August 2025 - Director's Corner

By Melissa Mahoney, August 7th

July was a month of meaningful engagement and strategic reflection for the Monterey Bay Fisheries Trust (MBFT). A highlight for me was the Get Hooked dinner with Madson Wines/Colectivo Felix, which gave me a sense that our care for each other and our food systems are stronger than ever. I was particularly moved by Erica Padilla-Chavez, Chief Executive Officer at Second Harvest Food Bank’s insights into the value of our collaboration, especially in a time when food relief initiatives are facing significant funding reductions. Ocean2Table’s Co-founder, Ian Cole, further emphasized the critical need for food sovereignty, highlighting the importance of ensuring local access to seafood and supporting our dedicated local harvesters, all while we work to feed those in our community who are most vulnerable. The evening provided a wonderful opportunity to connect with the community and enjoy a delicious meal and exquisite wines together. Deep appreciation for all our loyal supporters!

July also served as a crucial period for organizational reflection. Our board convened for a retreat, focusing on how we can ensure the long-term sustainability of the Fisheries Trust and exploring ways each of us can more effectively serve as ambassadors for our mission. Many thanks to The Campbell Foundation for providing support for a board ambassador training program, and to Sharon Papo of Indigo Skies Consulting for leading us!

To round out the month, our team participated in the first annual Monterey Abalone Festival, hosted by the Japanese American Conservation League to celebrate the 100th anniversary of their Hall, which I learned was paid for by abalone revenue! On July 26-27, the JACL held two days of activities to explore the natural, cultural and culinary history of abalone. We learned a great deal about abalone’s importance here from speakers Tim Thomas, Sandy Lydon, Art Seavey, and others. The highlight of Saturday was a dance performance on Del Monte beach by Rumsen Ohlone Tribal Community dancers.

These community-based events, and the beauty of long summer days along the shore, remind me of just how blessed we are to call Monterey Bay our home. May we all continue to work together to care for each other, and also the plants and animals that call this place home.

Erica Padilla-Chavez, Chief Executive Officer of Second Harvest Food Bank Santa Cruz, speaking during the Get Hooked Dinner at Madson Wines

PC: Ben Gerding

MBFT Board Retreat

Rumsen Ohlone Tribal Community dancers