The B-52s—sometimes referred to as ‘the World’s Greatest Party Band’—storm into town June 16 for an exclusive appearance at this year’s ZOOFARI’17, presented by Wells Fargo Advisors. The biennial event is Saint Louis Zoo’s biggest fundraiser and, with the addition of the group’s infectious music, bouffant hairdos and high-energy dance moves, it promises to be bigger and better than ever. “This terrific party began as a boxed dinner and dance in 1965,” says event co-chair Cynthia Brinkley. “But since 1989, some of St. Louis’ best restaurants, hotels, bars and caterers have helped grow it into the big and wonderful event it is today.” More than 60 local businesses are on tap to provide the evening’s food and drink.
“The zoo is fortunate to have the support of hundreds of companies and individuals who make this party a great success,” says Steve Finerty, Brinkley’s co-chair. “From attendees, sponsors, auction donors and entertainers, we all work together to create this celebration.”
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This year, the event’s featured animal is the African crowned crane, so called for its ‘crown’ of fine golden feathers. Because of threats to its habitat due to drainage, overgrazing and pollution, it was uplisted in 2012 from ‘vulnerable’ to ‘endangered’ by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. The bird lives in open grasslands and usually mates for life. Known for its commitment to conservation, the zoo is doing its part locally as well—reducing waste, conserving water and energy, and reintroducing certain threatened species back into Missouri, as well as overseas.
The last ZOOFARI, in 2015, raised a record $1.1 million and attracted around 3,500 partygoers. “We are so thrilled to welcome the B-52s as the talent this year,” says ZOOFARI’17 committee member Steve Schankman. “They will have us dancing through the night!” The group—perhaps best known for hits like ‘Love Shack’ and ‘Rock Lobster’—has a career that spans nearly 40 years and more than 20 million albums.
In addition to fine food and dancing under the stars, there will be a silent auction of luxury items. Again this year, guests are invited to purchase a First Pick raffle ticket. Each $100 ticket will be entered into a drawing that takes place June 14. The winner gets to choose from all the items, which include trips, jewelry, unique experiences and more. Only 200 First Pick tickets will be available, and they must be purchased by 5 p.m. June 13.
“Everyone who has attended in the past knows that this is a magical evening,” Finerty says. “This year’s event should be the best one yet.” The black-tie celebration is open to those 21 and up.
ZOOFARI’17, presented by Wells Fargo Advisors, takes place June 16 at the Saint Louis Zoo. Pictured on the cover: Cynthia Brinkley and Steve Finerty. For tickets, call 314.646.4771. For information, visit stlzoo.org/zoofari.
Cover design by Julie Streiler | Cover photo by Colin Miller of Strauss Peyton Photography