ROYAL OAK, Mich., May 2, 2006 – The Detroit chapter of the American Association of Zookeepers (AAZK) will host its 17th annual “Bowling for Rhinos” bowl-a-thon on Saturday, June 3, at Cloverlanes Bowl in Livonia.  Nationally, “Bowling for Rhinos” raises over $200,000 annually for the conservation of endangered rhinos.

A family-friendly event will be held at 3 p.m., which includes bowling, a tin can raffle, cookie walk and coloring contest.  The traditional bowl-a-thon gets underway at 7 p.m. with bowling, a silent auction and 50/50 raffle.  Bowlers may register individually or form a team of four to five.  The registration fee is $5, which includes shoe rental, two games, pizza and soft drinks.

Bowlers are asked to collect sponsor money of a minimum $20 for adults and $10 for children.  All donations are tax deductible.  Bowlers who raise over $50 will receive a “Bowling for Rhinos” tee-shirt and those who raise over $100 will receive the tee-shirt and a rhino beanbag animal. 

Each year, over 40 AAZK chapters throughout the United States participate in “Bowling for Rhinos,” raising over $2 million nationally since 1990.  The Detroit Zoological Institute zookeepers have done their part, raising over $90,000.  One hundred percent of the proceeds directly benefit three rhino conservation projects in Africa and Asia.

While there were once over 100 species of rhinos worldwide, today there are only five, all of which are endangered.  “Now that two white rhinos, Tamba and Jasiri, call the Detroit Zoo home, we have more incentive than ever to save this majestic species,” said Detroit Zoological Institute Director Ron Kagan.

Since space is limited, bowlers must be pre-registered by May 27 in order to participate.  Cloverlanes Bowl is located at 28900 Schoolcraft Rd. in Livonia, off the I-96 service drive at Middlebelt Rd.  Further information on “Bowling for Rhinos” is available by calling (248) 541-5717ext. 3000 or emailing aazk@detroitzoo.org.

The Detroit Zoological Institute is comprised of the Detroit Zoo and the Belle Isle Nature Zoo.  Founded in 1928, the Institute is committed to celebrating and saving wildlife.  Situated on 125 acres of naturalistic exhibits, the Detroit Zoo is located at the intersection of Ten Mile Road and Woodward Avenue, just off I-696, in Royal Oak.  The Detroit Zoo is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily April through October, with extended hours 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesdays during July and August.  Admission is $11.00 for adults 13 to 61, $9.00 for senior citizens 62 and older, and $7.00 for children ages 2 to 12; children under 2 are free.  For more information, call (248) 398-0900 or visit www.detroitzoo.org.  The Belle Isle Nature Zoo is currently undergoing renovation but provides some programming, with interpretive staff support from the Huron-Clinton Metroparks, on Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on weekdays with advance reservations by calling (313) 852-4056.  The Detroit Zoological Society works to promote the general welfare and interests of the Institute.  Financial support has allowed the Zoo to open new exhibits, develop important education and conservation programs and implement major beautification projects.  To help the Detroit Zoological Society through financial support, partnership opportunities, membership or volunteering, please call (248) 541-5717.
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