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75th Birthday Surprise! – UPDATE March 29, 2014

Cub yawnsCub yawnsIt was supposed to be a surprise, but Lynn found out about it.  One tip-off seeing a banner to be posted on Facebook saying “Surprise Birthday Fundraiser” and noticing that the funds would go for the new addition.  The staff was right.  It’s what is needed and Lynn was delighted. 

JulietCub looks up at JulietWe spent this past year dealing with legal issues—time that could otherwise have been spent moving forward on exhibits for the new addition.  Supporters generously donated to the WRI Legal Fund to help with attorney fees—and we’re very grateful. 

CubCub exploresNow it’s time to refocus our energies on the Hope Learning Center and Northwoods Ecology Hall.  We are anxious to make progress and volunteers are stepping forward to help.   We have applied for a $20,000 grant that requires matching donations and in-kind contributions.  Our goal is to raise as much of the $20,000 as possible, fill in with in-kind contributions, and use the matching money to move forward on the new addition with a total of $40,000.

Juliet and cubsJuliet and cubIn-kind contributions, which can be up to half the $20,000 matching, will include donations of nature sounds, picture blow-ups, and a system for integrating video/images of animals with audio to create the signature sights and sounds of the Northwoods.  The sounds are coming from the top nature sound recordist we know.

Juliet and cubsSo much to exploreIf you have taxidermy to donate, please send a photo to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to see if it is something we need.  We’re looking for quality taxidermy of Northwoods mammals, birds, and fish.  So far, we have a moose, a woodland caribou, and a mountain lion.  The purpose of the Northwoods Ecology Hall is to educate about the history of Northwoods habitats since the glaciers, the value of the different habitats, and the animals bears encounter.  We believe that with knowledge comes appreciation for our surroundings.

CubStronger by the day!To donate to the 75th Birthday Surprise Fundraiser—and leave a birthday greeting for Dr. Rogers—click here.

Last night we mentioned the good work our legal team from Fredrikson & Byron has done for us.  We have placed the ‘post trial documents’ online for those interested.  Click to view or download 'Post-Hearing Memo of Law' and 'Proposed Findings of Fact and Conclusion of Law'.

Thank you for all you do.

—Lynn Rogers and Sue Mansfield, Biologists, Wildlife Research Institute and North American Bear Center


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