Long Island Food Critic

The Long Island Hospitality Ball, for its fifth consecutive year, delighted numerous guests at the elegant Crest Hollow Country Club. This year's event benefitted the Carol M. Baldwin Breast Cancer Research Fund and The Spirits Up Foundation. Hosted by Alec Baldwin, this extravaganza encouraged guests to dress in their finest attire while sampling Long Island's top cuisine and libations.

Thousands of attendees dressed in their grandeur gowns and suits, indulged on generous establishments top-notch dishes, desserts, wines, and other libations. The LIHB Chairman Keith Hart said of the event, "The "Ball" is a happy gathering where industry rivals become friends and charitable goals are brought to realization."

The Long Island Hospitality Ball invited guests to have a spectacular evening of entertainment, while supporting the Carol M. Baldwin Breast Cancer Research Fund and The Spirits Up Foundation in their fight against cancer.

This year's honorees for their achievements in the Industry included Frank Russo, Jr., Russo's on the Bay/Vetro Restaurant & Wine Bar, Isaac B. Marten, Division Manager On Premise, Atlantic Wine & Spirits, A Division of Empire Merchants, and posthumously, JP Frosina, Empire Merchants.

"The price of living is giving" certainly seemed to be true, as beautifully donated gift baskets attendees could win were available for the live auction.

In one way or another, everyone has experienced the effect Cancer has on people's lives. The Long Island Hospitality Ball continues to not only be the party of the year, but is also an opportune time to support the foundations that work towards helping people and their families who have been touched by this dreadful disease. Through the generosity of various sponsors, this event continues to be an enjoyable and successful experience.