Photo:  Jaimi Houston, Phyllis Eisenberg, Jo Ann Horwitz, Norma Greer and Karen Fialkov.

Christmas Tree Lane 25

Story and Photos by Pat Krause

ACT for MS proudly brought back its beloved Christmas Tree Lane fundraiser this season, reviving what has long been one of the Valley’s most joyful pre-Christmas traditions. The event once again felt like a true holiday party, filled with beautifully decorated trees, festive music, and a strong sense of community giving.

Event Chair. Leo Milmet, ACT for MS president Ann Greer and emcee Patrick Evans standing. Seated are Pianists John Bayless and Bill Marx.

This year featured 27 gorgeous smaller trees, each one thoughtfully designed around a theme, carefully named, and adorned with meaningful details. The trees were displayed for several days at the Palm Springs Air Museum, a fabulous new venue that added a special sense of grandeur to the experience. Guests were delighted to see even the helicopter inside the hangar dressed in festive Christmas colors. Special thanks go to Fred Bell, Manager of the Palm Springs Air Museum, for graciously hosting the event and opening this unique space to the community.

Christmas Tree Lane had been on pause for a couple of years, and its return was warmly welcomed. For many, it has always been a highlight of the season, with guests eagerly bidding on favorite trees—some decorated by celebrities or local dignitaries—each one telling its own story. This year’s live auction featured four perfectly decorated trees, auctioned off with energy and charm by Patrick Evans. Guests enjoyed a generous snack table and drinks set up at the back of the hangar, creating a relaxed and festive atmosphere.

Entertainment added another layer of magic to the evening. Local favorites Bill Marx and John Bayless filled the hangar with music at the piano, joined by Gregg Marx on vocals and a surprise appearance by songstress Chris Bennett, well known for her performances at The Purple Room.

Event Chair Leo Milmet served as guest speaker and shared the heartfelt origins of Christmas Tree Lane. Gloria Greer created the event to raise funds for her new charity after her daughter, Norma, was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. ACT for MS grew from that deeply personal beginning and has since become a pillar of support in the Valley. The evening also honored the memory of Gloria Greer, whose passing was a great loss to the community, as well as longtime supporters Harold Matzner and Jim and Jackie Lee Houston. Their legacy continues through Jaimi Houston, who carries on her parents’ commitment. Greer’s daughter Ann, twin sister of Norma, now serves as President of ACT for MS. Event sponsors included Suz Hunt and The Shalhoub Family.

For 23 years, ACT for MS has been a guiding light for those living with Multiple Sclerosis, helping clients live longer and stronger through strength training, emotional support, and financial assistance. The live auction trees—70 Years of Disney, Santa Baby Plays Golf, Casual Elegance, and Home for Christmas—were all designed or sponsored by local businesses and families. Every dollar raised stays in the Coachella Valley, directly benefiting local clients.

ACT for MS will continue its mission with the 4th Annual Golf Tournament on February 16 at Palm Valley Country Club in Palm Desert, featuring a shotgun scramble, silent auction, breakfast, dinner, and live entertainment by The John Stanley King Band.