Blank Park Zoo Foundation - Happy Holidays from Blank Park Zoo

Blank Park Zoo FoundationFiscal Year 2005-06Annual Report

Barnaby, oneof the AldabraTortoises, is theoldest animal atthe Zoo. In fact, heis the only animalthat has called theZoo home all 40years of the Zoo’sexistence. Barnabyis approximately65 years old andweighs 500 pounds.Aldabra Tortoisescan live to be 100years old.Ryan P. BickelRyan P. BickelBlank Park Zoo Foundation ‘s CEO, Terry Rich and Board Chair, G. Rusty GoodeCover: Shutterstock

This year, the Blank Park Zoo marked an important milestone — the celebrationof its 40th Anniversary. Over the past four decades, the Zoo has grown from asmall children’s Zoo to become one of Iowa’s most highly attended cultural attractionsserving people of all ages.Our nonprofit Foundation is committed to ensuring the health and growth of theBlank Park Zoo as Iowa’s only accredited Zoological facility. We are pleased to note that:• Over 315,000 people visited the Blank Park Zoo in 2006.• Our membership includes citizens from over 40 Iowa counties.• This year’s education programs have served over 81,000 — double thatof the previous year.• The Zoo was named the State of Iowa’s “Best Attraction of the Year” by The IowaDepartment of Economic Development.Our organization’s success is due, in no small part, to our creative, energetic anddedicated staff, along with the strong support of the community. We welcome thisopportunity to thank our generous donors, volunteers, members, city and countyleaders and guests who are helping us to support our mission of providing outstandingeducation, conservation and recreation programming to our visitors.The Blank Park Zoo Foundation is about to embark on an exciting new journey toexpand the Zoo to a world-class facility with greater capacity to serve our growing anddiverse community. We invite you to join us in this new endeavor – with your help,we can make our Zoo bigger, better, and continue to ensure its place as “Iowa’s WildestAdventure.”Sincerely,G. Rusty Goode, Chair Terry Rich, CEO

Ryan P. BickelThe Zoo opened inMay of 1966 featuringa castle, Noah’s Ark,monkey island,a barnyard and aminiature train. Onhand to celebrate the40th anniversary inMay of 2006 were twoformer Zoo Directors,Bob Elgin (seated),David Allen (left)and current CEO,Terry Rich.MissionThe mission of the Blank Park Zoo isto inspire an appreciation of the natural worldthrough conservation, education and recreation.The Zoo is operated and funded throughthe Blank Park Zoo Foundation.A Zoo foundation wasformed in 1981 to raisefunds for a strugglingZoo threatenedwith closure. From1982 to 1986 theZoo was closed forextensive remodelingand reopened asan American Zooand AquariumAssociationaccredited Zoo. TheZoo was transformedfrom a children’s Zooto an expanded Zoowith a new name,new natural exhibits,and many newanimals.“The Blank Park Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos andAquariums. The AZA is America’s leading accrediting organization thatsets rigorous professional standards for Zoos and aquariums.The AZA is building North America’s largest wildlife conservationmovement by engaging and inspiring the 143 million annual visitors toits member institutions and their communities to care about andtake action to help protect wildlife.”

Board Photos by Ryan P. BickelBoard of Directors 2006Executive CommitteeOfficersRusty GoodeChairJean DunnSecretaryDr. James HouriganVice ChairBillie RayImmediate Past ChairScott IversTreasurerPat HensonBoard LiaisonAdvisoryCouncilConnie BoesenBob BurnettGloria BurnettCarl CoatesAnn CownieJon CroseDr. Philip GustafsonMari HallJohn HintzeDr. Alan KoslowMaddie LevittBarbara LukavskySuzy MuelhauptGreg PhilbyRose Lee PomerantzKevin L. PrustCurtis Van VeldhuizenChuck WheelerMichael J. WilleJohn WilliamsMembers-at-LargeWayne EllisElizabeth KruidenierAlex J. RodawigLoretta SiemanTim UrbanTeri WoodBoard MembersJudy BlankMolly CatronRick ClarkKaye C. CondonPaul EasterJames HagenbucherRussell HansenMichael HubbellLana Jones-GouldRobert KnudsenTracy LevineMary Jean PaschenJohn PetersonMichael Keith PoeChris ShayBarbara SmithKathleen StahlThomas StanberryDavid WallaceStephanie WindsorJohn WinterKelly WirtMaria Wittern

The Zoo Train’sengine is a scalereplica of theC.P. HuntingtonLocomotive, a trainthat dates back to themid-1800’s. Duringthe Civil War the firstC.P. Huntington wasshipped to Californiato help lay tracktowards PromontoryPoint, Utah - the siteof the “last spike”for the ContinentalRailway.Liz RegenoldA Year of Success2006 has been an exceptionally successful year for the Blank Park Zoo,marked by outstanding achievements and recognition from the community:• Over 315,000 people of all ages visited the Zoo this year, includingguests from every one of Iowa’s 99 counties.• The Zoo’s Membership increased to over 9,000 member households,with members from 40 Iowa counties.• The Zoo’s Education Programs more than doubled the number ofpeople served, from over 40,000 in 2005, to over 81,000 this year.• The Zoo was named the State of Iowa’s “Best Tourism Attractionof the Year” for larger cities by The Iowa Department of EconomicDevelopment.• Terry Rich, our CEO, was named this year’s “Friend of Tourism” bythe The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau.• The Zoo also received special recognition this fall from theGovernor’s Office for its “advocacy of the arts, culture and historyof the State of Iowa.”2006 also marked the Blank Park Zoo’s 40th Anniversary. Over the past fourdecades the Zoo has grown from a small, seasonal attraction geared towardschildren to a year-round Zoological park with indoor and outdoor exhibits,educational resources and activities with wide appeal that crosses age,economic and cultural bridges. It is a vital asset to the quality of life for thepeople of Iowa.

Ryan P. BickelRyan P. BickelRyan P. BickelRyan P. BickelNew BabiesBongo Antelope — Male — Name: Radiborn April 2, 2006RadiGiraffe — Male — Name: Jabulaniborn September 27, 2006Chilean Flamingoes - THREE!hatched August 2, 12 and 25, 2006Other Avian HatchingsJabulani• Bamboo Partridges• Emus• Gouldian Finches• Green-winged Doves• Ringed Teal• Silver-eared Mesias• Speckled Mousebirds• Trumpeter SwansFlamingoGouldian Finch

Liz RegenoldRyan P. BickelShutterstockRyan P. BickelAnimal AcquisitionThe following animals were added to theZoo’s collection:Wallaby• Elsie, a female Snow Leopard• 1 male Wallaby• 2 male Zebras• Jacobi, a male Giraffe• Rafiki, a female Ring-tailed LemurZebra• Luke, a male & 1 female River Otter• 1 male and 1 female kookaburra• 2 female Two-toed Sloths• 1 male and 1 female Dwarf Caimans• 1 female Sunbittern• 2 female Chilean FlamingoesRafiki• 60 Gouldian Finches“Animals cannot speak to us, they have voices we will neverhear. We must speak for them, and we must speak in avoice much louder than we have used in the past.”- Jeffrey P. Bonner, President and CEO, the Saint Louis ZooLuke

Ryan P. BickelRyan P. BickelAnimal ConservationParticipation in the Species Survival Plan programThe Species Survival Plan (SSP) is an American Zoo and Aquarium (AZA)program where individual species are cooperatively managed by many Zoosworking together. All breeding and animal transfer recommendations are madethrough the SSP. Genetic health is a primary focus to maintain appropriatepopulation size and age distribution. Healthy captive populations serve as a safetynet against extinction and provide a research population that will benefit wildpopulations. Zoos then use this knowledge to educate people about endangeredspecies and wildlife conservation.The Blank Park Zoo currently participates in 28 species-specific AZA captiveanimal management programs, 8 of which are managed at the SSP (speciessurvival plan) level. These eight include:• Bongo Antelope• White-handed Gibbon• Ring-tailed lemur• Snow Leopard• African Lion• Japanese Snow Macaque• River Otter• Amur Tiger.The Tom & JoGhrist Great Catexhibit opened in 1999.According toE.O. Wilson,noted Harvardsociobiologist,fifty thousandspeciesdisappear fromour planet everyyear. That’sabout six speciesper hour.Helping Other ZoosThe Blank Park Zoo also provided animals for other Zoos to improve theircollections, including:• 2 Black Tufted-ear Marmosets to the Cape May County Park Zoo, NJ• 10 Speckled Mousebirds to the Dallas Zoo, TX• 10 Speckled Mousebirds to the San Antonio Zoo, TX• 4 Speckled Mousebirds to the Erie Zoo, PA• 10 Green-winged Doves to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, FL• 50 moon jellyfish to the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha, NEThrough partnershipsat home and abroad,the Blank Park Zooworks to advance theprotection of wildlifespecies and habitatsat-risk.Repopulating the WildThis year one trumpeter swan was donated to the Iowa Department of NaturalResources for the Release Program that is attempting to re-establish a wildpopulation of swans in the state. So far, BPZ has provided nearly 20 swans forthe conservation program.Around the globe andhere in Iowa, we act onbehalf of animals andtheir habitats.

Zoo StaffRyan P. BickelAnimal Behavioral TrainingZookeeper BrettAshburn has Sushi’sattention during oneof three daily trainingsessions.The Blank Park Zoo has two primary operational goals: to provide the best possiblecare for its animals, and to provide the best possible experience for its visitors. Thesegoals are intertwined, the quality of any Zoo’s visitor experience is directly relatedto the condition of the Zoo’s animals. Animals in captivity must be kept physicallyand mentally stimulated in order to keep them healthy and active. They must alsobe desensitized to contact with humans in order for Zookeepers and veterinarians toprovide them with health care and maintenance.In recent years, new practices in animal husbandry have been developed that notonly improve the quality of life for animals in captivity, but also make it possible forcaregivers to interact with them safely. Through a series of activities called “targettraining”,animals work with keepers on a series of basic exercises, designed to givethe animals a physical and mental “workout” as well as teaching them to presentthemselves for routine veterinary procedures.Lioness Falalaperforms the“up” commandfor ZookeeperBonnieVanEllen. Thisbehavior givesBonnie theopportunityto examinethe front feetand claws forwounds orabnormalities.In 2006, the Zoo began an animal behavioral training and care program, bringingin animal behavior expert Beth Ament. The results of this program have beenoutstanding. The pinniped (seals and sea lions) training progressed so rapidlythat the Zoo is now able to do demonstrations for visitors. While the Zoo has longallowed members of the public to observe feedings, the attendance at these newdemonstrations has increased enormously.Another illustration of the program’s success has been added health benefits,including weight loss and improvements in overall health and temperament. Prior tothe training program, it was impossible for caregivers to touch the sea lions withouttranquilizing them. This July, when Dylan, the 400 lb. male sea lion, was observed tobe bleeding from the mouth, he stood calmly and allowed the Zoo’s veterinarian tolook in his mouth to diagnose the problem.Visitors not only see a more healthy and active animal population, they also havean opportunity to enjoy an entertaining and educational presentation. Animalsactively engage in activities, which make visits to the Zoo unique and memorable.Because of its enormous success, the Blank Park Zoo is committed to continue thisprogram and extend the training to even more members of the Zoo’s animal family.The Animal Behavioral Training and Care Program is partially funded throughdonations to the Zoo’s Animal Care & Acquisition Fund.

Zoo StaffZoo StaffFacilitiesThanks to the generous support of community individuals and businesses, the Zoo wasable to make some important improvements in its facilities in 2006. These included:Remodel of the Service Building/Veterinary ClinicThe service building is the main animal care center for the Zoo. It houses the Zoo’seducation animals, serves as winter quarters for the outdoor bird collection andprovides extra holding space for sick or quarantined animals. It is the main commissaryfor animal food preparation and storage, and also houses the Zoo’s veterinary clinic.Building improvements, including roof and door replacement and remodeling ofstorage spaces, were funded by the City of Des Moines. Renovation of the veterinaryclinic, including the addition of a necropsy space and the purchase of new equipmentwas funded in part by a generous grant from Prairie Meadows.New Exhibit SignageThanks to Beeline and Blue, larger, easy-to-read signs were installed throughout theZoo. The full color signs include information about each species of animal and theirhabitat, the status of the species in the wild, and a conservation message.Maintenance Building ImprovementsThanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor, heating and electricalimprovements were made to the Zoo’s maintenance building that will allow the facilityto be used year round.Dr. JuneOlds, ZooVeterinarian,performsa dentalexaminationon the maleSiberian Tiger,Kavacha.GroundsEven the smallest donations can make a difference at the Zoo. This spring,individuals and local nurseries donated perennials and other plants to thehorticulture department for improving the Zoo grounds. Our summer visitorswere impressed by the beauty and variety of the Zoo’s horticultural displays,which reinforce the Zoo’s mission for conservation through the cultivation ofheirloom plants and flowers.Facility RentalsThe Blank Park Zoo has become an increasingly popular location for privatecommunity and business events. Over 90 groups decided to take a walk on thewild side and hosted an event at the Zoo in 2006. With its unique setting,outstanding service and excellent catering from Baratta’s, the Zoo is fastbecoming the place to go for a truly special event.The Zoo’s pavilionsare a great place for anoutdoor event. Thisyear’s rentals included:• 52 Parties• 35 Meetings• 6 Weddings

Dory BrilesZoo StaffLori Boatwright,Education Specialist,fascinates the Zoo Totsclass with a Box Turtle.Education ProgramsThe Zoo’s Education Programs had an outstanding year, serving over 81,000children, adults and seniors – more than double the number of people served in2005. Program highlights included:The Living ClassroomThe Zoo expanded its Living Classroom program to serve middle schools aswell as elementary schools. The program provides innovative professionaldevelopment that assists teachers with utilizing the Zoo as an outdoor classroom.The teachers are then able to bring their students to the Zoo for a field experiencewith activities designed to reinforce skills in reading, science, math and othercurricular areas. The student experience is reinforced with a Zoo Connectionsoutreach workshop in the classroom. Through generous donations to the BlankPark Zoo Foundation’s Education Fund, the program is provided nearly free ofcharge – the only cost to the school is the transportation. The Living Classroomserved over 2,500 students and teachers from 12 Des Moines area schools.Live Animal Adventure andAnimal Experience ProgramsAnneShimerdla,Director of ZooOperations,presents one ofthe educationoutreachanimals, ababy alligator,to BrookeGranzow.With the addition of the new Seal & Sea Lion Demonstration, our summerpublic program attendance increased to over 30,500 – nearly double the totalfrom last year.“The conservationist’s most important task— if we are to save the earth — is to educate.”- Peter Scott, World Wildlife Federation founder10

Kim RockholdLiz RegenoldIn 2001 the Myron & JackieBlank Discovery Center openedand the Zoo became a yearroundattraction.Zoo Connections OutreachOur Zoo Connections outreach program traveled over 6,600 miles thissummer to Iowa libraries to reach over 4,500 children and adults at over150 different library programs.Zoo Crew20 young people from our community participated in Zoo Crew, ourvolunteer program for ages 13-18. This summer’s Zoo Crew logged over872 hours helping out at the Zoo.Traversingthe bridge inthe DiscoveryCenterduring agroup visitField Trips & Group VisitsOver 26,000 children, teachers and chaperones spent a day at the Zoo thisyear on a field trip or group visit.Programs for ToddlersOur successful toddler program, Zoo Tots, served over 320 children and theirfamilies. Two new offerings, Safari Tunes and Jingle Bell Safari, blended bothmusic and animal activities. This year’s preschool programs served over 872.The Zoo’s Education Programs continue to grow. These innovative programsinclude:• a partnership with the Field Museum of Chicago and the Phoenix Zoofor professional development for teachers• opportunities for Home-school families• Expert Encounters series of classes for adultsThanks to generous donations to the Education Fund, our Education staffwill be able to continue the Zoo’s mission to provide dynamic, exceptionallearning experiences to Iowans of all ages.Luke Rockhold enjoysone of our preschoolprograms11

Benjamin BeckRyan P. BickelThe Blank ParkZoo is developing aprogram to reproducePanamanian GoldenFrogs right here atthe Zoo.Conservation CommitteeSince 1997, the Blank Park Zoo Conservation Committee has raised funds fora variety of conservation projects around the world that focus on protectinganimals or their natural ecosystems. Monies are raised through face painting,coin drop, raffles at special events, an inkjet/cell phone recycling program withAAA Environmental, and a conservation calendar.In 2006, the Conservation Committee elected to sponsor five projects:• Protection of Golden Lion Tamarins in Brazil ($2,000)• Protection of Snow Leopards by The International SnowLeopard Trust in Asia ($2,000)• The reintroduction of Panamanian Golden Frogsinto the wild in Panama ($2,000)• Protection of Hornbill nests in Thailand ($240)• A Conservation Parking Meter at the Zoo that collectsdonations to benefit the Center for Ecosystem Survival ($850)Thanks to the outstanding support of its volunteers, the Conservation Committeewill continue its mission to lead the Blank Park Zoo’s conservation efforts tonurture and preserve endangered animals around the world.Golden LionTamarin Courtesyof Benjamin Beck,Great Ape Trustof Iowa.“In the end, we will conserve only what we love, wewill love only what we understand, we will understandonly what we are taught.”- Baba Dioum12

Liz RegenoldMembershipMembers of the Blank Park Zoo are very important for the operation and support ofthe Zoo. Our member households now number over 9,000. Their support is crucial inhelping the Zoo fulfill our mission and provide outstanding care for our animals andexceptional experiences for our visitors.Membership has many benefits, including:• Free daytime admission• Free Parking• Free or reduced admission to over 165 zoos and aquariums• Discounted admission for special events, like Night Eyes• 10% discount at Wild Things Gift Shop, The Safari Grill and The Beastro• 10% discount on facility rentals and education animal programs scheduledwith a facility rental• Previews of special events and new exhibits• Opportunities to purchase event tickets prior to the general public• Discounts on selected Zoo education classes• Subscription to Zoo Tracks, our quarterly newsletter• Member Mondays: free train rides for member’s children (under age 14) and20% discount at Wild Things Gift Shop• Early admission (9:30 AM) on Saturdays and Sundays, Memorial DayWeekend through Labor Day Weekend.Members can also take advantage of a variety of “Members-Only” previews and events.Our Member Days in May were a resounding success, with free ice cream and trainrides provided to members’ children. Next year’s member appreciation includes amonthly drawing for a free Behind The Scenes Tour for new members and renewingmembers.Memberships make great gifts for birthdays, holidays and special occasions and can beenjoyed throughout the year. For more information visit www.blankparkzoo.com.The Zoo is a greatplace to spendquality family time,away from all oflife’s demands. WhenI was at home withthe boys during theday, our membershipwas an awesomevalue! Whenevermy “animals” wererestless, I couldescape to the Zoowith them forhours of fun. Wespend all day, enjoyingthe animals, feedingthe fish, and grabbinga dish of ice creamon a hot day. Weuse our membershipyear round – we liketo learn facts aboutthe animals, keepup-to-date on newarrivals, and showoff our Halloweencostumes at NightEyes. We love theZoo!”- Lori DaleThe Blank Park Zoo extends its gratitude to its many members whose support hashelped to make 2006 such a resounding success.Whenever we visit the Blank Park Zoo, we comeaway thinking, “What a great jewel for the Stateof Iowa.” Our kids can’t get enough of it, theyask to go many times each week, and we alwayshave a wonderful time do-ing the Zoo.”- Brian & Wendy Rickert13

$400,000The amount theZoo’s net income haspositively increasedover the past threeyears.24%Increase inmembership revenues.26%Increase in operatingincome (vendingmachines, admissions,etc.).Fiscal Year 2005-06 SummaryFiscal Year2003-042004-052005-06IncomeExpensesIncomeExpensesIncomeExpensesIncome vs ExpenseAnnual Comparison$3,072,802$3,431,526$3,557,084$3,722,798$3,825,197$3,805,092On July 1, 2003 the City of Des Moines and the BlankPark Zoo Foundation entered into a 28E agreement tohave the Foundation assume operating responsibilities.The Zoo’s income has consistently increased over thepast three years.Net Operating IncomeAnnual ComparisonFiscal Year 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06- 358,724- 165,714When the foundation assumed operating responsibilityover three years ago, the Zoo’s net operating incomeshowed a loss of nearly half a million dollars. At the endof Fiscal Year 2005-06 a positive net swing of $400,000brought the total net income to $20,105.“We want to be the fiscal model of how a nonprofit should be run.”20,105- Rusty Goode, Chair Blank Park Zoo Foundation31%Increase in overallincome.Fiscal Year2003-04Endowment FundAnnual Comparison$3,617,349Programs 80.3%ExpenseBreakdownAdministrative 14.3%Fundraising 5.3%97¢of every dollar raisedis used for animal,education andconservation programs.2004-052005-06$8,856,470$11,451,880The creation of the endowment fund has proven itself ahuge asset to the Zoo’s ability to reduce its dependanceon tax support.For every dollar raised, all but 3¢ is used for animal care,conservation efforts and other programs that directlysupport the Zoo’s mission.Charity Navigator® gives Blank Park Zoo a fourstarefficiency rating, the highest possible.“A major goal of the foundation is to reduce ourdependence on tax support. One way to do this is tofind support from the residents of Iowa.”- Scott Ivers, Treasurer Blank Park Zoo Foundation14

How To Help The Zoo . . .Come See UsWith every visit you arehelping to support oureducation, conservationand animal care programs.VolunteerMeet new people, learnnew things and have agreat time helping the Zoo.Rewarding opportunitiesare available in many areas,including animal care,education, horticulture andspecial events.Be a MemberYour membership helpsconserve wildlife, fundsour operations andencourages communitysupport.Mark YourTerritoryCreate a fund in honorof someone you admireor want to remember.Sponsor an exhibit, aspecial program or a Zoobench.Explore Corporate SponsorshipCorporate sponsorship opportunities are available forexhibits, programs, special events and more. If yourcompany has an employee matching gift program, letthem know about the Zoo.Make aDonationMake a tax-deductibledonation today. The Zoois a 501(c)3, making mostdonations tax deductible.Adopt anAnimalHave the satisfaction ofcaring for an endangeredanimal without doing allthe work. Your adoptionsponsorship helps a specialmember of our animalfamily.Leave a LegacyParticipate inProgramsLearn about animals andconservation throughprograms for adults andchildren of all ages.Invest in ourEndowmentFundHelp secure our successwith a tax deductibledonation to theEndowment Fund.Give to the Blank Park Zoo without affecting yourcashflow during your lifetime. You can provide now for afuture gift to the Zoo by including a bequest provision inyour estate planning.“Establishing aprivate/publicpartnershipdetermined theZoo’s success.Working withthe City ofDes Moines hasbeen a positiveexperience.”- Terry Rich,CEO Blank ParkZoo FoundationThe City ofDes Moines’ generalfund and hotel/moteltax support went froma high of $610,000 inFiscal Year 2000 to$390,000 in FiscalYear 2004.And Reach Your GoalsGift of Cashor StockGift ofPersonal PropertyWill orLiving TrustIn 2005 the ZooFoundation extendedtheir managementagreement with theCity of Des Moines.Your GoalReduce income taxesReduce estate taxesReduce capital gains taxesDonation AssetsOver $100,000Less than $100,000CashAppreciated securitiesReal EstateSecond ResidenceArt, antiques, collectiblesFamily BusinessYou areAround 70 or olderAround 70 or younger15

Jamie Loggins EvansSpecial EventsThroughout the year, the Blank Park Zoo hosts a variety of special events thatbenefit the community by providing entertainment and fun activities for peopleof all ages. This year, over 66,300 people attended these events, which were madepossible through the generosity of community sponsors and the dedicated supportof our volunteers.Annual Events• Family Friday Night: An exciting series of evenings for families to havefun at the Blank Park Zoo, with family activities, entertainment and specialanimal experiences.• Zoo Brew: A summer evening series when the Blank Park Zoo becomes aplayground for adults, with music, food, drinks and activities to bring outthe kid in everyone.• Dreamnight at the Zoo: A special evening of fun and activities at the Zoofor children with special healthcare needs and their families.• Kids RAGBRAI ® III: Children are invited to cycle through the Zoo in asmall version RAGBRAI ® , co-sponsored by The Des Moines Register.Adorablescarecrow AidanGraff in thePumpkin Patchat Night Eyes.• 16th Annual Night Eyes: Nearly 26,000 children and adults came to thisnighttime safari of safe and family-friendly activities, proving that the Zoois still Central Iowa’s favorite place to trick or treat.• Winter Luau: a tropical evening for adults to escape the January winterblues.• ZooBoolation: A Night Eyes event for adults. 340 supporters traveled alighted safari and got “Wild About Animals” during this annual fundraiser.Community EventsThis year the Zoo was also pleased to host a number of events sponsored by othercommunity organizations, including:• IPTV Kids Day at the Zoo by Iowa Public Television• Global Village by Iowa Council for International Understanding• Jazz in July by Metro Arts Alliance of Greater Des Moines• Taste of Des Moines by Clear Channel Radio• Latino Heritage Festival by Latino Resources, Inc• America’s Walk for Diabetes by the American Diabetes Association• Head Start Day at the Zoo by Drake University Head Start• Character Counts Day by the Institute of Character Development16

Zoo StaffVolunteersMany of the Zoo’s activities and events would not be possible without the help ofvolunteers. In 2006, the Blank Park Zoo’s volunteers numbered over 300, ranging inage from 13 to 91, and logged over 9,500 hours of support – that’s over 2,000 morevolunteer hours than last year! This year, volunteers:• Assisted with veterinary and animal care• Planted new shrubs, perennials and flowers and helped to care for theZoo’s grounds and flowerbeds• Helped to repair and revitalize fencing and structures around the Zoo• Presented programs using the Zoo’s education animals• Helped to plan, organize and staff events including Zoo Brews,Night Eyes and ZooBoolation.The Blank Park Zoo would like to extend its thanks to the wonderful volunteers who havegiven their time, talents and enthusiasm in supporting the Zoo and its mission:Carol AkersLinda AlexandersSusan AllenRachel AmundsonRoz AnsherSusan ArnoldLou BarmishDale BarnhillDeAnn BarnhillPat BarryHelen BellAmy BenesGrace BittnerLori BoatwrightAlice BoltonJosie BoyleJennifer BrandhorstLaurre BremanPenny BrockelsbyMonica BrommelKiara BrooksLinda BruningBecky BurkeTim BurnhamRobert Burnett IIIAnn CannonJim CarmodyMadeline CarnesMolly CatronZosh ChodaJeanne ClarkShelia CoatesRachael CohenKelly CoolKathy CrossVicki DaqenaisJean Ann DeBiaggioDee DennisMartha DeVriesJean DunnRoma DyeKaren DyerRollin DyerTish EakleTara ElderNancy EngleLindsey EwingerCynthia FisherPatrick FitzpatrickStephanie FleckensteinJean GalvinKirsten GebhardtRuth GerkRusty GoodeCindy GrieseLinda HauserDiana HensonPat HensonEd HerrLaurie HoskinsMary Ann HynesLana Jones-GouldMarj JordanJeremy KellerWilma KennedyStephanie KitchenKent Klein Sr.Drew KlineJane KlinknerDi KrejsaKathy KrogmeierRoxanne KucharskiBeverly LeonardPam LevineTracy LevineMichelle ListonNancy LudwigKyndra LundquistLaRue MaddoxBrandi McCauleyKristin McCauleyDulci McCueShandy MikkelsenIca MillerAmanda MohnBill MollerPeggy MonkJoe MoroneyPhyllis NagelMarlene NeffJudy NichollLisa NorrisCody NourErin NovakSarah OvertonMary Jean PaschenCarlin PeerJohn PetersonRebecca PettersonGloria PriceKarl RansomLeslie ReedGina RyanSteven RyanLance SchreierFred ScottKelly SerslandRuth SharpPat SirfusRich SirfusCindy SnellAdam SorgenFran StewartLaurie StrackelijahnMichael SuharJayne SullivanBryce TahaLori TiangcoWendy TinkeyEmily TookerEsther Van OostenrijkClifford VeitChuck VredenburgJacob WalkerPeg WardJennifer WatkinsDouglas WestLeanna WhipplePaul WhitmorePhyllis WillerDenise WilliamsEva WilliamsCarol WilsonJulie WilsonStephanie WindsorMaria WitternTeri Wood“Kenny’s Crew”, oneof the Zoo’s mostdedicated groups ofvolunteers.Chuck Vredenburg,Fred Scott, JohnPeterson, Kenny Ball(employee), and KarlRansom.Volunteers give of theirtime, knowledge andskills to help educatethe Blank Park Zoo’svisitors, assist in caringfor animals, plants andexhibits, and workduring Zoo events.Their outstandingcontributions aretremendouslyappreciated andthey are integral tothe success of theZoo. We honor theircommitment and lovefor the animals.17

SupportersThere is no other cultural experience quite like a visit to the Blank Park Zoo.Looking into the eyes of an animal creates an immediate and heartfelt connectionto the larger world. It reminds of us of the wondrous diversity of living, breathingcreatures that share our planet, and encourages us to act on our obligations asstewards of the earth.The Zoo received two of our largest gifts in Zoo history. A one million dollar giftto the endowment was donated from the Myron and Jacqueline Blank FoundationTrust. “The Blank family has made a tremendous and lasting impact on the Zoowhich bears their name. The entire State of Iowa benefits from their generosity,”says Terry Rich, CEO of the Zoo.Bill and SusanKnappThe Blank gift included a matching dollar for dollar challenge, which was metin February 2006. The William C. Knapp family donated land valued at $2.1million. The Knapps were honored at the October ZooBoolation fundraiser, whenit was announced that a new bald eagle exhibit would be named in their honor.Bob Burnett, a member of the Zoo Board, stated, “Bill Knapp is one of the keyleaders who can make things happen in a very positive way. His contribution willhelp the Zoo entertain and educate children and families of all socio-economicbackgrounds for generations to come.”The Zoo was started by a $150,000 giftfrom A.H. Blank to the City of Des Moinesto build a children’s Zoo.What Will Your Legacy Be?As you reflect upon the pleasure and delight that you have taken in the BlankPark Zoo over the years, please consider your role in securing the Zoo’s vitality forgenerations to come. Your contribution can:• Help the Blank Park Zoo Foundation create and maintain brilliantnaturalistic exhibits.• Ensure that the Zoo is able to continue its mission.• Allow the Zoo to launch new education programs.Myron andJackie Blank• Secure endowment resources for the future.When A.H. Blank and his fellow community leaders gave of their time, moneyand resources to create the Des Moines Children’s Zoo in 1966, they knew theywere becoming a part of something special that would impact the lives of Iowansfor years to come. By making a contribution to the Blank Park Zoo you can create aliving legacy for those who follow in your footsteps.18

Blank Park Zoo DonorsThe generosity of these donors enables the Blank Park Zoo Foundation to provide excellence in animal care andconservation, naturalistic exhibits and quality educational programming for community members of all ages. Great carehas been taken to ensure the accuracy of our donor list. If we have made an error please give us a roar by calling 323-8389.$1,000,000 and aboveMyron and Jackie Blank TrustWilliam C. Knapp Family$100,000 - $999,999City of Des Moines$50,000 - $99,999Kruidenier Charitable Foundation, Inc$20,000 - $49,999Allied InsuranceRobert and Gloria BurnettBRAVOCity of AltoonaCity of AnkenyCity of CliveCity of JohnstonCity of UrbandaleCity of West Des MoinesCity of Windsor HeightsGreater Des Moines Community FoundationMeredith CorporationPrairie Meadows Racetrack & CasinoTerry and Kim RichTim and Toni Urban$10,000 - $19,999Bankers TrustEMC Insurance CompaniesJohn Deere Ag ManagementPioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc.State of Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs- Cultural Enrichment ProgramThe Vredenburg FoundationWhirlpool FoundationDavid and Dolores Wallace$5,000 - $9,999CitigroupPaul and Sandy EasterJo GhristMaytag Corporation FoundationBob and Billie RayVariety - The Children‘s Charity of IowaWells Fargo Bank Iowa N.A.Wells Fargo Card ServicesWells Fargo Financial, Inc .Wells Fargo Home Mortgage$2,500 - $4,999Blank Children’s HospitalChildren’s Center at MercyKaye CondonA.E. Easter Family FoundationPat HensonNixon and Nancy LauridsonMarvin and Rose Lee PomerantzWilliams-Wilbert Vault WorksStephanie Windsor$1,000 - $2,499Abby’s One True Gift AdoptionsAhlers & Cooney, P.C.Allegra Print and ImagingAnonymous DonationsApple Tree Children’s CenterBarnes and Noble BookstoresPatricia BarrySheri BensonBruce and B.J. BoyleDr. Matthew and Heather BrownBrown-Winick Attorneys at LawCommunication Data Services$1,000 - $2,499 (continued)Day Care for Exceptional ChildrenDes Moines International AirportD.M. Kelly & CompanyMarty and Jean DunnL. Donald and Marion EasterErnst & YoungEssex Meadows, Inc.Excell MarketingBob and Ann FlemingHolmes and Marjorie FosterCharles Gabus FordG. Rusty GoodeJohn and Barbara GrahamGrip-Tite Manufacturing Co.Dr. Jim and Sheila HouriganMichael and Deborah HubbellIowa CubsIowa Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons, P.C.Kirke FinancialKenton KleinBrad and Tamara LairMcDonald’sRobert MericleMerit ResourcesMichael’s LandingSamuel and Carolyn O’BrienPella Rolscreen FoundationGreg and Jill PhilbyPrincipal Financial GroupQwest CommunicationsTim and Connie RockJ. Alex and Caroline RodawigSteven Rowe and Mary Louise HlavinSam’s Club FoundationState One GiftAndrew Tebockhorst and Teri WoodTownsend VisionRichard WellsWells Fargo Private Client ServicesWest BankThe Wittern Group$500 - $999Don and Margo BlumenthalBroadlawns Medical ClinicBusiness PublicationsCasey’s General StoresCarl and Nancy CoatesJon and Pat CroseTeresa VanVleet DanosDriven by DesignCharles EdwardsRusty EdwardsWayne and Lisa EllisFareway StoresGift of Love International AdoptionsNorm and Cindy GriseRussell HansenStacey HendersonDavid and Barbara HurdITA GroupLee JackwigRobert JostenKrause Gentle FoundationMark and Jill OmanDale and Mary ParkerRDG Planning & DesignRSM McGladrey, Inc.John Ruan Foundation TrustScott and Ellen ShumwayJeffrey and Kathleen StahlLloyd and Janet TaylorBrian and Kelly Wirt$100 - $499Patricia AldrichLarry and Grace AmbroseJohn and Cynthia AndrewsBaker ElectricAl BeatyClark and Christine BeningJudy BlankArden and Margaret BorgenTerry and Christine BranstadMike and Ruth BrauerJ.C. and Sue BrentonBrenton Charitable Lead TrustDory Briles and Jim ChristensonWilliam and Rebecca BurkeRobert Burnett Jr.Molly CatronGeorge and Kathlyn CarpenterHal and Avril ChaseRay and Susan ColeJoseph and Margaret Ann ComitoCommunity State BankJoy CorningAndrew and Christine CownieAnne CownieJanice DavisRobert DeeDrake University AthleticsRandy and Paula DuncanF&M BankFarner BockenFinancial Plus Credit UnionSteven and Susan FlackFran Fleck and Terry GreenleyJeff FlemingJohn and Corrine GanskeAmy GarrettGeolearningSara GhristPaul and Marlene GlahnEdward and Sheryl GoffVelta GoodwinJohn and Louise GrzybowskiMark and Lisa GuetzkoDr. Grover HahnJames and Lisa HallDavid and Jenifer HarkinCarl and Sally HarrisGary and Kamie HaynesRuth HensonKevin and Patty HuffmanIowa State BankMary Ghrist JamesDr. Bruce JankeLana Jones-GouldSam and Lori KalainovSelma KastleJames A. KenworthyRobert and Loral KirkeIrene KnappPaul KnappRob and Lynn KnudsenKoch FoundationDr. Alan and Margie KoslowYale and Mary KramerPam LarsonAlfred LeiserowitzRick and Jeri LeviTracy LevineLiving History FarmsFred and Miriam LorberJames LovellJim and Pat LuhrsMark and Jeanne LyleM & D SalesMark and Stacey King$100 - $499 (continued)David and Maddy MaxwellTim and Kathy McCoyWilliam and Dorothy McGinnisDan and Joanne McPhailHelen McReynoldsKatie MeredithMidlands Business EquipmentDeborah MillerPaul and Gloria MorrisRoscoe and Cheryl MortonChuck and Suzy MuelhauptChris and Colleen MurphyAndrew and Barbara NishDavid NorrisRichard and Pat NoyceSusan OlsonMary Jean PaschenMitchell and Nancy PaulCarl and Renae PetersWilliam and Stephanie PettitT. Ward and Helen PhillipsVicki PlankJoe and Diane ProctorProctor Mechanical Corp .Glenn and Florence PurnellBrian Randall and Mary KemenSue ReichardtReynolds & ReynoldsStan and Jody ReynoldsEdwin and Beverly RichardsonWilliam and Anne RileyGeorge and Susan RobesonRobert and Nina RoselandChuck and Kathy SafrisCarl and Margaret SchwabFred ScottScreenscape StudiosRobert and Lisa ShawChris and Meg ShayRon and Karen ShirkShive Hattery Inc.Barbara SmithRobert and Jeannie SnyderSouth Des Moines Chamber of CommerceJerry and Debra SpaethKathleen Stahl Travel ServicesTom and Paula StanberryLarry and Marilyn StaplesTony and Beth SteffensonMichael and Simma SteinRandi SternRoger and Shirley StetsonMikki StierGlenn and Pat StollKenneth and Cathy TalcottGloria ThieleJohn ToneVal LanesA. Thomas Wallace Jr.Wefel WarnerWilliam and Linda WeidmaierJeff and Nicole WheeldonJames and Ann WillerJames and Sandra WindsorRonnie WolfDon and Karen Young19

The Meyoks GroupBarry Griswell, CEO of the Principal Financial Group, is “Wild About Animals”.Under $100 (continued)William and Gail McCabeJack and Connie MendrysSuzanne MerrillChad and Jayme MillhollinMatthew and Mary MouwRobert NewburyKevin OwensRick and Jackie PattonRichard and Marguerite PaulGrant and Patricia PaulsenThomas PerryWilliam and Katie PeverillScott and Martha RaeckerTom RatchfordStan and Laura ReynoldsWarren and Melissa RichardsonScott and Denise RichardsonDiane RickertCraig and Susan RiesguardRay and Ann RobinsonDavid and Betsy RoeRoy and Kimberly Rumbough Jr.Michael and Linda RutledgeLorenzo SandovalJeremy and Lori SchultzTom SheedyRobert and Anne ShumakerJack and Patricia SinkJo SloanJohn and Nancy SmithKeeley SmithLouis and Joyce SmithKevin SpireJoe and Elizabeth StrasserTarget StoresMike and Madelyn TetmeyerJudie ThorntonJames TylerLambertus and Henrica VerheySteve WaltersJerry and Carolyn WanekFred and Ferol WegnerStephen and Erin WenhamSarah WhiteSerge and Tine WichRandy and Evelyn WilsonPheryl WiltseJohn and Chris WinterGary and Ann WittChip and Maria WitternMegan WrightMichael Zuendel20Under $100Kate AlbertDennis and Marcia AlbertsonAssociation of Fundraising ProfessionalsJake and Suzanne ArnoldAvoca Veterinary Clinic, PCBrian Bales and Margaret Quetsch-BalesJoseph and Heidi BarrettDaniel BartlettEric and Nancie BartlettJohn and Caroline BarzenArlene BenderGary and Janet BeneshDavid and Beth BishopBob’s ToolsWes and Joan BoldtDarrell and Joyce BookMarcus BranstadGreg and Kim BrennanClarence and Valerie BryanRichard and Phyllis CacciatoreRob CannataLee CarlsonRobert and Linda CarpenterAnthony and Michele CarraFred ChittyPeter ClayConnie ComfortJames CooperSteven and Gwenn CoppleRuth CoreUnder $100 (continued)Kenny and Julie Cortum IICostcoBrian CoughlinTina DahlAnn DavenportTed and Ann DavidsonBryan and Patrice DavisGeorge and Jeanne DobrzynskiPhilip and Nora DosterChris DouglasJanet DunnRoy and Averyle EhrleDrew EmersonRobert and Barbara EricksonMike and Jenny FerrariRand and Cyndi FisherKevin and Catherine FitzpatrickSteve and Lori FuguaHarry and Alyseann GalinskyFrank and Nina GallardoMatt and Kristen GebhardtThomas and Jessica Ghrist Jr.David and Barbara GisvoldGary and Gail GrannemanDale and Carol GurwellDr. Phil and Sue GustafsonKarl and Barbara GwiasdaTerry and Nancy HandleyJody HaringPat HeadleyUnder $100 (continued)Doug and Mary HedbergRobin HeinemannSteven Held and Susan Breen-HeldGary and Marilyn HenrichsJohn and Ellen HunterLarry and Karen HutzellScott and Tina IversJesus and Estela JacintoBruce and Diane JanvrinKendall and Jane JassDouglas JensenChad JohnsonJason and Jennifer KaimanSteve and Paula KellerWalter and Elizabeth KennedyLaRue MaddoxTimothy and Nancy KorpelaRod Kruse and Jan Berg-KruseMike and Jane LaMairLaura LarsonJames and Rochelle LevyVictoria LewisScott and Helen LittleJeff and Erin LorenzenDexter and Linda MacBrideDr. Louis and Mary MaherHal and Marabel MandersNeil and Kathryn MandsagerRobert and Joan MannheimerDave and Madolyn MassengaleIn Memory of Jim SimpsonClaire BobinetJoyce ChumbleyJohn CriswellRuth FeltonNadine FranklinBob and Janella GuilfordAnn HeerteenPhyllis HospersBev JensenOrrie and Beverly KoehlmoosNicole Lyon BrownKaren McCombsLeroy and Kathryn MooreMary MoormanSandra Morar-RohdeJean NewmanJody PattersonJoanne PetersHenry and JoAnn RiedenDorothy SouerCarol VanAernamKatheryn WaserVictoria WickmanIn Memory of Marilyn KristRuth BierbaumLisa Brubaker-KristDavid HurdLowell and Linda JunkinsIn Memory of Mary HornadayM.C. and Mary Ellen Crawford

Zoo StaffLiz RegenoldIn Memory of David KruidenierBob and Billie RayIn Memory of Evelyn WaltersBob and Billie RayIn Memory of Frank BrumleyKeith and Beverly LeonardIn Memory of Grason & Parker LundbergLarry and Pam WymerIn Memory of Tom GhristClark BeningMary and Shelby BoardmanIn Memory of Wayne McCrackenIsaac and Martha YoungIn Honor of Suzy MuelhauptJohn and Karin AhroldJuliet BlissNancy BoneDiane Todd BrownJan CampbellBarbara CarlstromDenise DonaldRandy and Paula DuncanRobert and Mary FanterWilliam and Cynde FanterDiane FinleyBrent and Nancy GreenDouglas and Barbara HeinMary KellyJosh and Susie KimelmanMark and Michelle KirklandRobert and Julie LemanWilliam and Joyce LudwigThomas and Kay McCollumMichael and Ginger MonsonBernard and Brenda MouwJohn Paul and Karen MuelhauptJames and Sherry NelsonJody ReynoldsJill RoehrickCharles and Peggy StriefStephen and Cheryl SypalBenjamin and Martha UllemDick and Judy WattLarry and Willa WenzlDoug and Malinda WiesnerIn Honor of Jerry & Billie NoahBetty WebsterIn Honor of Katelynn & Cole MitchellRobert and Janet ColeIn Honor of Suzanne CurryJohn LewarneIn Kind GiftsAAA SalesAbella SalonADi GroupAdventureland InnAfrican American Historical MuseumAirport Holiday InnAllegra Print & ImagingAllied InsuranceAmici EspressoAnderson Erickson DairyApplishus - Connie BoesenAspen Athletic ClubsAvoca Veterinary Clinic, PCBaker ElectricBaratta’s RestaurantMegan BaronJulie BellBiaggi’sEdward BierlyBilly Joe’s Pitcher ShowBlue BunnyKendall and Diane BrownLonny BryantBuild-A-Bear WorkshopBunny’s First Serve - Bunny BruningIn Kind Gifts (continued)The Butler CompanyCafe de ScalaCarithers & KochCarlisle Veterinary ClinicCarlos O’KellysCenter Grove OrchardCentroChocolaterie StamCityviewCity of Des MoinesCivic Center of Greater Des MoinesCivic Music AssociationClear Channel OutdoorClear Channel RadioColor FXCookies Food Products Inc .Costco WholesaleCounty Line PrintingCourt Avenue Restaurant & Brewing CompanyDahl’s Food StoresDes Moines Art CenterDes Moines BuccaneersDes Moines International AirportDes Moines Marriott DowntownDes Moines MenaceDes Moines Metro OperaDes Moines Radio GroupDes Moines RegisterDes Moines SymphonyDex Media, Inc.Drake DinerDrake University Athletic DepartmentMarty and Jean DunnNell DuweliusEl PatioElements Ltd.Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines on the RiverCraig and Cindy FauschFlanagan’sFletcher Wildlife Art - Doug FletcherFreeman DecoratingFridley TheatersGlazers Distributors of IowaGong Fu TeaTag GrandgeorgeGranite City Food and BreweryGreat Frame UpHammer Medical SupplyHeard Gardens Ltd.Heart of Iowa Market PlaceHeartland Vascular Medicine - Dr. Alan KoslowJourney Zing by Victoria HerringHolmes AutomotiveHotel PatteeHy-Vee Food StoresIowa CubsIowa Dance TheatreIowa Events CenterIowa Hall of PrideIowa Parent MagazineIowa Pork ProducersIowa State FairIsabel BloomWilliam JagielloJohnny’s Italian SteakhouseLana Jones-GouldLittle EntertainmentJoseph’s Jewelry StoresK. ReneeKCCI-TVKDSM-Fox 17Jenn KirkeKnitted TogetherLa Pizza HouseLa MieThe Learning PostLetter PerfectLite 104.1Living History FarmsJamie Loggins-EvansLongview Golf CentreMcAninch CorporationMeyocks GroupChef George MiglieroEthan MouldenNational Mississippi River Museum & AquariumIn Kind Gifts (continued)Nobbies Party SuperstoreOkoboji GrillOlde Main Brewing CompanyOnce Upon a TreePepsi AmericasPepsi Cola General BottlersPetCoJohn PetersonPinnacle Construction GroupPumpkin WorldRadio Garage ProductionsRadisson HotelRainbow Play Systems of IowaBob and Billie RayReinhart FoodserviceRenaissance Savery HotelTerry RichRitual CafeRock Bottom Restaurant & BreweryRoyal MileCharlie SchaferScience Center of IowaScreenscape Studios7 Flags Fitness & Racquet ClubSeven Oaks RecreationChris ShayLora SimpsonSleepy Hollow Sports ParkSoapourri - Cindy HelgesonSplash Seafood Bar & GrillStage WestStar 102.5Steph Jessen DesignSticksIn Kind Gifts (continued)Storey KenworthyTandem Brick GalleryTarget StoresTaylor Construction Group LLCThree Dog BakeryChris TimmonsTrostel’s GreenbrierTucker PublishingTumea & Sons RestaurantToni and Tim UrbanWakonda ClubWaste ManagementWeitz ConstructionWhiterock Conservancy - Liz GarstWHO TV-13Jennifer WilsonStephanie WindsorThe Wine MerchantsWineStyles of West GlenWing ZoneChip and Maria WitternThe Wittern GroupThe Woodsmith StoreYellow Book USAYoga on FifthThomas ZielinskiMatching GiftsMaytag Corp. FoundationRoy Rumbough Jr.Pella Rolscreen FoundationPheryl WiltseWhirlpool FoundationRobert and Gloria BurnettClifford the Big Red Dog visits the Zoo.Ben and Alex Regenold love feeding theKoi in the contact area. Their mom, Liz,designed this report at no cost to the Zoo.21

Blank Park Zoo StaffThe success of the Zoo depends on the vision, leadership and passion of the staff.Animal CareKevin DreesJeff DierJohn KrogmeierBrett AshburnLisa AshburnMyrna BoothKathy CrossChad ComerCasey EddyKirk EmbreeJames GraffVal HautekeeteWilliam JohnsonShannon OsterholmJacquine PierceKeiko SampsonBonnie Van EllenJessica WeeksMegan WrightZach WrightZoo VeterinarianDr. June OldsAdministrationTerry RichKrista BeckRyan BickelPat HensonDevelopment andMembershipDory BrilesSarah BonefasJamie Loggins-EvansLisa WillamsEducationCindy AndersonLori BoatwrightDaniela GrahamFabian TanSpecial EventsColleen MurphyGuest OperationsAnne ShimerdlaMegan BaronKatie BroughtonCindy HuttDanny GreenlandDaniel KuceraPenny BrockelsbyMaintenance,Horticultureand GroundsKenny BallPatrick CallahanCindy FauschCity of Des MoinesDavid AllenDon Trippwww.blankparkzoo.com7401 SW 9th Street | Des Moines, IA | 50315