Partnership hopes lobsters again will be popular fare
By Andrew Bell
Published in News on May 29, 2006 1:45 PM
Advance tickets are available until Tuesday for the second annual Lobster Fest, and Partnership for Children employees are preparing for the big cookout next Friday.
"Rain or shine, we'll be out there cooking," said Patty Huffman, the Partnership for Children of Wayne County events coordinator.
Last year, the organization sold about 500 lobsters and, executive director Don Magoon said he is hoping for the same results this year.
Those interested in eating a steamed lobster or taking a live one home will have to decide quickly, though. Mrs. Huffman said each lobster has to be pre-ordered, and the organization will stop taking orders after Tuesday.
On Friday, cooking will last from 2 to 6 p.m. Each ticket is $20, a portion of which is tax-deductible. The event's proceeds will support college fellowships for the county's child care teachers.
Students go through a 17-month program as a group to receive an early childhood development degree from Mount Olive College, Program Specialist Cristy Barnes said. Mrs. Barnes, who went through the program, said it provides multiple opportunities for graduates. Graduates could work at a child care facility or local and state departments that focus on child development.
Last year, the organization raised about $5,000 for scholarships, and Magoon said he wants to raise even more money to benefit children throughout the county by providing them with quality teachers.
Magoon said he will order some additional lobsters, but people shouldn't expect one if they did not place an order.
For more information, call Mrs. Huffman at 735-3371, Ext. 223. Ticket reservations can be called in or bought at the Partnership for Children office at 800 N. William St. All of the cooking will take place in the parking lot outside the office.
Since the office will be closed today for Memorial Day, Mrs. Huffman said those who want to reserve a ticket can call today and leave a message, and the call will be returned Tuesday.