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Music, belly dancing, fine cuisine and special guest Joan Embery (conservation advocate and frequent Tonight Show guest) will be just some of the highlights during the Oregon Zoo's annual Zoolala, Saturday, July 21 from 7 p.m. to midnight.

One of the most caring conservationists and animal experts, Embery has dedicated her life to wildlife conservation and raising public awareness about the importance of environmental stewardship. As Conservation Ambassador for the San Diego Zoo, Embery spearheads the "Your World" campaign designed to educate about efforts to protect endangered species and diminishing habitats worldwide. Embery will bring her cheetah to the event and will talk with guests about her conservation work around the world.

"I'm anticipating a beautiful summer evening, with fabulous food, wonderful music and stimulating conversation with Joan Embery," said Director Tony Vecchio. "The zoo is a magical place at night and many of our animals are much more active at dusk. Zoolala patrons will enjoy the rare experience of the zoo at night-it promises to be the social event of the summer."

The event will feature live music from the Tom Grant Band, the Pacific Northwest's most prominent musical group with hits consistently topping the New Adult Contemporary/Smooth Jazz charts; Hawaiian music and dance band Naleo O Ko'olau; Gypsy Caravan; Chata Addy and Grupo Kultura. Zoolala will also showcase a wide array of delicious foods from leading Portland restaurants such as Hall Street Grill; Huber's Restaurant; Jazz De Opus & Opus Too; Morton's of Chicago, Wild Abandon and many more.

A silent auction will feature such items as vacation packages to Palm Springs, Seattle and Sun River; an evening in the AT&T Wireless suite at the Rose Garden to watch a Blazers game; dinner prepared by a professional chef; artwork; and sailing lessons for four.

Funds raised at Zoolala will be used for the zoo's Great Northwest exhibit, which will feature endangered salmon, eagles and a family farm.

Zoolala is presented by AT&T Wireless and co-sponsored by Spirit Mountain Casino. Sponsorship packages are available and include an invitation to the pre-gala patron party with Joan Embery and her animals. Tickets are $150 per person ($100 of each ticket price is tax deductible).

The zoo is open 9 a.m. daily. The zoo is located five minutes from downtown Portland just off Highway 26 and is also accessible by MAX light rail line.

For reservations, sponsorship and ticket information:

Kris Carico at 503-220-2492
Oregon Zoo

Edited by Stacey Brown

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