Long Island Food Critic

The 9th Annual Evening of Tasting and Giving, a yearly event that showcases local restaurants, bakeries and wineries, was held at the Carltun at Eisenhower Park. The event benefits the Michael Magro Foundation, a nonprofit organization that was founded by Terrie and Paul Magro in 2005 after the passing of their son, Michael, from childhood leukemia.

This year's event boasted loads of talent - DJ Charles Henry was present to spin tunes while guests totaling over 500 enjoyed tables upon tables of local fare. The vendors, who have appeared yearly for this event, once again brought various delectable offerings for the esteemed guests to sample.

World renowned pianist Philip Edward Fisher tickled the ivories, accompanied by Dr. Louis Pannullo on keyboard. Broadway stars Elizabeth Welch and Jeremy Stolle of "Phantom of the Opera" were also present and entertained all with a magical performance from the well-loved show.

The night boasted a live auction, which featured a dinner for six in the home of the winner, created by Master Chef Paul Magro himself, which sold for $1,600. Amongst other auction items were four tickets to a Giants game.

This was one of the most memorable events to date that the foundation has set forth. According to the final tallies, the fundraiser brought in an astounding $73,000 to help children with cancer at the Cancer Care for Kids at Winthrop Hospital.

An Evening of Tasting and Giving is held every October, so mark your calendars for next year's event, which will be held once again at the Carltun in Eisenhower Park on Monday, October 6, 2014 - you'll be glad you attended!.