That’s a lot of clams

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Peter’s Clam Bar hosted a clam-eating contest on Sunday to benefit Long Island firehouses that were damaged by Superstorm Sandy.

A total of 14 contestants from Island Park Fire Department, Oceanside Fire Department, Point Lookout-Lido Fire Department, Long Beach Fire Department, North Merrick Fire Department, and Baldwin Fire Department competed in the first part of the contest . A total of almost 2,000 clams were eaten by all.

Richie Santoro of the Long Beach Fire Department took first place and earned $2500 for his department. Bob Holtkamp, also of the Long Beach Fire Department , came in second and earned $1000. Ex-chief Chris Neville of the Baldwin Fire Department came in third and won a $500 donation from Peter’s owner, Butch Yamali. Checks were made payable to the winners respective fire department.s

Santoro packed away eight dozen in the first round, four minutes, and then almost five dozen in the championship round for a total of approximately 150 clams.

The judges were County Executive Ed Mangano, Jill Nicolini, and Ed “Cookie” Jarvis, a “professional” eater. Takeru Kobayashi, who is a competitive eating champion and six time Nathan’s hot dog eating champ, advised the contestants.

A second contest, open to the public, followed.

Nassau County Police Commissioner Thomas Krumpter, NUMC CEO Dr. Vic Politti, NC Parks Commissioner Brian Nugent, Mayor Michael McGinty, Deputy Mayor Steve D’Esposito, and Trustee Irene Naudus were all on hand to support the local fire departments.

“The generosity of Butch Yamali is unparalleled and the Island Park Fire Department is extremely grateful for him and his commitment to our community,” said Oceanside Fire Chief Anthony D’Esposito. “The event was great for the firefighters and our community. It was a terrific opportunity for local departments devastated by Hurricane Sandy to bring a much-needed donation back to their fellow members.”