I posted this update just before learning of the passing of Mr. Ginger, the youngest sloth rescued from Sloth World. His loss is heartbreaking, and it underscores exactly why the zoo needs our support right now. They fought for him with everything they had, and they continue fighting for the others still in their care.

I’ve been thinking a lot about the best way to help the Central Florida Zoo — and the sloths now in their care — in a way that actually makes a difference. And the answer became clear when I looked at what Sanford did this week.

Before the Florida Legislature even began debating whether to cut one‑third of the zoo’s funding request, Sanford had already taken action — real, tangible action.

At Monday’s meeting, Sanford commissioners debated how to support the zoo as it shoulders the enormous cost of caring for the 13 rescued sloths. Commissioner Claudia Thomas pushed for direct financial support. Vice Mayor Patrick Austin raised concerns about whether taxpayer dollars could legally go straight to the zoo.

So Mayor Art Woodruff proposed a compromise:
Use city funds to purchase zoo tickets for Sanford students.

This way:

The zoo receives financial support

The money directly benefits Sanford residents

The city avoids legal issues around direct appropriations

Commissioner Thomas contributed $1,000 from her fund.
Mayor Woodruff added $500.
Together, they covered the $1,500 needed for 82 student tickets.

Sanford didn’t wait.
Sanford didn’t hesitate.
Sanford acted.

And that inspired me to act too.

Today, I purchased 20 adult general‑admission tickets to the Central Florida Zoo.

These are full‑price, weekend‑valid tickets — money that goes straight to the zoo.

Yes, you select a date at checkout, but:

You have 365 days from the date of purchase to use them.

This is one of the best ways to support the zoo right now:

immediate revenue

no middleman

no restrictions

thank you for stepping up

Our community can support the zoo and help people expand their knowledge of conservation and the importance of accredited institutions.

I wish it were more.

I’ll be giving these tickets away throughout the different events I produce during the year — and if my meager funds can stretch further, I’ll add more. 

Because this is the most direct way to help: money straight to the zoo, no delays, no bureaucracy, no politics.

If you want to join me, you can purchase tickets directly from the zoo here:
 https://www.centralfloridazoo.org/tickets/

These tickets will make great gifts if you are struggling with the hard-to-buy-for.

If the state reduces support, the community will fill the gap — just like Sanford did.

The zoo stepped up when these animals had nowhere else to go.

Sanford stepped up next.

Now it’s our turn.

👉 Share the petition:  
https://www.change.org/p/justice-for-the-sloths-do-not-let-bandit-die-in-vain