3 days ago
'Chef Niema Day,' winner of Food Network's Beat Bobby Flay recognized
SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) — Chef Niema DiGrazia, a talented West African culinary artist and beloved community figure, was honored by the Caddo Parish Commissioners for her victory on Food Network's Beat Bobby Flay.
In recognition of her achievement, they declared Saturday, June 7, 2025, 'Chef Niema DiGrazia Day' to celebrate her talent and impact.
'This moment is just not for me. It is for my community. It is for my family in Sierra Leone. It is for my friends. It is for women and men around the world who do not have hope. Like when I left Sierra Leone, I didn't know what I was going to do in America,'
'This resolution isn't just for me. It belongs to every young dreamer, every immigrant, every chef, and every supporter who has worked beside me on this journey. Thank you for making this day unforgettable,' said Chef Niema, accepting her special proclamation.
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On Thursday, June 5, Caddo Parish District 5's Commissioner Roy Burrel joked, giving a playful pat to his stomach, 'Now I see why you're so slim because you've deposited it all here.'
Commissioner Victor L. Thomas offered a glowing congratulatory statement and said, 'You have uniquely and creatively come into our community and made sure that we are aware of all that your culture has to offer, and we are so very proud of you for that. It's an honor to be able to do this. It's an honor to be able to stand here and proclaim your victory and how much our community loves you, and we know how much you love our community.'
Chef Niema is the Executive Chef at Abby Singer's Bistro, located on the second floor of the non-profit Robinson Film Center in downtown Shreveport at 617 Texas Street.
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