🔍 What’s Up in Apalachicola & Forgotten Coast

👉 Want your event featured?

Email ApalachCurrent@gmail.com

 

🌴 WHAT’S UP IN APALACHICOLA & THE FORGOTTEN COAST: OCTOBER 19–25, 2026

 

Halloween is starting to show up around town. This week brings a pirate talk, lighthouse trick-or-treating, a downtown dog stroll, library crafts, and a couple of music stops. Here’s what’s happening around Apalachicola, Eastpoint, Carrabelle and the surrounding coast.

 

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🎨 ARTS, THEATER & CULTURE

 

🏴‍☠️ Pirates of Apalachicola Bay: Friday, Oct. 23, 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Author Robert Jacob talks about the real pirates connected to the Apalachicola area at the Franklin County Maritime Heritage Museum.
Source: Florida’s Forgotten Coast: Pirates of the Apalachicola Bay

 

⭐ 7th Annual SGI Lighthouse Trick-or-Treat Spooktacular: Friday, Oct. 23, 6:30–8:30 p.m.
The St. George Lighthouse Association hosts a free family event with candy stations and decorations in Lighthouse Park. Costumes encouraged.
Editor’s Choice: Free, local, and a simple way to mark the season on the island.
Source: Apalachicola Bay Chamber: SGI Lighthouse Trick-or-Treat

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📚 LIBRARIES & LEARNING

 

🧘 Yoga at Apalachicola Library: Monday, Oct. 19, 6–7 p.m.
By-donation yoga class at the Apalachicola Margaret Key Library.
Source: Florida’s Forgotten Coast: Yoga at the Library

 

💻 Tech Help at Carrabelle Library: Tuesday, Oct. 20, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Free one-on-one tech help sessions continue at the Carrabelle Branch Library.
Source: Apalachicola Bay Chamber: Tech Help

 

🎨 Adult Crafternoon: Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2:30–5 p.m.
Adult craft session at the Eastpoint Branch Library.
Source: Apalachicola Bay Chamber: Adult Crafternoon

 

🐢 Turtle Talk Tuesdays: Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2–3 p.m.
Sea turtle talk at the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve in Eastpoint.
Source: Apalachicola Bay Chamber: Turtle Talk

 

🧶 Knit / Crochet & Visit: Wednesday, Oct. 21, 1–5 p.m.
Informal knitting and crochet afternoon at River’s Edge Gallery.
Source: Apalachicola Bay Chamber: Knit / Crochet

 

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🎶 LIVE MUSIC & LOCAL FUN

 

⭐ Spooky Pooches Howl-o-ween: Saturday, Oct. 24, noon–4 p.m.
Free trick-or-treat stroll for costumed dogs through downtown Apalachicola, starting at Riverfront Park. Includes a Franklin County Humane Society adoption event, photo booth, and treats.
Editor’s Choice: Dogs, downtown, and adoptions in one afternoon.
Source: Florida’s Forgotten Coast: Spooky Pooches

 

🎤 Ronnie Randolph: Wednesday, Oct. 21, 7 p.m.
Acoustic set listed at Mango’s Marley.
Source: Bandsintown: Apalachicola Area Shows

 

🎤 Ronnie Randolph: Thursday, Oct. 22, 7 p.m.
Acoustic set listed at the Haughty Heron.
Source: Bandsintown: Apalachicola Area Shows

 

🎸 Songwriters in the Round: Thursday, Oct. 22, 6–9 p.m.
Kyle Keller, Evan Barber, and Clayton Mathis at Apalachicola Yacht Club.
Source: Apalachicola Yacht Club listing via AllEvents

 

🎶 Dolce Trio: Saturday, Oct. 24, 7–10 p.m.
Folk trio from Tallahassee at Apalachicola Yacht Club.
Source: Apalachicola Yacht Club listing via AllEvents

 

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🚗 WORTH THE DRIVE

 

🕯️ Twilight at the Tower: Saturday, Oct. 24, 7–9 p.m.
Evening event at Crooked River Lighthouse in Carrabelle.
Source: Florida’s Forgotten Coast: Twilight at the Tower

 

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🏛 COMMUNITY & CITY

 

🏛 Special Meeting & Commission Workshop: Tuesday, Oct. 20, 6 p.m.
City of Apalachicola meeting.
Source: City of Apalachicola: Events Calendar

 

🏛 Aquatics Facility Discussion: Thursday, Oct. 22, 6–8 p.m.
City discussion on the aquatics facility.
Source: City of Apalachicola: Events Calendar

 

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🌴 THE WEEKEND GAME PLAN

 

Saturday, Oct. 24 looks like the busiest day. Start at the Apalachicola Farmers Market (9 a.m.–1 p.m.), then head to Riverfront Park for Spooky Pooches Howl-o-ween from noon to 4 p.m. In the evening, Carrabelle has Twilight at the Tower, or stay closer to town for the Dolce Trio at the Yacht Club.

 

Dates and times may change — verify before heading out.

 

That’s what’s up around Apalachicola and the Forgotten Coast this week. Catch a pirate talk, take the dog downtown, or stop by a library craft afternoon. 🌴🎃

 

Happy exploring!

Photo Credit FOMO Photography 

A few local notes worth sharing this week: 

 

⛪ Lanark Community Church opens a children’s wing
The Lanark Community Church on Spring Street in Lanark now has a children’s wing where the children have their own space. Last year a special room was built for this purpose. It begins at 11:15 a.m. following announcements and a song from the “King’s Kids” in the main auditorium.
👉 https://franklincounty.news/2026/10/13/community-church-now-has-childrens-wing/

 

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📚 Oystertown Books marks its first year
Apalachicola’s downtown bookstore at 67 Commerce Street celebrated its first year on Sept. 29. The former Downtown Books was purchased in September 2025 by Royce Rolstad and Jeana Crozier and renamed Oystertown Books. Jeana’s “A Blind Date With A Banned Book” packages (gift-wrapped books such as Animal Farm or Fahrenheit 451, plus tea and a pen) have become the store’s most popular item.
👉 https://franklincounty.news/2026/10/13/banned-books-boost-stores-balance-sheet/

 

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🐠 Four new reefs deployed off Dog Island
More than 50 reef modules of different designs were lowered to the seafloor on July 25 as part of the deployment of four new artificial reefs off Dog Island. The Times noted the modules were placed by Walter Marine contractors from Orange Beach, Alabama. Artificial reefs provide habitat and support local fishing and diving.
👉 https://franklincounty.news/2026/10/13/workshop-to-explore-gulfs-artificial-reefs/

Game and Trivia Nights in the Forgotten Coast

Bingo Night at Eastpoint Beer Company       

  

🗓️ Mondays  

⏰ 5:30 PM 

📍 Eastpoint Beer Company -374 US-98 Eastpoint

 📞 (850) 370-0776

🎟️ Free to play 

 

📋 Every Monday Bingo at 5:30 pm! Come hang out, have some beer and pizza, and win some great prizes in a fun, laid-back atmosphere.

 

👉 Click here for Event details & full schedule

 

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Tuesday Night Trivia at Eastpoint Beer Company 

 

🗓️ Tuesdays

⏰ 5:30 PM 

📍 Eastpoint Beer Company -374 US-98 Eastpoint

📞 (850) 370-0776

🎟️ Free to play

 

📋 Join host BullFrog for a fun night of trivia, craft beer, bay views, and prizes — a true local favorite right on the water. 👉 More info & latest details

 

👉 Click here for Eastpoint Beer Trivia Info

 

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SINGO at Apalachicola Yacht Club

 

📅 Tuesdays
⏰ 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 Apalachicola Yacht Club – 170 Water Street, Apalachicola
📞 (850) 695-0550

📝 Music bingo with host Clayton Mathis. Listen for the songs, mark the card, and stay for the porch. One house rule: have fun.

 

👉 Click here for additional info

 

 

 

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 Trivia Tuesdays at Crooked River Grill

 

🗓️ Tuesdays 

⏰ 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM

📍 Crooked River Grill - 151 Laughing Gull Lane

🎟️ $2 entry (benefits local nonprofit)

 

📋 Fast-paced trivia hosted by the one and only Cecily Stevens — laughs, competition, and that classic waterfront vibe. 

 

👉 Click here for Trivia Tuesdays details

 

**Photo Courtesy of GritsandPinecones.com **

Easy Halloween Meringue Ghosts

Grits and Pinecones pipes simple meringue into little ghosts and finishes them with candy eyes or mini chocolate chips. About 90 minutes total, most of it hands-off in a low oven, and the recipe makes about two dozen.

Full recipe: https://www.gritsandpinecones.com/easy-halloween-meringue-ghosts/

The Current

This Week Along the Forgotten Coast

Photo EVGEN 1234 (Shutterstock)

October is settling in along the coast. The light is softer, the evenings cooler, and the calendar is filling with the usual mix of local music, markets, and meetings. Hope the week ahead treats you well.

 

Enjoy the beauty around us and have a blessed week... 

 

🔍 What’s Up in Apalachicola & Forgotten Coast

 

👉 Want your event featured?

 Email ApalachCurrent@gmail.com

 

🌴 WHAT’S UP IN APALACHICOLA & THE FORGOTTEN COAST: OCTOBER 12–18, 2026

 

October is finding its groove along the Forgotten Coast! This week brings a new comedy at Chapman Theatre, live music on St. George Island, library activities, a lighthouse-side farmers market and a four-day songwriters festival just down the road.

 

Here's what's happening around Apalachicola, Eastpoint, Carrabelle and the surrounding coast.

 

 

🎨 ARTS, THEATER & CULTURE

 

⭐ AREA 52: A New Comedy: Thursday–Sunday, Oct. 15–18

The Panhandle Players present an original comedy by Jerry L. Hurley at Chapman Auditorium, 159 Avenue E, Apalachicola. Performances are Thursday through Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m.

Editor's Choice: A great chance to support local theater and enjoy something a little different.

Source: Apalachicola Bay Chamber: AREA 52

 

 

📚 LIBRARIES & LEARNING

 

🧠 Brain Builders: Monday, Oct. 12, 4 p.m.

The Eastpoint Branch Library hosts Brain Builders for ages 8 and up. A little problem-solving, creativity and hands-on fun to start the week.

Source: Franklin County Public Library: Upcoming Programs

 

🎨 Adult Crafternoon: Thursday, Oct. 15, 2:30 p.m.

The Franklin County Public Library has a Yarn Christmas Trees craft session scheduled for October 15. A chance to get an early start on handmade holiday decorations.

Source: Franklin County Public Library: October Programs

 

🎮 Video Game Hour: Thursday, Oct. 15, 4:30–5:30 p.m.

The Carrabelle Branch Library hosts Video Game Hour, with some friendly gaming and an opportunity to unwind.

Source: Franklin County Public Library: Upcoming Programs

 

🌊 OUTDOORS & LOCAL FLAVOR

 

⭐ Country Farmer's Market: Saturday, Oct. 17, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

Head to the foot of the Crooked River Lighthouse, 1975 Highway 98 West in Carrabelle, for local vendors, handmade items and market finds. Editor's Choice: Shopping local with a lighthouse in the background is a pretty fine Saturday morning.

Source: Carrabelle Chamber: October Events

 

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🎶 LIVE MUSIC & LOCAL FUN

 

🎤 Ronnie Randolph: Tuesday, Oct. 13, 6 p.m.

Ronnie Randolph Acoustic Entertainment performs at Paddy's Raw Bar on St. George Island. A little live music and island atmosphere for a Tuesday evening.

Source: Bandsintown: Apalachicola Area Shows

 

🎷 Chris Godber: Thursday, Oct. 15, 6 p.m.

Saxophonist Chris Godber is scheduled at Pomodoro Italian Grill. Dinner and smooth saxophone sound like a good way to ease into the weekend.

Source: Bandsintown: October Concert Listings

 

🎸 Hunter Clark: Thursday, Oct. 15, 7 p.m.

Hunter Clark performs an acoustic duo show at Sand Bar Kitchen + Tavern. Another Thursday-night option for the music crowd.

Source: Bandsintown: Apalachicola Area Shows

 

🎶 Ronnie Randolph: Sunday, Oct. 18, 6 p.m.

Paddy's Raw Bar on St. George Island welcomes Ronnie Randolph for a Sunday evening performance. Not a bad way to close out the weekend.

Source: Bandsintown: Apalachicola Area Shows

 

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🚗 WORTH THE DRIVE

 

⭐ 16th Annual Blast on the Bay Songwriters Festival: Thursday–Sunday, Oct. 15–18

Port St. Joe and participating Gulf County venues welcome songwriters from Nashville and beyond for four days of songs and the stories behind them. The announced lineup includes Kendell Marvel, Jesse Rice, Karen Waldrup, Jason Byrd and many more. Editor's Choice: A rare chance to hear accomplished songwriters in intimate coastal venues.

Source: Blast on the Bay: Festival Listing

 

🎸 Jason Byrd: Friday, Oct. 16, 2 p.m.

Jason Byrd performs at Scallop RePUBlic as part of the Blast on the Bay festivities. A good daytime music stop for those heading toward Port St. Joe.

Source: Bandsintown: Apalachicola Area Shows

 

🎶 Thom Shepherd: Sunday, Oct. 18, 4:30 p.m.

Keep the music going at Indian Pass Raw Bar, where Thom Shepherd is scheduled for a Sunday afternoon performance.

Source: Bandsintown: Apalachicola Area Shows

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🏛 COMMUNITY & CITY

 

🏛 Planning & Zoning Board Workshop and Meeting: Monday, Oct. 12, 5 & 6 p.m.

Apalachicola's Planning & Zoning Board holds a workshop at 5 p.m., followed by its regular meeting at 6 p.m. Both are listed for the Commission Meeting Room, 74 6th Street.

Source: City of Apalachicola: October Calendar

 

📚 Library Board Meeting: Tuesday, Oct. 13, 5 p.m.

The Apalachicola Library Board meets at the Commission Meeting Room, 74 6th Street.

Source: City of Apalachicola: Events Calendar

 

🌳 Tree Committee Meeting: Wednesday, Oct. 14, 5 p.m.

Interested in the city's trees and green spaces? The Tree Committee meets Wednesday at 74 6th Street.

Source: City of Apalachicola: Events Calendar

 

⚽ Parks & Recreation Meeting: Thursday, Oct. 15, 5:30 p.m.

The Parks & Recreation Committee meets Thursday evening at the Commission Meeting Room.

Source: City of Apalachicola: Events Calendar

 

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🌴 THE WEEKEND GAME PLAN

 

Saturday, Oct. 17 is a good day to start in Carrabelle at the Country Farmer's Market from 9 a.m.–1 p.m., then head back toward Apalachicola for the 7 p.m. performance of AREA 52.

 

Or, if you're in the mood for music, head west toward Port St. Joe and catch the Blast on the Bay Songwriters Festival, running throughout the weekend.

 

Dates and times may change — verify before heading out.

 

That's what's up around Apalachicola and the Forgotten Coast this week. Browse a market, catch a comedy, hear some live music or take the scenic route along Highway 98. 🌴🎶🌊

 

Happy exploring!

Photo Credit FOMO Photography 

A few local notes worth sharing this week:

 

**Photo Courtesy of GritsandPinecones.com **

 

 

Easy Halloween Black Forest Trifle Dessert 

   Grits and Pinecones layers devil’s food cake, cherry pie filling, and whipped topping in a clear bowl, with marshmallow ghost and pumpkin Peeps pressed to the glass. About 40 minutes, and most of that is the cake.

 

Full recipe: https://www.gritsandpinecones.com/easy-halloween-black-forest-trifle/

Game and Trivia Nights in the Forgotten Coast

Bingo Night at Eastpoint Beer Company       

  

🗓️ Mondays  

⏰ 5:30 PM 

📍 Eastpoint Beer Company -374 US-98 Eastpoint

 📞 (850) 370-0776

🎟️ Free to play 

 

📋 Every Monday Bingo at 5:30 pm! Come hang out, have some beer and pizza, and win some great prizes in a fun, laid-back atmosphere.

 

👉 Click here for Event details & full schedule

 

 _______________________________________________________

  

 

Tuesday Night Trivia at Eastpoint Beer Company 

 

🗓️ Tuesdays

⏰ 5:30 PM 

📍 Eastpoint Beer Company -374 US-98 Eastpoint

📞 (850) 370-0776

🎟️ Free to play

 

📋 Join host BullFrog for a fun night of trivia, craft beer, bay views, and prizes — a true local favorite right on the water. 👉 More info & latest details

 

👉 Click here for Eastpoint Beer Trivia Info

 

_______________________________________________________

 

 

SINGO at Apalachicola Yacht Club

 

📅 Tuesdays
⏰ 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 Apalachicola Yacht Club – 170 Water Street, Apalachicola
📞 (850) 695-0550

📝 Music bingo with host Clayton Mathis. Listen for the songs, mark the card, and stay for the porch. One house rule: have fun.

 

👉 Click here for additional info

 

 

 

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 Trivia Tuesdays at Crooked River Grill

 

🗓️ Tuesdays 

⏰ 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM

📍 Crooked River Grill - 151 Laughing Gull Lane

🎟️ $2 entry (benefits local nonprofit)

 

📋 Fast-paced trivia hosted by the one and only Cecily Stevens — laughs, competition, and that classic waterfront vibe. 

 

👉 Click here for Trivia Tuesdays details

The Current

This Week Along the Forgotten Coast

Photo EVGEN 1234 (Shutterstock)

Isaias has moved on. The coast took the edge of it. The water does not care what month it is. The towns do. We hope everyone came out all right.

 

Enjoy the beauty around us and have a blessed week... 

🔍 What’s Up in Apalachicola & Forgotten Coast

 

👉 Want your event featured?

Email ApalachCurrent@gmail.com

 

🌴 WHAT’S UP IN APALACHICOLA & THE FORGOTTEN COAST: OCT. 5–11

 

If you’ve been waiting for October to wake up around here, this is the week. We’ve got science, live music, a St. George Island fundraiser and one seriously busy Saturday with Porch Fest, the farmers market and boats made out of things that probably weren’t intended to become boats.

 

Here’s what’s happening around Apalachicola and the Forgotten Coast.

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🎉 EVENTS & LOCAL FAVORITES

 

💗 SGI Pink Out: Friday, Oct. 9, 6–9 p.m.
The annual Pink Out returns to Paddy’s Raw Bar on St. George Island with live music, food, raffles, a silent auction, merchandise and plenty of pink. Proceeds benefit Franklin Needs and its work helping local residents access mammograms and related services.

Source: St. George Island Business Association: Pink Out

 

⭐ Porch Fest Apalach 2026: Saturday, Oct. 10, 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
Downtown porches become stages for one of Apalachicola’s most wonderfully homegrown events: 18 porches, 3 stages and 35 acts, beginning and ending at Battery Park. Admission is free, and this year’s designated charity is Apalachicola Riverkeeper.

Editor’s Choice: If you only pick one event this week, this is the one that feels most unmistakably Apalachicola.

Source: Official Porch Fest Apalach Website

 

🌽 Apalachicola Farmers Market: Saturday, Oct. 10, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
Get your Saturday started with local produce, seafood, baked goods and regional specialties at the Apalachicola Farmers Market before heading into town for Porch Fest.

Source: Oyster Radio: October Forgotten Coast Events

 

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🌊 SCIENCE, NATURE & THE COAST

 

🦈 FSU Marine Lab Public Lecture: Thursday, Oct. 8, 7 p.m.
Dr. Ashley Dawdy presents research on the movement and behavior of coastal sharks and rays, including the critically endangered smalltooth sawfish. The lecture at the FSU Coastal and Marine Laboratory is free and open to the public, with a livestream option available.

Source: FSU Coastal and Marine Laboratory

 

🔬 Free FSU Coastal & Marine Lab Tour: Friday, Oct. 9, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Curious about what goes on at the marine lab? FSUCML offers free guided tours on Fridays, with no reservation required.

Source: FSU Coastal and Marine Laboratory

 

⭐ Whatever Floats Your Boat Regatta: Saturday, Oct. 10, public entry at 11 a.m.
The Chris Koenig Memorial Regatta returns to the FSU Coastal and Marine Laboratory in St. Teresa. Teams build boats from repurposed materials and then discover whether their engineering masterpiece actually floats. Editor’s Choice: Equal parts science, recycling and good-natured chaos: spectators are welcome and admission is free.

Source: FSU Coastal and Marine Lab: Official Regatta Information

 

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🎶 LIVE MUSIC

 

🎸 Ronnie Randolph: Friday, Oct. 9, 5:30 p.m.
Bandsintown lists Ronnie Randolph Acoustic Entertainment at Eastpoint Beer Company Friday evening: an easy local option for easing into the weekend.

Source: Bandsintown: Apalachicola Area Shows

 

🎶 Bo Spring Band: Saturday, Oct. 10, 6 p.m.
After the daytime festivities wind down, Bandsintown lists the Bo Spring Band at Scallop RePUBlic on St. George Island Saturday evening.

Source: Bandsintown: Apalachicola Area Shows

 

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🚗 WORTH THE DRIVE

 

⭐ Forgotten Music Festival: Saturday & Sunday, Oct. 10–11
The eighth annual Forgotten Music Festival takes over George Core Park in Port St. Joe for two days of blues, roots, soul, funk and rock overlooking St. Joseph Bay. Gates open at noon both days, with music beginning at 1 p.m.

Editor’s Choice: If Porch Fest doesn’t satisfy your live-music appetite, Port St. Joe has the whole weekend covered.

Saturday features Corey Hall & The Misplaced Ramblers, Bridget Kelly Band, Blue Mother Tupelo and Selwyn Birchwood. Sunday brings Finga FAYA, King Cotton Band, Billy The Kid & The Regulators and Brandon Santini.

Source: Official Forgotten Music Festival Website

 

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🏛 COMMUNITY & CITY

 

💧 Apalachicola Water & Sewer District Organizational Meeting: Monday, Oct. 5, 4 p.m.
The newly established Apalachicola Water and Sewer District Board holds its initial organizational meeting at Fort Coombs Armory, 66 4th Street.

Source: City of Apalachicola Events Calendar

 

🏛 Apalachicola City Commission Meeting: Tuesday, Oct. 6, 6 p.m.
The City Commission meets Tuesday evening in the Commission Meeting Room at 74 6th Street. The city posts the meeting agenda through its Agendas & Minutes page.

Source: City of Apalachicola Events Calendar

 

⚖️ Code Enforcement Hearing: Friday, Oct. 9, 10 a.m.
The City of Apalachicola has a Code Enforcement Hearing scheduled Friday morning in the Commission Meeting Room.

Source: City of Apalachicola Events Calendar

 

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🌴 SATURDAY GAME PLAN

 

Saturday, Oct. 10 is the big one.

 

Early risers can hit the Apalachicola Farmers Market from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Then you have a choice: head toward St. Teresa for the wonderfully unpredictable Whatever Floats Your Boat Regatta, or stay downtown as Porch Fest Apalach runs from 11 a.m.–6 p.m.

Still have some gas in the tank? Head to St. George Island for Bo Spring Band at 6 p.m.

 

Or point the car west: the Forgotten Music Festival is running Saturday and Sunday in Port St. Joe.

 

That’s not a bad little October weekend. 🎶🌴🦪

 

Dates and times may change: verify before heading out.

 

That's what's up around Apalachicola and the Forgotten Coast this week. Wear some pink, learn about a sawfish, listen to music on somebody's porch or go watch a homemade boat attempt to remain above water. 🌊🎸🛶

 

Happy exploring!

Photo Credit FOMO Photography 

A few local notes worth sharing this week:

 

Game and Trivia Nights in the Forgotten Coast

Bingo Night lights up Eastpoint Beer Company every Monday at 5:30 PM, bringing together locals for an evening filled with free bingo, beer, and pizza at 374 US-98, Eastpoint.

Arrive with friends, grab a pint, and enjoy a chance to win prizes in a warm, relaxed setting near the bay.

Tuesdays at 5:30 PM, join BullFrog for Trivia Night at the same beloved spot—no cost to play, fantastic craft brews, and waterfront views add to the fun.

For trivia with a twist, Crooked River Grill at 151 Laughing Gull Lane hosts Trivia Tuesdays from 6:00 to 7:30 PM, led by the lively Cecily Stevens.

It’s just $2 to enter, supporting a local nonprofit, and promises laughter, friendly competition, and a classic coastal vibe.

 

**Photo Courtesy of GritsandPinecones.com **

 

Halloween Spooky Spider Deviled Eggs

  Grits and Pinecones turns hard-boiled eggs into a Halloween plate with olive spiders and candy eyes. About 20 minutes, and it can be filled ahead. Add the eyes just before serving so they don’t melt. 

Full recipe: https://www.gritsandpinecones.com/halloween-spooky-spider-deviled-eggs/

The Current

This Week Along the Forgotten Coast

October is here, and the coast has not made a speech about it. The days are still warm. The evenings just arrive a little sooner, and the marsh looks a shade more gold than it did in September.

Downtown keeps its usual pace. A door is open. Someone is on a porch. The water is the same water. What changes is small: a sweater in the car, a light on earlier, a week that feels less like summer leftover and more like its own month.

This is a good stretch to be on the coast without a reason. An errand, a walk, a table outside while the light is still good.

Enjoy the beauty around us and have a blessed week... 

 

🔍 What’s Up in Apalachicola & Forgotten Coast

👉 Want your event featured?

Email ApalachCurrent@gmail.com

 

🔍 What’s Up in Apalachicola & Forgotten Coast

 

👉 Want your event featured?

Email ApalachCurrent@gmail.com

 

🌴 WHAT’S UP IN APALACHICOLA & THE FORGOTTEN COAST: SEPT. 28–OCT. 4

 

We're saying goodbye to September and hello to October this week, and the Forgotten Coast calendar has a little bit of everything: library programs, local government, history, live music, a farmers market and a Saturday paddle into one of our wildest backyard treasures.

Here's what's happening around Apalachicola, Eastpoint, Carrabelle and the Forgotten Coast.

 

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📚 LIBRARIES & LEARNING

 

🧠 Brain Builders: Monday, Sept. 28, 4 p.m.
Kids ages 8 and up can head to the Eastpoint Branch Library for another Brain Builders challenge featuring problem-solving, design and hands-on fun. Programs are free and open to the public.

Source: https://www.carrabelle.org/events/

 

🧶 Crochet Workshop: Monday, Sept. 28, 4:30–5:30 p.m.
The Carrabelle Branch Library hosts a free crochet workshop with staff-led instruction. A nice excuse to learn a new skill, or finally figure out what to do with that ball of yarn.

Source: https://www.carrabelle.org/events/

 

💻 Tech Help: Tuesday, Sept. 29, 11 a.m.
Phone acting smarter than you again? The Carrabelle Branch Library offers free one-on-one Tech Help for devices, email and everyday digital questions.

Source: https://www.floridasforgottencoast.com/event/tech-help-3/2026-04-21/

 

🀄 Mahjong Open Play: Tuesday, Sept. 29, 1–4 p.m.
The Eastpoint Branch Library wraps up September with another afternoon of Mahjong open play. All players are invited.

Source: https://www.floridasforgottencoast.com/event/mahjong-club/2026-09-15/

 

📚 Story Time: Wednesday, Sept. 30, 10:30 a.m.
Little readers can head to the Carrabelle Branch Library Wednesday morning for Story Time, part of the Friends of the Franklin County Public Libraries' free weekly programming.

Source: https://www.carrabelle.org/events/

 

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🎨 HISTORY & CULTURE

 

🏛 Foundations of Freedom: Final Day Wednesday, Sept. 30, noon–5 p.m.
Last call for the Carrabelle History Museum's special exhibit, “Foundations of Freedom: Carrabelle's Role in America's Story.” The exhibit explores the community's contributions to the American story and closes Wednesday.

Source: https://www.carrabelle.org/events/

 

⭐ Operation Market Garden: A Bridge Too Far: Tuesday, Sept. 29–Saturday, Oct. 3, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
It's also the final week for Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum's special exhibit exploring the ambitious 1944 Allied operation in the Netherlands. Admission is free, with donations appreciated. Editor's Choice: If you've been meaning to see this one, Saturday is your last chance.

Source: https://www.floridasforgottencoast.com/event/special-exhibit-on-operation-market-garden-a-bridge-too-far-2/

 

 

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🌊 OUTDOORS & LOCAL FLAVOR

 

⭐ Country Farmer's Market: Saturday, Oct. 3, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
Head to the foot of the Crooked River Lighthouse in Carrabelle for local produce, baked goods, handmade items, art and other community-made treasures. Editor's Choice: Market shopping with a lighthouse in the background is a pretty good way to start an October Saturday.

Source: https://www.carrabelle.org/events/

 

⭐ Tate's Hell Annual Paddle Festival: Saturday, Oct. 3, 10 a.m.–noon
The Florida Forest Service invites paddlers into Tate's Hell State Forest for a free guided paddle from the Gully Branch area. Bring your own canoe or kayak and come prepared for wilderness conditions. Editor's Choice: This one's a little different, wonderfully local and a great excuse to experience the wild side of Franklin County.

Source: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/tates-hell-annual-paddle-festival-tickets-2001236402953

 

🏕️ Tate's Hell Paddle Festival Camping Weekend: Friday, Oct. 2–Sunday, Oct. 4
Want to make a weekend of it? Limited camping is available around the paddle festival, with Friday afternoon check-in, Saturday's guided paddle and Sunday breakdown. Reservations are requested, and campers should note there is no potable water at the site.

Source: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/tates-hell-annual-paddle-festival-tickets-2001236402953

 

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🎶 LIVE MUSIC

 

🎸 Chance Stanley: Friday, Oct. 2, 6 p.m.
Bandsintown lists Chance Stanley performing Friday evening at Crooked River Grill in Carrabelle. Dinner, music and the start of an October weekend sounds about right.

Source: https://www.bandsintown.com/c/apalachicola-fl

 

🎶 Big Al and the Heavyweights: Friday, Oct. 2, 7 p.m.
Looking for another Friday-night option? Bandsintown lists Big Al and the Heavyweights at Fathoms Restaurant in Carrabelle.

Source: https://www.bandsintown.com/c/apalachicola-fl

 

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🏛 COMMUNITY & CITY

 

🏛 Final Budget Hearing & Special Meeting: Tuesday, Sept. 29, 6 p.m.
The City of Apalachicola holds its final budget hearing and special meeting for final adoption of the millage rate and city budget at the Commission Meeting Room, 74 6th Street.

Source: https://www.cityofapalachicola.com/events/list/

 

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🚗 SATURDAY GAME PLAN

 

If you're looking for one day to get out of the house, Saturday, Oct. 3 belongs to Carrabelle and Tate's Hell.

Start with the Country Farmer's Market at 9 a.m., head into Tate's Hell for the 10 a.m. guided paddle, and leave yourself enough time afterward to catch the final day of the Operation Market Garden exhibit at Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum.

Market goodies, paddling and World War II history: that's a pretty uniquely Franklin County Saturday. 🌊🛶🏛️

 

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📅 A LITTLE LOOK AHEAD

 

Apalachicola itself is fairly quiet this particular weekend, but that's about to change. Porch Fest Apalach is coming Saturday, Oct. 10, with musicians performing around town, so we'll give that one a closer look in next week's roundup.

 

Dates and times may change — verify before heading out.

 

That's what's up around Apalachicola and the Forgotten Coast this week. Learn something at the library, squeeze in a museum exhibit before it disappears, browse the market or grab a paddle and head for Tate's Hell. 🌴🛶🌊

 

Happy exploring!

Photo Credit FOMO Photography 

A few local notes worth sharing this week:

💧 Three board members named for Apalachicola’s

new water district

Gov. Ron DeSantis appointed Mark Milliken, Jimmy Gander, and Torben Madson III to the Apalachicola Water and Sewer District board, the Apalachicola Times reported Friday. They join Donna Knutson, appointed by the city, and Billy Fuentes, appointed by the county. The Times says the city and the district have to finish the financial and operational side of the turnover by December 1.

👉 https://franklincounty.news/2026/09/25/governor-appoints-three-to-new-apalachicola-water-and-sewer-district/

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✈️ Aviation academy opens at the Apalachicola airport

Tom P. Haney Technical College’s East Extension Aviation Academy held a ribbon cutting Sept. 17 at Apalachicola Regional Airport. The Times names the first two students as Gary “Trey” Silvernell III, from James Madison Prep, and Robert Landrum, from Port St. Joe High School.

👉 https://franklincounty.news/2026/09/21/haney-opens-academy-at-apalachicola-airport/

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📉 Franklin County’s August jobless rate edged down

 Preliminary figures from the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity put Franklin County’s August unemployment rate at 5.1 percent, down from 5.3 percent in July and 0.2 points lower than a year earlier, the Times reported.

👉 https://franklincounty.news/2026/09/22/unemployment-rate-improves-in-august/

 

**Photo Courtesy of GritsandPinecones.com **

Easy Halloween Pasta (Spooky Spaghetti)

Grits and Pinecones uses spinach noodles, a jar of sauce, and frozen meatballs with candy eyes. About 30 minutes — a Halloween supper that does not need a special shopping trip. 

Full recipe:  https://www.gritsandpinecones.com/halloween-pasta-spooky-spaghetti/

The Current

This Week Along the Forgotten Coast

The calendar turns toward October this week. The heat has not packed up, but the evenings are shorter, and the light on the marsh looks a little older than it did in August.

Downtown still works the same way it always has — a few people on a porch, a shop door propped open, someone walking because it is easier than driving two blocks. The water does not care what month it is. The towns do, a little.

This is a good week to treat the coast as ordinary: not a holiday, not a season finale, just another stretch of familiar streets and familiar water.

Enjoy the beauty around us and have a blessed week... 

Enjoy the beauty around us and have a blessed week... 

 

Game and Trivia Nights in the Forgotten Coast

Bingo Night lights up Eastpoint Beer Company every Monday at 5:30 PM, bringing together locals for an evening filled with free bingo, beer, and pizza at 374 US-98, Eastpoint.

Arrive with friends, grab a pint, and enjoy a chance to win prizes in a warm, relaxed setting near the bay.

Tuesdays at 5:30 PM, join BullFrog for Trivia Night at the same beloved spot—no cost to play, fantastic craft brews, and waterfront views add to the fun.

For trivia with a twist, Crooked River Grill at 151 Laughing Gull Lane hosts Trivia Tuesdays from 6:00 to 7:30 PM, led by the lively Cecily Stevens.

It’s just $2 to enter, supporting a local nonprofit, and promises laughter, friendly competition, and a classic coastal vibe.

 

🔍 What’s Up in Apalachicola & Forgotten Coast

👉 Want your event featured?

Email ApalachCurrent@gmail.com

 

🌴 WHAT’S UP IN APALACHICOLA & THE FORGOTTEN COAST: SEPTEMBER 21–27

 

The last full week of September is giving us plenty to work with: library programs, a big riverfront milestone, two lighthouse evenings, live music and a couple of fascinating history exhibits. Friday and Saturday are especially busy, so here's what to put on the calendar.

 

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📚 LIBRARIES & LEARNING

 

🧠 Brain Builders: Monday, Sept. 21, 4 p.m.
Kids ages 8 and up can tackle a new problem-solving, building or design challenge at the Eastpoint Branch Library. Free and open to the public.

Source: Carrabelle Chamber: Franklin County Library Programs

 

🧶 Crochet Workshop: Monday, Sept. 21, 4:30–5:30 p.m.
Learn the basics at the Carrabelle Branch Library with staff-led instruction and supplies provided. Registration is encouraged.

Source: Carrabelle Chamber: Crochet Workshop & Library Programs

 

💻 Tech Help: Tuesday, Sept. 22, 11 a.m.
Need a little one-on-one help with a device, email or digital resource? Drop into the Carrabelle Branch Library: no registration required.

Source: Carrabelle Chamber: Tech Help Details

 

🀄 Mahjong Open Play: Tuesday, Sept. 22, 1–4 p.m.
Mahjong Club meets for open play at the Eastpoint Branch Library. All players are invited.

Source: Carrabelle Chamber: Eastpoint Library Programs

 

📖 Story Time: Wednesday, Sept. 23, 10:30 a.m.
This week's Eastpoint Branch Story Time features Don't Bring a Dragon to the Library, along with visual aids, crafts and games for young readers.

Source: Carrabelle Chamber: Eastpoint Story Time

 

🎨 Adult Crafternoon: Thursday, Sept. 24, 2:30 p.m.
Adults can slow down and get creative at the Eastpoint Branch Library. The program is free and welcomes all skill levels.

Source: Carrabelle Chamber: Adult Crafternoon & Library Programs

 

🎮 Video Game Hour: Thursday, Sept. 24, 4:30 p.m.
Teens and tweens can unwind with some friendly Nintendo Switch competition at the Carrabelle Branch Library.

Source: Carrabelle Chamber: Carrabelle Library Programs

 

 

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🎨 HISTORY & CULTURE

 

🎖️ Operation Market Garden: A Bridge Too Far: Tuesday–Saturday, Sept. 22–26, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Camp Gordon Johnston WWII Museum in Carrabelle continues its special exhibit exploring the massive Allied operation in the Netherlands during World War II. Admission is free, with donations appreciated.

Source: Carrabelle Chamber: Operation Market Garden Exhibit

 

🏛 Foundations of Freedom: Carrabelle's Role in America's Story: Sept. 23–27
The Carrabelle History Museum continues its special exhibit examining Carrabelle's place in American history. The exhibit remains on display through Sept. 30.

Source: Carrabelle Chamber: September Events Calendar

 

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🌕 LIGHTHOUSES & THE COAST

 

⭐ Twilight at the Tower: Friday, Sept. 25, 7–9 p.m.
Crooked River Lighthouse in Carrabelle stays open after hours for museum visits, gift-shop browsing and twilight tower climbs as the Corn Moon rises. Admission to the grounds is free; evening climbs are $6 for the public. Editor's Choice: Lighthouse views, sunset colors and an evening along St. George Sound: hard to get much more Forgotten Coast than that.

Source: Crooked River Lighthouse: Twilight at the Tower

 

⭐ St. George Lighthouse Sunset & Full Moon Climb: Saturday, Sept. 26, 7:30–9:30 p.m.
Cape St. George Light opens for a special evening climb on St. George Island. Tickets are $10 for the general public and $7 for lighthouse association members, with 15-minute climbs offered first-come, first-served. Editor's Choice: Sunset is listed for 7:31 p.m. and moonrise for 7:26 p.m., so the timing should make for quite a view if the weather cooperates.

Source: St. George Lighthouse Association: September Full Moon Climb

 

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🎶 LIVE MUSIC & LOCAL FUN

 

🎸 Loud Ass Country Band: Friday, Sept. 25, 7 p.m.
Bandsintown lists Loud Ass Country Band playing Friday evening at the Apalachicola Yacht Club. There's your Friday-night soundtrack.

Source: Bandsintown: Apalachicola Live Music

 

🎶 Simplified: Saturday, Sept. 26, 1 p.m.
Bandsintown lists Simplified performing a Waterfront Reggae Brunch trio show at Low Tide Bar on Saturday afternoon.

Source: Bandsintown: Apalachicola Area Shows

 

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🏌️ SPORTS & WEEKEND FUN

 

⛳ Franklin County High School Golf Tournament: Saturday, Sept. 26, 9 a.m.
St. James Bay's current events calendar lists the Franklin County High School Golf Tournament for Saturday morning at the Carrabelle-area course.

Source: St. James Bay: Carrabelle Events Calendar

 

🎶 Saturday Live Music at Crooked River Grill: Saturday, Sept. 26, 6 p.m.
St. James Bay lists live music at Crooked River Grill every Saturday evening with rotating local artists: an easy dinner-and-music option after a day around Carrabelle.

Source: St. James Bay Events Calendar

 

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🏛 COMMUNITY & CITY

 

🏛 City Property Analysis Workshop: Tuesday, Sept. 22, 6 p.m.
The City of Apalachicola holds a City Property Analysis Workshop at the Commission Meeting Room, 74 6th Street.

Source: City of Apalachicola: City Property Analysis Workshop

 

🏊 Exploratory Aquatic Facility Discussion: Thursday, Sept. 24, 6–7:30 p.m.
The city hosts a public discussion about an exploratory aquatic facility at the Commission Meeting Room, 74 6th Street.

Source: City of Apalachicola Events Calendar

 

⭐ Apalachicola Riverfront Revitalization Groundbreaking: Friday, Sept. 25, 3–6 p.m.
The City of Apalachicola marks a major local milestone with the groundbreaking ceremony for its Riverfront Revitalization project. Editor's Choice: If you care about where Apalachicola's waterfront is headed, this is an important community event to have on your radar.

Source: City of Apalachicola: Riverfront Revitalization Groundbreaking

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🚗 WORTH THE DRIVE

 

🦀 49th Annual Panacea Blue Crab Festival: Saturday, Sept. 26
If you're up for a drive east, Panacea's longtime Blue Crab Festival returns to Woolley Park. This one sits outside Franklin County, so we're putting it where it belongs: Worth the Drive.

Source: Visit Panacea: 49th Annual Blue Crab Festival

 

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🌴 THE WEEKEND GAME PLAN

 

Friday, Sept. 25 is a particularly good Apalachicola-to-Carrabelle day: catch the Riverfront Revitalization Groundbreaking in Apalachicola from 3–6 p.m., then head east for Twilight at the Tower from 7–9 p.m.

 

On Saturday, Sept. 26, you've got options: the Franklin County High School Golf Tournament in the morning, Simplified at Low Tide Bar at 1 p.m., live music at Crooked River Grill at 6 p.m., and the St. George Lighthouse Full Moon Climb beginning at 7:30 p.m.

Dates and times may change — verify before heading out.

 

That's what's up around Apalachicola and the Forgotten Coast this week. Learn something at the library, celebrate the riverfront, climb a lighthouse, catch some music or just follow Highway 98 until something looks interesting. 🌴🌊🌕

Happy exploring!

Photo Credit FOMO Photography 

A few local notes worth sharing this week:

🏈 Franklin County football is 6–0

The Seahawks beat Rocky Bayou Christian 36–7 on Friday, Sept. 18, according to MaxPreps. Next game is Friday, Sept. 25, at Graceville.
👉 https://www.maxpreps.com/fl/eastpoint/franklin-county-seahawks/football/

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📚 Apalachicola library has a $5 fill-a-bag sale Saturday

The Apalachicola Margaret Key Public Library will hold a “$5 Fill-A-Bag Book Sale” on Saturday, Sept. 26, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Friends group PALS is sponsoring it; proceeds benefit the library. Visitors buy a $5 bag and fill it.👉 https://franklincounty.news/2026/09/15/apalachicola-library-to-hold-sept-26-book-sale/

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🎖️ Lanark Legion Auxiliary seated new officers

American Legion Auxiliary Unit 82 in Lanark held its officers’ installation on Tuesday, Sept. 8. The Apalachicola Times lists President Wanda Barfield, 1st Vice Remona Larsen, 2nd Vice Missy McCuen, Treasurer/Membership Pennie Atkins, and members at large Faye Skamiera and Nola Tolbert. District 2 Auxiliary President Teresa Briggs swore them in.
👉 https://franklincounty.news/2026/09/15/legion-auxiliary-swears-in-new-officers/

 

**Photo Courtesy of GritsandPinecones.com **

Easy Halloween Mummy Jalapeño Poppers

Grits and Pinecones stuffs jalapeños with cream cheese and pepper jack, wraps them in thin strips of crescent dough, and adds candy eyes after they come out of the oven. About 25 minutes start to finish — a Halloween tray without a lot of work.

Full recipe: https://www.gritsandpinecones.com/easy-halloween-jalapeno-mummies/

 

Game and Trivia Nights in the Forgotten Coast

Bingo Night lights up Eastpoint Beer Company every Monday at 5:30 PM, bringing together locals for an evening filled with free bingo, beer, and pizza at 374 US-98, Eastpoint.

Arrive with friends, grab a pint, and enjoy a chance to win prizes in a warm, relaxed setting near the bay.

Tuesdays at 5:30 PM, join BullFrog for Trivia Night at the same beloved spot—no cost to play, fantastic craft brews, and waterfront views add to the fun.

For trivia with a twist, Crooked River Grill at 151 Laughing Gull Lane hosts Trivia Tuesdays from 6:00 to 7:30 PM, led by the lively Cecily Stevens.

It’s just $2 to enter, supporting a local nonprofit, and promises laughter, friendly competition, and a classic coastal vibe.

The Current

This Week Along the Forgotten Coast

Late September has a quieter kind of heat. The days are still warm, but the light drops sooner, and the towns have settled back into their weekday rhythm.

You notice it in small ways: a porch light on earlier, fewer cars on the bridge at noon, people taking the long way around a block because they have the time. The water is still there. The marsh is still working. Nothing dramatic has to happen for the week to feel like itself.

This is a good stretch to look up from the calendar and actually be on the coast — a walk, an errand that turns into supper, a familiar street at the end of the day.

Enjoy the beauty around us and have a blessed week... 

 

Photo Weems Memorial

Weems Memorial Hospital sits on Avenue G in Apalachicola, same spot it has occupied for more than 65 years. What people sometimes miss is the second half of that sentence: it is the hospital for all of Franklin County.

That was the point Colleen Zester kept coming back to when we sat down with her and her husband, Bill. Colleen chairs the Weems Memorial Healthcare Foundation. Bill is vice chair of the hospital board. They moved here about five years ago, retired, and put their time into a place they say they fell in love with because it still feels like a small town.

“When I say community, I don’t mean Apalachicola,” Colleen said. “Weems Memorial Hospital happens to sit in Apalachicola… but it serves all of Franklin County.”

What the Foundation has already put on the ground

The Foundation’s job, as Colleen described it, is straightforward: keep the care, the education, and the building matched to what people here actually need. Recent work includes:

 

• An upgraded hospice suite
• The new Reflecting Garden outside that suite, built with donations and volunteer labor
• New hospital beds
• Fresh artwork, with murals on the way
• An upgraded patient activity room so hospice patients and families have a quiet place for crafts or a little privacy

None of that, she said, happens without local donations and business sponsorships. “Those things are only possible with the community support.”

 

Two years ago the Foundation also helped bring a new mammogram into the hospital so screenings could happen here instead of somewhere else.

Carrabelle’s pharmacy — and why it matters

Bill’s first item was the one a lot of East Franklin readers will feel in their bones. Carrabelle has not had a pharmacy in about 10 years. People have been driving to Crawfordville or all the way to Apalachicola for prescriptions.

 

“It’s been in a pharmacy desert out there,” he said.

The hospital has been working on a walk-in pharmacy for more than a decade. They are now taking construction bids and expect to break ground this year. Colleen called it one of the things they are most excited about.

After that, the next large project they hope to take up with the county is an emergency-room upgrade, likely next year once the pharmacy is moving.

 

New machines, closer to home

 

A new CT is already in the building and, Bill said, should be online in the next couple of months.

If this year’s Foundation event does well, Colleen said they want to underwrite software so that same CT suite can also offer DEXA bone-density screening. She framed it as “stronger bones, stronger community” — a lot of women here still have to leave town for that test.

Weems is also opening its physical therapy room beyond the hospital’s swing-bed patients. Swing-bed is the program that lets a Franklin County resident recover closer to home after surgery or an injury in Tallahassee or elsewhere. Speech, occupational, and physical therapy are part of that. The change Bill described is simple: people who are not staying at Weems would still be able to come in for PT.

Every dollar stays here

Colleen was careful to separate two boards that now, she and Bill both said, are pulling in the same direction as the county commission: the hospital board and the Foundation.

The line she wanted people to leave with was this: every dollar the Foundation raises comes back to the hospital. The building is in Apalachicola. The work is for the county.

 

Rising Tides Lift All Boats II

 

The Foundation’s main fundraiser is in its third year.

• 2024: the Armory, marking the hospital’s 65th year in town
• Last year: Apalachicola Yacht Club — sold out seven weeks early
• This year: back at the Apalachicola Yacht Club on Saturday, November 14

Dinner, new music, a silent auction. Sponsorships and auction donations are welcome. Tickets are through the Foundation, not the Yacht Club, and Colleen said they are moving fast again.

How to help

• Follow Weems Foundation on Facebook — event details and a QR code are there
• Email weemsfoundation@weemsmemorial.com (it goes to Colleen)
• Buy a Rising Tides ticket or sponsor a table if you can 
• Details & ticket information: Link to Buy a Ticket 

We’ll add short video clips from the conversation here as they go up.

 

Franklin County Humane Society Needs Volunteers

The Franklin County Humane Society is looking for people who can help the forgotten pets of the Forgotten Coast. On their volunteer page they list several ways to pitch in: walk and socialize dogs and cats, foster (including puppies, nursing mothers, or animals recovering from surgery), drive transports to a midpoint in Chiefland (van and gas provided), take a “Dog for a Day,” help at events, or drop off supplies.

 

If any of that fits, call (850) 670-8414 or start here:
👉 https://www.forgottenpets.org/volunteer/

 

More info and how to get involved: Franklin County Humane Society 

👉 https://www.forgottenpets.org/volunteer/

or Volunteer Info - Facebook Post 

 or visit their Facebook page:

👉 Franklin County Humane Society

 

**Photo Courtesy of GritsandPinecones.com ** Boneless Country-Style Ribs in the Oven Grits and Pinecones cooks these low and slow at 300°F until the pork is tender, then finishes them with barbecue sauce for a sticky glaze. No grill or smoker — just a rub, foil, and the oven. Easy enough for a weeknight, good enough for a full table. Full recipe: https://www.gritsandpinecones.com/country-style-pork-ribs/

Photo Credit FOMO Photography 

The Forgotten Coast is full of good news this week, with three community highlights worth celebrating.

 

Small Wins and Good Things

Week of September 14–20, 2026

 

Here are a few bright spots making us smile this week on the Forgotten Coast:

 

🏈 Franklin County football is 5–0
The Seahawks stayed unbeaten Friday night, beating previously undefeated Liberty County 20–9 in Bristol. WCTV reports a late pick-six helped close it out. Next up is Friday at Rocky Bayou.
👉 https://www.wctv.tv/2026/09/12/gotw-seahawks-beat-liberty-county-battle-tates-hell/

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🚧 Highway 98 in Eastpoint is moving again
After a collapse in the construction zone closed part of U.S. 98, the road reopened to one lane Thursday evening, according to WJHG. The sheriff’s office had asked the state to speed repairs so traffic would not stay on the C.C. Land Road detour.
👉 https://www.wjhg.com/2026/09/11/highway-98-closure-eastpoint-stalls-commutes-repair-timeline-remains-unclear/

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🎣 FWC is inviting freshwater anglers to log a Big Catch
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Big Catch program recognizes anglers who land a qualifying freshwater fish by length or weight. More than 30 species are eligible; youth have easier size minimums. Submit a photo at BigCatchFlorida.com.
👉 https://franklincounty.news/2026/08/25/anglers-invited-to-celebrate-their-freshwater-catches/

The Current

This Week Along the Forgotten Coast

By mid-September the holiday noise has left the coast. What remains is the ordinary week: warm afternoons, shorter evenings, and towns that sound like themselves again.

The heat is still here, but it does not run the whole day. Mornings feel usable. The marsh holds a little more gold. People linger at the library, the dock, or a table outside without needing a reason.

This is the stretch when the Forgotten Coast stops performing summer and simply keeps going. No announcement required — just another week of familiar light and familiar streets.

Enjoy the beauty around us and have a blessed week...