New Venue, Renewed Energy for IAEC-NY Fundraiser

The 22nd annual event raises US$15,000 for EESF and treats guests to a new experience.

photos by Casey Hyde

The New York Region of the International Association of Elevator Consultants (IAEC-NY) hosted its 22nd annual fundraising event on August 20 at the exclusive 40/40 Club in Manhattan to great success. In lieu of the traditional boat cruise, it was exciting to hold this year’s event in a trendy and chic new venue.

IAEC-NY fundraising committee members Joe Carracappa, Bill Mogg and your author hosted the event that welcomed many guests from all facets of the elevator industry. As in years past, the fundraiser donated US$15,000 to the Elevator Escalator Safety Foundation (EESF) to help implement safety programs throughout the U.S. EESF Executive Director Nikole Gore–Layton was on hand to accept the donation on behalf of the Foundation.

Guests purchased raffle tickets early in the evening in anticipation of winning one of the many coveted prizes on hand, including an iPhone watch, Beats™ headphones, Bluetooth music speakers and a GoPro® action camera. IAEC Executive Director Shelia Swett helped preside over the awards ceremony.

This year’s event premiered a silent auction hosted by Grandstand Sports & Memorabilia. The crowd’s enthusiasm over some unique items prompted an all-out bidding war. Sought-after items included pictures of Jack Nicklaus, Derek Jeter and Mickey Mantle, a Furla handbag and ladies Givenchy sunglasses.

Guests were treated to a variety of hors d’oeuvres throughout the night, and bartenders kept glasses full, while guests socialized and networked with new and old industry friends. The packed house rocked to the DJ’s eclectic selections. And, the bar area’s flat-screen TVs showcased live streaming pictures of the event’s guests throughout the evening for all to admire.

All in all, the IAEC-NY 2015 fundraiser was heralded a huge success, thanks in part to the energy of our new venue. We can’t wait to see what next year brings. So, stay tuned.