Under a black velvet sky and candle lit floral paths, Save the Chimps and McKee Botanical Garden  joined together for an enchanted evening, aptly named “A Celebration of Sanctuary,” held on February 26th. Both organizations celebrated their 10-year anniversaries – the arrival of the original 21 space chimps at Save the Chimps sanctuary in Fort Pierce, Florida and the restoration of  McKee Botanical Garden, all of which took place in 2001.  Additionally, the event honored the 50th anniversary of Ham’s flight into space.

 

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Surrounded by the beauty of the garden and invigorating worldly beats performed by Key of Life Music, guests mingled and had the opportunity to meet legendary NASA Heroes Captain Robert Crippen and Colonel Al Worden. The evening also included a personalized recorded message from renowned primatologist and UN Messenger of Peace, Dr. Jane Goodall.

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Sanctuary Director Jen Feuerstein, Director of Communications Triana Romero, Captain Robert Crippen, Executive Director Philip Flynn, Board Member Sarah Haney, Veterinarian Dr. Jocelyn Bezner, Colonel Al Worden, Board Member Tracey Lovitz

 

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The evening featured a silent auction that included original paintings created by Save the Chimps’ residents along with a sunset cruise and the opportunity to “shadow” STC’s veterinarian for a day.

Thank you to all who attended, to Mr. Crippen and Mr. Worden for lending their support and being our honored guests and to the magical McKee Botanical Garden for collaborating with us and hosting a wonderful evening.

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