Big Brother Big Sisters: Juan Lopez, a mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Essex, Hudson & Union Counties, teachers his Little Brother and mentee, Carlos Reyes, how to sink a hole in one at the Turtle Back Zoo’s Mini Golf Classic on Saturday, June 20. The first annual event raised over $100,000 to support the Zoo’s Education Center.
Big Brother Big Sisters: Juan Lopez, a mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Essex, Hudson & Union Counties, teachers his Little Brother and mentee, Carlos Reyes, how to sink a hole in one.

Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. and the Zoological Society of New Jersey today held the first annual Mini Golf Classic on June 20 to support the Essex County Turtle Back Zoo’s Education Center. The fundraiser was hosted at the Essex County miniGOLF Safari at the Essex County South Mountain Recreational Complex in West Orange, and raised over $100,000.

Grace Panzitta with parents: Four year old and first time golfer, Grace Panzitta, helps her father line up a putt at the Essex County Mini Golf Classic held on Saturday, June 20 at Turtle Back Zoo. The first annual event raised over $100,000 to support educational programs at the Zoo.
Grace Panzitta with parents: Four year old and first time golfer, Grace Panzitta, helps her father line up a putt.

The Mini Golf Classic was a family-friendly event, with several activities to entertain both children and adults. Adult and child teams competed in the mini golf tournament with awards for best scores and performances. The event also included a family carnival, live music, special contests and a raffle drawing where guests bid on the chance to name a pony, create zoo art with an animal, and various other prizes. Meanwhile, some of the Zoo’s animals also attended the event – and cheered on the humans. All proceeds will benefit the educational programs at Turtle Back Zoo.