The late-winter “holiday party” has become a fairly standard event across the department, but Barry London, MD, PhD, Director of the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, articulates best what makes it so appealing. “The month of December is so busy for everyone and the winters in Iowa can be long, it’s nice for people to have something that brings us together in late February.” Though the weather during this year’s party may have been unseasonably warm, years past have found slightly different circumstances.

It was not just the weather that made this year’s event unusual. The recent closure of the Iowa River Power Company, the typical site for the division’s holiday party, forced organizers to find a new location. This year, they relocated to a relatively new restaurant called Bump’s on the grounds of nearby Finkbine Golf Course, not far from the UI Health Care commuter lot.

Guests were treated to three different buffet lines, including one offering carving station choices of prime rib, turkey, brisket, and an assortment of sauces. There were also a variety of appetizer and small plate options and an elaborate dessert line. While guests snacked and sipped from the full service bar,

With no formal agenda other than to just enjoy themselves, guests were more than willing to dive in. The conversations ranged from new collaborations to upcoming family events or recent successes. The tradition of re-solidifying the bonds among co-workers and across different workgroups was kept alive for another year.

Thanks to all who came and to Sara Zimmerman, Division Coordinator, for her work in organizing the evening.