Alley Pond Hosts Hot Cocoa Holiday Auction

Alley Pond Environmental Center held its annual auction yesterday to help raise funds for the centers' 20-plus programs offered to both adults and children throughout the year.

Nearly 70 items, including collectable Barbie dolls, Mikasa, Lennox crystal platters, Hummel ornaments, toys, household items and a few baked goods, were auctioned off on the rainy Sunday night.

Many of the items were also holiday inspired, which suited this year's Hot Cocoa Holiday theme. Bidding started as low as $3 and went up to $45.

All items were donated by board members and friends of the center, said APEC membership associate Linda Gochna, who collects items for the year-round auctions.

"This is a really important affair and we're hoping to raise as much as we can for the center," Gochna says. "The auction also, in part, helps the environment. It is kind of like recycling. We are finding new homes for these treasures."  

In the wake of government cuts this year, APEC now has to raise 60 percent of its funds on its own through memberships and fundraisers.

The funds raised at the holiday auction will pay for the maintenance of the center. The auction's earnings will also go toward Alley Pond's animals, senior volunteer program, outreach program, after school programs and classes for both adults and children, ages 18 months and older.

According to Executive Director Irene Scheid, nearly 50 thousand children visit the center every year from schools throughout New York. With maintenance costs on the rise, Scheid is hoping that fundraisers and increased membership will allow the center to continue developing its programs.

Currently, there are more than 1,000 members signed up at APEC.

"Considering the weather, we were very happy with the turnout last night," registrar Liz McGlinchney said. "A great time was had by all. Money raised from these events is imperative to sustaining our center."

With approximately 30 people bidding, the center successful raised an estimated $1,000 during the holiday auction.  The highest sold items were a Mikasa Last Supper statue and a wood and glass curio cabinet, both of which sold for $45.

Scheid says she is grateful for all the support from members who attended the auction. 

"They are such nice people," said Douglas Baker, a resident whose daughter is enrolled in APEC's classes, of the center. "This is a great thing to have in Queens - something that benefits the environment."

APEC accepts new or used items for their auctions, fundraisers and raffles. Those interested in donating items may contact the center to arrange a drop off.

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