SALMON DINNER

In the 1920's, Salmon dinners were initiated by members of the Japanese Church Federation on Washington Street. The dinners were held thrice yearly and contributions were received from churches throughout the Monterey Peninsula. Abalone for chowder was easy to come by as were the salmon, for many members were fishermen. Kametaro Takiguchi was the organizer and chief cook.

The Salmon Dinner was held annually at the El Estero Presbyterian Church, usually on the first Friday in June. During the last year of this event (2002) it was held Friday, June 7. Yae Kuwatani and Lyle Quock co-chaired the event and had many others who helped. During the recent past, Pam Yoshida and Yae Kuwatani have co-chaired the event. The congregation is indebted to them for their hard work and dedication. In previous years, Lynn Kageyama, Richard Marquez and Lyle Quock have shared in the co-chair positions and did a magnificent job.

Those who attended the dinner appreciated the hard work of many members, family and friends who helped work long hours prior to, on the day of the dinner and afterwards. The overall attendance was down somewhat in 2002 compared to previous years but the event was considered to be successful based on comments from regular and new diners, and friends.

The menu includeded:

  • Salmon steak or fillet
  • Clam Chowder
  • Salad
  • Vegetables
  • Rice/Bread
  • Dessert
  • Beverage

In July 2002 a survey of the congregation was taken to determine the future of the Annual Salmon Dinner. Based on the response and much discussion it was decided that the Annual Salmon Dinner would be suspended until further notice. The aging membership and the uncertainty of fresh local salmon (that makes for the best flavor) were the main factors in the decision. Any future plans to resume or develop a new project will be reported in Echoes and this web site.