For just 35 clams, Elks serve all you can eat

By Eileen Oldfield Staff Writer
   Labor Day may be over, and school started, but Manville and Hillsborough residents can get one last taste of summer at the Manville and Hillsborough Elks’ 16th Annual Clambake, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday.
   The event will feature four hours of food, music, games, a clown for the kids, and, of course, 12,000 clams.
   ”It’s run by all volunteers,” said Elks member and event organizer Tom Cronin. “In fact, we all pay to come to the clambake.”
   The Elks donate the proceeds to Camp Moore, an Elks-run camp for special needs children in Pompton Lakes, and a special needs treatment center in Somerville.
   This year, the Elks sent 10 children to the camp, thanks, in part, to the success of last year’s event.
   While the clams are always the main draw for the attendees, Mr. Cronin points out other food is available during the day. In addition to the clams, the Elks will cook chicken, kielbasa and sauerkraut, sausages and peppers, salads, corn on the cob, clam chowder, watermelon and ham.
   ”They’re eating and drinking for four hours for only $35 — and it’s all going to a good cause,” said Mr. Cronin. “A lot of the people come year after year after year.”
   During the clambake, two Elks members man the grill, and three Elks members handle clam detail.
   ”Every year it pretty much gets easier,” said Mr. Cronin. “It doesn’t run itself, but it gets easier.”
   Local band Hit and Run will provide music during the event; attendees can participate in the 50/50, and horseshoe tournaments will be held throughout the afternoon.
   With the entertainment, food, and music, people still come for one thing — to eat their fill of clams, said Elks member Mike Zebrowski.
   ”It’s amazing how many clams people can eat,” said Mr. Zebrowski.
   Admission for children under 10 is free; $35 per person for pre-registered diners; $40 at the door.
   To register for the event, call the Elks Lodge at 725-1716.