Project Chimps, a 236-acre property in Morganton, houses more than 200 chimps that have been retired from research. For decades, the U.S. government supported the capture and breeding of chimps for biomedical research. The practice peaked during the AIDS epidemic when more than 1,000 chimps were living in research labs across the country. Project Chimps' goal is to allow the chimps to live the remainder of their lives as they wish. Built in two phases, the cost to renovate the former Dewar Wildlife Facility is over $10 million. And in 2017, annual operating costs were $1.5 million, with more than $700,000 going toward chimp care and programs. AJC features writer Nedra Rhone spoke with Ali Crumpacker, executive director, and Mike Seres, manager of chimpanzee socialization, about their love for animals, working at the chimp sanctuary, and gaining support for the facility. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including seeing Kamasi Washington at the Buckhead Theatre.

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