Some of country music’s biggest names will attend the Jack Hanna Celebrity Gala on Jan. 18, at the Georgia Aquarium Oceans Ballroom from 6-10 p.m. Proceeds will benefit the construction of the non-profit Georgia Rehabilitation of Wildlife (GROW) Hospital and Clinical Research Center, the state’s first specialized veterinary facility that provides professional medical care to wildlife that have become sick, injured or orphaned as a result of human activity. The hospital will be located in the Cochran Mill Nature Preserve in the new city of Chattahoochee Hill Country.

The event will be hosted by animal enthusiast Jack Hanna, host of TV’s Jack Hanna’s Into The Wild. Country stars attending include Clint Black, Lisa Hartman Black, Doug Stone and Mark Wills. In addition, popular new country singer Jason Coley will perform an acoustic set at the Gala.

“It’s remarkable that Jason Coley grew up just minutes from where the GROW Center will be built in south Metro Atlanta,” said GROW Executive Director Brenda Hudlow about the 20-year-old singing sensation. “His passion and love for the great outdoors makes his performance a perfect match for the Gala’s entertainment.”

Since recording his debut CD at EMI in Nashville, Coley has been voted one of the top five country artists in the nation on independent radio. From the Netherlands to Texarkana, Coley is burning up the Web, radio and TV with new hits.

“Jason showed extraordinary as a potential bright and shining country artist when he walked through my door,” said vocal coach Jan Smith of Jan Smith Studios. “His drive and determination speak volumes, but his natural ability to entertain any audience is what will ensure his success in the business.”

GROW’s specialized veterinary hospital will be built in on the property of Cochran Mill Nature Preserve off Cochran Mill Road in Chatt Hills. Wildlife specialist veterinarians on staff will determine whether incoming animals are suitable for release back into their natural habitat.

Once medical conditions are stabilized, these animals will be turned over to licensed wildlife rehabilitators throughout the state to help ensure a successful release.

The Jack Hanna Celebrity Gala will feature cocktails, dinner and live/silent auction. Tickets can be purchased online at www.thegrowcenter.org or www.georgiaaquarium.org or by calling (770) 969-5280.

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