SlideShare a Scribd company logo
1 of 11
Download to read offline
A        P Z  PPG A | J 
Northern Elephant
Seal Rescue
Zoo Gala!
Donor Spotlight
96 Elephants
PPG Aquarium
Notes from the Field
Fashion for the Wild
Galapagos Tortoises Arrive
Grow Wild Society
ICC/Zoo Credit Card
pittsburghzoo.org
Development
Department
Janet Rose
Senior Director of Development
412-365-2540
jrose@pittsburghzoo.org
Lori Elder
Membership Manager
412-365-2534
lelder@pittsburghzoo.org
Amy O’Neill
Foundation and Grants
Coordinator
412-365-2543
aoneill@pittsburghzoo.org
Rachel Kisic
Development Coordinator
412-365-2541
rkisic@pittsburghzoo.org
Yasmeen Hatcher
Development Assistant
412-365-2542
yhatcher@pittsburghzoo.org
Emily Beyer
Special Events Assistant
412-365-2503
ebeyer@pittsburghzoo.org
Richard Kalson
Chair, Board of Directors
Dr. Barbara Baker
President & CEO
In compiling this report, the
development office has made every
attempt to ensure that the information
is accurate, complete, and all
contributions are listed accurately.
If there are omissions, misspellings, or
other errors, please report them to the
development office at 412-365-2541
and please accept our apologies.
2 3
Coolio the Northern elephant seal has arrived. Flown from
California to Pittsburgh, and then transported by truck from the
airport to the Zoo, this almost 500 pound elephant seal is now
adjusting to his new life at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium.
Although he will not be on exhibit until next year, Coolio is still
in quarantine and being is medically assessed by our veterinary
staff. With every passing day, as Coolio acclimates to his new life,
he will undergo extensive rehabilitation and training that will help
the animal staff to understand his needs while he builds his trust
in their care and attention.
A Northern elephant seal has not been seen at a zoo or aquarium
in North America in more than 40 years. Coolio is a special case
however, that exemplifies the mission of the Pittsburgh Zoo &
PPG Aquarium. Wildlife conservation, animal care, research, and
science are all critical components of the Zoo’s work. Coolio was
born in the wild and found stranded on a beach. A local marine
mammal rescue group in northern California took him in and
began a rehabilitation effort in the hope that he could survive.
Coolio is not an endangered species but a unique and fascinating
animal. When he reaches adulthood, his weight is expected to
reach between 4,000 and 5,000 pounds. Not many institutions
could house and feed such an animal. When the call went out
for someone to take him, the staff of the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG
Aquarium, after much analysis and consideration, responded
to help. It was an opportunity to make a difference and bring
something unique and wonderful to the Zoo.
Northern Elephant
Seal Rescue 2014
Janet Rose, senior director of development
Coolio is on the mend– learning,
acclimating, and getting used to
the sounds and smells around him.
4 5
Now this once stranded animal has a chance at
a new life and a new home at the Water’s Edge
holding area at the Pittsburgh Zoo &
PPG Aquarium. While it is not known why or
how he became stranded on the California coast,
at the time of his rescue he weighed a mere 120
pounds. Tragically, as he lay starving and unable
to move, the injuries that he sustained led to
blindness. This made his eventual release back
into the wild impossible. A blind seal in the wild
would never survive.
This young elephant seal’s current weight is close
to 500 pounds and he is growing quickly. He could
reach over 1000 pounds by this time next year. The
next goal and challenge is raising approximately
$15,000 to bring in a marine mammal eye specialist
to examine Coolio’s eyes and consider whether
restoration of any eyesight might be possible.
At this point in time however, our highly trained
veterinary staff here at the Zoo is monitoring
Coolio and working to fully assess him. Currently,
it is uncertain whether Coolio is completely blind
or some restoration of sight might be possible.
The Zoo’s own veterinary staff, led by Dr. Ginger
Sturgeon, has noticed some indications that
Coolio might have limited eyesight or it might be
possible to restore limited sight. Only time and
ongoing specialized examinations will tell for sure.
In the meantime, Coolio is on the mend, learning,
acclimating, and getting used to the sounds and
smells around him. He is learning to recognize his
keepers, using his senses other than eyesight. and
beginning to feel his way around his environment.
The rescue effort and new life for Coolio are
historic. This remarkable story will enable marine
mammal experts an opportunity to observe,
conduct research, train, and expand their scientific
understanding of this species. Eventually, it is our
hope that Coolio will become a regular part of
the Zoo experience. This incredible journey from
California to the Zoo was partially underwritten
by Dr. Terence & Mrs. Kim Krysinski of the Vien
Institute of Pittsburgh who donated funding for
Coolio’s trip.
If you are interested in helping to support Coolio
through his care, feeding, ophthalmic exam, and
veterinary treatment, please contact the Zoo’s
Development Department by calling 412-365-2540
or by email at donate@pittsburghzoo.org.
Pittsburgh’s Wildest
Gala is Coming Up
Friday, June 13
Tickets are going fast, so get
yours now!
Elegance and excitement collide at
Imagination Untamed, the Gala of the
Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium,
on Friday, June 13. Be dazzled by delicious,
delectable delights provided by Pittsburgh’s
finest restaurants, indulge in luscious
libations, and see stripes, spots and enjoy
all kinds of wild encounters as you wander
through throughout the Zoo.
Unleash your inner animal with heart-
pumping entertainment, all against the
wildest backdrop in the city. This non-stop
black-tie event, begins at 7:00 p.m. and
continues until 11:30 in the evening.
PNC is the presenting sponsor of the 2014
Zoo Gala, Imagination Untamed.
Please visit http://pghzoo.me/1d2KY0K for
more information or to get your tickets today.
If you have any questions or would like to
order your tickets by phone, call us at
412-365-2541.
$50,000 and above
PNC Bank
PPG Industries
PPG Industries Foundation
$25,000 to 49,999
Carolyn & James Bouchard
Vein Institute of Pittsburgh
$5,000 to 9,999
Nancy & Maurice Nernberg
Patsy & Don McKinney
Sandra & Henry* Mordoh
$2,500 to 4,999
Robert Kozel
Jennifer & Michael* LaRocco
Rita* & Robert Randall
$1,000 to 2,499
Barbara* & Dayton Baker
Susan & David Brownlee
Mary & Dave DeFide
Judi & Gary Diven
Colette* & John Dugan
Sharon & Jeffrey Evans
Anna & J. W. Futrell
Judy & George Grune
Darlene & Andrew* Hasley
Michele & Robert Howland
Stephanie Schneck-Jacob &
Timothy Jacob
Peggy* & Steve McKnight
Shirley & H. W. Olander
Cynthia & Todd Shaffer
Belinda & Mike Terzich
Tracey & Carey Vinson
$500 to 999
Valentina & John Barsom
Gail & H. W. Doring
June & Hans Jonas
Nan & David* Newell
Sara* & David Scaife
Susan Weigold &
Robert Butella
$100 to 499
Christine & Patrick Osborne
Nancy & Bernard Picchi
Donna & James Hudson
Phyllis & Mark Hoge
Amshel Charitable
Foundation
Alison & Timothy Gray
Melissa & David Survinski
Paula & John Lockhart
Mary & John DeGeorge
Patricia & James Cairns
Paula & Francis Gesselberty
Ellen & Thomas Smith
Mary & Henry Snyder
Jack & Jean Ann Jones Fund of
the Pittsburgh Foundation
Robin Ziegler &
Clifford Chen
Maureen & David McBride
Laura & Don Albensi
Susan & Timothy Vismor
Joanne & William* Fallon
Stephanie & David Briggs
Denise Letcher &
Joseph McDonough
Barbara & David Burstin
Danyele & Craig Bernick
Shirley & David Fleming
David Lilienthal
Catherine & Donald* Rhoten
Linda & Donald Ewing
Judy & Glenn Gates
Irwin Dobrushin
Roberta & John Mather
Lisa Conard & Mare Ivrich
Carol & Michael Azar
Perri & Thomas Schelat
Mary & Raymond Tomasello
Claudia & Raymond Steeb
Sue & Wayne Sloan
Mary Lang &
Thomas Cummings
Mary & Timothy Ottie
*Indicates board member
Please be aware that we
have recently transitioned
to a new database in order
to better serve our supporters.
While we make every attempt
to accurately recognize the
generous support of our
donors, some data
inconsistencies may have
occurred in our transition.
If you notice an error, please
contact the Development
department by calling
412-365-2541
or by email at
donations@pittsburghzoo.org.
Thank you for your
understanding.
2014 Individual Donors
(Annual gifts received from January 1, 2014 – April 30, 2014)
The Value of
Annual Giving
Annual giving is vital to
the successful operation of
the Pittsburgh Zoo and
PPG Aquarium. Membership
and ticket sales alone do
not cover the cost of all that
we offer in sustaining our
mission. Annual giving helps
to fill this gap. Contributing
to the Zoo plays an important
role in providing care for
our animals, supporting our
educational programs, and
aiding in our on-site and
international conservation
efforts. Thank you to the
individuals on the following
pages for being a part of our
donor family.
4 5
6 7
We have two very different types of donors to highlight, because
each supports the mission of the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium
in different yet vital ways. Giving or donating to the mission of the
Zoo is always very personal, but the act of giving and the resources
provided by that generosity really make a difference.
Donor Spotlight: The Vein Institute,
Dr. Terence Krysinski
As a member of the Zoo’s Grow Wild Society, Terry Krysinski
is not new to the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium. As his
involvement has grown, so has his support for many important Zoo
projects. As founder of Pittsburgh’s Vein Institute and the Laser
Center, Dr. Krysinski has created a huge following of passionate
animal lovers who work with him and follow the Zoo’s efforts with
interest and a deep and abiding commitment to conservation. He
supports special events too, such as the Zoo Gala with sponsorship.
When Dr. Krysinski heard about the Zoo’s efforts to bring zebras
back and received the appeal for funding to not only acquire
zebras, but to also provide a new shelter area, he stepped up. His
$25,000 donation helps to underwrite much of the acquisition and
shelter reconstruction. While additional funds are still needed to
complete the zebra project, Dr. Krysinski’s generous contribution
was significant. His support did not stop at zebras however.
Shortly after, the Zoo sent out an appeal for help with a wildlife
rescue effort of a Northern elephant seal and Dr. Krysinki offered
to help again. Transporting the elephant seal from California to
Donor Spotlight
Pittsburgh along with specially trained Zoo staff is not a small
undertaking. The estimated cost of the trip was $20,000 and Dr.
Krysinki donated fifty percent of that.
As the needs of the Zoo grow with exhibiting different and
important animals, and as Dr. Krysinki’s passion for all things
wildlife become centered on the efforts of the Zoo, so does his
support. This is the mission of the Grow Wild Society; a group of
people who believe so passionately in the mission of the Zoo that
they continually expand their support of the Zoo. In turn, he
became more intimately involved and engaged with the
Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium.
Thank you again to Dr. Terence Krysinski and the Vein Institute
and Laser Center of Pittsburgh.
Donor Spotlight II: Images by Antonia
Antonia Wolf is an award-winning artist, an international
photographer, silk scarf, and jewelry designer. Her work features
wildlife and her goal is to support wildlife conservation, especially
conservation of elephants, through the sale and exhibits of her
photography, hand-screened scarves, and jewelry. Antonia’s jewelry
is made from local materials that she finds in the countries she
visits. Images by Antonia has been featured in many magazines,
including the New York Times Magazine. Her scarf and jewelry
pieces adorn women all over the world. Many are also in private
collections and international exhibits. Each a work of art, her
pieces typically feature an endangered species, such as the cheetah,
African elephant, zebra, or giraffe. Some pieces also feature
flowers, hearts or saints. Her prices for photographs, scarves, and
jewelry range from under $100 to $500+. Every piece is unique
and beautiful with its own story to tell. Pictured here are a few of
her pieces, with a percentage of proceeds going to support wildlife
conservation.
Give the Gift
that Keeps
on Giving:
A Pittsburgh Zoo
& PPG Aquarium
Membership
A Zoo Membership is
a passport to family fun
and adventure. Treat
somebody you love to a gift
Membership. It includes 12
months of unlimited free
admission to the Pittsburgh
Zoo & PPG Aquarium,
free parking, discounted
admission to 130 other zoos,
education and program
discounts, exclusive access to
events, and much more.
Click here for more
information.
“I try to create jewelry
that captures at once the
passion of stones and
the fate of endangered
animals. Creating
unusual pieces in the
quiet of my studio is
peaceful work.”
–Antonia Wolf
8 9
Meet Stanley, Pittsburgh Zoo &
PPG Aquarium’s New Octopus
BNY Mellon, the corporate sponsor
of the Zoo’s new octopus exhibit,
helped to name one of the newest
residents of the PPG Aquarium.
PPG Aquarium staff suggested
four possible names and the
BNY Mellon staff got to vote
on their favorite.
With contest votes counted, the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium
has named its new baby giant Pacific octopus Stanley. Thank you
to BNY Mellon employees who contributed their votes to make
the selection. Stanley went on public display in early April and
seems to be enjoying his new home. This popular PPG Aquarium
resident supports the Zoo’s overall mission to foster positive,
lifelong connections between animals and people. BNY Mellon is
proud to be a sponsor of this mission and to provide its Pittsburgh
employees and their families with enhanced opportunities to make
those connections.
New Conservation Collaborations
with Far Reaching Potential
The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium has a truly international
reach with its coral conservation efforts and the outreach just
continues to grow. Over the past two years, Zoo staff members
PPG Aquarium
Notes from the Field
Paul Selvaggio, Director of
Creative Services, and Bob
Snowden, Marine Aquarist,
were on the road and on
site for the first SECORE
Foundation workshop in
Mexico in collaboration with
Universidad Nacional Autonoma
de Mexico (UNAM), Parque
Xcaret, Comision Nacional De
Areas Naturales Protegidas
(CONANP), and the Instituto
Nacional de Pesca. The group observed and collected reproductive
spawn from three different coral species in Mexico: the endangered
elkhorn coral, Acropora palmata, star coral, Montastraea (Orbicella)
faveolata, and the grooved brain coral, Diploria labyrinthiformis.
Once the spawn was collected, the group fertilized the egg/sperm
bundles, known as gametes, and settled the larvae onto specially
made tiles. Once the corals are settled, they will be used for
restoration efforts and research.
The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium is taking a leading role
in this conservation effort and this important coral work is made
possible through the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium’s Coral
Conservation Fund. This new exhibit, Coral Conservation, has
been installed near the entrance of the PPG Aquarium and features
coral collected during one of the conservation trips to the Florida
Keys. This new exhibit has been made possible with the support
from the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation. If you would
like to learn more about these efforts or how to support future coral
conservation projects,
please visit the donate
page at pittsburghzoo.
org or contact our
development staff.
You can
donate to the
Pittsburgh
Zoo & PPG
Aquarium
with just one click of a button
By supporting the Zoo, you
help save wildlife and wild
places. Gifts to the Pittsburgh
Zoo & PPG Aquarium
help us fulfill our mission
to be a leader in zoological
conservation, education, and
research, while providing
the region with exceptional
exhibitry and unique
family-centered recreation.
Visit our website for a fast,
convienient, and secure way
to support the Pittsburgh
Zoo & PPG Aquarium at
pittsburghzoo.org/donate.
Quote Here
10 11
Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, Zoo Board Members and
staff, and representatives from the community. Special appearances
by Rianna, a prehensile tailed porcupine, and Squeeze, a boa
constrictor, capped off the evening in grand fashion. More
than $40,000 was raised in support of wildlife conservation,
conservation education, and special projects at the Pittsburgh Zoo
& PPG Aquarium.
If you missed the show, you can still get a glimpse of the
evening with this video recap: http://vimeo.com/rpskk/
fashionforthewildrecap.
It was fashion gone wild, or officially Fashion for
the Wild, and the night lived up to its name.
On April 3, a sold-out crowd gathered in the
PPG Aquarium with emcees WTAE anchor
Sally Wiggin and film and television actor,
David Conrad to celebrate fashion and support
a wonderful cause, the Zoo!
Guests sipped signature Zootini cocktails and
shopped from specialty vendors while designs
from Kiya Tomlin, Andrea Howell, Lana
Neumeyer, Sandra Cadavid, Jazmin Jackson,
Beth Shari, Lexi and Nancy Smith, and Kimberly
Wilson graced the runway. Guest models included
Dr. Barbara Baker, President & CEO of the
Fashion for the Wild
Presented by BNY Mellon
More than $40,000 was raised in support
of wildlife conservation, conservation
education, and special projects
Give a bear for a birthday,
a tiger to your team, or
a howler monkey for the
holidays. Adopting an
animal is a great gift for any
occasion. When you adopt,
your gift helps provide for the
care, feeding, and enrichment
of Pittsburgh Zoo &
PPG Aquarium animals.
All resident animals are
available for adoption with
packages ranging from $30
to $500 per year, depending
on the benefits you choose.
Visit our website at
pittsburghzoo.org for special
adoption packages. Please call
412-365-2542 to learn more
about this rewarding gift idea.
12 13
Key Dates for
Membership &
Development
June 11 – August 13
12-2pm
Wild Wednesdays
June 14-22
11am-3pm
Eat’n Park Family Week
June 13
7-11:30pm
Zoo Gala: Imagination
Untamed Presented by PNC
June 15
11am-3pm
Father’s Day Celebration
Sponsored by First
Commonwealth Bank
June 24
6:30-9pm
Members Night
Key Dates for
Membership &
Development
continued
July 12
11am – 3pm
Macy’s Baby Day
July 20
11am-3pm
PPG Festival of Color
July 23
6:30-9pm
Members Night
July 25
6:30-11pm
Summer Safari: Unmask
the Wild Presented by BNY
Mellon
August 21
6:30-9pm
Members Night
Don’t just make a purchase; make a difference
for endangered species!
We are excited to announce the launch of the Pittsburgh Zoo
& PPG Aquarium and International Conservation Center
Credit Card. Now, your everyday purchases can support wildlife
conservation and the protection of endangered species. 1% of each
card transaction will be donated to the Pittsburgh Zoo &
PPG Aquarium, with a special focus on support for the work of the
Zoo’s International Conservation Center (ICC) in Somerset, PA.
The ICC is North America’s premier conservation, research,
education, and training facility, specializing in the care and
breeding of African Elephants. “All of Somerset County is honored
to have the ICC located here,” says G. Henry Cook, Somerset
Trust Company President and CEO. “Somerset Trust is a proud
supporter of the Pittsburgh Zoo. By actively using this credit card,
people will be contributing to the Zoo and its mission too.
Every time the card is used to make a purchase, the Zoo will
benefit.” To apply for the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium
and International Conservation Center Credit Card, visit www.
pittsburghzoocard.com
The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium and International
Conservation Center Credit Card is provided through the
Somerset Trust Company.
Pittsburgh Zoo
& PPG Aquarium
and International
Conservation Center
Credit Card
!"#$%
%%%&'$%("&$%
There is always a need for help to support the care,
feeding, training and management of our animals
here at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium.
If you would like to help with any of the following
projects, any level of support is always very
worthwhile and much appreciated. By supporting
these projects, you really can make a real difference.
!"#$%&'(")*"$&%+,&#%$+-&./01000&&.2/1000
34$%55"&5"",4+6&7)%*58$9-&.:/1000
;"<&%'7(%)*&58$&*("&64$%55"&$=+<%>-&.:1/00
?($""@>"%$&A8$%)&A8+'"$B%*48+&4+4*4%*4B"-&.CD1/00
;8$*("$+&")"7(%+*&'"%)&87(*(%)94A&'7"A4%)4'*-&
.C/1000
E(""*%(&)=$"&$%A4+6&A8=$'"-&./1000&
E(""*%(&"F(4#4*&$"+8B%*48+-&./01000&&.2/1000
To support or donate, please contact
the Development Department by
calling 412-365-2540 or, email at
donate@pittsburghzoo.org
and adventure. Treat
somebody you love to a gift
Membership. It includes
12 months of unlimited free
admission to the Pittsburgh
Zoo & PPG Aquarium,
free parking, discounted
admission to 130 other zoos,
education and program
discounts, exclusive access to
events, and much more.
Click here for more
information.
it’s just business as usual.
First, in order to stand up,
they have to use their short,
powerful front legs to push
their bodies up and then
the back legs to thrust their
bodies forward. Their feet are
turned inward to maintain
balance, so of course they
move at a snail’s pace with a
lumbering side-to-side walk.
When it comes to their love life and mating, males will square off
for the right to mate with a female by standing tall, facing each
other with their mouths wide open, and stretching their necks as
high as possible. The highest head and neck wins and the loser
waddles off to find another female.
An endangered species, there are only about 20,000 Galapagos
tortoises left in the wild. This is the result of poaching, loss
of habitat and the introduction of domestic animals to the
Galápagos Islands, such
as goats, pigs, and cattle,
which destroy tortoise
nests and prey on the
tortoise eggs and young.
Active conservation efforts
are underway however,
working to build up and
protect the remaining
populations.
We hope you’ll stop by
soon and catch a glimpse of our young ones. They’ll be hard to
miss, moving slowly, and soaking up the sun whenever possible.
4 5
The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium’s two
newest residents are taking life slow and easy
in their new home at the Zoo. The Galápagos
tortoises have arrived and they’re in no rush to
do anything but eat, sleep and just kind of stand
around. The species with the greatest longevity
of any vertebrate, our two new tortoises, are still
youngsters at the ripe young age of 20-something.
On average, tortoises live to be approximately 100
years old with the oldest tortoise ever recorded
reaching over 170. In terms of size, males are larger
than females, and will reach at least 500 pounds.
Not too surprisingly, if you have ever watched
tortoises moving about, they tend to do it very
slowly, spending their days lying down, basking
in the sun, munching on grass and leaves, and
napping or wallowing in mud puddles. In the
wild, tortoises will typically eat plants, grasses,
and pear cactus, but at the Zoo, our tortoises will
dine on timothy hay and enjoy a small amount of
grain and produce.
The brunt of many a joke, when tortoises move, it
appears to be a gigantic effort but for the animal,
Gentle Giants Crawl Slowly
into Their New Home
The Galápagos tortoises
have arrived!
Behind-the-scenes
animal encounters,
a Grow Wild Society
experience.
96 elephants are killed every day just for the ivory. “That is a
staggering and frightening number” says Dr. Barbara Baker,
President & CEO of the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium.
“This means that within ten years one of the world’s most majestic
and well-known animals could be extinct. We cannot stand by and
allow this to happen. We all need to take action today to stop the
illegal ivory trade and end this crisis.”
This is why the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, a leader in
conservation of African elephants, is proud to support the Wildlife
Conservation Society’s 96 Elephants Campaign. The campaign is
named for the average number of elephants killed throughout the
world every day. Compare that to the number of elephants living
in AZA-accredited zoos; currently there are 166 African elephants
and 142 Asian elephants in zoos within the United States. That
means that in just four days, there are more elephants killed
worldwide than there are elephants living in our zoos.
The 96 Elephants Campaign is working to secure a moratorium
on illegal ivory sales and to reinforce the protection of all
elephants. This organization provides supporters with information
about the link between the elephant poaching crisis and the
consumption of ivory, and the resources to make a difference.
In addition to the U.S. ban on ivory, the 96 Elephants Campaign
is working to supply more park rangers to protect elephants in
the wild. They also participate in the development of intelligence
networks and government operations in the Congo Basin and East
Africa, which are the last protected areas for elephants.
96 elephants
Let your voice be heard. Contact your state Senators and members
of Congress and tell them you want to ban the sale of ivory and
ivory products throughout the United States. Go online and sign
the petition at 96elephants.org.
Coming together as one voice sends a powerful message. We can
make a difference.
Grow Wild Society
A Great Reason to Join!
Members of the Grow Wild Society are more than just donors, they
are conservators. For this exclusive group, protecting wildlife and
promoting conservation and education is a hands-on experience.
From behind-the-scenes animal encounters, to members-only
events with Zoo veterinarians, curators and keepers; special
lectures, dinners and other events; plus complimentary family
Zoo memberships, the Grow Wild Society is an experience like
none other.
“Joining the Grow Wild Society is a legacy gift to your children
and grandchildren,” says Society member Patrick Loughney.
“Introduce your family to the animal kingdom and ensure a world
class zoo for future generations. Thank you!”
Start your family tradition today with a gift of $1,000 or more
to the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium. Learn more at
pittsburghzoo.org/Donate/GrowWildSociety. For questions, please
contact our Development Coordinator, Rachel Kisic by calling
412-365-2541 or rkisic@pittsburghzoo.org.
4 5
One Wild Place
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
412-665-3640
Zoo Connections is
a newsletter for the
valued supporters of
the Pittsburgh Zoo
& PPG Aquarium.
pittsburghzoo.org
A        P Z  PPG A | J 

More Related Content

What's hot

athletics_department_portfolio
athletics_department_portfolioathletics_department_portfolio
athletics_department_portfolio
Leah Beutler
 
Media Kit Sample
Media Kit SampleMedia Kit Sample
Media Kit Sample
Chloe Joyce
 
Media Advisory and News Release SNS
Media Advisory and News Release SNSMedia Advisory and News Release SNS
Media Advisory and News Release SNS
Joe Prior
 
Frsa flash 31 may 2012
Frsa flash 31 may 2012Frsa flash 31 may 2012
Frsa flash 31 may 2012
2bstbfrsa
 

What's hot (20)

Jun 15, Activities and Events in Maine June 2015
Jun 15, Activities and Events in Maine June 2015Jun 15, Activities and Events in Maine June 2015
Jun 15, Activities and Events in Maine June 2015
 
athletics_department_portfolio
athletics_department_portfolioathletics_department_portfolio
athletics_department_portfolio
 
17 dec
17 dec17 dec
17 dec
 
United Way of the Florida Keys - Agencies We Support
United Way of the Florida Keys - Agencies We SupportUnited Way of the Florida Keys - Agencies We Support
United Way of the Florida Keys - Agencies We Support
 
Media Kit Sample
Media Kit SampleMedia Kit Sample
Media Kit Sample
 
4 jan
4 jan4 jan
4 jan
 
Announcements February 10, 2016
Announcements February 10, 2016Announcements February 10, 2016
Announcements February 10, 2016
 
23 nov
23 nov23 nov
23 nov
 
Media Advisory and News Release SNS
Media Advisory and News Release SNSMedia Advisory and News Release SNS
Media Advisory and News Release SNS
 
Harvest Breakfast Visual Ad Presentation 2015
Harvest Breakfast Visual Ad Presentation 2015Harvest Breakfast Visual Ad Presentation 2015
Harvest Breakfast Visual Ad Presentation 2015
 
Mar 4
Mar 4Mar 4
Mar 4
 
Frsa flash 31 may 2012
Frsa flash 31 may 2012Frsa flash 31 may 2012
Frsa flash 31 may 2012
 
May 28
May 28May 28
May 28
 
July mag
July magJuly mag
July mag
 
2013 holy trinitiy wine fest
2013 holy trinitiy wine fest2013 holy trinitiy wine fest
2013 holy trinitiy wine fest
 
CMW - OctNov14
CMW - OctNov14CMW - OctNov14
CMW - OctNov14
 
07-21-13
07-21-1307-21-13
07-21-13
 
09-15-13
09-15-1309-15-13
09-15-13
 
10 dec
10 dec10 dec
10 dec
 
Touchmark on Saddle Drive - September 2014 Newsletter
Touchmark on Saddle Drive - September 2014 NewsletterTouchmark on Saddle Drive - September 2014 Newsletter
Touchmark on Saddle Drive - September 2014 Newsletter
 

Viewers also liked (7)

IBM
IBMIBM
IBM
 
Ugandan UK Convention 2011 report
Ugandan UK Convention 2011 reportUgandan UK Convention 2011 report
Ugandan UK Convention 2011 report
 
De La Soul in Time Out New York
De La Soul in Time Out New YorkDe La Soul in Time Out New York
De La Soul in Time Out New York
 
Andrew Jackson
Andrew JacksonAndrew Jackson
Andrew Jackson
 
Verizon rp pci report-2015-en_xg
Verizon rp pci report-2015-en_xgVerizon rp pci report-2015-en_xg
Verizon rp pci report-2015-en_xg
 
33d Infantry Brigade XCTC
33d Infantry Brigade XCTC 33d Infantry Brigade XCTC
33d Infantry Brigade XCTC
 
The Six Highest Performing B2B Blog Post Formats
The Six Highest Performing B2B Blog Post FormatsThe Six Highest Performing B2B Blog Post Formats
The Six Highest Performing B2B Blog Post Formats
 

Similar to Zoo Connections - Conservation in Action

Dickerson park zoo_media_kit
Dickerson park zoo_media_kitDickerson park zoo_media_kit
Dickerson park zoo_media_kit
Blake Miller
 
My film Blackfish plunged Seaworld into crisis – but it’s .docx
My film Blackfish plunged Seaworld into crisis – but it’s .docxMy film Blackfish plunged Seaworld into crisis – but it’s .docx
My film Blackfish plunged Seaworld into crisis – but it’s .docx
rosemarybdodson23141
 
Georgia Aquarium Writing Samples Annual Report 2013 _ Stephanie L Johnson
Georgia Aquarium Writing Samples Annual Report 2013 _ Stephanie L JohnsonGeorgia Aquarium Writing Samples Annual Report 2013 _ Stephanie L Johnson
Georgia Aquarium Writing Samples Annual Report 2013 _ Stephanie L Johnson
Stephanie L.A. Johnson
 
Presencia Animal Plan 100 English
Presencia Animal Plan 100 EnglishPresencia Animal Plan 100 English
Presencia Animal Plan 100 English
Ulrick Noel
 

Similar to Zoo Connections - Conservation in Action (20)

Potter Park Zoo - Zoo Tales magazine - fall '15 issue
Potter Park Zoo - Zoo Tales magazine - fall '15 issuePotter Park Zoo - Zoo Tales magazine - fall '15 issue
Potter Park Zoo - Zoo Tales magazine - fall '15 issue
 
Potter Park Zoo - Zoo Tales magazine - winter '15 issue
Potter Park Zoo - Zoo Tales magazine - winter '15 issuePotter Park Zoo - Zoo Tales magazine - winter '15 issue
Potter Park Zoo - Zoo Tales magazine - winter '15 issue
 
WinterAlive05
WinterAlive05WinterAlive05
WinterAlive05
 
Miller blake.presskit 5.7.14
Miller blake.presskit 5.7.14Miller blake.presskit 5.7.14
Miller blake.presskit 5.7.14
 
Dickerson park zoo_media_kit
Dickerson park zoo_media_kitDickerson park zoo_media_kit
Dickerson park zoo_media_kit
 
Sep 2005 Santa Barbara Audubon
Sep 2005 Santa Barbara AudubonSep 2005 Santa Barbara Audubon
Sep 2005 Santa Barbara Audubon
 
ZooTales_Spring15
ZooTales_Spring15ZooTales_Spring15
ZooTales_Spring15
 
Jul 2007 Santa Barbara Audubon
Jul 2007 Santa Barbara AudubonJul 2007 Santa Barbara Audubon
Jul 2007 Santa Barbara Audubon
 
My film Blackfish plunged Seaworld into crisis – but it’s .docx
My film Blackfish plunged Seaworld into crisis – but it’s .docxMy film Blackfish plunged Seaworld into crisis – but it’s .docx
My film Blackfish plunged Seaworld into crisis – but it’s .docx
 
Sep 2008 Santa Barbara Audubon
Sep 2008 Santa Barbara AudubonSep 2008 Santa Barbara Audubon
Sep 2008 Santa Barbara Audubon
 
Georgia Aquarium Writing Samples Annual Report 2013 _ Stephanie L Johnson
Georgia Aquarium Writing Samples Annual Report 2013 _ Stephanie L JohnsonGeorgia Aquarium Writing Samples Annual Report 2013 _ Stephanie L Johnson
Georgia Aquarium Writing Samples Annual Report 2013 _ Stephanie L Johnson
 
DAKTARI Newsletter Q1 2015
DAKTARI Newsletter Q1 2015 DAKTARI Newsletter Q1 2015
DAKTARI Newsletter Q1 2015
 
Nov 2008 Santa Barbara Audubon
Nov 2008 Santa Barbara AudubonNov 2008 Santa Barbara Audubon
Nov 2008 Santa Barbara Audubon
 
Jan 2008 Santa Barbara Audubon
Jan 2008 Santa Barbara AudubonJan 2008 Santa Barbara Audubon
Jan 2008 Santa Barbara Audubon
 
Media Advisory
Media AdvisoryMedia Advisory
Media Advisory
 
Jul 2006 Santa Barbara Audubon
Jul 2006 Santa Barbara AudubonJul 2006 Santa Barbara Audubon
Jul 2006 Santa Barbara Audubon
 
2014 Annual Report
2014 Annual Report2014 Annual Report
2014 Annual Report
 
2020 World Help Gift Catalog
2020 World Help Gift Catalog2020 World Help Gift Catalog
2020 World Help Gift Catalog
 
Daktari Newsletter July - August 2011
Daktari Newsletter July - August 2011Daktari Newsletter July - August 2011
Daktari Newsletter July - August 2011
 
Presencia Animal Plan 100 English
Presencia Animal Plan 100 EnglishPresencia Animal Plan 100 English
Presencia Animal Plan 100 English
 

Zoo Connections - Conservation in Action

  • 1. A        P Z  PPG A | J  Northern Elephant Seal Rescue Zoo Gala! Donor Spotlight 96 Elephants PPG Aquarium Notes from the Field Fashion for the Wild Galapagos Tortoises Arrive Grow Wild Society ICC/Zoo Credit Card pittsburghzoo.org
  • 2. Development Department Janet Rose Senior Director of Development 412-365-2540 jrose@pittsburghzoo.org Lori Elder Membership Manager 412-365-2534 lelder@pittsburghzoo.org Amy O’Neill Foundation and Grants Coordinator 412-365-2543 aoneill@pittsburghzoo.org Rachel Kisic Development Coordinator 412-365-2541 rkisic@pittsburghzoo.org Yasmeen Hatcher Development Assistant 412-365-2542 yhatcher@pittsburghzoo.org Emily Beyer Special Events Assistant 412-365-2503 ebeyer@pittsburghzoo.org Richard Kalson Chair, Board of Directors Dr. Barbara Baker President & CEO In compiling this report, the development office has made every attempt to ensure that the information is accurate, complete, and all contributions are listed accurately. If there are omissions, misspellings, or other errors, please report them to the development office at 412-365-2541 and please accept our apologies. 2 3 Coolio the Northern elephant seal has arrived. Flown from California to Pittsburgh, and then transported by truck from the airport to the Zoo, this almost 500 pound elephant seal is now adjusting to his new life at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium. Although he will not be on exhibit until next year, Coolio is still in quarantine and being is medically assessed by our veterinary staff. With every passing day, as Coolio acclimates to his new life, he will undergo extensive rehabilitation and training that will help the animal staff to understand his needs while he builds his trust in their care and attention. A Northern elephant seal has not been seen at a zoo or aquarium in North America in more than 40 years. Coolio is a special case however, that exemplifies the mission of the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium. Wildlife conservation, animal care, research, and science are all critical components of the Zoo’s work. Coolio was born in the wild and found stranded on a beach. A local marine mammal rescue group in northern California took him in and began a rehabilitation effort in the hope that he could survive. Coolio is not an endangered species but a unique and fascinating animal. When he reaches adulthood, his weight is expected to reach between 4,000 and 5,000 pounds. Not many institutions could house and feed such an animal. When the call went out for someone to take him, the staff of the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, after much analysis and consideration, responded to help. It was an opportunity to make a difference and bring something unique and wonderful to the Zoo. Northern Elephant Seal Rescue 2014 Janet Rose, senior director of development Coolio is on the mend– learning, acclimating, and getting used to the sounds and smells around him.
  • 3. 4 5 Now this once stranded animal has a chance at a new life and a new home at the Water’s Edge holding area at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium. While it is not known why or how he became stranded on the California coast, at the time of his rescue he weighed a mere 120 pounds. Tragically, as he lay starving and unable to move, the injuries that he sustained led to blindness. This made his eventual release back into the wild impossible. A blind seal in the wild would never survive. This young elephant seal’s current weight is close to 500 pounds and he is growing quickly. He could reach over 1000 pounds by this time next year. The next goal and challenge is raising approximately $15,000 to bring in a marine mammal eye specialist to examine Coolio’s eyes and consider whether restoration of any eyesight might be possible. At this point in time however, our highly trained veterinary staff here at the Zoo is monitoring Coolio and working to fully assess him. Currently, it is uncertain whether Coolio is completely blind or some restoration of sight might be possible. The Zoo’s own veterinary staff, led by Dr. Ginger Sturgeon, has noticed some indications that Coolio might have limited eyesight or it might be possible to restore limited sight. Only time and ongoing specialized examinations will tell for sure. In the meantime, Coolio is on the mend, learning, acclimating, and getting used to the sounds and smells around him. He is learning to recognize his keepers, using his senses other than eyesight. and beginning to feel his way around his environment. The rescue effort and new life for Coolio are historic. This remarkable story will enable marine mammal experts an opportunity to observe, conduct research, train, and expand their scientific understanding of this species. Eventually, it is our hope that Coolio will become a regular part of the Zoo experience. This incredible journey from California to the Zoo was partially underwritten by Dr. Terence & Mrs. Kim Krysinski of the Vien Institute of Pittsburgh who donated funding for Coolio’s trip. If you are interested in helping to support Coolio through his care, feeding, ophthalmic exam, and veterinary treatment, please contact the Zoo’s Development Department by calling 412-365-2540 or by email at donate@pittsburghzoo.org. Pittsburgh’s Wildest Gala is Coming Up Friday, June 13 Tickets are going fast, so get yours now! Elegance and excitement collide at Imagination Untamed, the Gala of the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, on Friday, June 13. Be dazzled by delicious, delectable delights provided by Pittsburgh’s finest restaurants, indulge in luscious libations, and see stripes, spots and enjoy all kinds of wild encounters as you wander through throughout the Zoo. Unleash your inner animal with heart- pumping entertainment, all against the wildest backdrop in the city. This non-stop black-tie event, begins at 7:00 p.m. and continues until 11:30 in the evening. PNC is the presenting sponsor of the 2014 Zoo Gala, Imagination Untamed. Please visit http://pghzoo.me/1d2KY0K for more information or to get your tickets today. If you have any questions or would like to order your tickets by phone, call us at 412-365-2541.
  • 4. $50,000 and above PNC Bank PPG Industries PPG Industries Foundation $25,000 to 49,999 Carolyn & James Bouchard Vein Institute of Pittsburgh $5,000 to 9,999 Nancy & Maurice Nernberg Patsy & Don McKinney Sandra & Henry* Mordoh $2,500 to 4,999 Robert Kozel Jennifer & Michael* LaRocco Rita* & Robert Randall $1,000 to 2,499 Barbara* & Dayton Baker Susan & David Brownlee Mary & Dave DeFide Judi & Gary Diven Colette* & John Dugan Sharon & Jeffrey Evans Anna & J. W. Futrell Judy & George Grune Darlene & Andrew* Hasley Michele & Robert Howland Stephanie Schneck-Jacob & Timothy Jacob Peggy* & Steve McKnight Shirley & H. W. Olander Cynthia & Todd Shaffer Belinda & Mike Terzich Tracey & Carey Vinson $500 to 999 Valentina & John Barsom Gail & H. W. Doring June & Hans Jonas Nan & David* Newell Sara* & David Scaife Susan Weigold & Robert Butella $100 to 499 Christine & Patrick Osborne Nancy & Bernard Picchi Donna & James Hudson Phyllis & Mark Hoge Amshel Charitable Foundation Alison & Timothy Gray Melissa & David Survinski Paula & John Lockhart Mary & John DeGeorge Patricia & James Cairns Paula & Francis Gesselberty Ellen & Thomas Smith Mary & Henry Snyder Jack & Jean Ann Jones Fund of the Pittsburgh Foundation Robin Ziegler & Clifford Chen Maureen & David McBride Laura & Don Albensi Susan & Timothy Vismor Joanne & William* Fallon Stephanie & David Briggs Denise Letcher & Joseph McDonough Barbara & David Burstin Danyele & Craig Bernick Shirley & David Fleming David Lilienthal Catherine & Donald* Rhoten Linda & Donald Ewing Judy & Glenn Gates Irwin Dobrushin Roberta & John Mather Lisa Conard & Mare Ivrich Carol & Michael Azar Perri & Thomas Schelat Mary & Raymond Tomasello Claudia & Raymond Steeb Sue & Wayne Sloan Mary Lang & Thomas Cummings Mary & Timothy Ottie *Indicates board member Please be aware that we have recently transitioned to a new database in order to better serve our supporters. While we make every attempt to accurately recognize the generous support of our donors, some data inconsistencies may have occurred in our transition. If you notice an error, please contact the Development department by calling 412-365-2541 or by email at donations@pittsburghzoo.org. Thank you for your understanding. 2014 Individual Donors (Annual gifts received from January 1, 2014 – April 30, 2014) The Value of Annual Giving Annual giving is vital to the successful operation of the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium. Membership and ticket sales alone do not cover the cost of all that we offer in sustaining our mission. Annual giving helps to fill this gap. Contributing to the Zoo plays an important role in providing care for our animals, supporting our educational programs, and aiding in our on-site and international conservation efforts. Thank you to the individuals on the following pages for being a part of our donor family. 4 5
  • 5. 6 7 We have two very different types of donors to highlight, because each supports the mission of the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium in different yet vital ways. Giving or donating to the mission of the Zoo is always very personal, but the act of giving and the resources provided by that generosity really make a difference. Donor Spotlight: The Vein Institute, Dr. Terence Krysinski As a member of the Zoo’s Grow Wild Society, Terry Krysinski is not new to the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium. As his involvement has grown, so has his support for many important Zoo projects. As founder of Pittsburgh’s Vein Institute and the Laser Center, Dr. Krysinski has created a huge following of passionate animal lovers who work with him and follow the Zoo’s efforts with interest and a deep and abiding commitment to conservation. He supports special events too, such as the Zoo Gala with sponsorship. When Dr. Krysinski heard about the Zoo’s efforts to bring zebras back and received the appeal for funding to not only acquire zebras, but to also provide a new shelter area, he stepped up. His $25,000 donation helps to underwrite much of the acquisition and shelter reconstruction. While additional funds are still needed to complete the zebra project, Dr. Krysinski’s generous contribution was significant. His support did not stop at zebras however. Shortly after, the Zoo sent out an appeal for help with a wildlife rescue effort of a Northern elephant seal and Dr. Krysinki offered to help again. Transporting the elephant seal from California to Donor Spotlight Pittsburgh along with specially trained Zoo staff is not a small undertaking. The estimated cost of the trip was $20,000 and Dr. Krysinki donated fifty percent of that. As the needs of the Zoo grow with exhibiting different and important animals, and as Dr. Krysinki’s passion for all things wildlife become centered on the efforts of the Zoo, so does his support. This is the mission of the Grow Wild Society; a group of people who believe so passionately in the mission of the Zoo that they continually expand their support of the Zoo. In turn, he became more intimately involved and engaged with the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium. Thank you again to Dr. Terence Krysinski and the Vein Institute and Laser Center of Pittsburgh. Donor Spotlight II: Images by Antonia Antonia Wolf is an award-winning artist, an international photographer, silk scarf, and jewelry designer. Her work features wildlife and her goal is to support wildlife conservation, especially conservation of elephants, through the sale and exhibits of her photography, hand-screened scarves, and jewelry. Antonia’s jewelry is made from local materials that she finds in the countries she visits. Images by Antonia has been featured in many magazines, including the New York Times Magazine. Her scarf and jewelry pieces adorn women all over the world. Many are also in private collections and international exhibits. Each a work of art, her pieces typically feature an endangered species, such as the cheetah, African elephant, zebra, or giraffe. Some pieces also feature flowers, hearts or saints. Her prices for photographs, scarves, and jewelry range from under $100 to $500+. Every piece is unique and beautiful with its own story to tell. Pictured here are a few of her pieces, with a percentage of proceeds going to support wildlife conservation. Give the Gift that Keeps on Giving: A Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium Membership A Zoo Membership is a passport to family fun and adventure. Treat somebody you love to a gift Membership. It includes 12 months of unlimited free admission to the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, free parking, discounted admission to 130 other zoos, education and program discounts, exclusive access to events, and much more. Click here for more information. “I try to create jewelry that captures at once the passion of stones and the fate of endangered animals. Creating unusual pieces in the quiet of my studio is peaceful work.” –Antonia Wolf
  • 6. 8 9 Meet Stanley, Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium’s New Octopus BNY Mellon, the corporate sponsor of the Zoo’s new octopus exhibit, helped to name one of the newest residents of the PPG Aquarium. PPG Aquarium staff suggested four possible names and the BNY Mellon staff got to vote on their favorite. With contest votes counted, the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium has named its new baby giant Pacific octopus Stanley. Thank you to BNY Mellon employees who contributed their votes to make the selection. Stanley went on public display in early April and seems to be enjoying his new home. This popular PPG Aquarium resident supports the Zoo’s overall mission to foster positive, lifelong connections between animals and people. BNY Mellon is proud to be a sponsor of this mission and to provide its Pittsburgh employees and their families with enhanced opportunities to make those connections. New Conservation Collaborations with Far Reaching Potential The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium has a truly international reach with its coral conservation efforts and the outreach just continues to grow. Over the past two years, Zoo staff members PPG Aquarium Notes from the Field Paul Selvaggio, Director of Creative Services, and Bob Snowden, Marine Aquarist, were on the road and on site for the first SECORE Foundation workshop in Mexico in collaboration with Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico (UNAM), Parque Xcaret, Comision Nacional De Areas Naturales Protegidas (CONANP), and the Instituto Nacional de Pesca. The group observed and collected reproductive spawn from three different coral species in Mexico: the endangered elkhorn coral, Acropora palmata, star coral, Montastraea (Orbicella) faveolata, and the grooved brain coral, Diploria labyrinthiformis. Once the spawn was collected, the group fertilized the egg/sperm bundles, known as gametes, and settled the larvae onto specially made tiles. Once the corals are settled, they will be used for restoration efforts and research. The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium is taking a leading role in this conservation effort and this important coral work is made possible through the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium’s Coral Conservation Fund. This new exhibit, Coral Conservation, has been installed near the entrance of the PPG Aquarium and features coral collected during one of the conservation trips to the Florida Keys. This new exhibit has been made possible with the support from the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation. If you would like to learn more about these efforts or how to support future coral conservation projects, please visit the donate page at pittsburghzoo. org or contact our development staff. You can donate to the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium with just one click of a button By supporting the Zoo, you help save wildlife and wild places. Gifts to the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium help us fulfill our mission to be a leader in zoological conservation, education, and research, while providing the region with exceptional exhibitry and unique family-centered recreation. Visit our website for a fast, convienient, and secure way to support the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium at pittsburghzoo.org/donate. Quote Here
  • 7. 10 11 Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, Zoo Board Members and staff, and representatives from the community. Special appearances by Rianna, a prehensile tailed porcupine, and Squeeze, a boa constrictor, capped off the evening in grand fashion. More than $40,000 was raised in support of wildlife conservation, conservation education, and special projects at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium. If you missed the show, you can still get a glimpse of the evening with this video recap: http://vimeo.com/rpskk/ fashionforthewildrecap. It was fashion gone wild, or officially Fashion for the Wild, and the night lived up to its name. On April 3, a sold-out crowd gathered in the PPG Aquarium with emcees WTAE anchor Sally Wiggin and film and television actor, David Conrad to celebrate fashion and support a wonderful cause, the Zoo! Guests sipped signature Zootini cocktails and shopped from specialty vendors while designs from Kiya Tomlin, Andrea Howell, Lana Neumeyer, Sandra Cadavid, Jazmin Jackson, Beth Shari, Lexi and Nancy Smith, and Kimberly Wilson graced the runway. Guest models included Dr. Barbara Baker, President & CEO of the Fashion for the Wild Presented by BNY Mellon More than $40,000 was raised in support of wildlife conservation, conservation education, and special projects Give a bear for a birthday, a tiger to your team, or a howler monkey for the holidays. Adopting an animal is a great gift for any occasion. When you adopt, your gift helps provide for the care, feeding, and enrichment of Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium animals. All resident animals are available for adoption with packages ranging from $30 to $500 per year, depending on the benefits you choose. Visit our website at pittsburghzoo.org for special adoption packages. Please call 412-365-2542 to learn more about this rewarding gift idea.
  • 8. 12 13 Key Dates for Membership & Development June 11 – August 13 12-2pm Wild Wednesdays June 14-22 11am-3pm Eat’n Park Family Week June 13 7-11:30pm Zoo Gala: Imagination Untamed Presented by PNC June 15 11am-3pm Father’s Day Celebration Sponsored by First Commonwealth Bank June 24 6:30-9pm Members Night Key Dates for Membership & Development continued July 12 11am – 3pm Macy’s Baby Day July 20 11am-3pm PPG Festival of Color July 23 6:30-9pm Members Night July 25 6:30-11pm Summer Safari: Unmask the Wild Presented by BNY Mellon August 21 6:30-9pm Members Night Don’t just make a purchase; make a difference for endangered species! We are excited to announce the launch of the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium and International Conservation Center Credit Card. Now, your everyday purchases can support wildlife conservation and the protection of endangered species. 1% of each card transaction will be donated to the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, with a special focus on support for the work of the Zoo’s International Conservation Center (ICC) in Somerset, PA. The ICC is North America’s premier conservation, research, education, and training facility, specializing in the care and breeding of African Elephants. “All of Somerset County is honored to have the ICC located here,” says G. Henry Cook, Somerset Trust Company President and CEO. “Somerset Trust is a proud supporter of the Pittsburgh Zoo. By actively using this credit card, people will be contributing to the Zoo and its mission too. Every time the card is used to make a purchase, the Zoo will benefit.” To apply for the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium and International Conservation Center Credit Card, visit www. pittsburghzoocard.com The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium and International Conservation Center Credit Card is provided through the Somerset Trust Company. Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium and International Conservation Center Credit Card !"#$% %%%&'$%("&$% There is always a need for help to support the care, feeding, training and management of our animals here at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium. If you would like to help with any of the following projects, any level of support is always very worthwhile and much appreciated. By supporting these projects, you really can make a real difference. !"#$%&'(")*"$&%+,&#%$+-&./01000&&.2/1000 34$%55"&5"",4+6&7)%*58$9-&.:/1000 ;"<&%'7(%)*&58$&*("&64$%55"&$=+<%>-&.:1/00 ?($""@>"%$&A8$%)&A8+'"$B%*48+&4+4*4%*4B"-&.CD1/00 ;8$*("$+&")"7(%+*&'"%)&87(*(%)94A&'7"A4%)4'*-& .C/1000 E(""*%(&)=$"&$%A4+6&A8=$'"-&./1000& E(""*%(&"F(4#4*&$"+8B%*48+-&./01000&&.2/1000 To support or donate, please contact the Development Department by calling 412-365-2540 or, email at donate@pittsburghzoo.org
  • 9. and adventure. Treat somebody you love to a gift Membership. It includes 12 months of unlimited free admission to the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, free parking, discounted admission to 130 other zoos, education and program discounts, exclusive access to events, and much more. Click here for more information. it’s just business as usual. First, in order to stand up, they have to use their short, powerful front legs to push their bodies up and then the back legs to thrust their bodies forward. Their feet are turned inward to maintain balance, so of course they move at a snail’s pace with a lumbering side-to-side walk. When it comes to their love life and mating, males will square off for the right to mate with a female by standing tall, facing each other with their mouths wide open, and stretching their necks as high as possible. The highest head and neck wins and the loser waddles off to find another female. An endangered species, there are only about 20,000 Galapagos tortoises left in the wild. This is the result of poaching, loss of habitat and the introduction of domestic animals to the Galápagos Islands, such as goats, pigs, and cattle, which destroy tortoise nests and prey on the tortoise eggs and young. Active conservation efforts are underway however, working to build up and protect the remaining populations. We hope you’ll stop by soon and catch a glimpse of our young ones. They’ll be hard to miss, moving slowly, and soaking up the sun whenever possible. 4 5 The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium’s two newest residents are taking life slow and easy in their new home at the Zoo. The Galápagos tortoises have arrived and they’re in no rush to do anything but eat, sleep and just kind of stand around. The species with the greatest longevity of any vertebrate, our two new tortoises, are still youngsters at the ripe young age of 20-something. On average, tortoises live to be approximately 100 years old with the oldest tortoise ever recorded reaching over 170. In terms of size, males are larger than females, and will reach at least 500 pounds. Not too surprisingly, if you have ever watched tortoises moving about, they tend to do it very slowly, spending their days lying down, basking in the sun, munching on grass and leaves, and napping or wallowing in mud puddles. In the wild, tortoises will typically eat plants, grasses, and pear cactus, but at the Zoo, our tortoises will dine on timothy hay and enjoy a small amount of grain and produce. The brunt of many a joke, when tortoises move, it appears to be a gigantic effort but for the animal, Gentle Giants Crawl Slowly into Their New Home The Galápagos tortoises have arrived!
  • 10. Behind-the-scenes animal encounters, a Grow Wild Society experience. 96 elephants are killed every day just for the ivory. “That is a staggering and frightening number” says Dr. Barbara Baker, President & CEO of the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium. “This means that within ten years one of the world’s most majestic and well-known animals could be extinct. We cannot stand by and allow this to happen. We all need to take action today to stop the illegal ivory trade and end this crisis.” This is why the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, a leader in conservation of African elephants, is proud to support the Wildlife Conservation Society’s 96 Elephants Campaign. The campaign is named for the average number of elephants killed throughout the world every day. Compare that to the number of elephants living in AZA-accredited zoos; currently there are 166 African elephants and 142 Asian elephants in zoos within the United States. That means that in just four days, there are more elephants killed worldwide than there are elephants living in our zoos. The 96 Elephants Campaign is working to secure a moratorium on illegal ivory sales and to reinforce the protection of all elephants. This organization provides supporters with information about the link between the elephant poaching crisis and the consumption of ivory, and the resources to make a difference. In addition to the U.S. ban on ivory, the 96 Elephants Campaign is working to supply more park rangers to protect elephants in the wild. They also participate in the development of intelligence networks and government operations in the Congo Basin and East Africa, which are the last protected areas for elephants. 96 elephants Let your voice be heard. Contact your state Senators and members of Congress and tell them you want to ban the sale of ivory and ivory products throughout the United States. Go online and sign the petition at 96elephants.org. Coming together as one voice sends a powerful message. We can make a difference. Grow Wild Society A Great Reason to Join! Members of the Grow Wild Society are more than just donors, they are conservators. For this exclusive group, protecting wildlife and promoting conservation and education is a hands-on experience. From behind-the-scenes animal encounters, to members-only events with Zoo veterinarians, curators and keepers; special lectures, dinners and other events; plus complimentary family Zoo memberships, the Grow Wild Society is an experience like none other. “Joining the Grow Wild Society is a legacy gift to your children and grandchildren,” says Society member Patrick Loughney. “Introduce your family to the animal kingdom and ensure a world class zoo for future generations. Thank you!” Start your family tradition today with a gift of $1,000 or more to the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium. Learn more at pittsburghzoo.org/Donate/GrowWildSociety. For questions, please contact our Development Coordinator, Rachel Kisic by calling 412-365-2541 or rkisic@pittsburghzoo.org. 4 5
  • 11. One Wild Place Pittsburgh, PA 15206 412-665-3640 Zoo Connections is a newsletter for the valued supporters of the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium. pittsburghzoo.org A        P Z  PPG A | J 