The Queens Council on the Arts was established in 1966 by various leaders of the cultural community under the guidance of Jeanne Dale Katz, whose daughter, Melinda Katz, is the current borough president. The council has grown into a wide-ranging arts service organization providing grants, professional development, and education services, playing a key role in directing city, state, federal, and private funds to emerging artists and organizations.

Inside scoop: The council organizes the Queens Art Express, a huge block party in June that mixes dance, film, literature, music, performance, theater, and visual arts. It also runs 3rd Space, where artists gather to share ideas and talents.