Theo of South Walton, a lovable plush turtle has officially arrived in South Walton. Theo arrived by UPS air and is now for sale at the Pecan Jacks Candy and Ice Cream Shop in Gulf Place and the Children’s Store in Seaside. Pecan Jack’s is offering a free scoop of homeade Ice Cream with the purchase of Theo, the profits from the sale benefitting the Friends of South Walton Sea Turtles (FOSWST) a registered 501-c3 non profit. In addition, owners Tim and Veronica Wyatt have jumped into the Theo spirit by creating a unique “Theo of South Walton” flavor, which will be available all summer long!

FOSWST is dedicated to educating the public- visitors and locals alike, about sea turtle vulnerability and has initiated a #CleanDarkFlat campaign to remind people of the dangers of leaving trash on the beach, unfilled holes, and bright lights that can frighten Sea Turtles coming to nest on South Walton’s Beaches. May 1st through October 31st is nesting season and FOSWST deploys up to 150 Volunteer Beach Ambassadors throughout the 26 miles of SoWal Beaches, educating beachgoers about keeping our beaches Clean, Dark and Flat. In the near future, Theo will be featured on 30A TV in a six-part series called “The Adventures of Theo,” featuring the works of FOSWST teaching children about sea turtle vulnerability, marine ecosystems and conservation, and efforts like the “plastic to paper” campaign begun in South Walton. “The amount of trash – especially plastic – that makes its way into the Gulf and is then ingested by our sea turtles is staggering,” says FOSWST board member Laurie Reichenbach. “We hope, through our educational efforts, “Theo” will be a fun way to remind eveyone about our mission. Consider Theo the “Conscience of South Walton,” she says. Keep your eyes open as Theo makles his way across South Walton’s beaches this summer.

For more information visit www.wherestheo.com or on Facebook for more information.