Organizations

 

The Rotary Club of Apalachicola Bay meets weekly at Tamara's Tapas on Tuesdays at Noon.

Our Mission

INConcert is committed to cultural enrichment, raising awareness of the musical arts and providing support for student creative development. Only with your help can we achieve our mission to share the enjoyment of music throughout the Franklin County Bay Area on Florida's Forgotten Coast.

Celebrating 42 years of musical concerts

Welcome to the forty-second season of the Ilse Newell Concert Series. Six evenings of live music—classical piano, jazz, blues, guitar, and bluegrass—return to Trinity Episcopal Church and the Holy Family Center. One concert at Holy Family is presented with the Elder Care Community Council. The remainder are at Trinity. This season: January 10 — Dina Kasman, piano, at Trinity. Alabama-born and now at Peabody, she opens the year as a soloist whose concertos have been heard with the Alabama Symphony and the National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine.January 22 — Jeff Black, singer-songwriter, at Trinity. A 30A Festival favorite from Nashville: guitar, piano, harmonica, banjo, and songs that stay with you. February 7 — Leon Anderson Jazz Ensemble at Trinity, with music from Live at Snug Harbor and, for the first time with Leon’s ensemble, a jazz vocalist. February 13--Will Fulkerson and Friends at the Holy Family Center, a benefit for the Elder Care Community Council—blues and jazz with Nygel Anderson, Joe Goldberg, and friends. March 10 — Stephen Mattingly and guitar quartet at Trinity. The FSU guitar professor returns with colleagues from around the country. March 19 — Echo Valley, bluegrass, at Trinity. The Anderson siblings bring their new release “Leave You Behind” and the close harmony that has made them a series favorite. Open seating. Students are admitted free. Season passes and individual tickets are at inconcertapalachicola.org. This series exists because you do. Donors at the Sponsor level and above receive complimentary admission in thanks. Every gift—and every hour given at the door and the reception—keeps the music in this room. On behalf of the board, thank you. We look forward to seeing you at the concerts and at the receptions that follow. Steve Watkins President, Board of Directors Ilse Newell Fund for the Performing Arts P.O. Box 405, Apalachicola, FL 32329

    To purchase tickets, visit Inconcert Apalachicola Ticket Information

The American Red Cross has been serving Tallahassee and the surrounding area since 1917. In the past eighty-three years, the American Red Cross has provided a helping hand by reaching out to local residents, and last year touched the lives of more than 10,500 people in the eight counties that we serve. The American Red Cross provided a "helping hand" that was needed following a disaster, helping to get loved ones home from the military during an emergency, training people in first aid, CPR, swimming, and HIV/AIDS courses.

This organization was founded in 1988 by Marie Marshall and others to tackle community projects such preserving precious community assets like the restoration of the gazebo in Lafayette Park, and the Fry-Conter House and bringing prominent traveling exhibits such as the Smithsonian's "The Way We Worked" to Apalachicola.

There's a touch of fall in the air and it's time to GO CAMPING! What better way to spend a weekend than relaxing at the beach. Whether you like to fish, go kayaking, bird watch, or look for shells, St. George Island State Park has something for everyone. For the birders out there, the Neo-Tropical migrants heading for their wintering grounds in Central and South America are starting to show. Many different types of raptors such as Peregrine Falcons, Marsh Hawks and Kestrels are also being spotted at this time. The campground is filling up quickly so be sure to make your reservations soon. Reservations can be made online at http: www.reserveamerica.com or by phone 1-800-326-3521.

The mission of the Jim Moran Institute for Global Entrepreneurship is to cultivate, train, and inspire entrepreneurial leaders through world-class executive education, applied training, public recognition, and leading-edge research.

Friends of St. Joseph Bay Preserves is a Citizen Support Organization formed to protect, preserve and support the SJB State Buffer Preserve and SJB Aquatic Preserve. Open Monday-Friday from 9am-4pm ET. Trails open sunrise to sunset.TRAM tours monthly on second Friday except October. Fall and Winter Bay Day on Second Saturday of February and October.

HAPPI's vision is that Apalachicola value and preserve its historic character and plat, both to assure that those are saved for future generations and to provide our region with the ongoing economic benefits of historic tourism. The mission is to inspire the citizens and officials of Apalachicola to embrace our City's historic significance, to encourage legislative, regulatory and other protections for our City's historic assets, to build alliances and partnerships with other organizations.

Experience the iconic Cape St. George Lighthouse, rising 77 feet above the heart of St. George Island. Climb the restored 1852 tower for sweeping 360-degree views of the Gulf and Apalachicola Bay. Step into the Keeper’s House to explore the Lighthouse Museum and Gift Shop—where history and coastal charm meet. Discover the dramatic story of the lighthouse’s collapse and reconstruction or find a unique island treasure to take home. Contact us at (850) 927-7745 for more information. HOURS OF OPERATION: Spring/Summer Hours (March 1 – Labor Day) Open 7 days a week: Monday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., and Sunday, 12 p.m.–5 p.m. Fall Hours (September 2 – October 31) CLOSED MONDAY; Tuesday – Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., and Sunday: Noon – 5 p.m. Winter Hours (November 1 – February 28) CLOSED MONDAY; Tuesday – Sunday:  Noon – 5 p.m.

The 3rd Annual SGI Brewfest features an even broader selection of amazing craft beers, friendly faces, and furry friends. Come enjoy a day of relaxed tasting, in an environment that gives you time and space to actually talk with the brewers themselves. All proceeds go to help fund the Franklin County Humane Society – beers, beaches, and bettering the lives of animals. What’s not to love? For 2018, we are debuting new VIP benefits, exclusive beers, and SGI Brewfest merchandise. Call some friends and get your tickets now – and VIP tickets are an even better deal. Featuring these delicious breweries, and more!

The Weems Memorial Healthcare Foundation is the fundraising arm for the Weems Memorial Hospital. The Foundation's goal is to develop philanthropic support of Weems Memorial Hospital and to actively support Weems' desire to serve our community and it's visitors with the most up-to-the minute medical technology and knowledge. The Foundation also seeks to improve the community's quality and quantity of life with the preventative teaching and resources for medical information. The Weems Memorial Healthcare Foundation is a 501 (c) (3), tax-exempt, non-profit foundation. All contributions are 100% tax-deductible.

Franklin Needs, Inc is a 501 C3. The organization raises needed funds for use in Franklin County, by Franklin County women in their fight against Breast Cancer.

Eastpoint Volunteer Fire Department's fire district serves a 200 square miles area of central Franklin County, Florida, and the primary response area of population is 2,158 and the secondary response area / mutual aid of population is 6,500. EVFD's services provide firefighting, hazardous material response, BLS emergency medical service, vehicle rescue (extrication), search and rescue, and support. EVFD have three fire apparatus. Also, we provide a mutual aid as needed to Apalachicola and St. George Island Volunteer Fire Departments. EVFD is a member of Franklin County United Firefighters Association.

Our mission: To end litter, increase recycling, and help beautify Franklin County Florida.

Since August 2016, ECCC ("E Triple C") has been a bridge, connecting seniors to their community and to its system of support services.  Working from the Holy Family Senior Center in Apalachicola, the ECCC is staffed by several part-time cooks, many generous volunteers, and a Director who manages operations and coordinates with fellow members of an oversight Board for planning, funding, and direction. ECCC services are available to Franklin County seniors over age 60, and they have included:

• hot lunches Monday through Friday, available for dining in the senior center or for delivery to the homebound
• yoga classes for all skill levels (open to all ages)
• social activities, especially for holidays
• guest speakers, generally per health and wellness or specifically representing area services agencies
• special events related to gardening and nature, art, music, dance, and games
• outreach and advocacy, assessing needs and working to match them with available services
• provision of laundry and cleaning supplies, fans, blankets
• on a limited basis, respite care, handyperson support, and friendly visitor arrangements
• local transportation services, such as to appointments

ECCC is funded in part by the City of Apalachicola, the Franklin County Board of Commissioners, and the Area Agency on Aging of North Florida.  As well, they rely heavily upon proceeds from community-based fundraising and ad hoc charitable donations. To see ECCC in action, visit their FaceBook page, found as "Eccc - E Triple C". To learn more about ECCC, click below: ECCC home page More About ECCC Contact information How to donate And please, if you or someone you know needs assistance in Franklin County, Florida, then call or email: 850-370-0116 ecccfranklin@gmail.com

Franklin County Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Held annually 3rd Monday of January.

Local non-profit organization.

St. George Island Business Association A 501 C # organization made up of SGI businesses: a Voluntary association of individuals, firms, companies & corporations engaged in or with an interest in Economic activities on SGI. Our purpose is to create & foster an economic climate on SGI conductive to growth and development of the business community.

Vision: Read and inspire the region to work together as a community, collectively caring for one another and enhancing the quality of life for all. Mission: To raise money and mobilize resources to meet priority human needs.

Friends of Franklin County Public Libraries is a 501(c)(3) organization that supports the two branches of the Franklin County Public Libraries, one in Eastpoint and one in Carrabelle. The Mission of the Friends is to support the Franklin County Public Libraries' goal to provide informational, educational and cultural materials for the benefit of persons of all ages in the community. The Friends provides funding for the Summer Reading Program as well as many other library programs throughout the year. The Friends sponsors two soup, bread, and book sale events each year with in-kind donations of food and labor from Friends’ members and community supporters. In addition, other donations from individuals and groups are received each year. Membership is the only other source of support. The community and those who benefit from library services are encouraged to buy a membership and help support the Franklin County libraries. The Friends of the Franklin County Public Libraries (FFCPL) was established in 1994. The organization was instrumental in the building of two county libraries. With funds donated to the Friends, the current Carrabelle library building was opened in 2002. In addition, through donations, grants, and a USDA loan, the current Eastpoint building and administrative offices were opened in 2013. The Eastpoint building is completely maintained by the Friends. Franklin County rents the building from the Friends, which helps to offset some of the maintenance costs.

The American Cancer Society is a voluntary health organization working to end cancer. Local Representative Dr. Rachel Sutz Pienta

The Supporters of St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge, Incorporated meet the third Thursday of each month.     Tuesday  Oct. 10 Wild Week -Focus on Photography-Wildlife & Birds Wednesday Oct. 11 Wild Week - Focus on Wildlife & Birds through a digiscope Thursday  Oct. 12 Wild Week- Focus on Endangered species-Red Wolves Friday  Oct. 13 Wild Week -Focus on Photography- Birds & Wildlife Wednesday Nov. 1 Wednesday Nov. 8 Wednesday Dec. 6 Wednesday Dec. 20 Wednesday Jan. 3 Refuge 50th Birthday Tour- meet historic island figures Wednesday  Feb.14 Valentines Day Tour- learn why we love the Refuge Wednesday Feb.28 Saturday  March 3 World Wildlife Day Tour Wednesday March 21 Wednesday April 11 National Bicycle Day tour -trail bike tour of the island Saturday  April 21  Earth Day Tour Saturday May 5 International Migratory Bird Day & See a Monarch Day All tours are led by volunteers. Tours leave from Indian Pass Boat Ramp no later than 8:45 AM Eastern time. Tours are limited to 20 people. No charge for the tour, but there is a cost of $10 per person payable in cash to the commercial shuttle service. Please join us. For more information please visit our web site. Reservations are mandatory & must be made on-line at < https://www.stvincentfriends.com/>

Explore and Discover Heritage: Explore Apalachicola's history, discover unique boutiques and enjoy fresh Apalachicola Bay seafood in area restaurants. In Carrabelle, play golf on a championship course, plan a boating or fishing trip from the area's natural deep-water harbor or visit a museum. Climb historic lighthouses or watch fishing boats unload their catch along an authentic working waterfront. Festivals occur year-round so there's always something to do. Let's Go To the Beach! Beaches: Franklin County features more than 250 miles of salty shoreline that stretches from Alligator Point to Apalachicola. St. George Island is the area's premier beach destination and is home to one of America's Top Ten beaches. Carrabelle's white sandy beaches feature easy access, showers and covered picnic tables. Nature enthusiasts flock to Alligator Point beaches for bird watching and seclusion. Stay Awhile Accommodations: Franklin County offers a variety of lodging options set amidst an authentic, Old Florida landscape. From a quaint beach cottage to a luxurious beachfront villa, accommodations providers offer a full selection in a wide range of prices. Sportsmen and outdoor enthusiasts have many options that range from waterfront condos, rustic fishing lodges or public camping

The Friends of the Governor Stone, Inc., is an organization that preserves and maintains, for the benefit of the general public, the sailing vessel Governor Stone, a designated National Historic Landmark and registered Florida Antique Vessel. Annual Membership is available at a variety of levels for both individuals and corporations.

The Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve is a the second largest in the nation encompassing over 246,000 acres. The Apalachicola National Research Reserve is also a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, an internationally designated protected area meant to demonstrate a balanced relationship between people and nature. The Reserve's Nature Center in Eastpoint features exhibits on the flora and fauna of the ares including aquariums, open tanks, local sea life, a small theater. Open to the public Tuesday - Saturday 9:00-4:00 pm.

Open Monday-Friday: 10-6 and Sunday: 12-4. Beyond books, we offer print/copy/fax/scan services. We also have cardstock/colored paper, and can laminate and cut. We've recently lowered our fees for these services, so prices range from $.10- $2.00, and we offer a discount for nonprofits. We offer quiet space for meetings/interviews/Zoom calls, checkout of laptops and tablets, and we have a shredder for sensitive documents. Isel, our full time library assistant, is also bilingual and a Florida notary. We also house the Archives for the Historical Society, as well. So, if anyone is interested in records for the area, including genealogical records, we can help!

Mardi Gras has gone to the Dogs! In the Fall of 2010, a group of animal-loving, fun-loving folks in the small, coastal town of Apalachicola, Florida, decided to renew an old tradition. At the dawn of the 20th Century, Apalachicola celebrated Mardi Gras in much the same way as other bigger Gulf cities like New Orleans and Mobile. This tradition eventually fell by the wayside. But Mardi Gras in Apalachicola has made a comeback in the form of a “Barkus” Parade, a procession of costumed canines and their owners, Zydeco music, and lots of beads. The annual Apalachicola Mardi Gras Barkus Parade is held the last Saturday of February in downtown Apalachicola starting at 1:00 pm. Each year there is a unique and fun theme for costumes and decorations. Come and celebrate Mardi Gras Apalach style with a street festival and parade of costumed folks and their dogs. The festivities will start at 11:00 am at Riverfront Park with live entertainment, local food vendors and a variety of arts and craft vendors to enjoy while strolling through the park. The parade of costumed dogs and their people, decorated golf carts and boats, and walkers begins at 1:00 pm. The parade begins at Riverfront Park and winds through town, ending back at the park where the party will continue. The King and Queen of Apalachicola’s Mardi Gras parade are always shelter animals who are ready for a forever home. As always, they will have a place of honor in the parade. In the tradition of the Mystic Krewe of Salty Barkers, profits from the parade will be donated to help care for the animals of the Forgotten Coast of Florida. For this year’s theme and additional information, check us out on our website:: https://saltybarkers.org/ or on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MardiGrasBarkusParade/. Other questions? Contact us at 850-624-8085 or apalachdogs@gmail.com. In addition to private events, the Krewe participates in other parades and hosts fundraisers. Membership is open to anyone who loves animals and likes to have fun.   Lassiez Les BONE Temps Rouler  

Forgotten Coast Cruisers. We welcome cars of all years, makes and models. Lets get the car lovers together for some cruise ins and fellowship.

The Capital Area Community Action Agency, Inc. (CACAA), is a private non-profit organization-501(c)(3) that was created in 1965 as the Leon County-Tallahassee Community Action Program to serve only Leon County residents. In 1980, it assumed sponsorship of antipoverty programs in Gadsden, Jefferson, Calhoun, Liberty, Franklin and a portion of Gulf Counties. The name was then changed to compliment the expanded service area. In 2010 service was extended to include all of Gulf County. Wakulla was the last county to be added to the Capital Area Community Action Area service area.

We are a non-profit conservation organization dedicated to the protection of the Apalachicola River and Bay. Since its founding in 1998, the Apalachicola Riverkeeper has advocated for the protection and stewardship of the Apalachicola River and Bay, its tributaries and watersheds. Our purpose remains to improve and maintain the Apalachicola's environmental health and productivity, and to preserve the natural, scenic, recreational, and commercial fishing character of these waterways. The Apalachicola Riverkeeper is a member of the international Waterkeeper Alliance and Waterkeepers Florida. Learn more at apalachicolariverkeeper.org

Not for profit Animal Adoption Center and safe haven for abandoned & homeless dogs and cats.

 

We are a not-for-profit organization that provides a variety of volunteer efforts, for social and environmental causes.  We were created to promote friendships and social activities, while enjoying the writings of Jimmy Buffett and the tropical spirit.

  St. George Island awaits you with 15 plein air artists painting the gorgeous beaches, marine life, wild life, and life style on this pristine natural barrier island there will be much to do: workshops, receptions, demonstrations and opportunities to buy art.   Follow us on Facebook and check out the website at www.sgiPaintOut.com

The State's oldest maritime event is scheduled for November 3rd & November 4th, 2017.Come enjoy the blessing of the fleet, redfish run, oyster shucking and oyster eating events, the blue crab races, grand parade, Large Carnival and live musical entertainment. We also have over 100 Arts and Crafts exhibitors and local fresh seafood. Friday headliner Christian Group I Am They , Headline Entertainment Saturday November 4th at 8:30 Jerrod Neimann   The Carnival Only will run Thursday November 2nd 6-11pm , Friday November 3rd 10-11pm, Sat. November 4th 10-11pm . The Florida Seafood Festival will only Be open Friday November 3rd and Saturday November 4th

Apalachicola Main Street is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to enhance the downtown district of Apalachicola with sound economic development that promotes a sustainable future while preserving the district’s historical significance and commitment to quality of life in our community. In 2020, we committed to actively promoting the district’s diverse historical and cultural heritage as part of the implementation of our mission. We also host two signature events each year, the Independence Eve Fireworks Celebration on July 3rd and the Apalachicola Community Easter Egg Hunt. We are a state and nationally accredited Main Street program. Learn more at http://www.DowntownApalachicola.com

Friends of Franklin County State Parks is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting, preserving, and enhancing the natural and cultural treasures of Franklin County's Florida State Parks. Through fundraising, volunteerism, educational programs, and community partnerships, we help provide resources for projects, exhibits, accessibility improvements, conservation initiatives, and visitor experiences that enrich our local parks. Our organization proudly supports parks including St. George Island State Park, the John Gorrie Museum State Park, the Orman House and Chapman Gardens. We believe these parks are vital to our community's heritage, economy, and quality of life, and we work to ensure they remain accessible and enjoyable for future generations. Whether you're a resident, visitor, volunteer, or business partner, we invite you to join us in protecting the places that make Franklin County such a special destination. Together, we can preserve our parks, celebrate our history, and inspire the next generation of outdoor stewards.   Become a Member https://www.fofcflsp.org/join   Help protect the natural beauty, history, and wildlife of Franklin County's Florida State Parks by becoming a member of the Friends of Franklin County State Parks. Your membership directly supports park improvements, educational programs, conservation projects, accessibility initiatives, and special events that enhance the experience for both residents and visitors. Every membership makes a difference in preserving these treasured places for generations to come. Whether you're a local resident, a frequent visitor, or simply someone who loves Florida's state parks, we'd love to have you as part of our community.  

A non-profit citizens' organization dedicated to improving the quality of life on St. George Island. Meetings are held at the Firehouse at 324 E. Pine on St. George Island the third Thursday of each month with a social beginning at 6:30 pm, covered dish dinner at 7:00 pm and a program of interest to the community at 7:30 pm. Visitors are welcome. Bringing a covered dish to share is optional.

Habitat for Humanity, a non-profit volunteer driven organization. Habitat is dedicated to creating work force housing for hard-working families in Franklin County.

Non-profit group providing fundraising support for the Apalachicola Volunteer Fire Department. The Oyster Cook-Off is our one BIG event. Saturday January 13th 2017 at Riverfront Park in Apalachicola.

For more than 100 years, Better Business Bureau has been helping people find businesses, brands and charities they can trust. BBB Serving Northwest Florida, founded in 1985 and serving 14 panhandle counties (Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, Walton, Holmes, Washington, Bay, Jackson, Calhoun, Gulf, Franklin, Liberty, Gadsden, and Wakulla Counties), is one of over 100 local, independent BBBs across North America. In 2017, people turned to your local BBB more than 444,000 times for BBB Business Profiles and over 57,000 times to request a business roster on more than 16,000 business profiles all available for free at bbb.org/nwfl.

The history of the Apalachicola area is a patchwork of cultures woven together by the river and bay that surround this unique stretch of North Florida. You'll find echoes of Apalachicola's steamboat era along its historic waterfront and learn about the town's role in the Civil War. The Apalachicola Area Historical Society is a nonprofit organization devoted to preserving and promoting the area's history and preservation efforts. We welcome you as a member and supporter.

Many people have asked, "What is H'COLA?" Here is the answer in brief: We are a group of committed and dedicated business-minded people from the Apalachicola, Hillside Community who occupy the same belief, which is that service to others is a high and worthy calling, and we share this view passionately. Please visit our About Us Page for more information about how H'COLA came to be, and other information about the organization. We are honored to be part of the Apalachicola Community and appreciate your support of our activities. We hope to see you at our next event! The Hillside Coalition of Laborers for Apalachicola (H'COLA) are making plans for their annual flagship event, the African-American History Festival, which takes place each year on the 3rd weekend in February. The weekend outdoor event celebrates and highlights African-American heritage, including art, culture, and food and provides something to do for the entire family and every age group from pre-school to senior citizen. For more information call Elinor Mount-Simmons (850) 323-0544 or Fonda Davis (850) 653-8658

If you are yearning to slow down and experience a historical, authentic “Old Florida” village, then meander south to Panacea.  You’ll discover a coastal area steeped in rich maritime history, shaped by generations of proud families, who still work the water in the time-honored traditions of boat-building, shrimping, crabbing, and fishing.

 Panacea, nestled between the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge and Apalachicola National Forest, is considered a nature lover’s paradise. Towering pine forests, shady palmetto and hardwood hammocks, a bountiful freshwater lake, healthy tidal marshes, and pristine estuaries provide opportunities for bird and wildlife observation. The sweeping views are often so compelling you stop you in your tracks. 

 

Regional office for public libraries in Franklin, Jefferson and Wakulla counties.

The program teaches parents, caregivers, teachers, middle school and high school students the importance of reading aloud to childrens from birth through "first teachers" training sessions. Also,to bring quality books to families, the use of music to enhance childrens interest in books, to develop a mentoring program with High School students and to inspire a love for reading through these efforts and to positively impact the childerns literacy rates in Franklin County.

A large Amphibious Warfare Training Camp from 1942-1946, it is estimated that over 250,000 men and women passed through Camp Gordon Johnston during its operation. The Camp Gordon Johnston Museum honors and preserves the heritage of these brave soldiers through extensive histories, displays, weapons, videos, and photographs of the area and life, at it existed at the camp. This is the only World War II museum east of New Orleans and the only one in Florida. Admission is free but donations are accepted. Located at its new facility, 1873 Highway 98 West, directly across from Carrabelle Public Beach. Hours are: Tuesday - Saturday: 11:00am - 5:00pm. Sunday - Monday: closed. Tours and special requests are welcome with advance notice. (850) 697-8575. www.campgordonjohnston.com. museum@campgordonjohnston.com.

The mission of the Apalachicola Artificial Reef Association (AARA) is to expand artificial reef structures promoting an ecologically stable marine environment in both state and federal waters off the coast of Apalachicola, Florida to increase conservation, recreation, research and educational opportunities. Grayson Shepard-President, Tommy Robinson VP, Bill Mudd – Secretary, Kathy Robinson Treasurer, Nikkie Cox, Donna Duncan, Jim Brown, David Fowlkes – board members Apalachicola Artificial Reef Association is a (501c3 nonprofit)

Aaron Meals exists so that 100% of every dollar given is used to provide food, clothing, blankets, shoes and other necessary items to those in need.

Sponsoring the annual 10-day Forgotten Coast en Plein air event, featuring artists at work, exhibits, a quickdraw competition, workshops receptions, lectures and opportunities to purchase original works of art. proceeds benefit the arts in Forgotten Coast communities.

Rock by the Sea, Inc. is dedicated to organizing music festivals and events to raise money to assist deserving charities who provide direct services to those in need. Every Rock by the Sea event is an intimate showcase of music designed to bring people together for the love of music and the common goal of helping these charities. Rock by the Sea is led completely by volunteers, has no employees. It is a community, a family...of volunteers, musicians, charities and fans of music who travel from all over the country to attend these events.  All donating their time, talents and dollars in pursuit of making a difference while having a GREAT time. Over 38 states have been represented and just over  80 bands and singer/songwriters have participated in our events or contributed to one of the seven Christmas CDs we have produced. Each event is about more than just the charity.  Its about discovering your new favorite band and hanging out with them.  Its about talking to people or their parents who have benefited from our efforts.  Its about making new friends and bringing your old ones into a community of some pretty fantastic people and talent you don't get to hear on the radio anymore. It does the soul some good. Everyone is happy to be at the event, happy to be a part of it and happy to be able to help. RBTS is in its 12th year with its annual showcase event at St. George Island. The purpose if the charity is to raise funds for children's issues. RBTS has donated over $500,000 to charities since 2007. The 2018 SGI event May 9-13 will have 30 musical acts of songwriters and touring musicians who donate their time. This year's event has fans from 28 states and two foreign countries. RBTS sponsors "Music As A Second Language:" at the Franklin County Public Library. Sponsor opportunities are available.

The coast of northwest Florida is such a biologically rich area that it is considered one of six biodiversity hotspots in the United States. The region within which the Florida State University Coastal & Marine Laboratory (FSUCML) is imbedded is relatively untouched by the development that plagues many of Florida's shores. As such, it includes a mosaic of habitats ranging from oyster reefs to seagrass meadows, from freshwater bogs to salt marshes, with ready access to nearshore sponge reefs and offshore drowned patch reefs. The mission of the FSUCML is to conduct innovative, interdisciplinary research focused on the coastal and marine ecosystems of the northeastern Gulf of Mexico, with a focus on solving the ecological problems faced by the region by providing the scientific underpinnings for informed policy decisions.