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Just a Few Friends Festival Makes Waves in Key West, Donates $34,000 to Local Charities
Key West, FL – This week, the organizers of the Just a Few Friends Festival, held over Labor Day weekend, proudly presented checks totaling $34,000 to two local charities, thanks to the generosity of festival attendees who purchased souvenir badges. The proceeds from the event were managed by the non-profit Community Foundation of the Florida Keys and will benefit Reef Relief and the Bahamas Village Music Program. Festival founders Paul Menta, Jordan Upchurch, Jill Snodgrass, and Sean Krikorian expressed their gratitude for the support from the guests. “It’s incredible to see how a first-year event can raise such significant funds. We are thrilled to be able to donate $17,000 to each charity,” said Menta. “Our goal is to continue helping the community and make even bigger contributions in the future.” Reef Relief expressed profound appreciation for the donation. Dora DeMaria, Assistant Executive Director noted, “We are so grateful for the folks at Just a Few Friends and all of those who bought passes to support our mission. With this generous donation, we will be able to bolster our education and outreach programs.” Last school year alone, Reef Relief's education program reached over 15,500 students from 45 states and 20 countries, with over 250 children participating in their spring and summer camp programs. Since the beginning of September, they have already reached over 3,000 students through free marine science programs. The funds from the festival will enable Reef Relief to continue offering quality marine science information to students worldwide, ensuring accessibility regardless of location or background. Additionally, proceeds will support camp expenses, allowing fees to remain low and affordable while also funding scholarships for local underprivileged youth. Funds will also engage volunteers in community projects, including marine debris removal and storm drain stenciling events. The Bahamas Village Music Program, under the leadership of Executive Director Kawana Staffney-Ashe, will utilize their generous donation to support the establishment of a new music studio within the upcoming Frederick Douglass Community Center in Bahama Village, Key West, Florida. This state-of-the-art community center, which is set to open in January 2025, will feature a gym, classrooms, music rooms, and various other resources for the community. The new studio will serve as a vibrant hub for recording, mixing, and other vital functions, equipping local artists with the necessary tools to flourish in the music industry. “It is crucial to help young students thrive and promote their musical talent,” Staffney-Ashe emphasized. “This donation will provide them with opportunities to express themselves and develop their skills in a supportive environment.” The mission of the Bahamas Village Music Program is to deliver high-quality music education to children who may otherwise lack access to private music instruction. As the festival organizers reflect on the success of the inaugural event, they are already planning for future iterations that will aim to make an even greater impact on the community. The Just a Few Friends Festival stands as a testament to the power of community support and the positive change it can bring. Next year's festival is scheduled for August 29 through September 1, 2025. For more information about the Just a Few Friends Festival and its charitable contributions, please contact Jill Snodgrass at 305.731.5780. About Just a Few Friends Festival: The Just a Few Friends Festival is an annual celebration in Key West, FL, that celebrates Jimmy Buffett's legacy by bringing together fans and community members to enjoy music, culture, and fun while raising funds for local charities. https://www.justafewfriendskeywest.com/ https://medium.com/@PRHORSE/jimmy-buffetts-very-second-key-west-memorial-parade-celebration-b98627b804af About Reef Relief: Reef Relief is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and restoring coral reefs through education, advocacy, and community involvement. https://www.reefrelief.org/ About the Bahamas Village Music Program: The Bahamas Village Music Program provides music education and opportunities for local youth, helping to foster creativity and talent in the community. https://bvmpkw.com/ About Community Foundation of the Florida Keys: The Community Foundation of the Florida Keys is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in the Florida Keys. By supporting local initiatives and charitable projects, the Foundation aims to strengthen the community and address pressing needs through strategic grantmaking. Their work empowers individuals and organizations to create positive change, fostering a vibrant and sustainable future for the Florida Keys. https://cffk.org/ ###
City of Key West Celebrates Jimmy Buffett Day with Proclamation Ceremony at Shrimp Boat Sound Studios
The City of Key West announced the Proclamation Ceremony in honor of Jimmy Buffett Day, is set to take place on Friday, August 31, 2024, at the iconic Shrimp Boat Sound Studios. This special event will mark the beginning of the "Just a Few Friends, Key West" Labor Day weekend celebration. The ceremony will feature a brief performance by the talented members of the local high school band, under the direction of Gary Hernandez. Vice Mayor Sam Kaufman will open the event, organizer Paul Menta will introduce the team behind the event and welcome Mayor Danise "DeeDee" Henriquez, who will read the official City Proclamation. Following Mayor Henriquez, Monroe County Commissioner Jim Scholl will speak, followed by Commissioner Craig Cates who worked with Jimmy Buffett to make the Key West Amphitheater a reality.. The event will culminate with State Representative Jim Mooney reading the State Proclamation, officially declaring August 30 as Jimmy Buffett Day across Florida. This proclamation ceremony is not only a celebration of Jimmy Buffett’s enduring legacy but also kicks off a weekend full of festivities, bringing together locals and visitors to enjoy the spirit of Key West. All are welcome to join in the festivities, which promise to be a memorable kickoff to a vibrant weekend honoring one of Key West's most beloved figures.
Just a Few Friends, Key West Labor Day Memorial Celebration Honoring Key West’s Favorite Son on Track to Raise $30,000 for Local Charities
[August 2] Just a Few Friends, Key West is excited to announce that the limited edition souvenir badges for the Key West Labor Day Memorial Celebration have been mailed out. Thanks to the UPS Store in Big Pine and the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys, nearly 1,000 badges have been processed and sent. Recipients should expect to see a blue envelope in their mailboxes within the next two weeks. Patience is appreciated as mail can take longer to arrive from the Conch Republic. The organization extends its heartfelt gratitude to supporters whose badge purchases and contributions have helped raise almost $30,000. These funds are managed entirely by the Community Foundation and will benefit two notable non-profits: Reef Relief, dedicated to the stewardship of ocean resources, and the Bahamas Village Music Program, which provides music education to local youth. While online donations for badges have closed, anyone interested in participating can still get a limited edition souvenir badge in person, while supplies last, at the Key West Legal Rum Distillery, located at 105 Simonton St, Key West. Badges are $30 each and can be purchased with cash or by check (made payable to CFFK) with all proceeds to the charities. Contributions are still being accepted for the charities online without badges. Attendees are encouraged to personalize their parade lanyards with their name, city, number of shows attended, or any other creative touches. Wearing the badge throughout the weekend will grant access to special perks from event partners. Starting on August 29th, badge holders can access special offers and important information by scanning the QR code on the back of their badges. This QR code will also link to parade announcements, schedules, and virtual viewing options for those unable to attend in person. The celebration will commence on Sunday, September 1 with the Second Line Memorial processional at 5 PM gathering in the 100 block of Duval Street. The procession will march up Duval to Southard Street, making stops at Sloppy Joe’s, Kilwins, The Greeen House and Big Cheezees to sing and celebrate along the way. Badge holders are invited to join the front of the march but everyone is welcome to participate or watch. The parade will conclude at the Truman Waterfront, where the free Party in the Park will begin. Attendees can look forward to an evening featuring food trucks, bars, art vendors, free music, and stunning sunset views over the ocean. Will Kimbrough, long-time collaborator of Jimmy Buffett and the co-writer of Buffett's last single release, "Bubbles Up," will be performing on the Friends of Bubba stage along with some of the Keys' best local singer-songwriters, including CW Colt, Zack Seemiller, Caffeine Carl, Mike Stack, and Howard Livingston and the Mile Marker 24 Big Band who will sing original music and trop rock favorites. Historic Tours is providing a trolley to follow behind the parade for participants with mobility issues. For convenient transportation around Key West, Eaton Bikes is recommended. Participants can decorate their bikes and join the march, then enjoy an easy ride home. Other transportation options from the Party in the Park include rideshares, taxis, or the free Duval Loop. Event organizers advise visiting the official website for links to all events and special hotel rates. Early ticket purchases are recommended as many events are expected to sell out. More information can be found at www.justafewfriendskeywest.com.
Key West to Celebrate Favorite Son’s Legacy with "Just a Few Friends, Key West" Festival Over Labor Day Weekend
In honor of Jimmy Buffett, Key West’s beloved icon and Trop Rock pioneer, the city will host "Just a Few Friends, Key West" from August 30th to September 2nd, 2024. This event celebrates Buffett’s lasting impact on the Conch Republic with themed events, brunches, sailing excursions, and live performances across the island. "The response to this weekend of events has been incredible," said Jill Snodgrass, event organizer. "We’ve already raised over $10,000 for our charities, and many ticketed events have sold out. But there are still plenty of opportunities to join in the fun with lots of free events like the Proclamation Ceremony declaring August 30th Jimmy Buffett Day by the State of Florida, Party in the Park, the Pencil Thin Mustache contest, and the final night party at Sunset Pier featuring the Nautical Wheelers with former Coral Reefer guitarist Roger Bartlett," she noted. The highlight will be the "Second Line Memorial Parade" on Sunday, September 1st at 5 PM, where participants will march down Duval Street to Truman Waterfront Park. Attendees can then enjoy the "Party in the Park," a free, picnic-style event featuring local and national artists, including Will Kimbrough, co-writer of Buffett's final release, "Bubbles Up," and local favorites like Howard Livingston and the Mile Marker 24 Big Band. The festivities include adult beverages, the Island Time Market & Food Court with delicious food and drink options, vendors and artists for shopping, iconic sunset views, and connecting with fellow attendees. Guests can also participate in lawn games, cool off with hydration options, strike a pose at selfie stations, join a lively conga line or limbo contest, and give back to charities. Special commemorative Second Line parade badges are available for a $30 donation, with proceeds supporting the Bahama Village Music Program and Reef Relief through the Florida Keys Community Foundation. A limited number of badges will be available for purchase in person, credit card only, starting Wednesday, August 28th, at the Key West Legal Rum Distillery. Those unable to attend can participate virtually by tuning in online. "This event is for everyone, whether you're a Key West local, a die-hard fan, or someone whose life was touched even a little by Jimmy Buffett," said Paul Menta, event co-organizer. "It's about coming together to celebrate a man who meant so much to so many in our community and beyond. We wanted to create an all-inclusive experience where people can feel his spirit, share memories, and enjoy the island life he loved." Participants are encouraged to visit the official event website for more information on the full lineup of activities, special offers, merchandise, and transportation options. The celebration is expected to draw thousands, and early planning is advised. For further details, visit justafewfriendskeywest.com or contact Jill Snodgrass, Event Director, at 305.731.5780. Note: All events are not affiliated with or endorsed by Jimmy Buffett’s Estate or Margaritaville Enterprises.
Vendor Applications Open for Key West Labor Day Weekend Celebration
[July 17] Get ready for a fantastic celebration at Truman Waterfront Park after the Second Line memorial parade, part of the Just a Few Friends, Key West Labor Day weekend. The Party in the Park with Just a Few Friends is a FREE event happening on Sunday, September 1, from 5 PM to 10 PM. It's a celebration of life for Key West's favorite son offering family fun picnic-style, sunset views, entertainment, local vendor shopping, and delicious food and drinks. Guests will enjoy live music on the Friends of Bubba Stage from talented artists including Will Kimbrough (co-writer of "Bubbles Up"), Howard Livingston and Mile Marker 24 Big Band, Mike Stack, Zack Seemiller & Caffeine Carl, and CW Colt. They'll be playing a mix of beloved covers and original songs. The park-side promenade, "Island Time Market & Food Court”, sponsored by the Truman Waterfront Farmers Market and the Key West Artisan Market, invites local businesses, food trucks, culinary creators, artists, vendors, and non-profits to participate. Setup at the park is easy, with space on the concrete mole and convenient parking behind the booths. With more than 5,000 attendees expected, this is a fantastic opportunity to showcase products and services. Booth spaces (10x10) start at $145, with a 20% discount for locals and regular market vendors. It is free for non-profits. Rates increase after July 31. Registration Links: · Merchants, businesses, and artists [ https://bit.ly/justafewfriendsvendors for merchants, businesses and artists] · Food vendors and food trucks [ https://bit.ly/justafewfriendsfood for food made on site and food trucks] For more information on vending, visit justafewfriendskeywest.com or contact Sean Krikorian at 305-731-3385. For more information on event activities, contact Paul Menta 305.747.8236
Will Kimbrough, Co-Writer of "Bubbles Up" to Perform at “Just a Few Friends Key West” Memorial Event
[April 10] Organizers are pleased to announce that Will Kimbrough, a long-time collaborator of Jimmy Buffett and the co-writer of Buffett's last single release, "Bubbles Up," will be performing on the Friends of Jimmy stage during the first annual "Just a Few Friends Key West" Festival on Labor Day weekend. The free show, scheduled to take place after the Second Line parade on September 1, will be held at the Truman Waterfront Park and will also showcase some of the Keys' best local singer-songwriters, including CW Colt, Zach Miller, Caffeine Carl, Mike Stack, and Howard Livingston performing original music and trop rock covers. Kimbrough and Buffett were both natives of Mobile, Alabama. The duo has been collaborating for the last 20 years, contributing 21 songs to the last seven Buffett albums. The soulful and poignant tune “Bubbles Up” is featured on Buffett’s posthumous album, "Equal Strain On All Parts." Apart from being an honorary member of the Coral Reefer Band, Kimbrough is a Nashville journeyman who frequently tours with Alabama, Emmylou Harris and Rodney Crowell. He is set to release a new solo album, “For the Life of Me.” Kimbrough expressed his anticipation to be part of this legacy celebration in Key West, where he and Jimmy often spent time creating at Shrimpboat Sound Studio on Lazy Way. “It was, and probably still is, Jimmy Buffett’s world; we just live in it,” Kimbrough remarked. Labor Day weekend in Key West will now forever be associated with the passing of the beloved Jimmy Buffett. The music legend died September 1, 2023, prompting locals, led by entrepreneur Paul Menta and community activist Jordan Upchurch, to organize a unique parade that attracted thousands of grieving fans. In honor of his memory, legacy, and cultural impact on the Conch Republic, the inaugural “Just a Few Friends Key West” celebration aims to revive that parade, making it even grander and "the cleanest in the country" while introducing new events and activities for an entire weekend dedicated his devoted fans. The Second Line memorial parade will commence at 5 pm on lower Duval, Sunday, September 1, 2024, and will culminate at the Truman Waterfront Park. Attendees can expect a lively festival ambiance with vendor booths, photo opportunities, food, drinks, and live music on the Friends of Bubba stage. Special souvenir parade lanyards are available for a $30 tax-deductible donation, with all proceeds collected by the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys for distribution to the Bahamas Village Music Program for youth and Reef Relief. Guests unable to physically attend the event in Key West are encouraged to participate virtually through a special link provided with their donation. Additional information can be found at www.justafewfriends.com. Various activities are planned throughout the weekend, including walking tours, a margarita bar crawl, brunches, parties, and a variety of live music at different venues across the city. Each day will be offer attendees a range of free and ticketed options. Businesses interested in participating as event venues, sponsors, vendors, or suppliers are advised to contact the organizers at jill@justafewfriendskeywest or call Jill Snodgrass, Event Director, at 305.731.5780.
“Just a Few Friends Key West” Jimmy Buffet Memorial Event and Second Line Scheduled for Labor Day Weekend
[February 9] In December, the Key West City Commission unanimously passed a resolution declaring December 25th as "Favorite Son of the Conch Republic Day" in memory of the late Jimmy Buffett. The proclamation, spearheaded by local enthusiast Paul Menta and endorsed by Mayor Teri Johnston, pays tribute to Buffett's profound influence on Key West's cultural fabric and economic prosperity. Recognizing Buffett's enduring legacy, which spans from his Island roots at Crazy Ophelia's, Howie's Lounge, the Chart Room, and Captain Tony's to his global impact through music and entrepreneurial ventures, the proclamation underscores his role in shaping Key West's laid-back lifestyle and promoting it to the world. To commemorate Buffett's contributions as Key West's favorite son and pioneer of the Trop Rock movement, on Thursday the City Commission green-lighted a city-wide celebration of Jimmy's legacy to be held during Labor Day weekend. The events will take place from August 29th to September 2nd, 2024 and will include themed events, dinners, sailing excursions, tours, contests, and performances at various venues across the island, many of which hold sentimental significance for Buffett and his fans. The highlight of the week-end long extravaganza will be a lively walking 'second line' parade on Sunday, September 1 at 5pm, featuring a marching band procession along Duval Street. The parade will culminate at Truman Waterfront Park, where attendees will enjoy a free "friends of Jimmy" concert experience and festival activities. In true Parrot Head fashion, community engagement lies at the heart of “It's 5 o'clock Key West” endeavors. For a $30 donation, supporters will receive a commemorative souvenir Parade Pass. The proceeds will be managed by the nonprofit Community Foundation of the Florida Keys and distributed to the Bahama Village Music Program to inspire local young musicians and Reef Relief, stewards of our ocean environment, a cause important to Jimmy. The Sunday event will take place both in person and virtually. With the purchase of a lanyard, guests anywhere in the world can be a part of the festivities tuning in to watch the action unfold online while celebrating alongside at home. For local guests, the donation will offer access to special perks and offers from valued local partners. "We're thrilled to launch the inaugural It's 5 o'clock Key West celebration in honor of Jimmy Buffett, an icon beloved by locals and fans worldwide," expressed Menta. "We invite everyone to join us over Labor Day weekend for a memorable tribute to this extraordinary ambassador of the Conch Republic. Stay tuned for updates on the full lineup of events, charitable initiatives, and ways to get involved." For more information and updates on the It's 5 o'clock Key West celebration, visit www.justafewfriendskeywest.com and https://www.facebook.com/justafewfriendskeywest
Artwork owned by Margaritaville Enterprises. Used with permission. Click to read the proclamation in full
Images may only be used with permission. Please contact organizers
2023 COVERAGE
Just some of the press from the 2023 impromptu celebration following the death of the beloved Jimmy Buffett.
[see more press coverage here]
2023 Second Line: In 16 hours, a parade permit and organization for a second line parade down Duval Street was accomplished that attracted an estimated 8000 participants.* The event garnered national news coverage and photos were picked up on the AP world-wide. 1.6 million viewers tuned in to facebook live another 800k viewers watched on the Sloppy Joe Duval Street live cam
*from aerial drone footage & AI analysis
