Organizations

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.

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!

For 30 years, the Ilse Newell Fund for the Performing Arts, Inc. – INConcert, has presented professional classical music concerts to the Forgotten Coast. Last year, we also produced a new jazz series in Carrabelle. On December 11, 2016, Bay Area Choral Society will present their Christmas program. In January, February, and March, the classical music concerts are performed by professionals from FSU and FAMU.  These will be held at the Trinity Episcopal Church located at the corner of  6^th Street and Avenue E in Apalachicola.  Doors open at 3:30 pm.  All attendees are invited to “Meet & Greet the Artist” open reception following each concert in Benedict Hall.  Classical Concert tickets are $10. This will be the second year for our much acclaimed Jazz Series Concerts in Carrabelle. Gifted jazz studies students from FAMU and FSU will perform on Friday evenings during January, February, and March at the Rio Carrabelle Studio located at the intersection of US 98 and St. James Avenue in Carrabelle.  Doors open at 7 pm.  Jazz Tickets are $15.  BYOB. For up-to-date information, please access our website for any scheduling changes: www.inconcertapalachicola.org Or email us at inconcert.apalachicola@gmail.com   The Ilse Newell Fund for the Performing Arts, Inc. – INConcert is a Florida and federal 501 (c)(3) non-profit corporation.  We NEED your generous support to bring quality musical entertainment and provide opportunities for local students and artists to share their talent.  For donations please mail to PO Box 405, Apalachicola, Florida 32329.

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

 

Elder Care Community Council of Franklin County, Inc.

E Triple C

PO Box 335, Eastpoint, Florida 32328

E Triple C of Franklin County Inc. is a countywide volunteer organization that is designed to support and enhance existing services for our senior citizens. It was incorporated in the state of Florida in August 2016 and has applied for non-profit status with the IRS. There is no office and no paid staff. About ten years ago, there were thriving elder services in Apalachicola and Carrabelle. No one can say exactly what happened, but in a very short period of time, the services were greatly reduced. Even more problematic, Franklin County was no longer able to find a local "contractor/provider" to deliver funded services.

For approximately the last five years, most county, state, and federal funded services have been provided through contracts with surrounding counties or organizations. E Triple C has been founded with the intent of developing the expertise and skills to provide input to contractor(s) and the Franklin County Commission

First, we have a volunteer citizen board with representatives from Apalachicola, Eastpoint, Carrabelle, and Lanark Village keeping the focus countywide. We rotate meeting sites between the communities and periodically have special events in each community for volunteer recruitment and information sharing.

Second, we recruit volunteers for two specific initiatives. We have a transportation project with volunteers providing rides for appointments, shopping, and other necessary reasons. There is no charge for rides They can be scheduled ahead with a phone call to 850-509-5009. We deliver food from Franklin's Promise (Apalachicola and Eastpoint) to approximately 30 people bi weekly. Lanark Village is in the process of signing people so that they may have food deliveries as well. Eccc provides shopping carts for use at the Apalachicola Food Bank site. We work with Meals on Wheels at Historic Holy Family Senior Center to provide replacement delivery people when needed.

Third, we will be engaged in raising funds that can be used for the organizational and individual needs of elders for which there is no other funding source. Bingo and dinner is scheduled and we plan to provide this social activity on a regular basis as well as other activities.

Eccc believes that our elder citizens should be served with compassion, dignity and respect. Join us be contacting ecccfranklin@gmail.com or by calling 850-509-5009.

 

The 77-foot Cape St. George Lighthouse now stands proudly in the center of St. George Island. Built in 1852, the lighthouse stood on Cape St. George or "Little St. George" and guided ships through the dangerously shallow waters for over 150 years. On October 21, 2005, the lighthouse fell. A dedicated group of volunteers reclaimed the original pieces and rebuilt it where it stands today. The Lighthouse Keepers Cottage includes a museum with exhibits that tell about the history of the lighthouse, the keepers and their families, and the maritime culture of the area. A gift shop is also located in the Keepers Cottage.Call (850) 927-7745 for information. Open on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from (10 a.m. to 5 during the season and noon-5pm in the winter); and Sunday from 12 noon to 5 p.m., closed on Thursday.

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 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 7th Annual Running for the Bay Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, OCTOBER 23, 2016! Join us on this amazing course along the Forgotten Coast of Florida, from Historic Apalachicola to beautiful St. George Island. RFTB offers a Full Marathon, Half Marathon, Ultra 50K, 10K, and 5K with wheelchair and walking divisions. Enjoy a gorgeous sunrise over the Gulf of Mexico and cooling ocean breezes while crossing bridges and causeways along the course. We look forward to seeing many repeat runners and to welcoming all new runners! Visit our web site at www.runningforthebay.com for registration, more info and early savings!

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.

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

  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

  Mardi Gras has gone to the Dogs! Mystic Krewe of Salty Barkers is excited to present the 8th annual Apalachicola Mardi Gras Barkus Parade on Saturday, February 10, 2018 in downtown Apalachicola at 1:00 pm. This year’s theme is BourBone Street Blues so we’ll be celebrating all the fun and frolic of traditional Mardi Gras. We invite you to come out and enjoy the furry family-friendly street parade and festival.  Be part of the fun – dress up yourself, your dog, even your bicycle or golf cart! You may just want to come and catch beads. The festivities will start at 11:00 am at Riverfront Park with live entertainment from the Apalachicola Blues Authority, the Lofty Pursuits Marching Band, and other local bands as well as dog agility demonstrations and performances by local dancers and second line groups. There will be a wide variety of hometown food and beverage vendors offering local  seafood and Cajun treats. Area artisans will be selling their creations as well as specialty beads, Mardi Gras finery, and homemade dog products.  Regional non-profit organizations will share their missions at the festival in unique ways. You won’t want to miss the pair of real, live Baymaids, Doofy, the rescue pelican, and the Fishy Fashion Show preview. The King and Queen of Apalachicola’s Mardi Gras are always shelter animals who are ready for a forever home. As always, they will have a place of honor in the parade. The parade begins at intersection of Avenue E and Water Street turning onto Commerce Street then circling back to Water Street, ending at Riverfront Park for the post parade party. Registration for walkers is $5.00 per person or $25 per golf cart. Pets are free, of course!  Krewe membership is open now and they will be accepting new members on the day of the parade as well. In the tradition of the Salty Barker Krewe, profits from the parade will be donated to help care for the animals of the Forgotten Coast of Florida.  Beneficiaries have included the Franklin County Humane Society, the Florida Wild Mammal Association and the Apalachicola Dog Park. We greatly appreciate the support of the local businesses and families who sponsor the Krewe in its tradition of charity and service to animals. Lassiez Les BONE Temps Rouler! For additional information contact us at mystickreweofsaltybarkers@aol.com or call Caroline at 850-670-5064    

Support and fund raising arm of the Franklin County Public Library. Come visit the just finish Eastpoint branch of the Franklin County Library.

The Florida Green Guide Association (FGGA) is a statewide non-profit trade association created for graduates of TCC's Wakulla Environmental Institute. Certified Green Guides are eligible to join after graduation in order to assist in the promotion and marketing of their businesses. Members must adhere to a code of ethics and the "Leave No Trace" principles, which serve to advance personal and professional integrity standards in activities related to ecotourism. The Green Guide Association exists to maintain and monitor those standards as set forth by members. FGGA also provides continuing education opportunities as well as a forum for the exchange of ideas and information among the membership. For more details see their website at www.floridagreenguide.org

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/>

The forgotten Coast Cultural Coalition works to enhance the coastal community from Mexico beach to Alligator Point through regional multi-community cultural events, such as the Florida's Forgotten Coast Cultural Coalition. It supports efforts of local non-profit organizations which use innovative formats, especially coalitions and partnerships and address a broad spectrum of the communities, assisting underserved and diverse audiences.

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.

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.

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.

A group of Apalachicola citizens recently formed a not for-profit corporation to advocate for the preservation of Apalachicola, Florida’s historic plat. Historic Apalachicola Plat Preservation, Incorporated, or HAPPI, as it is called, is focused on the proposed Denton Cove housing complex proposed for the area near the old high school at 17th and L.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this 103 foot iron and steel structure is the tallest lighthouse on the Forgotten Coast. It was built in 1895 to guide ships through East Pass between Dog Island and St. George Island. The reconstructed Lighthouse Keeper’s House is a museum that features history and science exhibits and a gift shop. Picnic and playground area is open dawn to dusk. Museum hours: W-F, 11-5; Sat, 9-5; and Sun 1-5. Climbing on W-F, 11-4; Sat, 9-4; and Sun, 1-4. The Crooked River Lighthouse, located at 1975 Hwy 98 West in Carrabelle, is 2 miles west of the Carrabelle Bridge. (850) 697-2732 or or carrabellelighthouse@gmail.com.  

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

Friends of Franklin County State Parks are a nonprofit citizen support organization that assists our local state parks: St. George Island State park, John Gorrie Museum, Orman House and Chapman Gardens.

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.

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.

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)

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

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

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.