You may not be aware, but docents and veterinary staff from our Seneca Park Zoo participate in conservation education programming in Eastern Madagascar, and raise funds for children's educational programs, sustainable rainforest villager career pathways, and community reforestation initiatives in that area. You can bolster their efforts by attending Party Madagascar on Saturday, July 31, at 6 p.m. Money raised at this 21+ event will help benefit both the people and wildlife of Madagascar.

On the zoo grounds (2222 St. Paul St.), you'll enjoy grazing stations with Malagasy-style food, games, raffles, a performance by the Ntoaso Dance Troupe, and an international marketplace with one-of-a-kind auction items. On tap will be Lemur Lager, a Vienna Lager-style Amber beer brewed specially for this event by Custom BrewCrafters. Erik Patel, whose research on lemur endangered species has been featured in Smithsonian Magazine and National Geographic, and Rachel Kramer, who has lived and worked as an environmental educator in rural Malagasy villages, will share their stories and pictures with attendees.

Tickets may be purchased in advance for $10 at the ZooShop or online at senecaparkzoo.com, or for $15 at the door. For more information, call 336-7200 or visit the site.