[dropcap]I[/dropcap]t is hard to believe that we are celebrating a new year once again! As you make plans for 2016, FRIENDS wants you to know about some of our exciting programs and events happening in Abaco in the upcoming year. For more information on FRIENDS, these events and more, become a member and receive our newsletters and updates or follow us on Facebook.
JANUARY
The Abaco Science Alliance Conference (ASAC), Jan 6-9
ASAC was started by FRIENDS in 2004 as a way to improve networking among researchers working in The Bahamas and to increase community awareness of scientific discoveries. The conference typically hosts 25-30 presenters on an assortment of topics ranging from coastal development to fishery resource management to paleoecology. Typical conference attendance is approximately 300 people, including students.
FEBRUARY
The Hope Town Reef Ball, The Abaco Inn, Saturday Feb. 6th
The Marsh Harbour Reef Ball, The Jib Room, Saturday Feb. 20th
For the past 15 years, FRIENDS Reef Ball has helped to raise funds for its education program. Funds are raised through a silent and live auction. The auction items have ranged from stays around Abaco and The Bahamas to center court seats at Wimbledon and fishing trips with the Prime Minister. The auction excitement is followed by live music and a night of dancing. They are events you don’t want to miss!
MAY
Marsh Harbour Lionfish Derby, The Jib Room
To help combat the invasive lionfish in our waters, FRIENDS holds a tournament each year with monetary prizes for the most lionfish caught. Prizes are awarded to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners as well as for the smallest and largest lionfish. The great thing about this tournament is that everyone wins something, with a $1 per lionfish up to 100 lion fish.
JUNE
Green Turtle Cay Lionfish Derby, The Green Turtle Club and Marina
With the same rules as the Marsh Harbour Derby and slightly more prize options this is another event you do not want to miss!
JULY
Rockin with FRIENDS, Hope Town
To help raise funds for FRIENDS summer camp programs, a wide range of musicians come together for a wonderful evening of live music. All the musicians donate their time so that all proceeds benefit summer camps across Abaco.
Summer Camps!
FRIENDS summer camps have grown to accommodate every age group. The younger age groups include arts and crafts, games and other classroom activities followed by an afternoon of
exploring the various eco systems in Abaco. The high school level courses allow students to get involved with real research happening on Abaco with visiting scientists.
Ages 3-5 Early Childhood Summer Camp
Ages 6-9 Junior Camp
Ages 10-12 Fishing Camp in partnership with the International Game Fish Association
Ages 13-15 Nature Detectives
Ages 16-19 Field courses ranging from shark ecology, turtle tagging to bonefish.
NOVEMBER
Kayak Challenge
In partnership with the Cancer Society, FRIENDS hosts this unique event where participants have the opportunity to paddle through the scenic tidal creeks of the Bight of Old Robinson, which is included in the proposed East Abaco Creeks National Park followed by a beach party at Pete’s Pub. On average the event hosts anywhere from 60-80 paddlers.
Turtle Trot, Hope Town, Thanksgiving Morning
Each Thanksgiving FRIENDS hosts a 5k fun run/walk event in aid of marine conservation in Abaco. The route takes participants through the historic settlement of Hope Town and awards prizes to top female and male participants.
We hope to see you.
Friends of the Environment is a non-profit environmental organizations devoted to preserving Abaco’s fragile environment and working towards a more sustainable future. For more information, visit www.friendsoftheenvironment.org, call (242) 367-2721 or email info@friendsoftheenvironment.org.