On December 2, IFMAGNY held its annual holiday party event which seemed to coincide with the arrival of New York's holiday atmosphere. Lights were twinkling and shoppers were out and about. The spirit of the holiday was apparent, as the 101 Club (101 Park Avenue) was "decked out" in seasonal colors and lighting. More than 145 members attended the "kick off" holiday event, with approximately 50% of the attendees being facility managers. The Toys for Tots Donation Drive (toys were once again donated to the Fraternité Notre Dame Church) was a huge success, with more toys, dolls and games for kids of all ages being donated than ever before. Sister Mary Margrette and Sister Mary Renee came downtown from the church to attend the event and marveled at the generosity shown by our members. Lisa Tartaglia (AFD Contract Furniture, Inc.) of the IFMA Cares Committee organized the toy drive. Lisa has been at the Fraternité Notre Dame Church when the gifts had been handed out and knows how much the children appreciate this gesture from IFMAGNY. "You can't believe how long the line is and how patient and appreciative the children are. For many of these kids, it's literally their only gift. It really helps make their holiday!" J. Strong (Integrated) was in charge of the IFMA Bucks Silent Auction Raffle and was very enthused by both the prize donations and the fact that IFMA Bucks is a growing awareness for facility managers of IFMAGNY. Sixteen prizes were donated, to be raffled off to the highest bidders. The least valuable prize was a $25 gift card and the most expensive prize was valued at over $2,300 (a trip to Europe). Gary Fescine, FMA, RPA (Blackrock, Inc.) walked away with the grand prize. Ed Norton (CIBC World Markets) won the Karistan Area Rug, valued at $1,200 and Bob Cotrell, CFM (Facility Management Partners) won the Flat Screen TV. All in all, it was a memorable evening. There was a caricaturist, live entertainment, both musical and artistic, as well as great food and drink. I'm sure everyone who was able to attend will be looking forward to next year's party. Mike Moskowitz (Gateway Chauffeured Services) is an associate member of IFMAGNY and currently chairs the IFMA Cares committee.