Thank you to the donors who generously gave to Friends of Franyo and Franyo Fund. With your support, we honored Dick’s legacy by naming the beach after him—Franyo Beach. This permanent tribute ensures his beachcomber approach to saving the Bay rings loud for years to come.

Dick Franyo: A True Friend of the Bay

Richard “Dick” Franyo isn’t just a successful entrepreneur—he’s a force of nature for the Chesapeake Bay. From Wall Street to waterfront, Dick’s journey is a masterclass in turning passion into purpose.

After a career in investment banking, Dick swapped boardrooms for boat decks and founded the legendary Boatyard Bar & Grill. But this isn’t just a place to grab their world-famous crab cake—it has become a hub for environmental action and community spirit.

At Boatyard, sustainability isn’t a buzzword, it’s baked into the business. From recycling nearly 1,000 bushels of oyster shells and cooking oil to investing in wind-energy credits and runoff- prevention systems, every decision reflects a deep commitment to the environment. The use of compostable products throughout the operation further reinforces that great food and responsible practices can thrive together.

His dedication doesn’t stop at the dock. Dick has proudly served on the Chesapeake Bay Foundation board for thirty years. Twenty years ago, Dick saw the potential to turn music, community, and passion into a powerful force and opening the door for all to engage in the mission. Today, Bands in the Sand stands as the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s largest and most iconic fundraiser—grossing over $5.5 million.

As we celebrate this incredible 20-year milestone, we honor not just the event, but the person who made it all possible. Dick Franyo’s vision created more than a fundraiser—it built a legacy. Here’s to the next 20 years of music and mission—inspiring generations to protect and preserve this national treasure.