Willis Spears Jr. speaks about his 54 years as a commercial fisherman off of Cousins Island, ME, focusing on the history of shrimping, the differences between dragging and trapping shrimp, and the changes in the Portland working waterfront over his lifetime. He describes the interaction between fishermen and Portland authorities in their efforts to advocate for the fishing community’s needs and emphasizes the importance of passing information and knowledge to future generations.

Biographical Note:
William “Bill” Needelman is the Waterfront Coordinator for the City of Portland, Maine. He was born in Portland, Maine on April 3, 1964.

Biographical Note:
Wayne Davis is a commercial lobsterman from Tremont, Maine.

Biographical Note:
Shey Conover is the Chief Operating Officer at the Island Institute in Rockland, Maine. She was born on March 5, 1980.

Biographical Note:
Sherrie Miller is a resident of Panacea, Florida born on December 19, 1961. She works in her family’s restaurant, Posey’s Restaurant, and serves as the Vice- Chairman of the Panacea Waterfronts Florida Partnership.

Biographical Note:
Sarah Garcia is Community Development Director and Harbor Planning Director for the City of Gloucester, Massachusetts.

Russell Brohl, a retired ship captain and member of the port authority, is a long-term resident of South Bass Island, Ohio, with deep roots in the local community. His life has been intricately woven into the fabric of the island, where he has witnessed and participated in its evolution over the years. Brohl's background is a tapestry of experiences that range from the day-to-day management of island affairs to the stewardship of its natural and cultural heritage.

Roland Lewis, the president and CEO of the Waterfront Alliance, is a prominent figure in urban planning and environmental advocacy, particularly in the context of New York City's waterfronts. Lewis has dedicated his career to the revitalization and sustainable development of the city's coastal areas. His expertise encompasses a range of issues from urban design to policy reform, with a focus on creating resilient and accessible waterfronts for both economic and recreational purposes.

Biographical Note:
​​​​​​​Peter Katich is the Senior Planner for the City of Gig Harbor, Washington. Peter was born in April 1954. He has worked in the planning field for 37 years.

Peter Huston is a filmmaker and active member of the Chamber of Commerce on South Bass Island, Ohio. His professional and personal endeavors have positioned him as a knowledgeable figure in the community, particularly in matters concerning the local waterfront. Huston's engagement with the island's development and his creative background give him a unique perspective on the historical and contemporary issues facing his community. His work in the film industry has likely honed his storytelling abilities, enabling him to articulate the narrative of the island's evolution effectively.