Townspeople can crack open a lobster or cut into a juicy steak, while supporting Stepney’s volunteer firefighters on Saturday, Aug. 24. The Stepney Volunteer Fire Department’s 18th annual Lobster Clambake is its biggest fundraiser.
“It’s a good time for friends and families to come together and give back,” said Gregg Celentano, who is organizing the event with fellow firefighter, Bill Truini.
Celentano said the proceeds will primarily be used to pay for training, with other funds going toward equipment.
On Aug. 24, the Lobster Clambake will be held at Stepney Firehouse No. 1, 88 Main St., from 3 to 9 p.m. Visitors can buy takeout meals or eat together at tables inside and outdoors.
Firefighters expect between 500 to 600 people to attend.
A $27 donation pays for a lobster or steak meal, both with corn on the cob, red potatoes, a dinner roll and a beverage. Families can also buy an $8 kids meal, which includes a choice of a hamburger or a hot dog with chips and a drink.
Steamed clams or clams on a half-shell will be available for purchase, along with home baked desserts made by the Stepney Fire Department’s Ladies Auxiliary. Adult drinks, coffee, tea and soda will also be sold.
A deejay will play music at the Lobster Clambake and there will be a $40 raffle to win prizes donated by local businesses that will be on display on a table. Lucy Celentano, chief of the Junior Firefighters, said a net will be setup outside for badminton or volleyball and games of Cornhole will be played.
For information, tickets or takeout orders, call the firehouse at 203-268-5389.
Volunteers make it happen
In all, Gregg Celentano said about 50 people will volunteer to set up, run and clean up after the event.
Equipment will be borrowed from Sandy Hook Volunteer Fire & Rescue and Celentano said 300 lobsters and 100 steak dinners will be prepared.
Volunteers will work all day the Friday before the event and from about 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. that Saturday with clean up hours on Sunday.
“We couldn’t do it without everybody,” Celentano said. “It’s a family event.”
The Stepney Volunteer Fire Department hopes to grow its own family. Assistant Chief Stephen Rose said there are now about 25 members and 12 active members.
“We’re looking for new members,” Celentano said.
Those interested in becoming a firefighter should call Gregg Celentano at 203-645-4012.
