Ron and Lynne DiMenna donated $1 million from the retail company Ron Jon Surf Shop and $1 million from their foundation, Surfing’s Evolution and Preservation.
The zoo will use the money to build a beach-themed entrance complex to save coastal ecosystems.
The future aquarium will be located along the Banana River, inspiring connections between people and Florida’s marine life.
Brevard Zoo marks $67 million of its $100 million “Our Legacy Campaign” with this new gift. The program launched in December 2021.
Groundbreaking is expected for the fall of 2024, and Brevard Zoo plans to open the center in 2027.
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$31 million is already committed to the project that is expected to generate 1,000 jobs and attract half-a-million visitors to the area every year.
$31 million is already committed to the project that is expected to generate 1,000 jobs and attract half-a-million visitors to the area every year.
One of the Brevard Zoo’s original five giraffes was humanely euthanized Sunday due to age-related medical issues.
“Rafiki” was 25 years old, far exceeding the median lifespan of approximately 16 years for male giraffes in facilities accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
Rafiki arrived at the zoo in 2003 as one of the first to be featured in their new Expedition Africa habitat.
Rafiki was known for greeting his keepers each morning and following them around the habitat.
“His magnetic personality never wavered, bringing joy to our staff, volunteers and thousands of visiting guests for nearly 20 years,” Brevard Zoo Deputy Director Jon Brangan said. “He will be profoundly missed by our zoo family and our entire community.”
Rafiki eating leaves. He was one of the zoo's first giraffes to participate in voluntary hoof trims and other care, contributing to how they cares for other giraffes.
Rafiki celebrating his 25th birthday. His legacy will continue at Brevard Zoo, where his 2-year-old son Mapenzi will remain to become their new breeding male giraffe.
“There is no doubt his legacy will live on, in his descendants, in our keepers, in our guests and volunteers, and in the amazing care we provide to all our animals,” Africa Platform keeper Alyssa Simon said. “He will be greatly missed.”
Rafiki and his offspring. In all, Rafiki has sired more than a dozen calves that reside at other Association of Zoos and Aquariums facilities, including a great-grandcalf.
A memorial area is available near the front entrance of the Zoo where guests with special memories of Rafiki can share them with the staff.
Kansas City Chiefs special teams coach Dave Toub said kicker Harrison Butker may be removed from kickoffs. But not because of Butker's recent controversial remarks.
Olympic gold medal and two-time NCAA champion wrestler Gable Steveson has signed with the Buffalo Bills. He'll attempt to make the team as a defensive tackle.
The New Orleans Pelicans have opted not to take the Los Angeles Lakers' first-round pick in this year's NBA Draft as part of the Anthony Davis trade. The Pelicans will take the Lakers' pick next year.
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