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Penick News
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August 18, 2008

Penick Village Hops into Summer with Educational Frog Exhibit

SUBMITTED TO THE PILOT BY: KRISTA SNIVELY

From Bible times with Moses and the Pharaohs of Egypt, frogs have been considered a nuisance or a plague to society. To some people, frogs have been a unique childhood curiosity that allowed individuals the opportunity to learn about how animals grow and develop, and to see physical changes they go through, as well. To other people, frogs were a cute, but slimy animal in which they developed an interest. However, today environmental scientists are examining and observing frogs, and they are finding that frogs may be environmental indicators. The question is how do the scientists let the general public know of the crisis that is taking place? That is where Animal Interactive Design Group (AIDG) and Penick Village teamed up together to educate the public this summer.

Penick Village has accepted the challenge of “deinstitutionalizing the aging experience.” They believe that preserving the quality of life for each resident is paramount. AIDG is a local animal organization that provides zoos and aquariums across the nation opportunities to see unique and beautiful animals. Through their animal exhibits, AIDG educates the public on the beautiful animals and how humans are impacting their environment. It seemed to be a natural fit.

Both organizations have a natural respect for life. Greg Dye, co-owner of AIDG stated, “Penick Village has a great respect for the sanctity of life and is a natural connection. Penick Village is forging new roads into retirement care. They believe in a positive quality of life for each resident. From their Board of Directors to their front line staff, they are committed to enriching the lives of every resident by honoring, caring, and respecting everyone.”

Greg Dye added, “At AIDG, we are committed to preserving life, and we strive to educate the public through animal exhibits. We have high quality exhibits, the best staff, and a unified desire to raise awareness for these animals.”

Penick Village hosted a “Fabulous Frog Celebration” on Tuesday, August 18, 2008 from 6:30p.m.-8:00p.m. showcasing these exhibits in the breezeway of the North Building. A “green-themed” event took place, featuring warm welcome from Jeff Hutchins, CEO of Penick Village, followed by an educational presentation on the frog exhibits by Greg Dye. A cake with a frog photograph was enjoyed by all, with even a special “swamp juice” punch.

There were five frog exhibits along with educational graphics to inform the residents and guests about frogs and their role in the environment. “Not since the dinosaurs has one taxa been threatened with extinction in such a short amount of time,” said Greg Dye. The frogs on display were the Yellow-banded Dart Frog, American Bull Frog, White’s Tree Frog, Fire-bellied Toads, and the Mossy Tree Frog. All the frogs currently housed at Penick Village will be heading out to a large zoological facility on the west coast.

Jeff Hutchins, CEO of Penick Village stated, “Penick Village is excited is about this opportunity for the residents. We believe that this type of activity can really enrich the lives of everyone in the Penick Village family. AIDG and Penick Village have like minded goals…to honor and respect the sanctity of life.”

Penick Village is honored to have hosted this wonderful exhibit for Moore County and Southern Pines residents. For more information about the frog exhibit, please contact Aaron Dye, Director of Lifestyle Enrichment at (910) 692-0344. Penick Village is the Episcopal Retirement Community of the Diocese of North Carolina.