Zoo raises $1 million
FROM STAFF REPORTS Gulf Breeze News news@gulfbreezenews.com

With the support of several thousand individuals, families, civic organizations, foundations and companies, The Zoo - Northwest Florida has reached its goal of raising $1 million by the end of 2007.

Cash contributions account for $549,000 of the total. Inkind contributions make up $104,000 of the total; forgiveness of debt, $73,000; 2008 cash pledges, $90,000 and 2008 in-kind pledges, $110,000. In addition, a 46-foot Trojan boat was sold for $75,000, with proceeds benefiting The Zoo.

The cash contributions have been used to supplement operating shortfalls through the winter of 2007. The cash that has been restricted until the goal was reached will be used to fund operating shortfalls through the winter of 2008. This will allow The Zoo to survive during Phase Two, as the fundraising efforts continue and financial stability is reached. The Zoo has over $4.5 million of total debt and is focused on raising a minimum of an additional $2 million by the end of 2008 to pay down the debt.

In appreciation to the community, The Zoo will offer a "Be a Kid Again" promotion in January, in which all adult ticket prices will be reduced to $8.25, the price of a child's ticket.

Calendars are still for sale for $10 and include a buy-oneget one-free admission ticket valued at $11.50. Those making a donation greater than $500 will receive a complimentary calendar. In January, The Zoo will reveal the calendar of events for the first half of 2008 - to include new educational programs, seminars with upclose animal encounters, poker safari, heritage events and more.

For more information, visit www.thezoonorthwestflorida.c om or contact executive director Danyelle Lantz at (850) 932-2229.