Save the Date: Business Alliance Party Set for Thursday

The East Hampton Business Alliance is holding an annual fundraiser next week, and tickets are still available.

The eighth annual 50/50 raffle and cocktail party is slated for Sept. 12 at East Hampton Point.

The business alliance was formed 20 years ago by eight local business owners who saw the need for an organization that watched out for the business community, according to Margaret Turner, the executive director.

"I like to say we are the eyes, ears and mouth for businesses. We work with government, at all levels, to encourage policies that are supportive of the business community and to defeat or amend policies threatening to the business community," Turner said.

The business alliance seeks "responsible economic development policy in order to maintain and improve the quality of life of all East Hampton residents," she explained. "We look to preserve and protect the natural environment which is essential both to a robust economy as well as to our individual quality of life."

The business alliance does not just focus on the happenings in town. "Although our address is East Hampton, our boundaries do not stop there; we have lobbied Southampton, the County and the State on many issues," she said.

Raffle tickets, for a chance to win cash, are $100 and admit two guests to the party. There will be an open bar, music, and hors d' oeuvres. Tickets will be available at the door or you can call 631-324-8550.