Over $20,000 Raised for Fireworks at Lobsterfest

It's looking fairly optimistic that Half Moon Bay and Coastside residents will be treated to a night of multicolored eye-popping and streaking lights on July 4, thanks to over $20,000 of net profits raised at Sam's Lobsterfest on May 15. The money will be donated to the American Legion Coastside Fireworks Fund.

Over 1,500 people came out to the Princeton fairgrounds at the American Legion Coastside Post #474 for a day of activities jointly sponsored by Half Moon Bay restaurant and the Legion. Oyster shucking and eating contests, face painting, live music, art booths, a silent auction, a kids' slide and train rides were all part of the fun. Even Treatbot, the karaoke ice cream truck, drove up from its South Bay homebase for the day. Half Moon Bay city councilmember Marina Fraser emceed.

And what would be a Lobsterfest without lobster? The crustacean of the day could be spotted everywhere -- not just on the plates of happy eaters and at Sam's Chowdermobile, but those that escaped the pot and were walking around the grounds showing off their snappy red pincher hats.

Over 60 volunteers and 800 hours of staff time at Sam's Chowder House went into the effort, according to Julie Shenkman, co-owner of Sam's.

"We're so very excited," said Shenkman about the money that was raised.

Last year, the July 4 fireworks show was cancelled due to lack of funds.

To be informed about other events to benefit the Coastside Fireworks Fund, visit its Facebook page here.