John Heller, Post-Gazette photos John and Judy Woffington dance before dinner. Click photo for larger image.

In the course of a busy holiday season, a respite can always be found in the gracious traditions that cause us to pause and remember the things we gather to celebrate. The gift of life is foremost, and for many it is truly a gift.

The Twenty-Five Club of Magee-Womens Hospital has been active since 1939, raising funds to support the work of the hospital and in particular, the neonatal unit. Saturday evening at its annual Holiday Ball, Laura Witt shared her experiences after the premature birth of her triplets, each the size of a Coke can. Thanks to Magee and its department of neonatology, the babies survived and are now healthy kindergartners. Talk about holiday cheer! When the 25 members who form the club (there are also associate members) were introduced during the Anniversary Waltz, the impact of their generosity could be felt in every corner of the room.

Carol and Joe Massaro Click photo for larger image.

Though the real business of the night is raising funds, it's a festive affair filled with camaraderie. The Duquesne Club was decked with holly and just about everything else in the holiday spirit, while Tim Condron's elegant arrangements topped each table.

After cocktails in the Garden Patio, guests moved to the ballroom and were welcomed by Twenty-Five Club president Carol Massaro (with Joe), ball chair Debbie Barbarita (with Mike) and co-chair Peggy Snavely (with Steve). Couples danced to the sounds of Dreamscape before, during and after dinner -- a wonderful repast that included a puree of roasted chestnuts, tournedos of beef, Virginia spots and a perfect pecan ball. What better way to ease into the season than with a relaxed and elegant evening of warmth, friendship and fun!

	Debbie Barbarita and Peggy Snavely Click photo for larger image.

Among the guests in pretty gowns and black tie were Magee-Womens Hospital CEO Leslie Davis with husband Abe Leizerowski, Magee foundation head Debbie Linhart with Bill, neonatology chair Dr. Gary Silverman with Lisa, Dr. Joe and Karen Kelley, Dolores Bold with friends Bill Modrak and Dr. Elliott Kramer, Dani and Al Grego, delightful Judge Bob and Vi Gallo, Joe and Frances Kane, Jack and Eleanor Schano Feeney (who served as emcee), Terri and Don Hastings, John and Judy Woffington, Leslie Sargent and Edwin Gott, Arlene and Barry Sokolow, Bobbi and Ralph Aiello, Frank and Athena Sarris, Jean and Lou Astorino, John and Sue Zitelli, Linda Bucci, Terri and Chris Snavely, Susan and David Fitzsimmons, Russ Kemerer and Beth Wainwright, Dennis Huber and Faye Sampson, Karen Oberg, Jim Kyper and Cynthia Carrow, Debbie and Arthur Scully, Robin and Jeff Lebovitz, Heather and Randy Hillier, Bonnie Smola and Joe Salandra, Beth and Michael Kuhn, Jim and Electra Agras, Ralph and Ruth Ann Pappas, Dr. Jon and Sue Watchko, Kim and Cindy Shappert and stunning Barbara Mendlowitz.