Long Island’s clam heritage: film and lunch

On May 2, Long Island Traditions is sponsoring a screening-and-lunch program highlighting the work of local baymen. The screening is of a Belgian television show, hosted by Belgian celebrity chef Jeroen Meus, that follows baymen Eddie Sheehan and Rich Van Wicklen as they go clamming and then prepare a traditional clam stew. The program also delves into Frank Sinatra’s love of clams. The screening will take place at 12:30 at the Town of Hempstead’s Conservation and Waterways headquarters in Point Lookout.

Thereafter the festivities move North to Artie’s South Shore Fish and Grill in Island Park where owner Artie Hoernig, himself a fisherman, will preside over a lunch consisting of clam chowder or clams on the halfshell, linguine in red or white clam sauce, fried soft-shell clams and local (probably Artie-caught) fluke. (Nonfish options are also available.)

The price is $25 for Long Island Traditions members, $35 for nonmembers. Space is limited so sign up early. Click here for a reservation form, or call 516-767-8803 for more option.

AP photo