🌱 Human Remains Identified + HHI Middle School $1.25M In Damage

Hey, friends. It's Saturday in Hilton Head and I'm back in your inbox to get you caught up on all the most important things happening in town.

But first, your local weather:

• Saturday: Partly sunny and humid. High: 95 Low: 79.
• Sunday: Humid with clouds and sun. High: 93 Low: 80.

Here are the top three stories today in Hilton Head:

1. The human remains discovered in a burnt car in Beaufort County over the weekend have been identified as Clifford Jenkins, 49, who went missing on Jul. 17. The Beaufort County Sheriff's Office (BCSO) has confirmed the identification and declared the case a homicide. Authorities are urging anyone with information about Jenkins' death to contact BCSO Sgt. J. Snider or Cpl. L. Harris, or provide anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers of the Lowcountry for a potential reward. (WJCL News Savannah)
2. Last month, Hilton Head Island Middle School experienced severe vandalism, incurring over a million dollars in damages for repairs. The Beaufort County School District reported that a group defaced the school multiple times by spray-painting classrooms, bathrooms, and hallways, and even throwing a liquid substance in the auditorium. Despite extensive cleanup efforts involving numerous workers, the repairs are expected to be completed by Aug. 14, ensuring minimal impact on the school's reopening for students on Aug. 21. (WSAV-TV)
3. The LGBTQ+ Lowcountry Pride Group is relocating its annual Pride festival from nearby Bluffton to a public park in Port Royal, causing division within the community as opponents seek to block the move while supporters defend it. The event's potential proximity to an elementary school and concerns about the distribution of LGBTQ+ information have raised opposition, although a planned parade is no longer under consideration. Set for Nov. 18 and aimed at promoting LGBTQ+ visibility, the event's organizers emphasize its family-friendly nature with vendors, activities, and celebrations. (Subscription: Hilton Head Island Packet)

Shoutout to our premier local sponsor:

Looking for expert dog training and care right in the comfort of your home? Look no further than Canine Services, led by Maxine Fox! With 27 years of experience under her belt, Maxine collaborates with veterinarians to provide comprehensive care for your furry friend's behavioral needs. Customers rave about the results they've seen in their dogs after just a few weeks of training, with one saying that their dog is now a "joyful addition" to their family. And with Maxine's attention to detail and compassion, it's no wonder she's been described as "outstanding" by many. Don't wait, contact Canine Services today!

Click here to get your business featured in this spot.

Today and tomorrow in Hilton Head:

Saturday, August 12

• Live Music With Crosstown Traffic At Fish Casual Coastal Seafood (5:00 PM)

Sunday, August 13

• Live Music Featuring Mike Bagentose At Lucky Rooster Kitchen + Bar (5:30 PM)

From my notebook:

• Phone scams are everywhere — but did you know that 803 is the top area code for scam calls in South Carolina? Visit the link for more statistics on phone scams in South Carolina and across the United States. (BeenVerified)
• Celebrate Hilton Head Island's 360th sighting and the town's 40th anniversary at the 360/40 Celebration on Aug. 26 from 4:00-8:00 p.m. at Lowcountry Celebration Park! Community members can enjoy a community picnic with free food, live music, local nonprofits, and diverse activities. (Town of Hilton Head Island Government via Facebook)
• Are you looking to fill your social calendar this weekend? Check out the list of events happening in and around Hilton Head Island this weekend at the link! (Hilton Head Island)

More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Featured events:

• T-Mobile Tuesdays: Get Delighted Every Week (August 15)
• Add your event

Featured gigs & services:

• As temperatures rise, so does roach activity! (Details)
• Add your gig or service

You're all caught up for today. See you all soon for another update!

— Lauren Kubiak

About me: Lauren is an Editor for Lightning Media Partners. She graduated from Rowan University with a Bachelor’s in journalism. She was previously a full-time editor at an association management firm, editing peer-reviewed nursing journals, textbooks, and newsletters.