'Shore' was fun: Rotary's Lobster Fest nets big crowd at Compo

A gentle breeze carried smells of the sea through the brisk fall air -- and into the mouth -- as the first Lobster Fest sponsored by the Westport Rotary Club drew a large crowd Saturday to Compo Beach to enjoy a classic maritime menu.

And for lovers of the "turf" side of the standard surf-and-turf equation, there was plenty of steak available as well.

The event was one of two major annual fundraisers held by the nearly 90-year-old Westport Rotary Club, which today has 75 members drawn from the ranks of local businesses and organizations. The club's other big event is its Spring Golf and Tennis Classic at Longshore Golf Course.

Hundreds turned out for the Lobster Fest, held on a grassy expanse adjacent to Compo Beach, where tents had been set up for food preparation and dining. Adding to the festive atmosphere were the Beaver Beer on tap and playful Grateful Dead songs performed by the local band, Ship of Fools.

Proceeds from the Lobster Fest will support a range of the Westport Rotary's charities.