Date: Fri 18-Jun-1999

Publication: Bee

Author: STEVEB

Quick Words:

firehouse-lobster-steak

Full Text:

Lobster Lovers Pack Sandy Hook Firehouse

(with photos)

BY STEVE BIGHAM

More than 2,000 steak and seafood lovers packed the Sandy Hook firehouse this

past weekend for the department's annual Lobsterfest. It was by far the

largest turnout in the event's 12-year history.

"We were busier than ever this year. Obviously, this was the largest number of

people we've ever served," noted company Chief Bill Halstead.

Saturday was the biggest day with an attendance of more than 1,200.

All told, an incredible 1,550 lobsters were served as the line of hungry

patrons wound its way around the large building on Riverside Road. Organizers

admitted they were somewhat concerned their truckload of lobsters might run

out. But there turned out to be more than enough lobsters.

Besides the lobsters, 500 steaks were served, 55 cases of corn were picked,

five to six bushels of clams on the half shell were sold and 21 kegs of beer

were drained.

This year's event was organized by BJ Halstead and Anthony Capozziello. They

got plenty of help from the more than 53 firefighters and 14 ladies' auxiliary

members who volunteered their time. Some worked along the food line, serving

dinner to patrons, some of whom waited more than 90 minutes in line. Others

worked behind the scenes, cooking lobster, shucking corn and drinking beer.

Then there was the cleanup crew that managed to keep the place tidy.

"It was a huge success," BJ said.

The firehouse has a seating capacity of 400.

In addition to a disk jockey, this year's entertainment featured a live band,

"To the Max."

Fortunately, according to BJ Halstead, there were no Sandy Hook fire calls

during the event.