Franko Fest Brings Music & Friends to Trebeaché May 19

Trebeaché in Blue Mountain Beach is the place to be for Franko Fest on Thursday, May 19 from 7:00 p.m. til midnight or until the music runs out. Franko Fest is a community celebration in support of our own beloved artist and musician Franko "Washboard" Jackson as he prepares for medical treatment and recovery. The night will feature many outstanding local musicians on stage, the best of food and cold drinks, a silent auction with raffles, and a special Jackson Art Showcase.

Imagine the music at a real hometown throwdown including Franko and fellow musicians. You’ll see Dread Clampitt, The Steenos, Hubba Hubba, Old Truck Bluegrass, John Hoormann, Duck Phat, Matt Miller, TK Bardwell, John Reinlie and more on stage. All bring a lifetime devotion to their craft and have enriched our lives with their music. Put on your dancing shoes. Kick 'em off for a great night.

Franko Fest is a community fundraiser planned by lots of local people for everyone to come together, contribute and enjoy the night with friends. Franko Fest will take place at Trebeaché upstairs event space from 7pm til midnight. The cash only event is $10 for music only, $25 wristband for music and food, $5 per drink donation.

Franko has been approved for liver transplant at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida. Although his medical insurance covers much of the treatment, the Clinic requires a certain amount to be available to cover the first year of recovery and treatment expenses not covered by insurance. Friends of Franko from all over the Emerald Coast and beyond are coming together to help meet the goal of raising at least $20,000. As soon as goal is met, Franko's status on the transplant list will be activated. See Franko’s Medical Gofundme account to contribute now.

Time is critical so the Stinky's and Trebeaché team members and friends came together to plan a fundraiser event to help Franko and wife Eileen West meet their financial goals. Plans for Franko Fest include music as well as art, silent auction, food and drink, and a night to remember for all. Up for auction is a washboard piece signed by Franko Fest musicians. Also, a Jackson Gallery Showcase, Franko's folk art collection, will be on display.
 

Washboard Jackson is a big deal in South Walton's music scene and performs regularly at Stinky's Fish Camp and throughout the Emerald Coast of Florida. You'll find him collaborating with many artists on stage, playing the washboard and singing Sweet Potato Pie and many original tunes. Long a member of the legendary local band Hubba Hubba, he has worked with and started a number of bands around here. His music is part rock, part New Orleans and a lot of soul. Franko is a teddy bear with a heart melting smile and a gentle soul. But watch out because he's larger than life on that stage.
 

Franko is not only a much sought after musician, but is also a folk artist of some note. He began painting about 15 years ago at the urging his artist wife, Eileen West, and good friend the late Woody Long, a successful South Walton folk artist. His artwork is as rustic, folksy and colorful as his music. Read more about Franko Washboard Jackson's fascinating history, music and art at eileenwestgallery.net. 

Join the SoWal community at Franko Fest Thursday, May 19 starting at 7pm. It’s going to be a real good time for the best cause ever. Pick up a Franko tshirt and enjoy the show.

There is a gofundme account where contributions are accepted: Franko's Medical Transplant. Other ways to help:

Come out to Franko Fest May 19
Volunteer to help with Franko Fest
Donate raffle/silent auction items
Please contact Kelli@stinkysfishcamp.com / 850-797-0495.
 

"I have been totally blown away by the love and support I have received..This truly is one of greatest little communities in the world. I am very lucky to be a part of this family. I can not begin to express my gratitude to everyone. I AM THE LUCKIEST MAN IN THE WORLD!" Franko

Franko-o-philes | Facebook Page (follow for upates)

Trebeaché restaurant and event venue is located at Redfish Village in Blue Mountain Beach. Read more about Franko Fest and the Stinky’s/Trebeache committee goals of the fundraiser at trebeache.com.