We got to the Key Peninsula Civic Center’s annual crab feed extravaganza as things were winding down. But I talked to those who make this affair such a delight and learned it was a huge success.

The lasagna, garlic bread, a delicious broad-noodle-in-cream sauce dish, one of the best tossed salads this non-veggie type has enjoyed in a long time, and, of course, the crab — nothing short of fabulous. It was once again provided fresh by Winks.

And they didn’t run out of anything.

“This is an event we’ve helped in the past as payback to use the facilities at the civic center,” Cub Scout Pack 222 leader Mike Ohara said. “We will have our Blue and Gold banquet and committee meetings there, and this is a great event to give back to the KPCC.”

There were enough Pack 222 Cubs to work two shifts, an early setup shift and a late cleanup shift. They did a great job and did so proudly.

The food was served by young people who volunteers for the civic center’s well-attended Friday Skate Nights under the guidance of Troy Milles.

“Skate Nights is about to expand its operation,” Milles said. “Until now, it has been only for youngsters up to the eighth grade; pre-schoolers through fifth-grade have the first session, then sixth- through eighth-graders. Skating stops at 9 p.m. Soon, skating will be for all ages after 9 p.m. until 11 p.m.”

I haven’t been on skates for years, but ...

Peninsula High School freshman Sophie Hendrix chose to volunteer at the crab feed because she knew the civic center is struggling in this economy, and she knows how every bit of help is appreciated.

“From supervising kids at Skate Night, to serving food at fundraising events, I try to be at as many events as I can because the (KPCC) does so much for the community,” she said. “I just want to give back.”

PHS senior Stacey Washburn also volunteered because she enjoys helping people.

“I’ve also never been (to the crab feed), so I thought this would be the best way to check out what happens at this event,” she said. “I had a fun time serving and talking with different people.”

Henderson Bay High School senior Stephanie-Lynn Stevens said, “I’ve been with the skate night program four years and love it, from how kids look up to me when I’m DJ’ing their favorite songs to just saying hi when they come through the doors. It’s amazing how every Friday we see the impacts on their lives. Kids come from when they are just little.

“It’s cool to watch them learn and grow,” she said. “I love how parents tell us they appreciate the program for their children so they don’t get into drugs and violence because, ‘they are bored, and there’s nothing to do on the KP.’ ”

Nothing more needs to be said.

Hugh McMillan is a longtime freelance writer for The Peninsula Gateway. He can be reached at 253-884-3319 or by email at hmcmnp1000@centurytel.net.