Friends of the ARK will hold series of 'hatchings'

Mustang and Padre island beaches aren't the only places where turtles are hatching. This summer, Friends of the ARK (Animal Rehabilitation Keep) will hold a total of seven turtle "hatchings" featuring decorated cast aluminum turtles to raise money for the ARK.

The second of the seven was Friday, May 23, at Gulf Shores Condominiums and sponsored by ARK volunteer Keith McMullin.

The "hatchings" allow potential bidders to have a look at the 40 turtles that will be auctioned later this year.

Conceived by Kris Wimer, the "turtle trails" idea was successful in 2006 at raising money for the Padre Island National Seashore sea turtle program. This year, Wimer brought the concept to Mustang Island to be used to raise money for the ARK.

Eight turtles were "hatched" on May 23. Other hatchings are planned in Port Aransas for July 25 at Mustang Island Gallery, 2222 State Hwy 361; Aug. 21, the Back Porch, 132 W. Cotter Ave.; and Sept. 19, Art Center for the Islands, 323 N. Alister St. All hatchings are from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and are free.

On Friday, Nov. 7, all the turtles can be previewed at the Port A Gallery, 345 N. Alister St.

The Great Turtle Release Auction of 2008 is set for Saturday, Nov. 8, at 6 p.m. at the Port Aransas Civic Center. It will include cocktails, dinner and an auction of the decorated turtles.