Mortgage Bankers Association of New York Kicks Off the Fall Lending Season
The 17th Annual Tavern on the Green Dinner Brings Together Diverse Group of Bankers, Brokers and Institutional Lenders

New York, NY, Oct 23, 2008 - /FLIERWIRE/-- The Mortgage Bankers Association of New York, Inc. (MBA of New York), a professional group dedicated to promoting the welfare of the commercial real estate industry, recently hosted its 17th annual Tavern on the Green dinner.

MBA of New York is the New York State mortgage banker's organization recognized by the national MBA. The dinner is the organization's most popular event, providing an annual opportunity to network at the famed New York City restaurant.

"We couldn't have asked for a more successful turnout, and we were very pleased to see new and familiar faces at our signature event with professionals from all walks of the commercial real estate industry well represented," said Michael J. Hurley, Jr., president of MBA of New York. "We host these events in the hopes of providing our members with exceptional networking channels and we have seen an incredible increase from year-to-year in terms of both the number of people who attend and the diversity of their professional backgrounds. Everyone in attendance had the chance to mingle, meet and catch-up with colleagues. Overall, it was a great success."

Kenneth F. Bernstein, president and chief executive officer of Acadia Realty Trust, a leading New York-based REIT and developer, was the featured guest speaker. Mr. Bernstein discussed his thoughts on the current state of the New York City real estate industry and capital markets, and Acadia Realty Trust's exciting new projects.

"I am always excited to go to these events, but the Mortgage Bankers Association of New York is a particular favorite. Nowhere else in the state is the commercial real estate industry so well represented," said Bernstein. "MBA of New York is a great organization and provides its members with exceptional educational and networking opportunities throughout the year. Attending and speaking at this event was an excellent way to stay in-touch with other industry leaders and to share what's new with Acadia. Events of this nature, especially in times like these, prove to be more important than ever. I'm pleased that MBA of New York continues to pursue these opportunities to the benefit of their members."

Along with various networking, educational and charitable events held throughout the year to benefit the commercial real estate finance community, MBA of New York hosts the signature Tavern on the Green dinner and the year-end holiday party as grand events for their many members.

"Part of our mission is to create an environment for our members to discuss new ideas and share information related to the commercial real estate finance industry," Hurley said. "It's incredibly important for our members to have personal acquaintances within our industry, and it's events like this which make it possible."

Mortgage Bankers Association of New York, Inc.
Mortgage Bankers Association of New York, Inc. is the only statewide organization in New York that is recognized by the national Mortgage Bankers Association. Since 1948, MBA of New York has represented the commercial and multifamily real estate financial industry and has offered its members opportunities for networking, education and advocacy in a variety of political and business arenas. A broad spectrum of firms and individuals comprise the membership of MBA of New York, including mortgage bankers and brokers, commercial and investment banks and other institutional lenders, title companies, attorneys, accountants, appraisers and environmental services firms.

For more information, please visit www.mbany.org.