Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

November 21, 2012 - Jacksonville, Fl -

The animals and the guests of Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens are reacting to the changing faces of some of the male employees, who have a wild growth just above their upper lips.  After close examination by the Zoo veterinary staff, an announcement was made that an epidemic of Movember has struck for the second year in a row. 

But as it turns out—it’s a good thing….

Movember is a movement that is responsible for the sprouting of mustaches on thousands of men’s faces in the United States and around the world.  In fact, Movember seeks to increase awareness, education, survivorship and research of men’s diseases, which previously often went unaddressed.  Prostate cancer and testicular cancer are two such diseases that are quickly becoming the leading causes of the death of men worldwide. 

During the month of November each year, men grow their “mos” to raise vital awareness and funds for these men’s health issues.  Once registered at movember.com, men start on November 1 clean shaven.  For the rest of the month, these selfless and generous men, known as Mo Bros, groom, trim and wax their way into the annals of fine moustachery. Supported by the women in their lives, Mo Sistas, they raise funds by seeking out sponsorship for their Mo-growing efforts.
At the end of the month, Mo Bros and Mo Sistas celebrate their gallantry and valor by either throwing their own Movember party or attending one of their infamous Gala Parties held around the world.

“It’s great to see the dedication, passion and caring that is so obvious in our Zoo staff isn’t just about saving animals,” said Executive Director of Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, Tony Vecchio.  “The staff is so involved in the community and doing everything they can to make the world a better place. I’m very proud to have our Zoo name associated with their efforts to raise funds for this important cause.  And, while I give them my full moral and financial support, I have to admit – I’m looking forward to December 1,” Vecchio concluded. 

More than 1.9 million Mo Bros and Mo Sistas have participated in formal campaigns worldwide.  Last year was the first year that Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens participated. Led by Dino Ferri, the Jacksonville Zoo’s Curator of Herpetology, the Zoo’s Mo Team finished second overall in Jacksonville for fundraising. This year they are shooting for the top spot Citywide!

To contribute to this very important cause, visit us.movember.com. 

About the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
For nearly a century, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens has been dedicated to inspiring the discovery and appreciation of wildlife through innovative experiences in a caring environment. Started in 1914 with an animal collection that consisted of one red deer fawn, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens now has more than 1,800 rare and exotic animals. It has won national acclaim for its South American Range of the Jaguar exhibit and regional, state and local awards for its botanical gardens. The Jacksonville Zoo is a nonprofit organization and is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. It is open year-round, seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Christmas day, and is located on Jacksonville’s north side at 370 Zoo Parkway, one-half mile east from I-95.  For more information on the Zoo, log on to http://www.jacksonvillezoo.org.