A Party To Celebrate The 40 Years Since Jungle Larry Founded Naples Zoo

By Tim L. Tetzlaff

Naples, FL - On February 20, Naples Zoo celebrates 40 wild years at ZOObilee 2009 presented by Fifth Third Bank. Guests will discover a delightful evening with delicious food and beverages, live entertainment, dancing in the starlight beneath the canopy of historic trees, a live auction conducted by Naples Mayor Bill Barnett, and wildlife experiences that could only be offered at Naples Zoo. Jim Fowler, international animal expert from Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom, will speak as well as receive the inaugural Lawrence and Nancy Jane Tetzlaff Distinguished Conservation Award during the event. Larry Tetzlaff and Jim Fowler first met in the jungles of South America in 1960. Funds raised from this event support the ongoing programs and exhibits in Naples Zoo!

2009 marks a host of anniversaries for this historic site. 90 years ago botanist and ornithologist Dr. Henry Nehrling founded the botanical garden. Many of his original trees still grow and can be identified by historical markers in the garden. After rescuing and expanding Nehrling’s garden, Julius Fleischmann opened it to the public 55 years ago.

February 6, 2009 also marks 25 years since the passing of Naples Zoo’s cofounder Lawrence “Jungle Larry” Tetzlaff.  Along with his wife Nancy “Safari Jane” Tetzlaff, he introduced wild animals to the tropical garden in 1969.  Together they created a destination that has inspired generations to love wild animals and wild places.  In his early years, Larry worked for famed animal collector Frank “Bring ‘em Back Alive” Buck, performed stunt work for Johnny Weissmuller in the Tarzan movies, shot and edited wildlife films, milked venomous snakes for medicine during WWII, served at the state level to better the lives of animals outside the wild, and led expeditions on four continents. Audiences ranging from school children to supreme court justices listened to the message of conservation in person across the Midwest and in Florida, at three theme parks, and on TV.
 
 Although Nancy Jane is retired, her sons  David, Executive Zoo Director, and Tim, Director of Conservation & Communications, as well as a dedicated Zoo staff have continued their vision.  In memory of the 25th anniversary, Nancy Jane is inviting everyone to share their memories and photos at www.junglelarry.com or by mailing them to Safari Jane Tetzlaff, 11216 Tamiami Trail N, Suite 207, Naples FL 34110. Nancy Jane as well as her sons look forward to personally welcoming guests at this very special ZOObilee.
 
ZOObilee and Patron Event Descriptions
 
 ZOObilee 2008 was a sellout event. Tickets are once again reasonably priced. A Patron Ticket for $250 includes both evenings or guests can enjoy just ZOObilee for only $150.  Tickets are available at the Zoo, by calling (239) 262-5409 ext 133, or online at www.napleszoo.org/zoobilee.
 
February 19 from 7 to 9 p.m.  Patron Event at Naples Luxury Imports, a premier automobile showroom on US 41 across from the Naples Beach Hotel golf course. 

Explore Naples Luxury Imports stunning new facility while mingling and enjoying a cocktail reception and passed filling hors d'oeuvres and desserts by CaterMasters. At 8 p.m. Jim Fowler and David Tetzlaff will make a special presentation followed by a fun meet and greet with both Jim and David. Festive cocktail attire is suggested for this indoor event.
 
February 20 from 7 to 11 p.m.  ZOObilee 2009 at Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens on Goodlette Rd across from Coastland Center mall. 

Amid the sounds of live musical entertainment, enter the historic garden. Meet professional keepers and their wild friends along the way to RainForest Grove where music and beverages await. Between Malayan tigers and African lions, view a wild selection of silent auction items while enjoying beverages. The Shula's Steak House menu is an encore of last year's much appreciated cuisine. Delight in a delicious, buffet dinner-by-the-bite in the company of Executive Director David Tetzlaff and additional Zoo staff. Jim Fowler will speak and will also receive the inaugural Lawrence and Nancy Jane Tetzlaff Distinguished Conservation Award during the event emceed by FOX 4 anchor Amy Sedlacek.  Naples Mayor Bill Barnett will conduct a lively auction following that presentation.   Alfresco dessert, nightcaps and dancing under the stars continue until 11 p.m. Don your favorite African-Flavored adventure attire including comfortable footwear for this outdoor event! 
 
Get Your Tickets Today! Tickets for ZOObilee 2009 are available at Naples Zoo, online at www.napleszoo.org/zoobilee or by calling (239) 262-5409 ext 133.   Naples Zoo is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization located at 1590 Goodlette-Frank Road across from the Coastland Center mall in the heart of Naples. Pursuing its mission to delight guests with the wonders of the natural world to inspire the conservation of our planet’s remaining wild areas and their wondrous inhabitants, Naples Zoo welcomes everyone to enjoy support these wonderful evenings.
 
       Tickets available online at www.napleszoo.org/zoobilee or by calling (239) 262-5409 ext 133.