Tuesday, June 12, 2018

An Excursion to the Exotic! Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium's Gala

An Excursion to the Exotic, the event title says it all!

Over 600 guests arrived on June 9, for the "Excursion to the Exotic",  the biannual Zoo Gala chaired this year by Deborah Bergen Garlock with Bryan Garlock.

The collective work of the zoo gala committee and the staff, resulted in a delightfully, unique zoo experience.

Guests were treated to animal encounters with a father-son Fennec Fox  duo, and Laverne the alligator (her roommate is Shirley) to name a few.  These animal ambassadors assist in educating on important issues such as a better understanding of how to protect the species in the wild.

The signature Cocktail, "Safari at Sundown", was served as patrons mingled and sampled delicious hors d'oeuvres by Taste, the official  caterer of the Pittsburgh Zoo, before being transported to the main event.

The exotic theme carried over to the evening's entrees which included Ramp Pesto Ruby Rainbow Trout, Roasted Carrot Salad with Fromage Blanc, Coffee Stout-Braised Beef Brisket , followed up by Mini Baked Alaska dessert.

The decor, by LUXE Creative promoted the exotic theme throughout the event.  Lanterns, baskets, and candles set the mood, as guests made their way to the Elephant Encounter and a chance to feed the giraffes.

Reed Dancing (partnering with LUXE Creative) created an amazing highlight to the evening, a light and dance performance.  DJ Samuel Andres kicked off the dancing, where guests partied into the night. (Even the giraffe was dancing the night away! Turn up the volume and See the video below).


To learn more or donate to the Pittsburgh Zoo please visit: http://www.pittsburghzoo.org/


Bryan Garlock and Deb Bergren Garlock 

Jackie  Dixon at the Elephant Encounter 

Maris Bondi with Robert Dauer

Dr. Barbara Bake, President and CEO of the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium

Gabby Boldizar and Carey Abdulovic

Ed Goncz with Paula Goncz and A.J. Racioppi

Honorary Gala Chairs, Jerry and Diane Holder, with Dr. Ginger Sturgeon, and Laverne the Alligator

Dr. Ginger Sturgeon with Laverne


Carey Abdulovic with Dr. Joseph Gasparo
Virginia Flaherty with Brinton Motheral

Martin Potoczny, LUXE Creative

Maria Brady, in Wight Elephant design with  Melana Mears






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