For immediate release
Contact: Gina Stiles, 904-757-4463, ext. 210

Zoo Announces Its 12th Annual ExZOOberation Fundraising Gala

February 8, 2007 – Jacksonville, FL – On April 14, 2007, at 6:30 p.m., the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens will host its 12th annual ExZOOberation fundraising gala benefiting the Zoo.  The theme for this year’s event is “A Garden Party on the Wild Side” and features the beautiful gardens at the Zoo. The adult-oriented gala has become one of Jacksonville’s premier events with a total of over $1.3 million raised for the care and feeding of the Zoo’s animals as well as educational programs and conservation initiatives.  Coggin Automotive Group is the major sponsor of this year’s event.

Guests will begin the evening with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres while enjoying Zoo gardens, animal encounters and a silent auction.  A delicious dinner follows with a live auction including unique Zoo items such as a private party in the Zoo’s Play Park and the naming and adoption of Zoo animals. Dancing to the fabulous KTG Band will round out the evening.

Tickets begin at $175 per person and can be purchased by calling the Development Department at 904-757-4463, ext. 196.  Reserved tables of eight and sponsorships are also available. 

For over 90 years, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens has been dedicated to inspiring the discovery and appreciation of wildlife through innovative experience in a caring environment.  Starting in 1914 with an animal collection that consisted of one red deer fawn, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens has grown to house more than 2,000 rare and exotic animals and over 1,500 unique plant species.  The Zoo is a non-profit organization and is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).  Located on Jacksonville’s north side two miles off I-95, the Zoo is open year-round, 7 days a week, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. For more information on the Zoo, log on to www.jacksonvillezoo.org.

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