“We are so proud:" Racine Zoo and North Shore Bank take partnership to new heights

RACINE -- The Racine Zoological Society is excited to announce an extended partnership with North Shore Bank to include exclusive sponsorship of the popular Giraffe Encounter, an interactive animal experience where guests can hand feed two Masai giraffes.

An official ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for Monday, June 22 at 10 a.m. in front of the North Shore Bank Giraffe Encounter.  Officials from both the Zoo and North Shore Bank will be on hand, in addition to giraffes Bo and Mac.  Racine Zoo Executive Director Beth Heidorn will also be presenting a one-of-a-kind painting created by Bo the giraffe to North Shore Bank for display within the Main Street branch in Racine.

“The Zoo has enjoyed a collaborative relationship with North Shore Bank throughout the years,” said Heidorn.  “This is the first time naming rights have been granted to this particular attraction so we couldn’t be happier.”

The North Shore Bank Giraffe Encounter, within Charles and Jennifer Johnson Land of the Giants, is $4 per person and available daily through Labor Day at 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m., and 5:00 p.m. Animal care specialists supervise encounters, answer questions, and share information about the various subspecies of giraffe. Guests are welcome to take photos during their experience.

“We are so proud to be sponsoring the Zoo’s Giraffe Encounter,” said North Shore Bank Area Manager Lisa Brooks.  “How often do you get to feed a giraffe?  To know we are a part of someone’s special memory really strengthens our connection to the community.  It means a lot to us.”

In previous years, North Shore Bank has sponsored the Zoo’s Egg-Stravaganza, Zoo Debut Charity Gala, and Boo at the Zoo.

Nestled along the sandy shores of Lake Michigan, the Racine Zoo is open year round.  Current hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.  Admission rates are: Members and children under the age of three: FREE, children two years to 15 years: $6, seniors: $7, and adults: $8. Racine County residents take $1 off with valid photo I.D. For more information on the Racine Zoo, its programs and events, visit www.racinezoo.org, call 262-636-9189.