​Love is in the sea – Two sea turtles to be released off Juno Beach on Valentine’s Day*

Who: Loggerhead Marinelife Center of Juno Beach

What: It’s a sea turtle love affair! Next Tuesday, Feb. 14, Loggerhead Marinelife Center will release two sea turtles from its facility off Juno Beach. Mayor Mort, a sub-adult loggerhead, was found last August near Hutchinson Island lethargic and underweight, with numerous large barnacles on its shell and hundreds of small barnacles and marine leeches on its skin.

Mayor Mort was lovingly named in memory of Juno Beach’s late mayor, Mort Levine, who proudly served the town from 2008 until his passing last March. Mayor Levine was extremely proud of LMC and the town’s beaches, which are known for attracting sea turtles and tourists from around the world. Mayor Levine’s favorite quote about his beloved town was “Juno Beach – World Headquarters.” We are proud to continue Mayor Mort Levine’s legacy and encourage his friends to bid farewell to the sea turtle. Many thanks to the supporters who helped us care for the turtle, including the Town of Juno Beach.

Reilly is a small sub-adult loggerhead that was found near Hutchinson Island covered in numerous barnacles and chronic debilitated. After fluids, antibiotics and other treatment methods, we are happy to report that both turtles are ready to return to the ocean.

Both sea turtles will be prepared for release from LMC starting at 10:30 a.m. A history of the turtles’ journeys and final preparations will be conveyed to visitors by one of LMC’s education docents, with a procession to the beach for the release to follow.

When: Tuesday, Feb. 14 at 11 a.m.; Pre-release procedures starting at 10:30 a.m.

Where: Loggerhead Marinelife Center (14200 US Highway One, Juno Beach, FL)

Local staff will be available for media interviews at their discretion.

*Weather may impact the scheduling of this release. Please check www.marinelife.org and LMC’s social media channels for updates of the release date.