Wine tasting to benefit legion's 'Heroes' program

LONG BRANCH - The American Legion Post 325 in Eatontown, in conjunction with Ocean Wine & Spirits, Ocean Township, is holding a fundraiser Thursday, March 22, at 6:30 p.m. at Piccolo Forno in West End, Long Branch.

The event will benefit the American Legion's scholarship programs and the "Heroes to Hometown" program.

"Heroes to Hometown" is a new American Legion program in response to the current war in Iraq and supports our heroes - wounded American soldiers and veterans - on their return to life in the U.S.

Piccolo Forno, 628 Ocean Ave., has been a mainstay in the Long Branch restaurant scene since 1916. Owner Angelo Maglione will be the host, and Ocean Wine & Spirits' sommelier Patrick Bautista will lead the tasting and provide notes throughout the course of the evening.

The cost to attend the event is $85 prior to March 15, $95 after that date.

The ticket price includes the cost of dinner, wine, tax, gratuity and a fully deductible donation to the American Legion.

For reservations and more information, contact: Cmdr. Ken Gurbisz at (732) 542-0843.