Hundreds of 1199SEIU retirees attended the Annual Anne Shore Banquet at Manhattan’s Hilton Hotel on December 20.

Mitra Behroozi, Executive Director of the 1199SEIU Benefit and Pension Funds, in welcoming the party-goers announced that there are 5,000 new retirees this year, making it 72,000 retirees who receive retirement and health benefits from the Funds.

“It’s always enjoyable coming to the Annual Anne Shore Holiday Party,” said Lucille Aledd Wilburg, a retiree from NYU Hospital of Joint Diseases. “It’s my third consecutive year attending, and both my husband and I love seeing friends we haven’t seen in a long time.” Union President George Gresham urged those in attendance to join the Occupy movement and to stand up for the 99 percent. “We, together, are building a better world for future generations,” he said.

“We are working people. willing to give all necessary support,” said Retired Members Division President Lena Hayes. “We shall continue our hard work and dedication this coming year.”

Secretary-Treasurer Maria Castaneda spoke of 1199SEIU hospital workers’ recent victory in Florida, where they approved collective bargaining agreements impacting 10,000 workers in 19 hospitals. Florida, of course, is home to thousands of 1199 retirees.

Following the remarks, the dance floor was soon packed with retirees celebrating the holidays.