🌱 Nearly 350 Sea Turtle Nests This Year + Community Safety Discussion

Hello, Hilton Head. I'm here in your inbox today to tell you everything you need to know about what's going on around town.

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Now, your local weather:

• Thursday: A shower and t-storm; humid. High: 89 Low: 75.
• Friday: A t-storm around in the a.m.. High: 93 Low: 77.

Here are the top three stories in Hilton Head today:

1. Hilton Head Island is experiencing sea turtle hatchlings making their way to the ocean as the nest count approaches 350, with this year's nesting population having reached 343 nests, an increase from the previous year. The island's sea turtle nesting/hatching season runs from May 1 to Oct. 31, with nesting ending in mid-August. Although about 120 eggs are typically found in each nest, only a small fraction (around one in 1,000) are expected to reach adulthood due to factors like predation and environmental conditions. To protect these hatchlings, it's important for beachgoers to follow guidelines such as removing personal items, not disturbing sea turtles, following boating laws, and keeping beaches clean to prevent harm. (Subscription: Hilton Head Island Packet)
2. Macey Estrella, also known as former WWE star Lacey Evans, will celebrate the grand opening of Sunny Summers Café in nearby Beaufort on Aug. 21. The cafe serves as a place for Estrella to spend more time with her family and contribute to the Beaufort community. With a focus on mental health and community support, the cafe will offer coffee, treats, and a vibrant space designed to inspire unplugging devices and fostering connections with loved ones. (The Island News)
3. The nearby Bluffton Police Department is organizing a "Community Safety Discussion" on Aug. 21 to address the rising traffic fatalities in Beaufort County and share law enforcement's measures to prevent collisions. The event aims to engage community members in efforts to enhance road safety and prevent distracted driving-related accidents. With several fatalities already recorded this year, Bluffton police are striving to educate and collaborate with the community to reduce collisions and save lives. (Subscription: Hilton Head Island Packet)

Today and tomorrow in Hilton Head:

Thursday, August 17

• Shannon Tanner At Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina (6:30 PM)

Friday, August 18

• Sunset Celebration At Shelter Cove Community Park (7:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Hilton Head Island officials are warning residents of ongoing financial fraud attempts by scammers. Remember, the sheriff's office will never seek funds through phone solicitations, prioritizing your safety and financial security. If you receive a suspicious call, hang up and promptly report it to the sheriff's office. (Town of Hilton Head Island Government via Facebook)
• Are you looking to rent bicycles before summer comes to a close? Check out these five bike rental facilities in Hilton Head, recommended by Tripadvisor. (Subscription: Hilton Head Island Packet)
• The Hilton Head Island Town Council has approved a reduction in the millage rate for homeowners, lowering it from 23.1 mills to 21.4 mills. With rising property values, the decision to lower the millage rate ensures that residents will not face higher property tax bills while maintaining the town's revenue and services. (Hilton Head Island)

From our partner:

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Featured events:

• Taxes in Retirement Seminar at Buckwalter Recreation Center (August 23)
• Add your event

Featured gigs & services:

• As temperatures rise, so does roach activity! (Details)
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Thanks for following along and staying informed! See you all soon for your next 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.