San Diego History Center (SDHC) will host its annual “Makers of San Diego History” gala on Saturday, June 9, at the Town and Country Resort, paying tribute to the achievements of the tuna fishing industry and the contributions made to our community by the tuna fishing families.
From the beginning of the 20th century until the early 1970s, San Diego was the “tuna capital of the world.” In 1940, 95 percent of the tuna consumed in the United States was packed in San Diego, making this industry one of the economic pillars of the city and one that supported Japanese, Portuguese, Italian, and Hispanic families living in San Diego Bay communities like Point Loma, Little Italy, and Logan Heights (Barrio Logan).
“Among those being recognized in this special community tribute are the American Tunaboat Association as well as Bumble Bee Foods and Chicken of the Sea — both of which are still headquartered in San Diego — and StarKist,” notes acting executive director Charlotte Cagan.
The event will feature a panel discussion emceed by local television personality Dennis Morgigno discussing the rise, fall, and future of San Diego’s tuna industry with luminaries like: Clipper Oil CEO, Kenny Alameda; American Tunaboat Association CEO, Brian Hallman; CEO of Bumble Bee Foods, Chris Lischewski; and President of Zolezzi Enterprises, Julius Zolezzi.
The event is open to the public and tiered ticketing is available with seats starting at $75. Sponsorships to honor a fishing family, tuna boat, or its crew are also available.
The event will be an informal affair with hosted bar and internationally themed food stations representing the nationalities that embodied San Diego’s tuna fishing industry.
Proceeds from the event will benefit the History Center’s educational programs, exhibitions, and public outreach efforts. Reservations and tickets are available by calling Jessica Schmidt LaFave. (619/232-6203, ext. 102, www.sandiegohistory.org/makersofhistory)
