Port's fishy business

At least ten unidentified employees at the port of San Diego were each given a ticket last month worth $150 to the “Sustainable Seafood Gala 2013” thrown by the San Diego Oceans Foundation. The free dinner, drinks, and entertainment were justified by the port district because the employees provided “Representation of the District at an event to sustain or build relationships with tenants, businesses, or local, regional, state or federal agencies,” according to a March 15 disclosure report the port filed with the state. “Each year, SDOF seeks to host this event at a unique location, with attractions and music, a cocktail hour and a sumptuous dinner,” says the foundation’s web page for the March 7 gala. “Unlike most seated dinners, our guests roam to several different celebrity chef stations where they interact with the chefs, learn about the protein and understand its role in sustainability. The evening is filled with entertainments of all sorts and is always fun and enjoyable, never ‘stuffy’ or dull! This is the culinary event you won’t want to miss!” Sponsors included SeaWorld; Snake Oil Cocktail Company; Ballast Point Brewing and Spirits; port tenant Hornblower Cruises and Events; and the port itself, according to the website.