The Marriott Marquis ballroom was the scene of an extravagant celebration that included a burst of confetti, balloons, party favors, and concert performers, all benefitting the Hellenic Times Scholarship Fund (which awards scholarships to U.S. students). One may have thought it was New Year’s Eve at this high-energy event hosted by John and Margo Catsimatidis, along with Nick Katoris, which honored CBS correspondent Alexis Christoforous and Fox-5’s Nick Gregory. Guests gyrated on the dance floor to live tunes by the legendary Drifters and were super-energized by Greek sensation Elli Kokkinou and her greatest hits, like “Masai,” and “Den Yinetai”—that’s when the Greek dancing broke out.

American Idol finalist Constantine Maroulis served as guest host of the event, and serenaded the crowd with his renditions of “Stand by Me” and “Brown Eyed Girl.”

Presenters included: tennis legend Pete Sampras, CSI:NY star Melina Kanakaredes, My Big Fat Greek Wedding star Nia Vardalos, Judge Nicholas Tsoucalas, and Guiding Light star Frank Dicopoulos.

Other guests included: WABC radio host Mark Simone, society hairdresser Mary and Curtis Sliwa, MSNBC’s Rita Cosby, and Rodolfo Valentin.

The Greeks sure know how to throw a party!