All In One

Today's sunrise photo from Harriet is a composition that tells several tales about Neptune Beach.

First noticeable is the lifeguard chair. Our three beaches cities here each have volunteer lifesaving corps. The American Red Cross Volunteer Lifesaving Corps in Jacksonville Beach was founded in 1912. It was called "Pablo Beach" back then.

You'll also notice a seabird flying over the ocean, just above the chair. One of my favorite things to see while walking the beach is our seabirds. I always remember the gulls, pelicans, and sandpipers from childhood, but it was only after returning as an adult that I recall seeing the black-headed terns at the beach. Now I've noticed several other types of birds I'd never seen before.

If you look closely, in addition to the footprints of morning beach-walkers you'll also see some tire tracks in the sand just beyond the lifeguard chair. Those may be from the city's trash collection truck, but could also have been made by a four-wheeler operated by the Beaches Sea Turtle Patrol. During nesting season, they patrol the beach each morning looking for signs of new sea turtle nests. Three species of endangered sea turtles lay their eggs on our beaches.

When found, a nest will be surrounded with stakes and orange tape so as not to be disturbed by anyone. People and businesses along the oceanfront are also asked to shield their lights so that the hatchlings don't get confused when they emerge, and will head in the direction of the surf instead of out onto the roadways to get squished by cars.

So great job, Harriet, of telling a few tales of our city all in one shot!