South Brandon Rotary to Host 1st Lobsta' Fest

Sponsors and craft vendors are wanted for the South Brandon Rotary Club's first Lobsta' Fest, slated for Saturday, Sept. 17, from noon to 4 p.m. at the Winthrop Pole Barn, 11349 Bloomingdale Ave., Riverview.

"This is the first time we're doing this fundraiser," said club president, Kathy Collins. "Our Mad Hatter Tea Party in the spring was such a success that we decided to try an additional event so we can raise even more for the nonprofits in the community. We hope to make this an annual event."

Member Rob Silver came up with the idea of hosting the Lobsta' Fest. He did a similar event when he was running for honorary mayor of Brandon and noted that it was highly successful.

Collins said the lobster dinner will be both tasty and affordable. The cost is $25 per person or $45 for two dinners, which includes a boiled Maine lobster and potato salad, cole slaw, corn on the cob, a roll, dessert and drinks.

The first glass of beer or wine will be available with a meal ticket. After that, drinks will be available for a suggested donation of $2.

Kids' tickets are $5 and include a hamburger or hot dog, chips, drinks and dessert.

In addition to the lobster meal, there will be live entertainment by Otis Day and his band; children's activities including face painting, balloon creations and a bounce house; and a craft festival featuring fall items for sale.

The club already has 10 booths committed to the craft festival but is looking for other crafters to join them.

"I think this event will be a lot of fun," Collins said.

The club also is looking for event sponsors.

Anyone who would like to reserve a craft booth or serve as an event sponsor can contact Karen Atkinson at 813-215-6904 or e-mail katkinson@nbcsecurities.com.

Tickets are available at:

• Lake Brandon Village Chick-fil-A, 11325 Causeway Blvd. Brandon
• The Osprey Observer, 900 Lithia-Pinecrest Road, Brandon
• Jaymer Que BBQ, 3331 Lithia-Pinecrest Road, Valrico