Page 3 - Zoo To You_Spring 2022.indd

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ZOO317 Zoo To You_Spring 2022.indd
ZOO317 Zoo To You_Spring 2022.indd
Director
RICK SCHUITEMAN
We are already a month into our 58th season, but I can’t help
refl ecting to last year and couldn’t be prouder of the incredible
achievements at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo. We had record-
breaking attendance, a huge increase in memberships, and such
generous donations. It was defi nitely an exciting year for us.
This year, while the Zoo was closed for the season, we’ve spent
a lot of time catching up on needed maintenance projects that
were delayed during the pandemic. You will certainly notice
some new bright colors at the entrance, a wonderful new Saki
and Agouti exhibit in the central part of the Zoo, and a completely
renovated interactive space entering the Indonesian Rain Forest.
We’ve added new Wild Encounters, for more opportunities for
our guests to connect with our amazing animals and there are
even a few new faces, including Charlie, our new male serval and
three baby stingrays born right here at the Zoo! I hope you have a
chance to see them on your next visit.
I’m also excited about some of our special events, later in the
season, which includes Wild Zoo Halloween and expanding our
new Holiday Market. If you didn’t get a chance to visit the Zoo in
December, mark it on your calendar for this year. The Zoo may
look di erent during the winter season, but Central Zoo will be
buzzing with holiday cheer and festivities that are sure to create
a new family tradition. That’s what’s so great about being a
member, you can come back throughout the year and experience
the Zoo during all the seasons!
I also wanted to give you a little tease! We have started to
construct our newest exhibit, Red Panda Ridge, which is a part
of our long-term strategic capital plan to renew, refresh, and
grow the Zoo in exciting ways. I’m pleased to focus on one of the
oldest areas of the Zoo and reimagine this area in a whole new
way. You’ll hear more about Red Panda Ridge in the months
to come.
And lastly, I’d like to thank all of you, our loyal members! We just
couldn’t be a world-class zoo without your help and support. I am
so grateful for all of you and your passion for our Zoo. If I haven’t
had a chance to meet you, please say “hi” the next time we are
out and about in the Zoo.
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