Wildlife Trust's Annual International Conservation Awards Gala & Auction

Wildlife Trust Honors Virginia Busch of Anheuser-Busch and Dr. Damayanti Buchori

NEW YORK - November 10, 2006 - Last night, Wildlife Trust held its annual Conservation Awards Gala & Auction at The Lighthouse located at Chelsea Piers in New York City. Wildlife Trust (www.wildlifetrust.org) is an international conservation organization pioneering the innovative field of Conservation Medicine and is working to understand the links between ecosystems, wildlife and human health.

"Animal ambassadors," animals that have been rescued and rehabilitated by SeaWorld and Busch Gardens, greeted guests. The animal ambassadors included a kinkajou, armadillo, alligator, fox and a caracara. Guests were able to view the animals close-up and learn more about the creatures' primary habitats.

The honorary event chairmen included acclaimed singer/songwriter Art Garfunkel, philanthropist Virginia C. Mars and Lynn Sherr, well-known correspondent on ABC TV's 20/20 news show.

Wildlife Trust presented the Wildlife Trust Conservation Award, the organization's highest honor, to Virginia Busch, president of the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund for the Anheuser-Busch Companies and to Dr. Damayanti Buchori of PEKA Indonesia for her work with insect studies and conservation.

A special recognition award was presented to Martin S. Kaplan, Esq. and the law firm Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale and Dorr, LLP for their generous and unwavering support and pro bono work for Wildlife Trust.

Dr. Mary Pearl, president of Wildlife Trust and presenter of the evening's awards spoke of the importance of recognizing scientists and corporate leaders who advance environmental causes. Proceeds from the annual Gala will continue to support Wildlife Trust's work on behalf of endangered species and its pioneering work in Conservation Medicine around the world.