Crab feed for scholarship draws enthusiasts in SF Bay Area

COLMA, California — Local dignitaries and a few hundred area residents, many representing the Daly City-Colma Chamber of Commerce, packed the Colma Community Center March 12 for an annual crab feed fundraising event that benefits the chamber’s “Access to Higher Education” college scholarship program.

Judging by the amount of crab served to the hilt, most festival goers had to think it was definitely worth the wait. Tickets to the event were sold out as early as January.

The Italian-themed dinner, which began with sourdough bread, was followed by mixed greens and a serving of pesto pasta salad, prepared by former Colma Mayor Dennis Fisicaro. To wash it all down were beverage choices of soda pop, bottled water and red wine. Accompanying the cultural festivities was background accordion music.

At that point, it was time for the star of the evening — the fresh Dungeness crab, courtesy of Daly City’s Moonstar Restaurant. When the succulent seafood was all but gone, the raffle portion of the evening’s festivities followed.

Included in the nearly 40 great prize giveaways were gift certificates to various businesses, electronic devices, tickets to San Francisco Giants games at AT&T Park, and a 50” high-definition television as grand prize.

A pet project of DCCCC President Georgette Sarles, the crab feed supports today’s youth (more like older teens and young adults). In the past six years, the “Access to Higher Education” program annually has seen an average of 40 Daly City and Colma High School seniors receiving scholarships (available in four levels; $1,000, $500, $250 & $100) each to the college of their choice.

“These sponsorships allow students to achieve their college dreams,” Sarles said.

The scholarship award ceremony will take place in May at the Daly City Council chamber. Potential recipients have until early April to submit their applications, and they can visit the DCCCC website for further details.

Colma-based business and DCCCC organizational member Lucky Chances Casino has served as a sponsor the past six years and is “proud to continue the tradition again this year.”