Help yourself and cute little golden lion tamarin monkeys at the same time at the National Zoo's 'Carnival.' Visit the Photo Place

Party for a cuddly cause

Learn to samba and support conservation of exotic animals at the same time at the National Zoo's "Carnival" celebration for young professionals

Date published: 2/16/2007

By MICHAEL ZITZ

A little monkey business at the National Zoo will benefit the zoo's Golden Lion Tamarin Conservation Program.

A social event for young professionals tomorrow night from 8 to midnight will feature professional instruction in samba dancing in a large, heated tent.

Organizers of the "Carnaval" Young Professionals Mardi Gras Celebration suggest participants dress in feathers, beads, and costumes as Friends of the National Zoo celebrates Mardi Gras Brazilian style.

Golden lion tamarins are exotic monkeys native to Brazil, said Pam Bucklinger of FONZ.

"We're working to save them in their native habitat," she said.

The event will revolve around dancing to live samba music by local band Origem.

Participants can fuel up for fancy footwork with traditional Brazilian food and drinks served by a variety of Washington-area restaurants.

Included will be up-close encounters with zoo animals and a silent auction.

Michael Zitz: 540/374-5408
Email: mikez@freelancestar.com

Tickets for the National Zoo's "Carnival" samba dancing event to benefit golden lion tamarin monkey conservation are $50 for FONZ members and $75 for nonmembers. Attendees must be at least 21 For more information, visit FONZ online at fonz.org/samba .htm or call 202/633-3026.

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Date published: 2/16/2007