The Fish Belong to the People William Hyler’s locally shot feature-length documentary that premiered at the 2009 Camden International Film Festival, will be screened Saturday, Nov. 6 at 7 p.m. at the Camden Opera House, Elm Street/Route 1. The event is free with a suggested donation of $10 at the door.
Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. for a pre-screening selection of hors d’oeuvres prepared by chefs from Paolina’s Way and Café Miranda, as well as Scott Yakovenko, formerly of Port Clyde Seafood Co. Freshly-caught fish for the evening will be provided by the Midcoast Fishermen’s Cooperative, which is featured in the film.
Following the film, there will be a panel discussion with fisherman Glen Libby, president of the MFC and chairman of the Midcoast Fishermen’s Association; Jennifer Litteral, policy director for the Island Institute; Sen. Chris Rector, R-Thomaston, who serves on Maine’s Business, Research and Economic Development and Marine Resources committees. Rob Kelley, a member of the Midcoast Maine Fishing Heritage Alliance, will moderate.
Since its premiere, the film has become an important resource for those seeking to understand the challenges that fisheries currently face. The film focuses on the efforts of a group of family fishermen in Port Clyde who have come together as the Midcoast Fishermen’s Cooperative to save their fishery using environmentally friendly methods and selling directly to their customers under the brand name Port Clyde Fresh Catch.
This event is co-sponsored by the Midcoast Maine Fishing Heritage Alliance and the K2 Family Foundation. MMFHA is a nonprofit foundation devoted to connecting fishermen to their communities through education, research and outreach, as well as keeping them safe at sea. The K2 Family Foundation seeks to support individuals who strive — through art, education, or action — to promote more creative and sustainable ways of living.
