Press Release – Corks for Conservation

From a Binder Park Zoo press release…

Corks for Conservation

Wine Tasting Event at Binder Park Zoo!

BATTLE CREEK MI, June 10, 2010— Did you know that there are more than 10 wineries located in southwest Michigan?  Come to Binder Park Zoo’s second annual Corks for Conservation wine tasting event on Friday, July 16th from 6:00pm to 10:00pm and sample some of the best wine Michigan has to offer!  Enjoy the Zoo after-hours with live music, delicious hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction, live animal presentations, and of course wine from several Michigan based wineries, all while helping conserve endangered wildlife!

The cost of attending this special event is $40 for individuals and $75 for couples.  Special VIP tickets are available for a wine tasting class hosted by Mark Reincke of Mega-Bev to be held just prior to the event at 5:30 for an additional $15 per person.

“Although hampered a bit by the weather, last year’s inaugural event was very well-received,” stated Andi Kornak, the Zoo’s Curator of Collection and event chair.  “Guests enjoyed an evening stroll through the Zoo while enjoying the atmosphere, entertainment, and of course, fantastic wines from some of Michigan’s best wineries. It really was an elegant evening and everyone had a fantastic time.”

Event guests will receive a commemorative wine glass and be able to sample wine at several different locations throughout the Zoo.  Each station will feature a different winery and a delicious hors d’oeuvre provided by participating sponsor, Panera Bread.  The participating wineries are St. Julian Winery, Black Star Farms, Hickory Creek Winery, Warner Winery, Lawton Ridge Winery, Sandhill Crane Vineyards, Sleeping Bear Winery and more. New this year is a beer station featuring Arcadia Brewing Company selections.

Proceeds from this event will go to support the many conservation efforts that the Zoo is involved in including 17 different American Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plans, piping plover conservation, Karner blue butterfly conservation, and partnerships with the International Snow Leopard Trust and the Cheetah Conservation Fund.

Participants must be over the age of 21 and able to present a valid ID upon entry.  Tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance. Tickets are available online at www.binderparkzoo.org and at the zoo office.  For more information visit the Zoo’s website or call 269-979-1351.