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Tag: Sea Turtle

  • Man arrested over sea turtle eggs, drugs in Flagler County

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    A man in the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility is facing charges related to drugs and sea turtle eggs.

    Flagler County deputies say Wesley Winters, 53, was found parked in front of a home in Beverly Beach that he was not supposed to be at due to a temporary no-contact order.

    The deputy at Sunday’s arrest said several white and tan orbs covered in sand were in a tray on the floorboard. They were quickly identified as sea turtle eggs, so the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission was called in.

    The sheriff’s office said methamphetamine, fentanyl, marijuana, an alprazolam pill, marijuana bowls and a THC vape pen were also found.

    The sheriff’s office said before FWC arrived, Winters told the deputy the eggs were from two nests that had eroded away, and he had picked them up after seeing them washing down the beach. He reportedly said he knew the eggs were unhatched but believed they were nonviable.

    Winters was arrested by the deputy on charges of possession of fentanyl, possession of methamphetamine, possession of alprazolam, possession of marijuana (20 grams or less), possession of drug paraphernalia and violation of a no-contact order.

    The FWC arrested Winters on five misdemeanor counts of knowingly possessing 11 or fewer marine turtle eggs and five felony counts of taking, disturbing, mutilating or destroying marine turtle eggs.

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  • Sea turtle strandings have increased dramatically. Congress might create a fund to bail them out

    Sea turtle strandings have increased dramatically. Congress might create a fund to bail them out

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    IT WAS PUSHED BACK THIS MONTH ALL NEW AT 6 – HISTORY MADE IN GEORGIA TODAY … AS THE STATE MARKED ITS LARGEST – SEA – TURTLE – RELEASE … ON RECORD. WJCL 22 NEWS BROOKE BUTLER … WAS THERE. SHE TELLS US … HOW THIS ALL CAME TOGETHER.// (NAT – CLAPPING – PEOPLE SAYING GOODBYE) IT WAS ALL SMILES ON JEKYLL ISLAND WEDNESDAY – AS A RECORD BREAKING NUMBER OF REHABILITATED SEA TURTLES – WERE RELEASED BACK INTO THE OCEAN :23 WE ACTUALLY HAD 33 KEMPS AND ONE GREEN SEA TURTLE RELEASED TODAY OFF OF JEKYLL ISLAND. :30 THESE ENDANGERED TURTLES – ALL CAME FROM UP NORTH. THE ORGANIZATION – TURTLES FLY TOO – FLEW THEM IN. :20 SO WE FLEW FROM OUR HOME BASE IN NORTHERN NEW JERSEY UP TO MASSACHUSETTS TO PICK THE TURTLES UP FROM THE TEAM AT THE NEW ENGLAND AQUARIUM. :28 1:53 HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE DOING THESE RELEASES TOGETHER AS FATHER AND SON? 1:56 1:56 THAT’S IT’S DEFINITELY IT’S VERY COOL. 1:59 (BROOKE STANDUP) I’M TOLD THERE ARE A NUMBER OF REASONS WHY RESCUE ORGANIZATIONS CHOSE JEKYLL ISLAND… AS THE LOCATION FOR THIS RELEASE. 1:15 I THINK IT’S REALLY NICE. IT’S CONVENIENT. OBVIOUSLY, WE HAVE AN AIRPORT ON THE ISLAND, BUT OUR FACILITY, YOU KNOW, WE HAVE A GREAT PARTNERSHIP WITH TURTLES FLY TO AND THESE OTHER FACILITIES UP IN THE NEW ENGLAND AREA, UP IN THE NORTHERN STATES THAT WE ALL BAND TOGETHER AND, YOU KNOW, HELP THESE ANIMALS IN NEED. 1:30 RACHEL OVERMEYER WITH GEORGIA SEA TURTLE CENTER SAID – ALL OF THESE TURTLES..WERE COLD STUNNED WHEN THEY WERE RESCUED. THEIR RELEASE INTO GEORGIA WATERS… ENSURING THEY’LL STAY AT A COMFORTABLE TEMPERATURE. 1:34 OUR WATERS ARE JUST NOW WARM ENOUGH THAT WE CAN RELEASE ANIMALS. 1:38 OVERMEYER SAYS – WHILE SHE’S TAKEN PART IN A NUMBER OF RELEASES OVER THE YEARS – THE WORK – NEVER GETS OLD. 1:55 RELEASES ARE JUST SO SPECIAL BECAUSE IT’S WHAT WE PUT OUR BLOOD, SWEAT AND TEARS INTO. AND IT’S WHAT WE WHAT WE DO EVERY DAY IS WHAT WE WORK FOR. SO TO BE ABLE TO SEE THEM RELEASED IS IS REALLY EXCITING. 2:06 BROOKE BUTLER… WJCL 22 NEWS. OUT:”THAT ONE

    Sea turtle strandings have ticked up at an alarming rate in New England, but now the reptiles are close to receiving a lifeline from Congress to help them stay in the water.Related video above: ‘Really exciting’: 34 rehabilitated sea turtles released back into the ocean on Jekyll IslandCongress is nearing passage of the Sea Turtle Rescue Assistance and Rehabilitation Act, which would create a new $33 million federal grant program to fund institutions around the country that rescue, rehabilitate and research stranded turtles. The aid would arrive as scientists and federal authorities are sounding the alarm that an increasing number of cold-stunned turtles are washing up on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, likely as a result of climate change.Less than 50 sea turtles were found stranded on Cape Cod in 2000, but by 2022, that number has ballooned to 866, said Democratic Sen. Ed Markey of Massachusetts. Quick action is needed to help the turtles because all six species of sea turtles found in the U.S. are threatened or endangered, Markey said.Turtles face “extinction and environmental wipeout” without assistance, said Markey, the sponsor of the act.”Our current rescue efforts are largely volunteer and underfunded, forcing our aquariums to shell out to keep our shelled friends safe,” he said. “We will not let these rescue and rehabilitation organizations, much less sea turtles, sink.”The annual average number of cold-stunned turtles in Massachusetts has also increased over time. Two decades ago, it was 139, and in the past five years it has increased to 739, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said in June.The sea turtle act was placed on the Senate’s calendar after unanimously passing the commerce, science and transportation committee on July 31, records state. A similar measure, introduced by Democratic Rep. Bill Keating of Massachusetts, passed the House of Representatives earlier in the year.Both proposals have bipartisan support, and the Senate measure is cosponsored by Republican Sen. John Cornyn of Texas.Sea turtles sometimes become cold-stunned because they’re unable to regulate their body temperatures. In recent years, hundreds of those turtles have become stranded in Massachusetts. The New England Aquarium operates a Sea Turtle Hospital in Quincy, Massachusetts, that treats the animals, who sometimes need months of care before they can be rereleased into the marine environment.Providing more assistance to organizations that care for stranded turtles “would have a significant impact on the continuation of this collaborative conservation work and the resulting research to solve ocean challenges,” said Vikki Spruill, president and CEO of the New England Aquarium, in support of the proposal last year.

    PORTLAND, Maine —

    Sea turtle strandings have ticked up at an alarming rate in New England, but now the reptiles are close to receiving a lifeline from Congress to help them stay in the water.

    Related video above: ‘Really exciting’: 34 rehabilitated sea turtles released back into the ocean on Jekyll Island

    Congress is nearing passage of the Sea Turtle Rescue Assistance and Rehabilitation Act, which would create a new $33 million federal grant program to fund institutions around the country that rescue, rehabilitate and research stranded turtles. The aid would arrive as scientists and federal authorities are sounding the alarm that an increasing number of cold-stunned turtles are washing up on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, likely as a result of climate change.

    Less than 50 sea turtles were found stranded on Cape Cod in 2000, but by 2022, that number has ballooned to 866, said Democratic Sen. Ed Markey of Massachusetts. Quick action is needed to help the turtles because all six species of sea turtles found in the U.S. are threatened or endangered, Markey said.

    Turtles face “extinction and environmental wipeout” without assistance, said Markey, the sponsor of the act.

    “Our current rescue efforts are largely volunteer and underfunded, forcing our aquariums to shell out to keep our shelled friends safe,” he said. “We will not let these rescue and rehabilitation organizations, much less sea turtles, sink.”

    The annual average number of cold-stunned turtles in Massachusetts has also increased over time. Two decades ago, it was 139, and in the past five years it has increased to 739, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said in June.

    The sea turtle act was placed on the Senate’s calendar after unanimously passing the commerce, science and transportation committee on July 31, records state. A similar measure, introduced by Democratic Rep. Bill Keating of Massachusetts, passed the House of Representatives earlier in the year.

    Both proposals have bipartisan support, and the Senate measure is cosponsored by Republican Sen. John Cornyn of Texas.

    Sea turtles sometimes become cold-stunned because they’re unable to regulate their body temperatures. In recent years, hundreds of those turtles have become stranded in Massachusetts. The New England Aquarium operates a Sea Turtle Hospital in Quincy, Massachusetts, that treats the animals, who sometimes need months of care before they can be rereleased into the marine environment.

    Providing more assistance to organizations that care for stranded turtles “would have a significant impact on the continuation of this collaborative conservation work and the resulting research to solve ocean challenges,” said Vikki Spruill, president and CEO of the New England Aquarium, in support of the proposal last year.

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  • Coffee Roasted in Charleston, SC, That Supports Sea Turtle Rehabilitation is Expanding Retail Distribution and Online Selections

    Coffee Roasted in Charleston, SC, That Supports Sea Turtle Rehabilitation is Expanding Retail Distribution and Online Selections

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    CHARLESTON, S.C., March 22, 2023 (Newswire.com)
    –
    Charleston Coffee Roasters, a company that slow roasts its beans in Charleston, South Carolina, announced that it is expanding distribution of two organic coffees inspired by the Lowcountry. Aquarium Blend celebrates the South Carolina Aquarium, and Beach House Blend was inspired by New York Times bestselling author Mary Alice Monroe. These unique coffees are available nationwide at charlestoncoffeeroasters.com and now at most Harris Teeter stores along the East coast. 

    Aquarium Blend is an organic medium roast of Peruvian and Honduran beans slow roasted to a creamy profile, resulting in a well-balanced coffee with a smooth finish that is sweet and citrusy. Charleston Coffee Roasters has been committed to supporting the efforts of the South Carolina Aquarium through its business. Charleston Coffee Roasters is the lead sponsor of the Nutritional Care Program at the South Carolina Aquarium, which supplies more than 200 pounds of food daily for nearly 5,000 resident animals and sea turtles undergoing rehabilitation in the Sea Turtle Care Center™. 

    “We developed Aquarium Blend to celebrate our partnership with the South Carolina Aquarium because their conservation efforts are very important to us and the community at large,” said Lowell D. Grosse, founder and President of Charleston Coffee Roasters. “We are thrilled that Harris Teeter is expanding distribution of our coffees that give back to stores across North and South Carolina, Maryland, Virginia, Georgia, Florida, and Washington, D.C.”

    Beach House Blend is an organic dark roast of Colombian French, Sumatran, and Mexican beans that has a rich and smooth profile, a bold taste and a strong finish. This blend is inspired by friends and longtime Charleston residents Mary Alice Monroe — the New York Times bestselling author of nearly 30 books with more than eight million copies in print worldwide — and Lowell D. Grosse — founder and President of Charleston Coffee Roasters. 

    “My readers generously embrace my devotion to the environment and animal conservation, which are hallmarks of many of my novels. With Beach House Blend, my fans can now enjoy one of my culinary passions — coffee,” said Monroe. “I am honored to support Lowell’s vision of giving back to my beloved Aquarium and its Sea Turtle Care Center™ through Charleston Coffee Roasters. That’s one powerful cup of coffee!”

    Charleston Coffee Roasters, the South Carolina Aquarium, and Mary Alice Monroe have teamed up to host a “Name our Turtle” campaign that will go now until 11:59 p.m. ET on April 21, 2023. 

    One winner will receive:

    • 2 Bags of Aquarium Blend
    • 2 Bags of Beach House Blend
    • 4 Tickets to the South Carolina Aquarium in Charleston, S.C.
    • 7 books from the Beach House Series by Mary Alice Monroe — the complete set!

    To participate:

    1. Visit charlestoncoffeeroasters.com/name-our-turtle.
    2. Enter a valid email address.
    3. Enter one sea turtle name suggestion.

    About Charleston Coffee Roasters

    Founded by veteran coffee importer Lowell Grosse in 2005, Charleston Coffee Roasters creates a craft coffee experience as rich in flavor and character as Charleston itself. Within the company’s Charleston facility, each coffee bean is slow roasted in small batches by master roasters, with constant “cupping” to ensure quality. The company proves its dedication to helping the community and the ecosystem by purchasing certified, sustainably grown coffees from farmers who take care of their workers and the environment; and by actively supporting Charleston charities and organizations. Charleston Coffee Roasters is also the lead sponsor of the Nutritional Care Program at the South Carolina Aquarium, and is an advocate for the conservation of sea turtles, which are the inspiration for the Charleston Coffee Roasters “turtle bean” logo. Learn more at www.charlestoncoffeeroasters.com.   

    About Mary Alice Monroe

    Mary Alice Monroe is the New York Times bestselling author of nearly 30 books, including the bestselling The Beach House series, for which the coffee was named. The Beach House is now a Hallmark Hall of Fame movie. Monroe has received numerous awards, including being inducted into the South Carolina Academy of Authors Hall of Fame. An active conservationist, she lives on a barrier island in Charleston, S.C. www.maryalicemonroe.com

    About the South Carolina Aquarium

    The South Carolina Aquarium, Charleston’s No.1 family attraction, is home to more than 5,000 animals, from river otters and sharks to sea turtles and shorebirds, and represents the rich biodiversity of our state — from the mountains to the sea. Visitors can also get an inside look at the Sea Turtle Care Center™, a working hospital dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of sick and injured sea turtles. While fulfilling its mission to promote education, conservation, and an exceptional visitor experience, the Aquarium also presents sweeping views of the Charleston Harbor along with interactive exhibits and programs for visitors of all ages.

    The South Carolina Aquarium is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The Aquarium is open daily from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., with the last entry at 3:30 p.m. The Aquarium is open seven days a week with the exception of Thanksgiving Day, Dec. 25 and a half day on Dec. 24 (open 9 a.m.-noon). Annual Aquarium membership with unlimited visits starts at $99. For more information, call (843) 577-FISH (3474) or visit scaquarium.org.

    Source: Charleston Coffee Roasters

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