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the Gray Wolf as he sprint: P n. There’s never a lack of activity at Northwood Zoo! But for a more re educational expe- rience, be sure to visit the zoo for a guided tour by owner Norm Phillips. Norm will offer a wealth of knowledge on all the animals he has created a safe and loving home for. He also provides scheduled educational tours for larger groups, such as public schools, se- nior citizen groups, and special needs groups. Norm is committed to creating better awareness of endangered species. While Northwood is dedicated to providing an exciting place for guests to come and see some of the world’s most fascinating animals, above all else, the zoo is committed to creating a better public awareness of endangered species. They are devoted to support- ing the SSP (Species Survival Plan) and many of their cats are living examples of how their facility is making a differ- ence to the treatment of endangered animals. Another primary goal of North- wood is to provide education, not only to the general public, but also to students involved in work/education placements, such as high school co-op or Durham College programs. They are heavily involved with the Ontario Disability Support Program and Scugog, & Durham Region Tourism and various haritabl i including The Children’s Wish Foundation. My final stop of the day was right in front of the bear . However, after feeding a treat to “Ben,” the zoo’s black bear (who has actually appeared in many commercials and movies), noth- ing seems to faze me. Not even Cody, a gigantic kodiak bear, who is a mere two feet in front of me. One thing’s for sure; a trip to Northwood quite literally helps you face your fears of certain animals! After asking Norm whether the intimidation or risk of working with such wild animals ever prevents him from personally interacting with them, I receive a confident “absolutely not!” As Norm explains, even after being chased and attacked by some of his animals, he’s always eager to get back to training them and gaining their trust. When it comes to training his ani- Northwood is home to ‘Sinbad’ North America’s largest Siberian Tiger. mals, Norm is fully committed to what- ver task is at hand. In fact, a recent television series had him training his bears to chase him up a tree. A job that would seem completely out of the ques- tion for most people was nothing more than another day’s work for Norm. He explains that in his business you have to be 100 per cent willing to push the limits and endure the risks that come along with it. And Norm certainly does just that! He shows me the many scars and wounds on his legs and arms and explains that just to feed his new tiger cubs over the next few months will cost him well over 500 dollars. But, despite any setbacks, he is also certain that everything is worth it in the end. ire to leave Northwood that day, I spotted Norm excitedly showing a group of visitors around the zoo and realize that he is right in his element. It’s this undeniable passion, ve and commitment to wildlife that makes his facility such an incredible experience. By Christina Coughlin n Scugog Come and enjoy a nit under the stars! ce pe BF blanket or a lawn ch view a feature film an a cee outdoor screen. + (Rain date: August 25, 2008) haitsgray Pre-show events: 7pm VIP Seating Raffle Costume contest — “Dress like the 60's” Chance to win a “mini-makeover” with a $5.00 donation towards the event Popcorn, drinks, treats or epee oe A Fun Night for All Ages! 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Without their Dana Romeril Judy Barrett Port Perry Wado Kai Karate The Scugog Standard support and Dave Porter & the Crew of Kaledescope PP Print & Digital Services The Township of Scugog pp Port Pyrotechni nna Kozak Richard & Sandi Gauder The Wee Tartan Shop volunteer time the Dubble Bubble Khrystyne Dowson Richard Hart - DJ Tom Batton Home Inspection ayitt Durham Regional Police Leslie Howsam Rory Taillon & Friends Township of Scugog Geeuiutits man Ma & Auxiliary WZ ire dogs Roya Canadian Legion & ‘Trading Post have been possible. Durham Tourism 3 Luke's Country Store Volunteers Tribal Voices EMS ‘Mad Millies Sandy Dale Trudalu’s Jumping Castle UY ! Fish TV << Margaret Lee Scugog Fire Department & Tweed & Hickol (OJTEGE Fred Haines 7“ Marion Lee Volunteers YMCA THANK YOU TO THE COMMUNITY website: www.focusonscugog.com AUGUST.FOOUS.40 Pgs.indd 35 FOCUS - AUGUST 2008 35 renne 10011 aM |