Here on the Mendocino Coast of California, traditional Fourth of July celebrations include the extremely entertaining Fourth of July Parade in the Village of Mendocino and the Annual "World's Largest" Salmon BBQ in Fort Bragg. For the 3rd year, I have been privileged to serve as a volunteer BBQ chef for the Salmon BBQ event. It is for a great cause - salmon restoration. As many people know, salmon population levels have declined to alarmingly low levels in California and there is currently a moratorium in place to protect the species. It is great to see the amount of community involvement that goes into putting on an event of this magnitude. Volunteers prepare all of the elements of a mouthwatering delicious meal, including a large hunk of salmon (from Alaska), corn on the cob, bread and salad. The salmon is barbequed by an all-star team of chefs, including U.S. Congressman Mike Thompson, 2 members of the Mendocino County Board of Supervisors, Fort Bragg Mayor Doug Hammerstrom, most of the City Council members, Superintendent of Schools and many more. The local service club organizations, such as Rotary Club and Soroptomist Club cook and serve as well. It's a great community event. And it draws people from all over Northern California. This year I met people from Sunnyvale, Orland and Sacramento. You ever get a chance, be sure and stop by for the annual Fort Bragg "World's Largest" Salmon BBQ. We guarantee a great time and a great meal!
