Fresh Ideas Company

Ray

"the Bare foot Tree hugger"

Ray has been kayaking since 1991, it was his response to Jody's question "I know that look, what are you dreaming about now?", that gave birth to Kayak Amelia. What started as a way to get more 'aquatic' by spending more time in and on the water, has evolved into a way of life. A 'tree hugger' since the term became popular, Ray has always been involved in environmental (especially coastal) issues. Whether commenting on the Barrier Island Bill in the early 70's or various initiatives by the National Park Service at Cape Hatteras, N.C. or as a member of the Littoral Society in NJ, he's always felt an affinity for the ocean and things aquatic. "In this age of the burgeoning Eco-Tourism boom in Florida it is vitally important that we protect the natural communities we choose to showcase."

To make that commitment real, he's served on the Visit Florida NE Region Eco/Heritage Tourism: Education, Ethics and Protection Committee, the PR committee of the Georgia Nature Based Tourism Assoc, The Ribault Clubhouse Preservation Task Force and works closely with the management of the Timucuan Preserve and the Talbot Islands State Parks to help with their efforts to provide safe, educational, environmentally sensitive access to these beautiful treasures. Ray is a certified Interpretive Guide from Nat'l Assoc of Interpretation and a Coastal & Uplands Florida Master Naturalist.

Check out the video of the Timucuan Explorers. This a program run by Timucuan Preserve for inner city kids to learn about kayaking and the environment. Ray helps out during the summer.

Jody

"Boss Lady"

"When I'm talking to customers, I think about that 'special vacation', the one that we saved for and planned and dreamed about for years, and then remember that each guest has done the same with their vacation. I try to treat each one of them like this is their special vacation."

A former Registered Nurse, she shares Ray's love of the outdoors and is enthusiastic about giving visitors a deeper appreciation of the critters that inhabit the marsh. She is past president and presently a board member of the Friends of Talbot Islands State Parks.

In her free time she runs the karate program at the YMCA. A fourth degree Black Belt in Shaolin Kempo karate, she has been studying karate and TaiChi for 18 years. As an instructor Jody finds that both she and her students are learning a lot more than punches and kicks. "You learn a lot about 'self' - self control, self defense and self confidence. All skills VITAL for life."

George

" Director of Fun "

George Morris has been involved in the outdoor industry since he was 12 when his parents bought an outdoor store. Since then he has taken NOLS and Outward Bound Courses, he has been certified by the American Canoe Association as Level II instructor, and has training as a Wilderness First Responder with Solo. He has taught backpacking, rock climbing, mountaineering, whitewater kayaking, rafting, and sea kayaking. His one rule on the water is, "everybody must have fun". He loves teaching the strokes, rescues, and roll classes. He is also the head chef for our monthly Groove 'n Grub events

Jules

 

Jules Ruppel is a friend of CJ's who got hooked on an SUP tour and never left. She now is an ACA certified Stand Up Paddleboard Instructor and also helps out at our new store - Y.B. Green's General Store.
"I started out as a customer at Kayak Amelia four years ago when I moved to this beautiful island. I never dreamed I would call this a job. I have the privilege of working with my friends, talking to strangers and rubbing Dillon's belly! (If you can call that work) I have been hooked on SUP since the day we unwrapped the boards and feel blessed to share it with our guests!"

Nick

 

A true native to Amelia Island Nick has competed in surfing competitions up and down the east coast for nine years. Other than being an outstanding and personable kayak guide he has been a personal trainer for a year and a half. Have no qualms about your safety on the water, he is also a certified life guard through the Red Cross.

CJ

"Brain"*

CJ Hetchka got his first kayak for his 8th birthday, now at 27 he's part of the KA staff. He graduated from the University of West Florida-Pensacola with a degree in Environmental Science and loves sharing his love of the salt marsh ecosystem. He recently passed his ACA Level II Kayak Instructor certification and Stand Up Paddleboard Instructor.

A High School essay he wrote explains best how he enjoys his job.

"You spot a cloud of mist spirt out from a silver head off your bow and watch the crimson sun set in the west shedding the illuminative light on the surrounding fluffy clouds. Observing a soaring osprey dive down to catch a fish, you think that you will never forget this moment. This is what I feel when I'm out on the water."

*Anyone over 50 can appreciate the value of having someone nearby who can remember things. When Jody asks 'Can you remind me to pick up more paper?' or 'What did I walk in this room to do?' CJ always remembers!

Dillon

"Official Greeter"

Our youngest and furriest employee, Dillon is our mascot, greeter and canine food disposal unit. A Bernese Mountain Dog (think Swiss Alps) he occupies a special place in our hearts and the hearts of our guests. He never gets tired of hearing "Oh, he's so pretty/big/handsome!" and loves the attention. When not helping with our guests, he loves to play with his favorite toy (palm fronds) and will practically do summersaults in pursuit of his prize. Make sure to say Hi! when you come to visit.