IFMAGNY holds holiday party December 10 at Club 101 on Park Ave.

This year's annual IFMAGNY Holiday Party was held on December 10 at Club 101 on Park Ave. and was met with great anticipation and expectations. The event did not disappoint. The air was filled with good spirits and holiday wishes as old friends had a chance to re-acquaint themselves in a casual setting without the chaos of their daily routines. Just Friends, an a cappella group who sang "Doo-Wop" music, brought back memories of the good old days, while guests too young to remember this genre of music were reminded that these are the "good old days." Another special touch to the evening was the two caricaturists offering to create a "likeness" to anyone who was daring enough to pose. It is noted that some of the attendees who did in fact pose, were able to lose a few pounds and add some hair in the process of creating their own image. Harry Greeley of Cushman & Wakefield always looks forward to the IFMAGNY Holiday Party. "It gives me a chance to catch up with all the people I don't get a chance to see much all year. It's the one party I look forward to." Chris Miller of the YMCA had a good time with the caricature artist and posing for his photograph in the "gift box" thanks to Jeff Simon's talents with his camera. Chris also mentioned that "the food and drinks were fabulous and the re-kindling of friendships very special." Victor Hayghe of Affinity Health Plan enjoys having an opportunity to see old friends in a social setting away from his extremely busy daily routine. All attendees were asked to bring an unwrapped toy for the Fraternite Notre Dame Organization. Michelle McCambridge who chairs the IFMA Cares committee informed IFMA that over $1,400 in donations were raised. Special thanks to Lisa Tartaglia who directed the Toy Drive, Eagle Transfer for donating the boxes, and to Interstate Mechanical Services for transporting the toys. And of course, there were raffles in which the following winners were announced: Jerry McGowan of American Lawyer Media, Anthony Guzzone of Bloomberg, Gottfried Weissgerber of P.J Mechanical, Vince Basirico of Real Time Services and Mary Lazzaro, wife of Frank Lazzaro of NBC Universal. Also in attendance were seven of IFMAGNY's past presidents: Carol Farren, Gary Fescine, Chris Mee, Debbie Jaslow Shatz, Peggy Smith, Brian Ostrowe and Marlene Weisler.