Following the screening of THE BONACKERS, stay for a special conversation with filmmaker Joanne Friedland Roberts and Pete Topping, Baykeeper and Executive Director of Peconic Baykeeper.

THE BONACKERS is a 60-minute documentary that tells the story of the fiercely independent men and women whose families have fished and farmed the East End of Long Island for nearly 400 years. As they work to preserve their traditions despite increasing development and environmental challenges, the film offers an intimate look at a way of life that may be among the last of its kind.

Filmmaker Joanne Friedland Roberts is an award-winning writer, producer, director, and digital media pioneer who has created original television series and content for organizations including CBS, PBS, ABC/Disney, HBO, Nickelodeon, the Smithsonian, and Sesame Workshop. THE BONACKERS is her first independent feature documentary and directorial debut. Since its premiere on WLIW-TV, the film has been featured on PBS Passport, public television stations nationwide, Kanopy, and at theaters and historical societies across Long Island.

Joining Joanne is Pete Topping, Baykeeper and Executive Director of Peconic Baykeeper, a Hampton Bays-based nonprofit dedicated to protecting and restoring Long Island's waters. Raised along Little Peconic Bay, Pete's lifelong passion for marine conservation was inspired by witnessing the effects of brown tide algal blooms as a child. With a background in marine biology, environmental education, and shellfish restoration, Pete now leads Peconic Baykeeper's efforts to protect the region's drinkable, swimmable, and fishable waters through science, education, advocacy, and community engagement.

Together, Joanne and Pete will discuss the cultural heritage of the East End, the environmental challenges facing its waters and working waterfronts, and why preserving both remains vital for future generations.