"Lobster Night" draws soccer enthusiasts

by Andrew Nynka

EAST HANOVER, N.J. - What started in July as a monthly get-together of 15 men has expanded to more than 75 Ukrainian Americans who gathered on November 12 to watch the Ukrainian national soccer team in its bid to qualify for the 2002 World Cup championships.

The event, "Lobster Night," was first held on July 16 by a group of local Ukrainian American men dining at the Collins Restaurant in Morris Plains, N.J. With each subsequent meeting drawing a larger crowd, the event quickly moved to the Ramada Hotel located on Route 10 in East Hanover, N.J. Under the gracious and hospitable hand of Orest Fedash, the hotel's executive general manager, and other anonymous organizers, the event's notoriety has grown. Coordinators expect a turnout of over 100 for their next gathering in January.

Providing a casual and relaxed atmosphere for introductions and networking, its participants seem to enjoy the evening for what it is - a social gathering of Ukrainian American males of various ages.

The event's cost, $40, covers the lobster, steak or salmon dinner along with hors d'oeuvres, wine and beer, with a portion of the money going to St. John's Ukrainian Catholic Church in Whippany, N.J., and St. John's Ukrainian Catholic Church in Newark, N.J. The most recent meeting raised over $600 to be split between the two churches.

Individuals interested in being placed on the e-mail list or requiring more information should contact [email protected].

Copyright © The Ukrainian Weekly, November 18, 2001, No. 46, Vol. LXIX

| Home Page |