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Everyone knows if you're fortunate enough to get invited to Donald Carter's annual birthday party, you better show up.

 

"That's my buddy," said Kevin Jones, Assistant Supervisor at YAI's Rye Brook IRA, where Donald lives. "We've been together for seven years now."
 

Kevin is attending law school as a part-time student at St. John's University. He had a class scheduled the night of the party. But he also shares a special bond with Donald, so he opted for the party. 
 

"I don't want it to seem like I did anything special," Kevin insisted. "My friend turned 80; he's not going to turn 80 again. He's the nicest, youngest, older man you'll ever meet."
 

Nearly 50 people attended the party. Donald is involved in every detail for his annual celebration, from the venue (the Hilton Westchester in Rye Brook), guest list and DJ, to hors d'oeuvres and entrees and birthday cake selection.

 

"Everyone in the region knows about it," said Allison Downer, Residential's Regional Support Supervisor. "You have to be on Donald's good side to get invited."
 

Guests are expected to dress up, as Marcia Ham-Dyer, Rye Brook Supervisor, knows all too well. Marcia has attended the party for the last 11 years. She came to work dressed casually when she mentioned to Donald that she would be coming to the party. He looked her over and said, "no you're not; not dressed like that," Marcia recalled.
 

Donald spent the night at the hotel with the support of Ashley Rogers, Assistant BIS. "He really enjoyed himself," Ashley said. "He's already talking about next year's party."