Jazzoo is the Kansas City Zoo’s largest fundraiser and helps raise support for children’s educational programs and feeds the Zoo’s more than 1,00 animals. To say we were honored to help refurbish their exterior signage is an understatement.
Because Jazzoo is a longstanding event in the Kansas City area, we wanted to maintain the integrity of the brand and keep maintenance cost to a minimum.
Anyone who has visited or lives in the Kansas City area knows that the KC Zoo is an exciting attraction for both tourists and residents. However, with more than 1,700 animals to feed, the Zoo depends on donations to cover the cost. That’s why, in 1990, the Junior League of Kansas City, Mo founded “Jazzoo,” to support the mission.
Jazzoo celebrates each year with a large party that includes more than 70 eateries and bars and five stages for live musical performances. Guests who attend enjoy a fun night while supporting the animals in the KC Zoo’s care.
In an effort to honor Jazoo supporters, the KC Zoo erected a Donor Sign that is updated as new donors come on board. The sign was in need of refurbishing!
Structurally, the overall sign was in decent shape. However, outdoor elements allowed for warping to the wooden planks. In addition, the letters were beginning to buckle and break. Fortunately, our expert team at Forerunner Signs & Graphics are professionals in signage repairs and restoration – and we were contacted just in time.
We started this project by making a couple of changes to the overall design that would benefit the zoo for years to come. Next, we disassembled the sign by removing the planks from its cabinet and utilizing any elements of the old sign to help minimize cost.
We chose cedar for the new planks; it is a softwood that is great for color and does well for exterior projects just like this one!
The new lumber was run through the planner. Next it was stained and treated for the natural elements outdoors. With some quick measurements, we then created a template for placement of the letters to be done once the planks have had a chance to cure properly.
Simultaneously, we produced a new dimensional star with flamed polished edges and prepared new cut graphics with 3M Vinyls for the past and present honorees.
Once all of the elements of the sign were ready, we pieced everything back together. We started by mounting the dimensional letters back on the planks. We completed the project by reassembling the sign on site.
Make it a point to visit the KC Zoo and supporting Jazzoo. When you’re there, stop by their new sign and pay homage to the generous supporters of their mission.
If you have signage that is in need of repair or refurbishing, contact the expert team at Forerunner Signs & Graphics!
