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May 26, 2011
The Welcoming Committee You're not at the airport - it's just Maggie, the green-naped pheasant pigeon. Watch your step!  When you enter the Indonesian Rain Forest, you may be greeted by Maggie, the green-naped pheasant pigeon.  She's the self-appointed "welcoming committee" for guests entering the domed jungle.  Don't be surprised if she follows you on your trip through the tropical paradise. "Maggie was hand-reared, so she likes to be around people," explains zoo keeper Kim Weldon.  Maggie and her mate, Scar, have raised three chicks:  Jalan, a male; Dumai, a female, and a third youngster whose sex is not yet known. Pheasant pigeons are native to the rain forests of New Guinea.  They are actually pigeons, not pheasants, but are named for their pheasant-like behavior. Because they are ground dwellers, the pheasant pigeons are easier to find than the tree-dwelling birds in the dome.  They may also be easier to hear.  "When Maggie is feeling content," says zoo keeper Andrea Hogg, "she makes a sound like an airplane coming in for a landing!" Adopt a Giraffe for Dad! Give Dad a unique gift this Father's Day. Your Dad is the best - so on Father's Day, adopt Jelani, the big "daddy" of our giraffe herd, in Dad's honor!  For just $50, you'll receive all this to present to Dad on his special day: A toy stuffed Giraffe Personalized wallet card Photo of a Giraffe Personalized adoption certificate Fact sheet about Giraffes Letter from the Zoo Director Recognition on the zoo's website To adopt Jelani or any of our adoptable animals, call Rebecca at 260-427-6831 or adopt online today!  $40 of your adoption fee is tax deductible.  Please order by June 13 for Father's Day delivery. Congratulations to Scholarship Winners! Three graduating high school seniors pursuing animal-related careers were awarded $2,000 Lawrence A. Ackerman Scholarships from the Fort Wayne Zoological Society.  Acacia Herr, a senior at Southern Wells High School; Christian Houser, a senior at Bishop Dwenger High School; and Jennifer Thystrup, a senior at Wawasee High School, were selected as this year's award recipients. The Scholarship was established by the Zoo in 1992 to honor the distinguished career of the late Dr. Larry Ackerman, who became known for his professionalism, compassion, and generosity during his 25 years of service as the zoo's veterinarian.  To date, the zoo has awarded $66,000 in scholarships to northeast Indiana high school seniors. For more information on the Ackerman Scholarship, click here.	Coming Up Jun. 13 - Aug. 5 Summer Safari Day Camp June 14 Sea Lion Birthday Party June 17 Zoobilee June 24 Iron Zoo Chef Click for event details and mark your calendar! Hours The zoo is open every day, including holidays 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. until October 9, 2011. Admission Prices $13.00 for adults $8.50 for children age 2-14 $10.50 for seniors age 60 and over Babies age one and under and Zoo Society Members are admitted free. Helpful Links Renew Your Zoo Membership Renew for 2 years and save $10! Adopt-an-Animal The perfect gift for Mom, Dad, or anyone! Make a Donation You too can make a difference at the Zoo by making a donation. Member Change of Address Have you moved?  Update your membership information to continue receiving our mailings.

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