The Rotary Club of Shepherdstown and the Environmental Services Committee hosted its inaugural Claws for a Cause crab feast this past weekend, and by every measure, it was a resounding success. With 10 bushels of Chesapeake Bay crabs piled high on the tables, friends and neighbors gathered at Potomac Ridge Brewery for an evening of fellowship, community spirit, and purpose.
A Feast with a Message
Beyond the butter and Old Bay, corn on the cob and coleslaw, the night carried a deeper meaning. Our keynote speaker, Dr. Than Hitt, delivered an engaging talk on the importance of healthy rivers and resilient communities. His words reminded us that what we do here in Shepherdstown—whether through conservation, stewardship, or service—flows downstream to shape the future of the Potomac and beyond.
Community Spirit on Full Display
The event was also a celebration of teamwork. Our Claws for a Cause committee, under the leadership of Ennvironmental Service chair, Bill Howard, dedicated volunteers pulled together every detail—from ticketing to setup to cleanup—with care and enthusiasm. A special word of thanks goes to Karen Valentine, whose creativity and persistence helped make this event such a memorable one.
Service Above Self in Action
Funds raised from this year’s crab feast will support the club’s new Environmental Service Committee as it launches projects to improve local waterways, support environmental education, and partner with community organizations under our theme, “United for Good.”
As the last crab was cracked and the final toast made, one thing was clear: Claws for a Cause has already become more than an event—it’s a new Shepherdstown tradition that blends fun, food, and fellowship with a shared commitment to environmental service.
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