The 2006 Everglades Music Conference will be held at the campsite at Ochopee, Florida on Saturday, Feb. 4. The first annual event will run from 3 p.m. until midnight, with plenty of live bands, good companionship and fun for all.

"I think the key word there is 'annual,' which means if it all goes well, we're going to do it again next year," said Martin, a long-time Marco Island resident. "It will include acts from all over featuring hip-hop, rock and reggae music as well. It's also going to be the same weekend as the Seafood Festival in Everglades City, so I think there's going to be quite a few people out there."

The idea to conduct a music festival originated with Martin and fellow Marco Islander and musician friend, Mike Marciano, who decided to put the event together. With the cooperation of Shealy, who was more than willing to make his Ochopee campside available for the event, the inaugural happening has become a reality.

And if the names of Martin and Shealy sound familar, they should. The dynamic duo are also the two prime investigators of South Florida's mysterious Skunk Ape, the local legendary counterpart to the Abominable Snowman, Jersey Devil and Bigfoot.

But while the musical experience will be taking place near eyeshot of Skunk Ape Headquarters - just off U.S. 41 - Martin was more content to talk about this newest venture.

"Admission is only $10 per person, which includes camping for the night," Martin explained. "It's completely BYO, along with bringing your own tents, coolers, food and drinks."

Participating bands include ACL, Sheffield Crew, Mikey Dollaz and EbGb Nightwalker as well as a few more performers to be announced.
"Plus we'll be playing our brand of Swamp Hop music, which is a little hip-hop and a little Florida rock," he added. "It should make everyone want to come out."

And who knows? Maybe even the Skunk Ape will get the rhythm, too!