News Summary
The first sea turtle nest of the season has been discovered on Hilton Head Island, marking a significant event in the island’s environmental calendar. Reported by Sea Turtle Patrol Hilton Head, this nest is dedicated to the late Jay Wiendl, a respected hospitality leader. The site features golden poles and a plaque honoring his commitment to environmental responsibility. As the nesting season unfolds, locals are reminded to respect the habitats of sea turtles and support local wildlife.
Hilton Head Island – The first sea turtle nest of the 2025 season has been discovered on Hilton Head Island. This significant find was reported by Sea Turtle Patrol Hilton Head on Wednesday, marking an important event in the island’s environmental calendar. Importantly, this nest is dedicated to the memory of Jay Wiendl, a well-respected leader in the hospitality sector, who passed away earlier this year at the age of 50.
The designated nest site, located on the island’s south side, is adorned with three golden poles and features a plaque honoring Wiendl. The inscription on the plaque reads: “This first nest of the 2025 Sea Turtle Nesting Season is dedicated to Jay Wiendl, 1974–2025, leader in the hospitality industry, whose legacy embraces environmental responsibility to honor his commitment to the natural beauty of the island and Sea Turtle Patrol HHI.” This dedication not only highlights the nest’s significance as the season’s opener but also encapsulates Wiendl’s lasting impact on the community.
Amber Kuehn, Director of Sea Turtle Patrol Hilton Head, remarked on the nest’s symbolism, stating that it represents a legacy that extends beyond the commencement of the nesting season. The sea turtle nesting period in South Carolina runs from May to October, during which the eggs typically incubate for approximately 60 days. This annual occurrence draws attention not only for its ecological importance but also for the community’s role in supporting local wildlife.
Jay Wiendl was a prominent figure within Hilton Head’s hospitality sector, having served as the general manager of the Tiki Hut and Beach House. His influence extended into numerous leadership positions, including chairman of the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce Executive Committee. He was also a member of the Board of Directors for the Technical College of the Lowcountry. In 2018, he was honored as the hotel manager of the year while working at Sonseta Resort and previously managed The DeSoto hotel in Savannah before returning to Hilton Head.
Beyond his professional achievements, Wiendl was dedicated to his community and actively engaged in various local initiatives. He coached for the Hilton Head Baseball Association, reflecting his commitment to youth development and community sports. His contributions were not only recognized within the industry but also cherished by those who knew him personally. Bill Miles, the president and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce, described Wiendl as a steadfast community leader and mentor, known for his encouragement and support of others. A neighbor and board member, Ray Deal, reminisced about the strong initial impression Wiendl made and the friendship that blossomed over a decade.
Jay Wiendl was also a devoted family man, with his son, Connor, particularly a source of pride. His commitment to family mirrored his approach to his work and community, where he consistently aimed to make a positive impact.
As the nesting season progresses, locals are reminded to respect the sea turtles and their habitats by keeping a safe distance from the nests and utilizing red flashlights during nighttime excursions to avoid disturbing the animals. The dedication of the first nest of the season serves as a poignant reminder of the connection between hospitality, community service, and environmental stewardship, as embodied in the legacy of Jay Wiendl.
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Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Sea Turtle Nest Located on Hilton Head Island
- Google Search: Jay Wiendl
- WSAV: Honoring Jay Wiendl
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sea Turtles
- AOL: Remembering Jay Wiendl
- Google News: Sea Turtle Nesting Season South Carolina
