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Brookfield Zoo celebrates a wonderful whirl
(from left) David and Avery Keller of Burlington, Wisc., Dennis Keller of Oak Brook, CZS vice chairman; Molly and Jeff Keller of Burlington, Wisc., and Connie Keller of Oak Brook. | Photo by Jim Schulz
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Event: It’s a Wonderful Whirl
Benefiting: Chicago
Zoological Society
Attending: 700
Raised: $1.3 million
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Updated: June 5, 2012 12:40PM
The Women’s Board and the Board of Trustees of the Chicago Zoological Society came together to host their 31st annual “whirl” at the Brookfield Zoo on April 21. The theme, It’s a Wonderful Whirl, highlighted their commitment to animal care, compassion and conservation.
The gala drew more than 700 business and civic leaders from across the Chicago area. During the cocktail hour, guests had the opportunity to mingle with numerous exotic creatures, including a flamingo, bald eagle, fennec fox, penguin, llama, red-tailed hawk, great-horned owl and a lynx.
Guests were also treated to a special appearance by a cheetah, courtesy of Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. Children whose lives have benefited from programs supported by the Chicago Zoological Society made brief comments.
Following a three-course dinner, the dance floor opened to the music of Maggie Speaks in a grand tent, decorated in a tiger theme.
Other activities included a paddle raise, raffle and live auction.
Proceeds from this year’s Whirl grossed more than $1.3 million, which goes to support the animals at Brookfield Zoo as well as the Chicago Zoological Society’s conservation and education programs.
For more information, visit www.czs.org.
