General

30A Today, Activities, Features, General, News July 13, 2016

Stand-Up Paddleboarding in South Walton

By Lindsey Rogers White sand and crystal-clear water aren’t all South Walton has to offer. In fact, all the other activities — fishing, horseback riding, hiking, bike riding — are what make this area so special and attractive to people of all kinds. One of the most popular activities among visitors and locals alike is stand-up paddle boarding, a relatively new activity involving what looks like an elongated surf board that users stand on and use a paddle to move across the water’s surface. Rent a board or book a paddle board tour! South Walton is an especially perfect place for the budding sport, which is something Jeff Archer stumbled on when he founded his company YOLO Board here in 2007. Archer said South Walton is one the best places to stand-up paddle because of the variety of beginner friendly water and the huge diversity of paddling experiences. With the Gulf of Mexico, the Choctawhatchee Bay, coastal dune lakes and rivers, you’ll never get bored of the scenery. Plus, South Walton’s climate allows for year-round paddling. “Stand up paddle boarding to Walton County is like snow skiing to Aspen or Breckenridge,” Archer said. Paddling in the gulf offers a paddler beauty in every direction and the opportunity to have a close-up encounter with species such as dolphins and sea turtles in their natural habitat. Archer suggests you paddle the gulf in the morning when it is flat because as the south winds arise it is more difficult to paddle. If you’re new to paddle boarding, the coastal dune lakes are for you.These lakes are mostly protected from the winds, which results in flat, smooth waters perfect for those first timers. You get the best of both worlds paddling in a coastal dune lake because the outfall will take you directly to the gulf when you’re ready to hit the beach. The Choctawatchee Bay, fresh water rivers and natural springs are other flat venues for paddling. The bay is located just north of U.S. Highway 98 while the springs are a little further drive. Morrison Springs in Ponce De Leon is Archer’s favorite spring to paddle. Paddling affects both the physical and mental well-being of the paddler, Archer said. Physically, it improves core strength and balance. It also leads to better overall cardiovascular health. Plus, being out on the water can act as a mental release, providing exhilaration and time to get in touch with nature. Although it can be nice to spend some time alone, paddling is also a great activity to enjoy with friends and family. Archer likes distance paddles with his dog, Flea, paddle adventures with his friends and surfing expeditions with his son and brother. “It has allowed me to mix work and play in a seamless way that fits my lifestyle,” he said. This is a 360º video! Use your mobile device to pan around and see all angles of Camp Creek Lake! You may have to open it on the YouTube app for the full 360º effect. Rent a board or book a paddle board tour at 30atours.com. Lindsey Rogers is a summer intern with The 30A Company. Read More

30a, 30A Cottages & Concierge, 30A Radio, book, Chris Cumby, Coastal Insurance, General, News, stinky's fish camp, success, The Success Playbook July 12, 2016

Meet the Locals: Chris Cumby Shares His Secrets for Success

We have such a special community here, you often get the chance to meet someone on Scenic Highway 30-A who really makes you think. Cory Davis of 30A Radio had that opportunity recently when he got a chance a sit down with Chris Cumby, a Canadian-native-turned-30A-local and author of “The Success Playbook,” a book on discovering yourself and finding success, which is hitting shelves soon. Chris has a creative perspective on what you need to be successful in life, business and even here in South Walton. His knowledge ranges from the best food and beverage spots in South Walton to the benefits of finding a mentor (just wait until you hear who his is). This interview was prerecorded live at the 30A Radio Airstream at Gulf Place in Santa Rosa Beach, Fla. Special thanks to 30A Cottages & Concierge, Stinky’s Fish Camp and Coastal Insurance. Listen to the full interview here: For more information about Chris Cumby and his book, visit ChristopherCumby.com. Read More

30A book, 30a story, General, goodnight 30A, News July 12, 2016

THURSDAY: Meet the Creative Team Behind ‘Goodnight 30A’ + A Special Offer

(Meet the author and illustrator of this colorful kids book Thursday, July 14, from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. at The 30A Store in Gulf Place! If you can’t make it, tune into 30A’s Facebook page for a live broadcast, a chance to win prizes and an exclusive offer for 30A Fans.) Grace Skertich had just given birth to her first baby when she unexpectedly became a children’s book author. She had three months maternity leave from her law firm in Memphis and a baby who never cried — something most moms can only dream of — and she hungered for a new project. Why NOT write a children’s book? It’s not something she’d ever dreamed of doing — or even thought of doing. But it wasn’t long before she and her husband, Ryan, had put their heads together, found an illustrator and were soon hard at work creating Goodnight Memphis. Their first book was published in August 2014 and was very well-received. In fact, Grace said she had so much fun doing it, she started to think about the next one. “The only other place in America I know as well as Memphis is 30A,” said Grace. That’s when Grace reached out The 30A Company to see if she could incorporate the iconic 30A logo into some of their illustrations. It was an easy sell. “The illustrations in Goodnight Memphis were so colorful and vibrant, and the draft of their 30A story was obviously heartfelt,” said 30A’s Mike Ragsdale. “We knew we’d be proud to have the 30A brand associated with the project.” Goodnight 30A was born. David Lynch, the book’s illustrator, starts each page with a big, blank canvas — literally. His bright, original paintings are then scanned in and sized down to become the pages of the book. “It’s really colorful and whimsical,” said Grace. “It’s not digitally created, and I think that’s one of the things that has made the book so successful. It’s truly a work of art.” Goodnight 30A features many famous local places and activities, especially family-friendly ones like Bud & Alley’s Pizza Bar, YOLO Boarding, The Red Bar, George’s at Alys Beach, Charlie’s Donut Truck, Frost Bites, Seaside, WaterColor, Rosemary Beach and Grayton Beach. Grace said she’s thrilled with how the book turned out and is excited for everyone to finally see it. “Never in a million years did I think I would be a children’s book author,” she said. “It was just sort of the perfect storm after practicing law for five years in a corporate setting, which can be kind of monotonous. I do love to write, but I’m typically writing legal briefs. This is much more fun.” Goodnight 30A is now available for purchase online. Also, check out these beautiful postcard packs made from the book’s artwork. CHECK OUT THIS INTERVIEW WITH THE AUTHOR: Read More

30a, 30a tours, Activities, adventures, Beach Biz, children, day camps, General, Grayton Beach, Grayton Beach State Park, Gulf of Mexico, hiking, kayaking, kids, News, Paddle Boarding, snorkeling, South Walton July 10, 2016

Camp 30A: A New Outdoors Adventure Camp For Kids

Looking for some fun for the kids? Camp 30A is the only outdoors adventures camp for children in South Walton. Held at Grayton Beach State Park, the day camp gives kids ages 6-12 a chance to explore the sand and the sea, the longleaf pine forest and the coastal dune lakes. Camp leaders take kids on paddle board adventures, kayaking, hiking and even snorkeling. Book your day camp now. Michael Harrison, the camp’s director, has worked with kids camps for over 20 years and always dreamed of starting his own. The area around Scenic Highway 30A seemed like the perfect spot. “At Grayton Beach State Park, we have the Gulf of Mexico, but not only that, we have the lakes, we have hiking,” Harrison said. “It really lends itself to a great, unique camp experience.” Harrison has always loved working with kids, especially when he can introduce them to something they haven’t experienced before, like snorkeling or kayaking. “If you’re showing them something that’s maybe a little different, something they haven’t done before, they’re going to be really enthusiastic,” he said. “And kids are just fun to be around.” Learn more and book your day camp online. Read More

30a, art, artwork, bottle caps, collecting, collection, Features, General, Grayton Beach, middle school, News, South Walton, student art July 7, 2016

30A Bottle Caps Find Their Way Into Philadelphia Student Art Piece

By Caroline Giddis We’ve all seen the iconic, round 30A stickers displayed on car bumpers and water bottles around the country, but 13-year-old Henri Waché prefers to show off his love of 30A by collecting a different trinket — bottle caps. “I first got a 30A bottle cap when I was in Grayton Beach a few years ago,” said Henri, who lives in Haverford, Pennsylvania. “They’re a reminder of our times at Grayton Beach and the community down there. My mom grew up in Fort Walton beach because my grandpa was an airforce pilot, so we come down every year.” The bottle caps look like miniature 30A stickers and bring a little bit of small-town beach life to Henri’s collection. Henri has been collecting bottle caps for three years — and he’s dedicated to the task. He doesn’t hesitate to dig through dirt and concrete to score a colorful cap. He loves the aesthetic differences between the logos and designs on each one and the memories that come along with it. “To me it’s not just a collection. I can really relate to every moment where I found one,” Henri said. “If anyone enjoys collecting something, I say go for it. I really think that collecting helps you to remember special moments.” Instead of letting his collection of hundreds of caps sit in a drawer or a jar, Henri wanted to make something with them. One summer, he created a colorful, spiral design and mounted it to a framed corkboard. “I wanted to display my collection in a different way so I thought making it into some sort of collage would be a good way to show all of them,” Henri said. “I enjoyed having my mind expand and really seeing what I could make with them.” Henri attends The Haverford School, a private school for boys, where his artwork was recently displayed during an alumni reception in the upper school, an opportunity he is very proud of. “My art teacher requested if anyone had done any artwork outside of school, and at first I hesitated, but they really embraced it and the upper schoolers loved it,” Henri said. Henri’s mother, Robin Waché, is a native to the South Walton area and very proud that her son used 30A caps in his artwork. “Every summer since my three children were born, we have managed to spend time in Grayton Beach,” Waché said. “Slowly but surely the word is spreading that the most incredible beaches on earth are situated along 30-A. Shhh….don’t tell too many more people,” Robin said. “We hope to savor our little paradise forever.” Read More

Activities, General, News July 5, 2016

Unique 30A: Catch a Movie Under the Stars

By Lindsey Rogers Jazz up a regular movie night in South Walton with a film screening under the stars. More and more of our local communities have started outdoor movie nights and they’re perfect not only for families, but even date nights or picnic dinners after a day in the sun. Movies in the park add an exciting twist to watching a movie on your couch. First and foremost, you’re outside enjoying the night sky. In addition, your kids will love the freedom to run around in the grass and make new friends while watching a movie. Make sure to come prepared with your lawn chairs, blanket, bug spray and cooler. Some locations offer food and beverage for purchase. Movies in the moonlight are offered all across South Walton. Whether you’re staying in Rosemary or Sandestin, a film is bound to be playing near you. Here’s your list of where to catch a movie on the lawn: Rosemary Beach Rosemary Beach holds their Moonlight Movies and Face Painting on Thursdays at the Western Green. Face painting begins at 6 p.m. and show time is 8:15 p.m. Make sure to bring your blankets and lawn chairs. DogManDu will be selling popcorn and hotdogs. (They’re said to be the best on the beach!) Alys Beach The amphitheatre at Alys Beach is perfect for a family night. Catch one of their Summer Reels on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. Kids can enjoy a movie and also run off some energy in the fountains. Bring your blankets and low-back chairs to comfortably enjoy the evening. The Hub If you don’t feel like bringing your own chairs, then The Hub is for you. With provided seating and lots of food and drink options, you’ll be set for the night. Movie Night is every Wednesday at 7 p.m. Seaside Enjoy a movie at Seasides‘s Central Square Cinema on Friday nights. Bring your blankets to the amphitheater for an 8 p.m. screening. If you’re looking for a bite to eat or treat to cure the sweet tooth, Airstream Row has you covered. The Village of Baytowne Wharf Spend your Sunday exploring the shops and restaurants of the Village. Test your strength at the Baytowne Adventure Zone or relax on Captain Rex’s Sailing Adventure. End the day with a Sunday Cinema at 8 p.m. in the Events Plaza. For a full list of events in the area, including movie nights, check out our events calendar. Lindsey Rogers is a summer intern with The 30A Company. Read More

30a beer, 30A Company News, 30A gear, Cornhole, General, live music, Seagrove, the 30a store July 5, 2016

A Fresh Look for the 30A Store in Seagrove

The 30A Store in Seagrove Beach has always had a unique character. Not every retail store has a six-seater bar in the center. “My favorite part the Seagrove store is the bar,” said Sierra Jerkins, general manager for all 30A stores. “It’s that shock and awe factor. People come in and say ‘it looks like […] Read More

30A Radio, 30A.com, 8th Annual YOLO Board Relay Series, Beach Ready Spa, Bud & Alleys, Coastal Skin Surgery and Dermatology, Copy Systems, Destin Health & Fitness and Health Source Chiropractic, Garden of Life, General, grayton beer, Hinano, Mitzi Archer, NBI Properties, News, Ocean Reef Resorts, Standup Paddle Magazine, the bay, The Thirty-A Review, YOLO July 5, 2016

Grab Your Boards, It’s Time For YOLO’s Relay Series

Each year, YOLO Board hosts one of the most fun outdoor activities you can find in South Walton — the YOLO Board Relay Series. The three-part, family-friendly event is open and encouraging to paddle boarders of all skill types. (Believe me, I should know, I raced last year and it was my first time on a board!) It’s carefree and friendly competition, offering an opportunity for people of all skills to get involved, spectators to cheer on their favorite teams and for everyone to learn more about the increasingly popular water sport of stand-up paddling. This year, the ninth installment of the series, is presented by Garden of Life and again held at The Bay restaurant on the beautiful shores of the Choctawhatchee Bay. All races start at 4:30 p.m. The final race will be held July 21 at 4:30 p.m. Check out this video from the 30A Team at last year’s race: The 2015 men’s race: This year’s edition will feature team relay-style competition in three recreational divisions: men’s, women’s and coed along with the return of a division dedicated to Special Olympics Florida-Walton County and Special Olympics Florida-Okaloosa County athletes. The event also includes giveaways, live music, refreshments and kids’ activities. “Each year we are overwhelmed by the enthusiasm and participation of the local SUP community for the race series,” said Jeff Archer, founder of YOLO Board. “When the series began, we had no idea that it would still be a highlight of our season nine years later. Adding the Special Olympics athletes has been such a rewarding experience for all involved. “I love how this sport brings joy and empowerment to everyone who tries it!” For more information regarding sponsorship or team registration, please visit www.YOLORace.com, call 850.424.6852 or email info@YOLOBoard.com. Receive race updates by joining the Facebook event at www.facebook.com/events/ 945811502161318. Find more info and how to register here. Check out these awesome photos by Shane Sauer from last year’s races: Read More

30a, 4th of july, General, Independence Day, parade, South Walton July 2, 2016

Red, White and Lots of Blue: Celebrating 4th of July on 30A

NOTE: Scroll down for a complete schedule of Independence Day activities. By Jessie Taylor Here on Scenic Highway 30A, July Fourth is not only a national holiday, it’s a deep-rooted local tradition. From all-day beach parties on Grayton Beach to symphonies and fireworks shows, this is one of the busiest weekends on 30A. For my family, this is the assumed “schedule” that we go by each year: 1. Wake up at 5:30 a.m. to brave the fierce battle for the best spot on Grayton Beach. 2. After helping my dad set up, we go on a short run down each road in Grayton in advance of the parade to scope out the other decorated cars and see if we have any chance at being honored as the best float. (Unfortunately, this has never happened). 3. Arriving back from our run, we frantically wake up the lazy members of the Taylor family, explaining that we have exactly 30 minutes to make the best float in Grayton Beach. 4. Throwing on our best red, white and blue bathing suits, we grab duct tape and the box of Fourth of July decorations and get to work, while dad yells not to rip the paint off of the Jeep. (This happens every year). 5. The Grayton parade starts around 8:30 a.m., with plenty of candy-throwing and children waving from the sides of the road. 6. The parade ends around 9:15 a.m. at Grayton Coast Properties, my aunt, Kitty Taylor’s business. They serve watermelon and popsicles for everyone that shows. When all of the watermelon is gone, we all agree to go home, pack our coolers, and “meet ‘ya at the beach.” So after reading this, I’m sure you’re ready to weigh out your options and create your own 30A traditions for your family. In addition to Grayton Beach, there are plenty of events planned all over South Walton, and they’re included below. Happy Fourth! Learn more about the Grayton Beach parade from local Grant Blackwell of Coastal Insurance: Looking for more freedom-centric fun? Here’s the full-line up of local activities: ALYS BEACH 6 – 9 p.m. 4th of July Concert featuring the Atlanta Party Band 9 p.m. Fireworks GRAYTON BEACH 8:30 a.m. Old Fashioned 4th of July Parade Decorate your bikes, golf carts, cars, jeeps, boats, scooters, etc. and take part in the parade. Parade line up starts at 8 a.m. at Red Bar. Everyone is welcome! After, enjoy watermelon and lemonade at Grayton Coast Properties. Rosemary Beach 7:30 a.m. Bike Decoration Contest & Breakfast at North Barrett Square 8:30 a.m. Bike parade through the Town Center 9 a.m. Family field day on Western Green Sack races, water balloon toss, games, prizes and more! 6 p.m. The Like Totally Hep Cats on Western Green 6-9 p.m. 4th of July Picnic Dinner Party Join us poolside for an All-American full buffet, craft beer bar available for purchase. $45 per adult | $25 per child (12 and under) 8:45 p.m. Fireworks on the beach SEASIDE July 3: 7:30 p.m. Stars & Stripes Pop Concert featuring the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra July 4: 8 a.m. South Walton 4th of July Parade (from Seagrove to downtown Seaside). Make sure to register in advance to have a float in the parade. Please note that a portion of Scenic Highway 30A will be closed for a few hours to accommodate the parade. 7 p.m. The Victory Belles Concert 8:30 p.m. Fireworks Spectacular over the Gulf of Mexico WATERCOLOR INN & RESORT 7 – 10 p.m. Fourth of July Picnic on the Beach (behind WaterColor Inn). Enjoy live music, refreshments and fun. Advanced reservations or tickets required. Please call 850-534-5041 for more info. 9 – 10 p.m. Kick back and enjoy the Fireworks show over the Gulf of Mexico on WaterColor Beach VILLAGE OF BAYTOWNE WHARF 6 – 9 p.m. Red, White and Baytowne runs all day long with lawn games, inflatables, kids crafts and face painting at Baytowne Wharf. 7 p.m. Live Music by Soul Track Mind 9:15 p.m. Fireworks over the Choctawhatchee Bay! Also, check out our 30a.com/events calendar for plenty more fun events happening throughout the weekend! Did we miss something? Please let us know so we can add it to our official schedule. Read More

30a, 30A Today, Chinese lanterns, fireworks, fourth of july, General, holiday safety tips, New Years Eve, News, paper lanterns, safety, sky lanterns, South Walton, South Walton Fire District July 2, 2016

Fireworks: What’s Legal and What’s Not

Submitted by South Walton Fire District New Year’s Eve is right around the corner, a time many Americans observe the start of a new year by sending bottle rockets into the sky, exploding miniature bombs and unfortunately, breaking a state law. Most fireworks are illegal for consumer use in Florida, even if they’re available for purchase. That can make […] Read More

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