelly Gaughan, the master of ceremonies, greeted the guests.
“I’m thrilled to be doing this tonight," she said. "CDD treats children from birth to age five with developmental disabilities, much needed in our community. They have wonderful services."