Things got festive at the latest mixer at Teak on Thursday, November 29. With the holiday season now in full gear, it was the perfect excuse to meet up with friends. This upscale bar and restaurant in downtown Hoboken was crowded with friends and fans of hMAG. The second floor lounge area provided the perfect backdrop for the party. Aglow with holiday lights and Christmas balls straight out of Whoville, guests enjoyed passed appetizers and cocktails well into the night.

Here at hMAG, we can think of nothing better than toasting our friends and helping out the community. The latest mixer at Teak On the Hudson, at 16 Hudson Place, was held to help out a local who is known to the community of hMAG. Proceeds from the raffle, which raised over $600., went to help out Carlos Copara. Carlos was diagnosed with cancer January 2012 and is currently undergoing a second phase of chemotherapy at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.

Bill Nowottny, a friend of Carlos, attended the mixer. He describes Carlos as a great guy and was glad to help him out. “He is a very genuine, nice person. When you hear that something had happened to him, you think – damn, it only happens to the good people,” said Bill.

For the raffle, many gifts were graciously donated by local businesses. Prizes included gifts from Caru, Bliss, GoRowStudios, and others.
There were also special guests in attendance at the latest mixer. Actor/Producer/Director Robert Capelli came out to say hello. Capelli is well-known for his movies “Breaking Point,” “Waltzing Anna,” and “Mail Order Bride.” He has worked  with heavy hitters including Danny Aiello, Tom Berenger, and Artie Lange.

Capelli has a new comedy show he created  called “The Pig Roast with Otto and George.” You can read about that and learn more about Capelli on www.hmag.com. Capelli was featured in the March/April issue of our magazine.

Attendees mingled well into the night as we extended the hours of the mixer to 11 p.m.

Publisher Joe Mindak thanked guests for coming to the mixer and for everyone’s continued support. He thanked everyone for helping out Carlos while he battles cancer. At every mixer hMAG works towards improving the community by supporting local businesses and charities. It is our goal to provide a positive experience for locals and a chance to meet your neighbors. So until next time Hoboken, keep up the good work. We hope to see you at our next mixer!

For information on how you get involved as a sponsor or event host, please email Diana@hmag.com.  Photos by Jessica Rosero.