The Monterey Hostel is pleased to host a free potluck and presentation entitled Italians of the Monterey Peninsula by Mike Ventimiglia, author of a book of the same name recently published by Arcadia Publishing. Ventimiglia will speak about the history of the fishing industry in the Monterey Bay.

Since the early 1900s, Monterey was known for its fishing, mostly for salmon and the abalone that was plentiful in Monterey Bay. But for nearly 5 decades, the immigrant Sicilian Italian community in Monterey is credited for reaping what was called the “Silver Harvest,” the fishing of sardines. Most of that generation is gone, and only a few are memorialized in books. In his book, Ventimiglia attempts to capture the working class that made Monterey the “Sardine Capital of the World.”

The optional potluck will begin at 6pm, the discussion will begin at 6:45pm. (Help setting up at 5:30pm is appreciated.) Everyone is welcome! If you're attending the potluck, please bring your favorite side-dish to share or make a monetary donation. For more information, please phone 831-899-3046 or 831-649-3075.