Rosemary Thymes, Fall 2023

Rosemary THYMES ™

SEIZE THE DAY ON 30A

Thrilling Outdoor Activities

RUN 30A: FALL RUNS

EAT, DRINK & BE ROSEMARY: ROSEMARY UNCORKED RETURNS IN NOVEMBER

a Rosemary Beach® tradition since 1999

78 Main St Rosemary Beach, FL order to-go (850) 213 - 0521

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Amenities Legend

A founding partner of The Premier Property Group, Keith Flippo is a consistent leader in sales of South Walton properties, ranking in the top 1% of the Emerald Coast Association of Realtors since 2009. Keith specializes in the marketing and sales of luxury properties along with developing new area projects via The Premier Development Group, founded in 2015. A resident of Rosemary Beach since 1999, Keith possesses an intimate knowledge of the communities along Scenic Highway 30A and is known for taking the time to “make the home match” with a customer’s individual needs and desires.

The Premier Real Estate Agent for South Walton & Scenic 30A

PUBLISHED BY THE ROSEMARY BEACH PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION

FRED KRUTZ PRESIDENT

MARK BUESE VICE PRESIDENT

LETTYE BURGTORF SECRETARY

TIM MARTIN TREASURER

BOB ELEY TIM SHADBURN DAVID WHEELER BOARD MEMBERS

LEE NETTLES TOWN MANAGER

BRET AZZARELLI TOWN ARCHITECT

ROSEMARY BEACH POA PO BOX 611010 ROSEMARY BEACH, FL 32461

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS MAGGIE JACKSON KELLY ODEN DESTINY HERBERT

THE ROSEMARY THYMES IS PRODUCED BY BALLINGER PUBLISHING MALCOLM BALLINGER OWNER

KELLY ODEN EXECUTIVE EDITOR

MORGAN COLE EDITOR

IAN LETT ART DIRECTOR

ALANA COX GRAPHIC DESIGNER/AD COORDINATOR FOR ADVERTISING RATES CALL 850.433.1166, EXT 27

ADVERTISEMENTS IN THIS PAPER DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN ENDORSEMENT BY THE POA BOARD.

ROSEMARY BEACH IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OWNED BY ROSEMARY BEACH HOLDINGS, LLC AND IS USED WITH PERMISSION PURSUANT TO A LICENSE FROM ROSEMARY BEACH HOLDINGS, LLC.

From the POA Welcome to Rosemary Beach! We are Glad You are Here.

As the temperatures subside and the heat index finally retreats into double digits, we welcome you to my favorite time to be at Rosemary Beach. The heavy crowds from tourist season are beginning to dwindle, our beautiful beach sunsets become sooner in the evening, and our oak trees around town have begun their conversion into a mélange of reds, yellows, and oranges.

Our community is our precious haven that we happily share with our family and friends. Our houses, pools, nature trails, and beaches, along with our stores, restaurants, and parks are here for a welcoming and relaxing escape from our daily stressful lives. Autumn is also the time of year where many of our owners come to town and can enjoy our Owners Weekend. In addition to our annual owners business meeting, there are also owner-exclusive events such as the Taste of Rosemary sponsored by the Rosemary Foundation and multiple gatherings and events hosted by our Rosemary Beach social committee. It is a time to look at where our community has come, and where it will be going in the future.

Rosemary Beach has a very dense history involving many wonderful people. The work of so many has contributed to where our community is today. Every tree, sidewalk, and structure has a story that goes back decades. From the design of parks and pool areas to the function of rainwater drainage, it is always important to remember the history of our town and the efforts that have gone into its growth.

It is also important to continue to grow and strive for a community. Complacency and stagnancy are killers of small towns. That is why we will continue to enhance this wonderful town we have the privilege to call home. Our POA leadership, our owners, and our staff all share the common goal of continuing to improve our town and making the investments of time and finances to continue our vision of being the best family beach community in the United States.

There are perpetual plans to improve the aesthetics and functionality of our town. You will soon see improvements happening as we work to improve our Town Center squares, and dining areas. We have committees of owners who are volunteering their time to explore new ways to improve our Owners Club, common areas, and other amenities, that will allow Rosemary Beach to continue to stand out among other beach communities everywhere.

Our town has come a long way since its infancy in 1995. Its list of owners, board directors, and town managers is one that is very long and dense. I am privileged to currently be part of this amazing team. I am also very proud to share this vision with many others who are committed to the continual improvement to this town. Whether you are a current or future Rosemary Beach owner, or a frequent or first-time visitor, we are all excited to share with you the gift of Rosemary Beach as its history continues on.

-Lee Nettles, Town Manager and the POA Board and Staff

Rosemary Beach Foundation

Rosemary Beach Foundation brings the community together in the spirit of giving.

Established in 2006, the Foundation hosts events, performances, tournaments, and exhibitions. Over the past 17 years, more than $1.2 million has been donated to local organizations and schools.

Annual 4th of July Bike Parade

At the annual 4th of July bike parade sponsored by The Merchants of Rosemary Beach, the Foundation distributed decorations and collected donations for the Boys and Girls Club of the Emerald Coast. The family-friendly event concluded with a block party where awards and medals were given.

Through this partnership, the South Walton Club received $3,000 to support their mission. Their “Great Futures Start Here” programs enable young people to reach their full potential as caring and productive citizens.

FROM THE EVENT:

ABOUT ROSEMARY BEACH FOUNDATION: Rosemary Beach Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, operates on program revenues, sponsorships, grants and contributions from individuals and businesses. Please consider becoming a Friend of Rosemary Beach Foundation, to learn more visit www.rosemarybeachfoundation.org.

Meet the Team

Jason Shoults - Maintenance Director, Rosemary Beach Property Owners Association

By Maggie Jackson

Learn more about Shoults and his team below:

Could you tell me about your role as Maintenance Director for Rosemary Beach?

As Maintenance Director, my role in Rosemary Beach is to oversee the day-to-day maintenance operations of our town along with the maintenance team. This includes making sure our four community pools and the Owners Pool are serviced daily, working with the town manager and assisting with specific projects as well as identifying and addressing any safety issues in town. Our team takes care of all the town lighting, signage, boardwalks and all other amenities our visitors use. We like to joke and say we can be a plumber, electrician, painter and pool guy all in the same day!

How long have you worked on the Rosemary Beach team? How has the community changed over the years?

I originally started working at Rosemary Beach back in 1999 with the original developer, Leucadia Corporation, where I was hired on as a “Pool Caddy.” When the POA was established in 2003, I moved over to our maintenance department. I left for about a year in 2006 and came back in 2007. I ultimately took the maintenance director position in 2010. The community has changed tremendously during my time here as you can imagine. I’ve had the privilege to watch the town grow to what it is today. When I first started, we only had two pools, Coquina and Cabana, and there were no gates on the walkovers. The north side of 30A did not have many homes built. I would say the biggest change since I first started would be the landscape, mainly the oak trees.

What is your favorite part of working at Rosemary Beach?

My favorite part of working at Rosemary Beach is doing it with a team of guys who have been with us for a long time. Nick started with us back in 2007, Keith in 2011, David 2013 and we just added Les earlier this year. Working with these guys on a day-to-day basis makes working in Rosemary Beach a joy. Between the five of us, we have a ton of knowledge about the ins and outs of our job and that makes work a little easier.

What do you like to do in your free time?

In my free time I like to play golf, go to the beach, cook and spend time with my wife, kids and family. During the fall, I love to watch college football, especially my Auburn Tigers. War Eagle!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

My wife and I were married on the Western Green here in Rosemary Beach back in May of 2003. Rosemary Beach is not just where I work, it also holds a special place in my heart and always will. I hope to work here for as long as they will have me!

In this Rosemary Beach Staff Profile, we learn about Maintenance Director Jason Shoults. Shoults began working in Rosemary Beach in 1999 and has since held a variety of roles within the community.

Another successful season has concluded for the Rosemary Beach Racquet Club Ladies ‘6 Pack Summer League.’ No one quite knows exactly where the name “6 Pack” derived from, but it was adopted 3 years ago when the league was started under the leadership of Leigh Leuze and Suzanne Harman. For 10 weeks, a group of 12 ladies show up each Tuesday evening to play an hour and a half of tennis in themed attire.

The final match of this season concluded with a celebration, complete with funny prizes and awards given to the top 4 finishers.

The 2023 winner, Thao Nguyen, received the coveted ‘Cody Award’ aptly named after the puppy of the Director of the Racquet Club, Tomasue Weber. The trophy is on display in Pro Shop for all to see.

Around Town now serving

10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Crab Cake Benny

Omelette du Jour

Deviled Eggs

Sweet Potato Pancakes

...and so much more

Emoji Group

Barbie Group

History of South Walton

Courtesy of Walton County Tourism Development

South Walton’s stunning beaches were created by the weathering of the Appalachian Mountains over millions of years. Particles of quartz from this mountain range were washed into riverbeds and eventually transported by these rivers to the Gulf of Mexico. The ebb and flow of the water over this long distance broke down these particles and buffed their edges, making the sand as fine as sugar when it finally rested along the Florida Panhandle. There are no large sediment-heavy rivers directly influencing the water in South Walton and so the reflection of the sun on the white sandy bottom of the Gulf of Mexico creates the water’s brilliant turquoise hue.

A variety of cultural influences can be seen in the area. South Walton has been touched by the traditions and influence of early Native American, Spanish, French, and English cultures. Each of Walton County’s four municipalities, DeFuniak Springs, Paxton, Freeport and Santa Rosa Beach continue to reflect these cultures today.

NATIVE AMERICAN INFLUENCE

In the 1700s and 1800s, Native American tribes including the Muscogee, Creek and Euchee Indians lived in and around Walton County. Today, the Muscogee Nation of Florida is 1,100 members strong. For generations, the Muscogee people have strived to preserve their language, culture, songs, stories and way of life. Today, the Muscogee Nation of Walton County, located at 278 Church Road in the town of Bruce, seeks to share its heritage with residents and visitors alike. The historic schoolhouse is filled with crafts and work of the tribe’s elders.

DEFUNIAK SPRINGS

Located in northern Walton County, DeFuniak Springs was founded Located in northern Walton County, DeFuniak Springs was founded in 1880 and is the county seat. At the heart of this historic town is one of two naturally round spring-fed lakes in the world (the other is located near Zurich, Switzerland). DeFuniak Springs started out as a railroad town, serving as a stop on the route of the Louisville & Nashville Railroad. In February 1885, the Chautauqua Assembly, a cultural celebration originally held at a campsite on the shores of Chautauqua Lake in New York, held its first winter celebration in DeFuniak Springs. This annual assembly, which brought in speakers, teachers, musicians, entertainers, preachers and specialists of the day, transformed DeFuniak Springs into one of the cultural centers of the southeast until the late 1920s.

Today, efforts are underway to continue the cultural activities of the town. The community continues the tradition of holding the Chautauqua Assembly each February. DeFuniak Springs is also focused on preservation and a walk through the historic district around the lake is like a journey back in time. Historic buildings await exploration and a canopy of towering mossy oaks shade the roadways. A stroll down the quiet streets allows visitors to admire ornate, Victorian-style homes, representative of time when labor and materials were plentiful and elaborate architectural details were featured in nearly every home.

The Walton-DeFuniak Library was established in 1886 and is the oldest library in the state still serving the public (the library in St. Augustine is only library that is older). Also located in the historic district is the Depot Station, which today houses the Walton County Heritage Association and Museum, filled with relics from Walton County’s past. Down the street, the Historic Chautauqua Building (aka Hall of Brotherhood) was established in 1909 and served as an enclosed amphitheater. The building was severely damaged during

a Hurricane Eloise in 1975; however, several portions of the building have been restored. The building continues to serve as a focal point of the community, and is used for a wide variety of activities.

PAXTON

Located near the north edge of the county, Paxton became home to the area’s first sawmill in 1903. As the commerce around the mill increased, the community grew. Today, Paxton continues to flourish and grow from its early farming roots and is also the site of the highest point in Florida at 345 feet above sea level. Known as Britton Hill in the Lakewood County Park, the unique Florida plateau is photographed by hundreds of visitors each year.

FREEPORT

With the introduction of sawmills, logging, and turpentine processing, other areas in Walton County began to grow and prosper. The town of Freeport benefited greatly from these industries and soon became a renowned shipbuilding center along the gulf coast. The town’s name is derived from its early roots as a shipping port that was free from any type of imported goods tax. Due to this, the ships would deliver or pick up goods tax-free, making it a popular and successful port in Walton County.

SANTA ROSA BEACH

In the late 1800s, towns were beginning to form south of the Choctawhatchee Bay. By the early 1900s, Hogtown Bayou in Santa Rosa Beach was a bustling town center. Steamboats bringing in residents from Mobile and Pensacola helped to quickly grow the area’s population to nearly 1,200 people. Unfortunately, a crop disaster followed by a hurricane spelled doom for the town. The town eventually took on a lawless “Wild West” vibe and many residents boarded steamboats and left en masse. The town’s hotels, churches, stores, cafés, and cottages took on the feeling of a true ghost town. The few remaining locals eventually dismantled the town for lumber.

Today, Cessna Landing (named for the town founder) is a public park and quiet place with picnic areas and a fishing dock.

POINT WASHINGTON

The historic community of Point Washington lies on the Choctawhatchee Bay and includes several bayous. A busy sawmill was the center of activity around the turn of the century, shipping lumber around the world. Today, the historic Wesley Mansion, located in Eden State Gardens, is one of the few historic treasures that still exist in South Walton.

made the day-long trip from DeFuniak Springs to Grayton Beach and ended up staying. W. H. Butler decided to start a resort project and bought most of what is now Grayton Beach. The Butler family built and rented cottages, sold an occasional lot and operated the town’s general store and a dance hall (site of the present-day Red Bar).

Access to Grayton Beach became easier with the construction of Highway 98 and the Highway 331 bridge in the 1930s, and Grayton began booming. In the 1940s, the addition of electricity and the beginning of World War II brought more people to the town. In 1942, the U. S. Coast Guard established a 40-man station here, and the federal government rented many of the homes for barracks and offices. The only building still standing in Grayton Beach that is thought to date back to the beginning of the town is a two-story home, known as the Wash-A-Way, at the end of County Road 283. In the Wash-A-Way, you can find the name of one guardsman written in ink on the wall of a closet he used as a darkroom.

The community and the state have helped keep Grayton Beach small by virtually surrounding the community with park land. In 1967, the state used its land east of the town to create Grayton Beach State Recreation Area. In 1985, after years of lobbying by residents, Florida bought the village’s beachfront and the dunes and forest land to the west and north.

GRAYTON BEACH

Along the beach, there was also activity. In 1885, Army Major, Charles T. Gray built a homestead along the coast. At the time, the federal government owned much of the land and few people had reason to settle there. The soil was too sandy to farm and there were better timberlands inland. The closest settlement was at Point Washington to the north. Five years later, Army General William Miller and William Wilson moved their families there and mapped out where the village’s streets and blocks would be built. Named after Major Gray, Grayton Beach celebrated its 110 year anniversary in 2000.

Reaching Grayton Beach at that time was not easy. There were no bridges over the Choctawhatchee Bay, and what roads existed were merely sand trails. In 1913, W. H. Butler and his son, Van R. Butler,

Run 30A: Fall Runs

By Destiny Herbert

Whether you’re an exercise buff, an outdoors enthusiast, or just looking to test your limits, 30A holds several different runs, races and marathons throughout the year. Fun for all ages, stimulating, rewarding and beneficial for the community, you’re sure to find a run to fit your desired activity level.

Patriot’s Run

Santa Rosa Beach, September 9

patriotsrunsrb.itsyourrace.com

Taking place at the scenic Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, the 2023 Patriot’s Run, which is entering its third year, will host a variety of runs of different lengths and age brackets. Participants can choose to participate in a 5k (that also welcomes walkers), a 10k, or a half marathon, and all races will begin bright and early at 6:30 am. All runners who cross the finish line within 3 hours will receive a completion medal, and ranked medals will be given to runners-up and those who place first, second, or third. With terrains ranging from smooth, paved roads to sandy shorelines, each race has a little bit of something for everyone. Online registration ends September 8, so if you’re interested in attending, visit the race’s official website to get started and for more information.

Run for the Rosemar y

Rosemary Beach, October 7

runsignup.com

The Run for the Rosemary 5k and Fun Run invites Rosemary residents and visitors to appreciate the beauty of the town’s architecture and coastal scenery with its meticulously curated running route. Run for the Rosemary is also partnered with Food for Thought, an organization that provides meals for K-12 students struggling with food insecurity. Join the Rosemary Runners on October 7 and enjoy the crisp, early morning autumn air, spectacular views, and the fulfillment of giving back to the community. Early bird registration ends September 13.

9th Annual CMSAF Binnicker Memorial Run

Shalimar, October 7

runsignup.com

Established in memory of James C. Binniker, former Chief Master Seargent of the United States Air Force, this run also honors other service members by sharing its proceeds with the Hawthorne House, an assisted living facility that provides care for veterans and their family members with memory-related illnesses such as dementia and Alzheimer’s. In reference to Binniker being the 9th Chief Master Sergeant of the force, the run features a 9k run in addition to a 5k and a 1-mile Fun Run. Early registration for each race is currently available on the event’s website and ends October 2.

Haunted 5k & 10k

Panama City, October 14

runsignup.com

For those with a strong competitive streak, PC’s Haunted “Medal Madness” 5k and 10k is offering Halloween-themed medals to the top 3 male and female participants of each race in celebration of the spooky season. Join fellow participants at 8 am at the Callaway Recreational Complex if you’re eager to take a shot at the gold or just want to get your steps in. A map of the course is available on the event’s website if you want to get a virtual feel for the terrain, along with additional rules and racing information. Registration is onlineonly and is open until the day of.

30A Thanksgiving 10k

Rosemary Beach, November 23

30a10k.com

Burn off some room for Thanksgiving dinner at the twelfth annual 30A Thanksgiving 10k. Over its 12 year history, the 30A marathon has raised $850,000 for local charities, including nonprofits such as the Walton Education Foundation, Neurodiversity Resource of the Panhandle, It Takes the Town, and Caring & Sharing of South Walton. Alongside the 10k, a Fun Run and a 5k will also be held, taking place at 7:30 am, 7:35 am and 9:30 am respectively, the starting line beginning at 78 N Barrett Square. Early registration is currently open at a discounted price, so start prepping for the holiday run while you can.

Daybreak 76 Panama City Beach Marathon

Panama City Beach, December 2

pcbmarathon.com

Incorporating a half marathon, a kid’s fun run, a wheelchair marathon and a 5k, the PCB Marathon invites everyone, young and old, sprinters and speedwalkers, to take part in its many races and enjoy the splendor of the sand and surf. Races begin and end at Margaritaville on Pier Park Drive, where the award ceremony will also be held once races conclude. Registration for each race is currently open on Daybreak 76’s website along with prices (that are subject to change), packet pickup locations and more. Proceeds from the event will also go towards the Haney Technical Center, a technical college that equips its students with skills to excel in the workplace.

Eat, Drink & Be Rosemary

Rosemary Uncorked Returns in November

By Maggie Jackson

Set in an idyllic beach locale complete with picturesque cobblestone streets and exquisite wines ready for the pour, Rosemary Beach Uncorked™ will celebrate its 12th anniversary with this year’s event set to take place Saturday, November 4 from 1 to 4 pm.

Attendees will have the opportunity to savor culinary delights, an abundant selection of wine varieties by the bottle waiting to be uncorked and the added charm of live musical performances.

Nikki Nickerson, who helped launch the first Rosemary Uncorked event in 2010 and continues to chair the event, said that the event was initially created for Rosemary

Beach homeowners that celebrated both the town and the town’s restaurants.

“All of us took a hit with our businesses in 2010 with the Gulf Oil Spill, so we wanted and needed something to celebrate that was both meaningful and fun,” Nickerson explained. “We wanted guests to have an elevated wine and food experience with substantial wine pours that paired with the food.”

Starting with around 500 guests in attendance each year, Rosemary Uncorked now attracts more than 1,000 attendees. The number of participating restaurants and retailers has also increased significantly, providing guests with an expanded, yet still exclusive, experience.

Sticking to the event’s roots, each restaurant participating in Rosemary Uncorked has the opportunity to showcase their favorite wines and culinary dishes designed specifically for the event. Elaine Ashman, who serves as the Town Center Director for the Rosemary Beach Merchants Association, said that this year’s event attendees can expect an even more diverse array of culinary options in Rosemary Beach.

“We are excited to have the largest number of participating restaurants and Sip Spots for this year’s event,” Ashman said. “For those that are new to Uncorked, each restaurant prepares three of their signature dishes that are then paired with accompanying wines, as well as a walking pour while you are waiting to taste the foods. We also have wines at designated Sip Spots which are made up of many of our unique retailers throughout the town.”

This year’s participating restaurants are Amavida Coffee, Gallion’s, Restaurant Paradis, CK’s Feed & Supply, Cowgirl Kitchen, La Crema, Edward’s, Havana Beach, Summer Kitchen Café, Pescado and The Courtyard at Pescado.

Retailers throughout town will be showcasing their love for wine and

community by serving as Sip Spots for the event. These retailers include The Hidden Lantern, Rosemary Beach Realty, Kilwin’s, Disco, Luminary, Pish Posh Patchouli’s, OKO, Faherty, Tidwell & Son, Huck & Harlowe, Playa Bowls, Curate and Willow.

According to Ashman, Rosemary Uncorked is the largest charitable endeavor the Rosemary Beach Merchants Association participates in, which is something that has always been at the heart of the event.

Rosemary Uncorked’s charitable component has donated more than $300,000 to local charities since the event was first held 11 years ago. This year, Habitat for Humanity of Walton County and the Ascension Sacred Heart Foundation will serve as the event’s charitable beneficiaries.

The mission of Habitat for Humanity is to bring people together to build homes, communities and hope. The Ascension Sacred Heart Foundation serves as the fundraising arm for the Ascension Sacred Heart health system and seeks contributions and volunteer participation to support the work of Ascension Sacred Heart hospitals throughout our region.

3OA Cookies & Cream

In addition to enjoying an evening of fine wine and culinary creations, event attendees will also have the opportunity to enjoy live music on the Western Green.

“One of our most popular bands, Lucky Town, will once again grace the tent at Western Green with great tunes that had everyone dancing last year,” Ashman said.

Early event check-in will be held in South Barrett Square from 10 am to 1 pm. General admission tickets are $175 each and include access to the Saturday festival with eleven artisanal food and wine tasting stations, live entertainment, a complimentary swag bag and an etched Rosemary Beach Uncorked™ wine glass. Tickets go on sale exclusively to Rosemary Beach property owners and typically sell out. Should any additional tickets become available to the public, those are sold on a first-come, firstserved basis using the time-stamped waitlist, which can be found on the event website at rosemarybeachuncorked.com.

Tickets for this year’s event are sold out, however there is a waitlist. For complete event details or to join the waitlist, visit rosemarybeachuncorked.com.

Located at Publix plaza at Watercolor Crossing and 30Avenue at Inlet Beach

to

Seize the Day on 30A

Thrilling Outdoor Activities

by Destiny Herbert

While a calm day lounging in the sand and floating in the serene Gulf of Mexico is always a treat, sometimes a person just needs a heart-pumping adventure for a change of pace. If you’re in the market for this type of adventure, then consider reinvigorating your leisure time with these adrenaline-fueled activities. All available in the 30A area, these riveting pastimes are sure to get your blood pumping.

SKYDIVING

Is life starting to feel like a drag? Do you feel like you’re in need of a change, something new and exciting or a new perspective? A huge rush with a spectacular view, skydiving over the lush greens, blues and whites of Seaside makes for an experience that will provide you with just the excitement you’re itching for. Soar from heights of up to nearly 15,000 feet in the air and at speeds of more than 100 miles per hour for a wild ride and a cushy beachside landing that you will never forget. There is much more to skydiving than just jumping out of a plane and pulling a parachute cord. There are many different kinds of skydiving, depending on the particular kind of thrill you are looking for: freefalling, speed skydiving, B.A.S.E. jumping and more. 30A locations, however, primarily offer tandem skydiving rides, with a licensed diver jumping alongside you to ensure your safety. These locations also offer courses to become a certified skydiver if the rush leaves you hooked and wanting more. If an aerial adventure interests you, check out Skydive Panama City or Skydive the Gulf, who both offer five-star service to the aspiring adrenaline junky.

GO-KARTING

Fun in 30A doesn’t have to be all salty water and sand dunes; it can be rubber, exhaust fumes and asphalt, too. Go-karting is a great way to come to know the thrill that professional Formula 1 drivers get to feel when they’re on the track, but on a smaller and much safer scale. Go-karting is also a true, high-octane level activity and can also serve as a good workout because of the strength and stamina required to drive at such high speeds in such a heavy, compact vehicle. Kartona Electric Speedway is one of Northwest Florida’s first indoor racetracks, and Hidden Lagoon Super Racetrack and Golf prides itself on being the longest track on the Emerald Coast. Take a peek at either of these Panama City Beach locations if you or your family are looking to get behind the wheel.

HELICOPTER TOURS

Enjoy an aerial view of the Emerald Coast and a quick fix of adrenaline with a helicopter tour around the area. At stomachturning speeds of up to 150 miles per hour and heights that provide a panoramic perspective of the landscape, you can truly take in the entirety of the beautiful, crystalline waters, ivory shores and architecture with an FAA licensed pilot carefully plotting and navigating your journey. There are a variety of tours that you can take around 30A. Timberview Destin Helicopters offers a Seaside tour where you can get a firsthand look at the scenic backdrop of the Truman Show, as well as a Fireworks tour that gives its clients a front-row seat to the Destin Harbor’s firework show, among many more. Panhandle Helicopters in Panama City also offers tours that span up to nearly 40 miles in length, and there’s a very high chance of seeing dolphins and other aquatic life on their Miracle Strip tour that flies over the stretch of Panama City Beach. Both of these touring services are great to consider if high speeds, tall expanses and gorgeous scenery excites you.

AIRBOAT TOURS

How does a roller-coaster ride on the water sound? Scary? Exhilarating? If you thought both, you’d be correct. During an airboat tour, you can surge across the South Walton Everglades with the wind and water at your back, flying by alligators, bald eagles, turtles and other native fauna and wildlife in the process. Airboats can travel up to 50 miles per hour—as fast as the average car—but on slick, watery terrain, 50 miles an hour can easily feel like you’re speeding down the Talladega Superspeedway. 30A Airboat Adventures offers tours down the Choctawhatchee River, led by Captain Daniel, who will assure that you never miss any interesting sights and that thrill ride never lulls, and Second Wind Airboat Tours explores Black Creek along with other Northwest Florida waters.

KITESURFING

Kitesurfing allows you to get the best of both worlds. With your feet secured to a board, your upper half strapped into a kite harness and a handlebar for steering, you can become a master of both the sea and the skies and coast along the air and the ocean waves. There are also different boards that are made to be used to suit the different types of kitesurfing. For example, if you’re looking to try your hand at a few tricks, ride around and enjoy the scenery, a freeride or freestyle board is the best to use. There’s even a type of board that is described as feeling like riding a magic carpet. Though they’re a small distance outside of the 30A area, XL Kites and Florida Kiteboarding, both located in Fort Walton Beach, have a wide array of boards and other equipment along with instructional courses on the varying types of kitesurfing if you’re thinking about getting yourself out on the water.

SPEARFISHING

Channel your inner deep-sea predator and hunter-gatherer by delving into the world of spearfishing. Spearfishing was once practiced by our ancestors, their only tools being a long, sharpened stick, strength, stamina and their wit. Now, spearfishing is a fun underwater activity with just the right amount of risk, now that deeper depths are capable of being reached and a greater reward, now that more exciting species are able to be hunted with the plethora of tools now available. If you’re feeling brave, an offshore spearfishing session with Destin Spearfishing Adventures and 30A Freediving allows their hunters to free dive for their catches, as well as marvel at the unique aquatic life not usually seen in shallow waters. However, if you just want to test the waters before you take the big dive, Destin Spearfishing also has an inshore diving option with depths that are a little less daunting. There are multiple guided charters available throughout the 30A area to choose from.

High Octane Outfitters & Vendors:

Skydive Panama City

1983 Tri County Airport Rd., Bonifay, FL (850) 899-2707

xtremeskydivers.com

Skydive the Gulf

28502 Frank Rd., Alberta, AL (850) 543-8756 skydivethegulf.com

Kartona Electric Speedway

7125 US-98, Panama City Beach, FL (850) 588-7622 kartonapcb.com

Hidden Lagoon Super Racetrack and Golf

14414 Front Beach Rd., Panama City Beach, FL (850) 234-9289

hiddenlagoongolfandracetrack.com

Timberview Destin Helicopters

34859 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL (850) 774-0991 destinhelicopters.com

Panhandle Helicopters

17711 Beach Park Trail, Panama City Beach, FL (850) 230-2080 panhandlehelicopter.com

Second Wind Airboat Tours

214 Stillwater Rd., Freeport, FL (850) 259-2900 airboattoursfl.com

Destin Spearfishing Adventures Harbor Walk, Destin, FL (850) 324-7422

destinspearfishing.com

30A Freediving Grayton Beach, FL

Facebook.com/30afreediv

XL Kites Kitesurfing

42 Miracle Strip Pkwy., Fort Walton Beach, FL (850) 243-5483

xlkites.com

Florida Kiteboarding

24 Hollywood Blvd NW SW, Fort Walton Beach, FL (850) 362-9626

flkiteboarding.com

Calendar of Events

FAITH

Chapel at the Beach

SUNDAYS, 8:30 to 10 AM, Town Hall

Chapel at the Beach is holding worship services in Town Hall at 9:00 AM every Sunday. For more information, please visit their website at chapelatthebeach.org.

Apostles by the Sea

SUNDAYS, 10:30 AM, 6925 U.S. Hwy 98, Santa Rosa Beach

Apostles By-The-Sea Anglican Church is holding Sunday services at 10:30 AM at their new location at 6925 U.S. Hwy 98 in Santa Rosa Beach. For more information, please visit their website at apostlesbythesea.com.

MERCHANT EVENTS

Monstrous Halloween Celebration

Saturday, October 28, 2 PM to 5 PM

East Long Green

Bring the little ghosts and goblins for trick-ortreating throughout the town center businesses. We will also have pumpkin carving, pumpkin painting, games, face painting, a haunted graveyard and costume contest!

12th Annual Rosemary Beach Uncorked - SOLD OUT!

Saturday, November 4 from 1 PM to 4 PM Southside, Main Street & Western Green

Tree Lighting Ceremony

Friday, November 24 6 PM South Barrett Square

Don’t miss the excitement as we “turn on the town!” Enjoy musical performances by the Charles Dickens Carolers; see Santa’s big arrival and the lighting of the tree. Then enjoy a carriage ride throughout the festive town.

Merchant Holiday Open House

Friday, November 24, after the tree lighting

Visit the Town Center Merchants after the tree lighting for a very special evening of holiday shopping and refreshments!

Breakfast with Santa

Saturday, November 25, 8AM to 10 AM Town Hall

Bring the kids to Santa’s Workshop for a magical morning filled with delight! Included are a boxed breakfast, a professional color photo with Santa and a special goodie bag from Gigi’s! Tickets are $20 and available at the door. 100% of admission proceeds will go to the SWFD Angel Tree Program.

FOUNDATION EVENTS

Boos, Brews & Bingo

Thursday, October 26

Town Hall

A SPOOKtacular evening of old-fashioned bingo. Costumes encouraged and awarded. Benefits Caring and Sharing of South Walton. www.rbbingo.com

5th Annual Holiday Tour of Homes

Saturday, December 9

A self-guided tour of Rosemary Beach homes dressed up for the holidays! In partnership with Rosemary Beach Realty and Rosemary Beach Cottage Rental Company, this most festive event of the season benefits Habitat for Humanity of Walton County and Shelter House of Northwest Florida. www.rbhometour.com

19th Annual Girls Getaway

Thursday, February 8 – Sunday, February 11, 2024

Held during Super Bowl Weekend, this 4-day celebration includes a welcome bonfire, workshops, Saturday evening dinner dance party, Sunday brunch and more!! Benefits Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast Hospital, Watersound Women’s Diagnostic Center. www.rbfgirlsgetaway.com

WHAT'S HANGING?

BY LISA SENZEL AND JEFF CHEN / EDITED BY WILL SHORTZ

Lisa Senzel is a pathologist at Stony Brook Medicine on Long Island. She has been solving the New York Times crossword in print since 1994. Jeff Chen is a writer in Seattle. The idea for this puzzle was Lisa’s. Jeff wrote a program to generate possible theme answers, then designed the grid and guided Lisa through the fill. ‘‘Generous, funny, great people’’ is how Lisa describes Jeff and the other crossword mentors she has had.

— W. S.

(Bob Marley album)

88 Who said, ‘‘I know nothing except the fact of my ignorance’’

91 People who see things as they are

92 Grp. that might organize a walkathon

94 Comedian Margaret

96 Nebraska senator Fischer

98 Part of STEM: Abbr.

100 ‘‘Swan Lake’’ heroine

102 Parenting author Eda or meditation author Lawrence

106 Bounds

107 Word with bird or retirement

108 Place to give someone a ring

109 Big Apple?

110 You might lose a loose one

113 One eye in a winking emoticon

116 Hitch on Twitch, say

117 Orange-colored fruit pastry

118 Bedridden, say

119 —

121 Sailors’ songs

122 One more than bi-

123 —

by CHRISTIA PALIZZI

Lauren is 6 ¾ years old…she will turn 7 in September. She is starting first grade soon and she is so excited to learn new things. Her big sister, Carlin is 14 and so excited to be a lead singer in her school’s eighth grade concert band. She is excited to get to perform at all of the school events.

Jane (10) from Dallas was able to see Taylor Swift in Dallas. She loved the concert and seeing her. She went along with her four siblings. Her favorite era is Speak Now. She got to visit her cousins at the beach and go to Universal and experience Harry Potter World. She says she’s a proud Ravenclaw. She also got to see Harry Styles on her birthday. He waved at her and sang Happy Birthday which was so special.

Stella (8) from Alabama went to a lot of camps this summer. Her favorite one was the one at her school. Piper (6) saw dolphins in the water from the beach. She spent the whole 4th of July on the beach and it was so fun.

Gray (8) has been asking daily for a puppy for basically her entire life. Her sweet little brother, Crew (5) started asking

for one too so that Gray would stop asking. Her dreams came true this summer when Basil June joined their pack. She is a cavapoo and weighs about five pounds. They are both so in love with their new pack member.

Kirie (11) from Tennessee was able to spend her summer at the beach! While here she was able to do lots of yoga, perform in ECTC’s middle school production of Puffs, and spend her birthday at Hogwarts, just like Harry. She is a proud Hufflepuff.

Mallory (15) got her learner’s permit! She’s been practicing driving and is getting more and more comfortable on the road.

Ms. Rita had her annual Camp Rita with her sweet nieces from Georgia. They played at the beach, in the pool, ate sushi and saw a movie. She also had her nephews come a separate week and chartered a boat that took them fishing in the bay!

Amelia participated in a white marlin catch and release competition and won 3rd place! She’s very at home on a fishing boat as her dad is the captain of One Shot Charters. With a catch and release

tournament you get points for each fish you catch. Her sister, Stella also caught a whopper on this trip. She caught a 77 lb fish! Insane!

Daisy (12) spent a month at camp doing various activities and making new friends.She was very excited to come home and spend more time with her friends before school starts.

Owen (12) saw the Barbie movie 4 times this summer and would see it more times if his mom would drive him. He’s also very excited to try out for ECTC’s Mean Girls the musical. He also tried out for his school band and will be a singer.

Izzy (15) checked something amazing off of her summer bucket list! She is now a certified scuba diver! She’s also excited to continue swimming in high school!

Gabriel (15) also got his learner’s permit. He hasn’t spent too much time behind the wheel but will get more experience before his birthday.

Edie Lu (6) got to see Taylor Swift in Cincinnati. It was a Christmas gift and seriously the best time. She sang along to

*every* word and loved every second of the show. The Schnaeder kids spent the entire month of July in the mountains of North Carolina. They hiked a lot, and lived on a real working farm. Charlie got to collect eggs every morning and Carter got to work at a North Carolina Publix. Coen enjoyed hiking and hanging out with his family.

Nash (11) went to his first pole vault camp at Ryland Pole Vault. While there he managed to jump high enough to qualify for State. He is super excited to do track and field this summer as a middle schooler.

London (3) had a very happy birthday and spent it at the happiest place on earth. She was able to dine with her favorite princess, Elsa. And now onto the lost teeth…

Lauren is 6 ¾ years old…she will turn 7 in September. She lost a tooth at dinner while eating pasta, and she was so surprised! She is

starting first grade soon and she is so excited to learn new things.

Hudson (6) from Tennessee pulled his tooth out so that he could get a shark tooth necklace to replace it.

Piper (6) from Texas lost her first tooth on her beach trip. She was eating a popsicle and it just fell out. The tooth fairy came. She is spending her tooth fairy money on some markers and a South Walton Sea Turtle, Theo. Emilia (10) had a tooth that wasn’t too wiggly but she accidentally bit down on her finger instead of her cheese stick and it made her tooth a bit wiggly. Then she kept wiggling it and eventually it just fell out.

Huckleberry lost a tooth just before publication. He just wiggled it out. He’s excited for the tooth fairy to visit.

News the way kids like to tell it... all good, mostly true and, of course, totally earth shattering.

Amelia 3rd Place Catch and Release

Edie Lu Eras Tour

Lauren & The Lost Tooth

Kirie at Hogwarts

Stella & The Whopper

Activity Page

1. FIRE 2. RAIN 3 .LEAF 4 . MUSHROOM 5 . UMBRELLA

6. HARVEST 7 . ACORN 8. CONE 9 . PUMPKIN 10. BERRY

F O O D & D R I N K

1 Amavida Coffee & Tea

850.231.1077 | amavida.com

2 Charlie’s Café

850.588.3050 | charliescaferosemary.square.site

3 CK’s Feed & Supply

850.588.0908 | cowgirlkitchen.com/feed

4 Cork & Barrel

850.399.4919 | 30acorkandbarrel.com

5 Cowgirl Kitchen

850.213.0058 | cowgirlkitchen.com

6 Edward’s Fine Food & Wine

850.231.0550 | edwards30a.com

7 Havana Beach Bar & Grill

850.588.2882 | thepearlrb.com

8 Havana Beach Rooftop Lounge

850.588.2882 | thepearlrb.com

9 Kilwin’s

850.399.4000 / kilwins.com/rosemarybeach

10 La Crema Tapas & Chocolate

850.534.3004 | lacrematapas.com

11 Pescado Seafood Grill & Rooftop Bar

850.213.4600 | rooftop30a.com

12 Playa Bowls playabowls.com

13 Restaurant Paradis

850.534.0400 | restaurantparadis.com

3rd

F A S H I O N

B E A UTY, H O M E & G I F T S

Curate 850.231.1808 | curate30a.com

Huck & Harlowe

850.848.9808 |

LOD G I N G

S E R V I C E S

USEF U L

ROSEMARY BEACH is a registered trademark owned by Rosemary Beach Holdings, LLC and is used with permission pursuant to a license from Rosemary Beach Holdings, LLC.