4 minute read
Sunset Safari
Billy and Jennifer Frist
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Erin Gray with Charlie Louden Wright, Sandra and Matt Morgan
Margaret and Tatum Flynn, Rick Schwartz, Jake and Laura Birkofer, Eric Holmberg
The Nashville Zoo celebrates an evening under the stars
Sunset Safari, the Nashville Zoo’s annual fundraiser, once again welcomed animal lovers and supporters for an evening of food, fun and animal ambassador interaction. The beautiful September evening was the perfect setting for the event as dusk descended and guests strolled the zoo path, experiencing the stars of the evening — the animals. Most importantly, critical funds were raised to continue the Nashville Zoo’s mission to “... inspire a culture of understanding and discovery of our natural world through conservation, innovation and leadership.”
As the sun dipped below the hills, Patrons gathered in the VIP tent for pre-safari Champagne, cocktails and bites. Renowned conservationist and Nashville Zoo President and CEO Rick Schwartz was on hand to talk about the work of the Nashville Zoo and mingle with supporters. Making a debut appearance was the newest team member of the HCA Healthcare Veterinary Center — Louden Wright.
The energy of Festival Field began to pick up as the Adam McDonough Band and, later, Krystal King took the stage to enliven the event. Guests of the event were treated to bites from some of Nashville’s top restaurants and chefs. Along the trail guests were delighted by Edley’s Bar-B-Que, Elliston Place Soda Shop, Kayne Prime, Lyra, Sunda and more. Also peppered along the trail were spirits and cocktails for guests to sample.
Carrying on with tradition, the animal ambassadors were out for guest engagement and education. Owlivia the white faced owl entertained at the VIP tent while keeping her eyes on the sky. Charlie the prehensile-tailed porcupine was accepting yummy treats from his handler, Erin Gray. Additional animal ambassadors included Benedict Cumberbunny the continental giant rabbit, Iggy the Galapagos tortoise and Sandra Dee the screaming hairy armadillo.
The evening was a roaring success with record numbers of attendance and record funds raised for the Nashville Zoo.
BY JANET KURTZ PHOTOGRAPHS BY DANIEL MEIGS
Co-chairs Clara Belden, Sally Coble and Allie Hall Laurie Eskind, Jane Haggard, Patti Smallwood, Battle Kenney, Beth and Dave Alexander
