Turtle Rescue of the Hamptons will celebrate 14 years of rescuing and rehabilitating injured turtles with a gala at Landcraft Gardens in Mattituck on Saturday, July 18, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.
The anniversary fundraiser will feature News12 meteorologist Alex Calamia as host and master of ceremonies, along with wildlife presentations by Turtle Rescue founder and president Karen Testa, wildlife biologist Michael Bottini, Hofstra University biology professor Dr. Russell Burke and author and artist Tony Monahan.
Honorary chair Beth Stern will be recognized during the event, and Suffolk County Executive Edward Romaine is expected to present a proclamation. Organizers will also honor longtime veterinarian Dr. Robert Pisciotta for providing 14 years of medical care to more than 1,500 turtle patients treated by the nonprofit.
Guests can also enjoy an “Art in the Garden” exhibit featuring four local artists, live music by George Barry and the release and signing of Bubbles: A Turtle’s Tale, a children’s book inspired by the remarkable recovery of Bubbles, an elderly Eastern box turtle that has become one of the organization’s best-known ambassadors. The event will also feature opportunities to meet Bubbles and Sullivan, a 100-pound sulcata tortoise.
Bubbles’ story has become symbolic of the organization’s mission. The approximately 70-year-old turtle arrived at Turtle Rescue’s Jamesport hospital in 2024 after decades of improper care left him unable to eat, drink or walk on his own. Severe nutritional deficiencies caused his beak to become so overgrown that it resembled a duck’s bill. After months of specialized treatment, including beak trimming, nutritional therapy and physical rehabilitation, Bubbles regained the ability to eat independently and continues to recover while serving as a permanent ambassador for the organization.
Founded in 2012, Turtle Rescue of the Hamptons operates the only turtle hospital on Long Island. The nonprofit cares for more than 200 injured native turtles at its Jamesport sanctuary, many of which were struck by vehicles or suffered injuries from boats, lawn equipment or other human activity. Because many of the turtles cannot be returned to the wild, they remain permanent residents receiving lifelong care. The organization relies entirely on private donations to support its rescue, rehabilitation and educational programs.