The delicious aroma of hot lobster stew, clam chowder, and homemade pies filled the auditorium at STAR Theatre in Kittery on Sunday, February 25, where about 200 people turned out for the second annual “Chowder’s On” event. Organized by volunteers Betsy Wish, Charlene Hoyt, Holly Dupuis, Tammy Melcher, Laura Baxter, and Kittery lobsterman Dave Kaselauskas, the event raised more than $24,000 for the Maine Lobster Community Alliance.
Lobsterman Dave Kaselauskas preparing lobster for the mouthwatering stew. MLA photo.
“Lobstering is an important part of our community’s identity,” said Wish. “Last year, the future of this critical industry was threatened, and, as a community, we asked what we could do to help. That’s how Chowder’s On was born, and we were thrilled to replicate its success this year — with all proceeds going directly to supporting the future of this heritage industry.”
“We are incredibly grateful for the support of so many individuals and businesses in the Kittery community,” said Hoyt. “Between unfair federal regulations and historic storms that battered our working waterfronts, the lobstering industry has faced many challenges over the past few years, but this event is meant to celebrate just how special lobstering is to our identity as Mainers.”
The crowds turned out for the second annual "Chowder's On" dinner in Kittery. MLA photo.
Organizers spent months reaching out to local businesses and collecting prizes for what turned out to be an incredibly successful live auction and raffle, which was emceed by NewsCenter Maine morning news anchor, Sharon Rose.
Much of the lobster for the tasty stew was donated by local lobstermen as well as event sponsors Chrissy D. Lobster, Island Seafood, Seaview Lobster Co., Taylor Lobster Co., and The Lobster Co. in Arundel.
“It was so heartening to stand in the auditorium and see a community come together to support their local lobstering families,” said Kevin Kelley, director of advancement for the Maine Lobstermen’s Association. “From personal touches like photos of local lobstermen to the video display, all of the volunteers worked so hard to make this such a true community event.”