The Friends of Santa Ana Zoo (FOSAZ) consistently generates over half a million dollars in net revenue annually to support the Santa Ana Zoo.
The Friends of Santa Ana Zoo (FOSAZ) proudly celebrated its 32nd annual Zoofari Gala, “Port of Call,” on Saturday, August 17, 2024. This year’s event transported guests to a luxurious tropical island, creating an enchanting evening that broke all previous fundraising records by netting over $120,000 in support of the Zoo’s vital programs.
Hosted at the Santa Ana Zoo in Prentice Park, the gala drew 280 guests who were treated to an unforgettable night of fine dining, entertainment, and philanthropy. The event’s financial success is a testament to the community’s unwavering support.
Upon boarding the evening’s voyage, guests indulged in a first-class dining experience catered by Parties by Panache, complemented by a fully hosted bar. As they set sail onto the Zoo grounds, guests were welcomed with a signature cocktail, “The Isaac,” a tribute to Ted Lange’s iconic bartender from The Love Boat. Lange also made a special appearance via a taped recording, warmly greeting guests and encouraging them to support the Zoo’s efforts. This added a delightful touch of nostalgia to the evening’s cruise-themed celebration.
Various animals accompanied by Education Staff and Volunteers welcomed guests to the evening. Among the wildlife greeting attendees were a millipede, an armadillo, a talkative parrot, a blue-tongued skink, and others, setting the tone for an enchanting night at the Santa Ana Zoo. In addition to mingling with these fascinating creatures, guests enjoyed exclusive tours of the Zoo grounds, rode the Fifty Monkey Ferris Wheel, and visited the primates that have made the Santa Ana Zoo famous. The evening’s décor, designed by Donna Czekalski of R.W.B. Party Props, and themed photo opportunities added to the island ambiance. Throughout the fundraiser, guests were welcome to bid on beautiful trips, unique baskets, artwork, and one-of-a-kind gifts during silent auction.
“We are overjoyed and profoundly grateful for the extraordinary support we received during this year’s Zoofari,” said Cat Decker, Executive Director of Friends of Santa and the Zoo. “The record-breaking funds raised will profoundly enhance our efforts to inspire and foster a deeper understanding of wildlife and conservation, helping us make a lasting difference in these critical areas.”
Emmy and Golden Mic Award winner and co-anchor for the KTLA 5 Morning News Chris Schauble served as emcee and auctioneer.
A highlight of the evening was a special award presented to Mark Edwards, Ph.D, Associate Professor, Animal Nutrition, by the Zoo’s Animal Care Manager, Jenny Walker. Dr. Edwards has been instrumental in shaping the animal diets at the Santa Ana Zoo, ensuring that each diet is expertly crafted to meet the nutritional needs of the diverse species under the Zoo’s care. With his extensive background in animal nutrition, including experience at the San Diego Zoo and the National Zoo, Dr. Edwards contributions have significantly enhanced the well-being of the Zoo’s animals. Jenny expressed the Zoo’s deep appreciation for Dr. Edwards ongoing support and dedication, stating, “Everything we do here at the Zoo is for the welfare and well-being of our animals, and Dr. Edwards expertly crafted diets are a key part of achieving that goal.”
The evening also included a heartfelt tribute to Debbie Newmeyer, a beloved member of the Zoo’s community, who recently passed away. Rip Ribble, a long-time friend of Debbie, honored her memory, recalling her vibrant presence as “Wanda the Witch” during the Zoo’s Halloween program. Debbie and her husband, Tom, were long-time supporters of the Zoo, generously donating thousands of dollars over the years. Debbie was represented by Tom at the event, and the Zoo community expressed deep condolences and appreciation for Debbie’s contributions.
Live auction items included two one-of-a-kind children’s Rocking “Zebras” that were hand-crafted and donated by FOSAZ Board Member Rip Ribble, a Magic Castle evening for four adults donated by the Santa Ana Zoo’s resident Magician Jeff LeMasters-Tahir; a camper’s delight of various items including a Kelty’s folding loveseat, YETI cooler, backpack cooler, wine tumblers and travel mugs along with wine donated by FOSAZ Board Member Howard Hall; a fantasy flight on the Goodyear Blimp for two; Parties by Panache donated an epicurean five-course gourmet dinner for twelve guests for an in-home party; a fabulous bar cart donated by THE BIGALKE SISTERS was stocked with everything to host a happy hour with premium liquor, wines, liqueurs and mixers also contributed by board member Patty McClendon and Larry and Diana Grummett; a sensational, ‘Cider’ colored Michael Kors iconic Mercer Messenger Handbag tote donated by FOSAZ Board Member Patty McClendon stuffed with $100 California scratchers (donated by Rib Ribble) and a stack of cash donated from FOSAZ Board Members, Advisory Board Members, and Zoo Staff – totaling over $1500; and a private tour with Zoo Director Ethan Fisher for five guests include getting up close and personal with two famous anteaters, “Peter” and “Hee-Soo.”
Chaired by Cat Decker, FOSAZ Executive Director, the event netted over $120K, including over $60K from the silent and live auction.
After the live auction, guests danced to the dynamic tunes of “Groove Factory!”