For Immediate Release, May 30, 2008
Contact: Kelly Lessard (952) 431-9217

Grizzly Bears Invade Downtown Minneapolis!
Paw Prints Lead to Macy’s Department Store

Apple Valley, MN – May 30, 2008: Today the downtown Minneapolis Macy’s store debuted a storefront window dedicated to the Minnesota Zoo’s new exhibit, Russia’s Grizzly Coast. The window, located at the corner of 8th and Nicollet Mall, features a spectacular display of grizzly bears and landscape of the Russian Far East. A path of paw prints leads to the window.

The Zoo’s new exhibit opens on June 7, 2008.

"The Minnesota Zoo plays such an important role for people in our community-whether young or young at heart,” said Natalie Bushaw, Director, Media Relations and Community Relations, Macy's East North Region. “Using our signature window on 8th and Nicollet and having in-store visuals are fun ways to share the message about the new exhibit and get our customers excited to plan their trip to the Zoo."

Authentically replicating the landscape and animal communities of the Russian Far East region, Russia’s Grizzly Coast will feature grizzly bears, sea otters, wild boars and Amur leopards–the most endangered of all wild cats. A multi-sensory exhibition, the project represents the rugged terrain of a region that is one of the most spectacular environments on the planet. The exhibit opening coincides with the Minnesota Zoo’s 30th anniversary, and includes a family-friendly renovation of the Zoo’s Central Plaza.

The Minnesota Zoo is located in Apple Valley, just minutes south of Mall of America. For more information, call 952.431.9500 or visit mnzoo.org. The Minnesota Zoo is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and an institutional member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA).