Habitat 42 Fall 2015

detroitzoo.org • HABITAT | 15 dzoo.org/support  suppor t Surprisingly, this summer’s weather was excellent for building an iceberg. The future Polk Penguin Conservation Center (PPCC), under construction near the front of the Detroit Zoo, has quickly taken on the signature shape of a tabular (flat- topped) iceberg. After months of below-ground construction, steel beams now rise 45 feet into the air to reveal the massive scale of the penguin habitat. But the shape and size of the PPCC are just two of its eagerly anticipated features. Two underwater tunnels, where penguins will swim above, beside and below visitors, will add to the excitement of the experience for humans and birds alike. Throughout the planning for this spectacular facility, great care has been taken to provide penguins with a stimulating environment where they can express natural behaviors – including diving to a depth of 25 feet. Visitors to the PPCC will have a better view of this phenomenon than they would if they traveled to Antarctica. The community has been very generous in supporting this project, the most significant undertaking in the history of the Detroit Zoo. Additional gifts are still being sought, and some very attractive recognition opportunities are available. Please call the Development department at (248) 336-5703 for more information or to make a gift. The generosity of Renaissance Circle donors enables the Detroit Zoo to have a positive impact on our community and provide the best care for our animals. Your membership support will allow you and your family to create memories that will last a lifetime. By joining the Renaissance Circle, you will have an opportunity to learn more about how the Detroit Zoological Society delivers on its mission through education programs, conservation initiatives, best practices in animal welfare and extraordinary guest experiences. Join us for our next Insider Event – a Hard Hat Tour of the Polk Penguin Conserva- tion Center on October 2, 2015! Insider Events are a benefit to Renaissance Circle Members at the Ambassador Level and above. For information about joining the Renaissance Circle or upgrading your current membership, please contact Sommer Brock at (248) 336-5729 or sbrock@dzs.org or visit us online at dzoo.org/rc. Renaissance Circle The “Insider” Ticket to Your Detroit Zoo A Gift for Life Leaving a gift in your will may enable you to support the Detroit Zological Society in a way you never dreamed possible during your lifetime. Your thoughtful planning could provide a gift that allows the Zoo to celebrate and save some of the most remarkable creatures on earth while educating future generations and instilling a deeper respect for nature. Membership in the Wildlife Legacy Circle recognizes generous individuals who share a passion for Celebrating and Saving Wildlife and have planned a gift to ensure a bright future for the Detroit Zoo. Gifts can be made through a simple bequest or other options, including some that will provide you income during your lifetime. If you would like to discuss how you might consider including the Zoo in your financial plans, please contact Tricia Brosnahan at (248) 336-5728 or tbrosnahan@dzs.org. The Polk Penguin Conservation Center is on its way to becoming one of the most spectacular facilities ever built at a zoo. PPCC Takes Shape