The Zoological Society of Florida's (ZSF) Ball of the Wild 2007 was the eighth annual fundraising gala held for the first time outside of Miami Metrozoo at the JW Marriott, on Saturday, March 3rd. The gala raised more than $250,000 to benefit the ZSF's education and conservation programs on behalf of Miami Metrozoo. The Board of Directors, as Chairs for this year' s Ball, invited 330 guests to the exclusive hotel where the ballroom was converted into the Zoo for one evening with wild animal and jungle décor, and real Miami Metrozoo animal encounters with pythons, macaws, an alligator, a kinkajou and others! The night's activities also included ballroom dancing from Fred Astaire, extravagant auction items and a superb filet mignon and Maine lobster dinner followed by music and dancing. During the silent auction, guests indulged in cocktails and sweet and savory hors d'oeuvres. With more than 100 items available, the silent auction offered guests everything from sports memorabilia like a Dwayne Wade signed Miami Heat jersey, to travel packages that included a seven day Carnival Cruise for two, and artwork from the world-renowned Dali and Picasso.

ZSF Chairman of the Board David Konfino encouraged guests to continue their appreciation for the world's wildlife, especially via their support of the ZSF in its 50th year. Konfino also spoke of the Zoo's master plan and future Amazon & Beyond exhibit opening in late 2008. Goodwill Ambassador and Zoo Communications Director Ron Magill presented current ZSF Board Member and local icon Merrett Stierheim with the 2007 Wildlife Ambassador Award.

During dessert, guests were invited to participate in an exciting live auction that included a variety of Zoo exhibit sponsorships, your child on Miami Metrozoo banner advertisements, a children's party with Nick Jr.'s action adventurer, Diego from Go, Diego, Go! and special VIP Tours and photo shoots with Ron Magill at the Zoo.

Honorary Chair Cynthia W. Knight generously sponsored the gala at a $25,000 Bengal Tiger level. Duty Free Air & Ship Supply (DFASS) was an in-kind Bengal Tiger sponsor. ZSF Board Members and past chairs for the event Ana and Cecil Milton were $15,000 African Lion sponsors. Commercebank, Empire Investment Holdings, Florida Power & Light, ZSF Board Members Nancy and Floyd Denison and Ryder System Charitable Foundation, Inc. were $10,000 Florida Panther sponsors.

For more information about Ball of the Wild, Miami Metrozoo or the Zoological Society of Florida, please visit www.miamimetrozoo.com.