Chapter 126 Events
Day at the Races
March 8th 2025
This first ever event of its kind by our chapter was a great success by all measures! As guests arrived, they were warmly greeted with check-in, given ‘play money’, $100 for a VIP Ticket or $50 for General Admission, a program booklet and a customized, commemorative event wristlet (compliments of Molly). In addition to those pre-registered guests and ticket holders; we had several day-of ‘walk-ins’ that purchased tickets.
The level of enthusiasm by guests was electric – looking forward to a fun and ‘winning’ event – that did not disappoint! Spearheaded by Mike Moreno and Marty Edelman, our committee comprised of 14 members did an excellent job organizing, planning and producing this event. From check-in, to betting, to food/beverage, to prizes; it was smooth and so very enjoyable! The RACES were shown on a large screen with easy viewing access for all guests. The excitement mounted as the horses were brought into position and the trumpet sounded and ‘they’re off’!!! No matter that betting was ‘play money’ as the thrill of ‘your horse’ winning was paramount with guests cheering aloud! Winners turned in their betting tickets for more ‘play money’ to use for more betting and prize redemption! We had a nice, diverse selection of prizes (thanks to member donations) that were appealing.
In between RACES, guests were entertained by: Chapter Member Michelle DellaFave’s beautiful singing, comedian Mario Bosco’s humor, and the amazing International Grand Champion whistler Steve Herbst.
In sum, a good time was had by all. There was contagious enthusiasm, a friendly crowd and positive vibe throughout the day. Our guests said they’re looking forward to a repeat Race event next year! Let’s do it Again.
Program and Play Money
Welcome
Find a Seat and Have Fun
Let The Races Get Started
Place you bets
Great Tasting Food
Your Beverage of Choice
And the winners are
Heading for the Starting Gate
Our Races Team
Our Major Sponsor
On Wednesday., Nov. 6th, 2024, our Chapter members enjoyed an elegant event at the prestigious Metropolitan Club, honoring Bruce Mosler a dedicated Veteran supporter.
Every year, the Friends of Vietnam Veterans Plaza selects an honoree for their annual luncheon.
This is a well-attended event by veterans, community leaders, and supporters.
The event started with a cocktail reception; color guard, opening ceremony, and speaker remarks.
Veterans were recognized in the audience with resounding applause.
Our Founding Chapter member, and Founding President of United War Veterans Council, Vince McGowan shared his warm and welcoming comments, with appreciation and acknowledgements.
We enjoyed an excellently presented and delicious meal, dessert, and fine wine!
Bruce Mosler was presented with the Phelps Award and shared his comments; very moving and unifying; especially needed for America at this time.
Our Chapter was honored to have Jack McManus, the National President, of Vietnam Veterans of America join us this year as our guest, courtesy of our Chapter President Fred Gasior.
Lap Robes for the Handicapted Veterans
On, Thursday, Oct. 24, 2024, Fred, Molly, Michelle, Monica, and Fred Messa met up at the Manhattan VA Hospital.to distribute lap robes blankets to wheelchair-bound veterans to keep the veteran's legs warm.
We set up in the lobby level with a great backdrop of flags displayed behind our table. We garnered much interest with many ambulatory veterans and hospital staff stopping by to see what we were offering. They fully understood when we explained these lap robes are for wheelchair-bound veterans presently. But to their delight, Molly had a full bowl of candy available that they were invited to partake in!
During our 2 hour visit, we distributed approximately 25 lap robes to various wheelchair-bound veterans on the main floor and dialysis unit.
Everyone was very gracious and the recipients of the lab robes were truly appreciative of this beautiful and useful gift. Our generosity and thoughtfulness was well embraced by the VA Hospital too! This was a rewarding event shared by all team members
