We are so very grateful to Jen Feuerstein for sponsoring this day of sanctuary in honor of such a special anniversary! One year ago today we opened the final door and officially integrated Cy’s group and Willy B’s group. Jen was here that day and the days leading up to it, playing a pivotal role in making it happen.
Here’s what Jen said in her sponsor-a-day message:
“Can you believe it’s been a year since the doors were opened to put all 9 chimps from WW together? Congrats on this momentous anniversary!”
Since that day one year ago, we have had a group of nine. As Anna said in her blog post one year ago, I think it’s safe to say that we are all still cautiously optimistic. It hasn’t been all hugs and parties, though there have been a lot of those! It’s a challenge to put chimpanzees together and we are still experiencing some challenges, but also so many heartwarming moments.
Thank you so much, Jen, for sponsoring this special anniversary- and for playing such a crucial role in bringing these chimpanzees together!
The group of nine, one year ago today:
In the last year, we’ve proudly watched special relationships form between individuals (like Dora and Mave!) as the group figures out their new normal.
More recent photos of the group of nine:
From our whole family here at CSNW – thank you so much for everything, Jen!!!
Of course from this end, we don’t get ALL the goings-on in the family of 9.
But from what I read on the blog, following the patience and love from the wise people ( yes, that includes you Jen!), who orchestrated the coming together of that family, I think you all did a fabulous job.
And as it goes in families; there is always disagreements and such……( poor Willy B. and Mave can tell you all about it.)
Thank you Jen! I am sure all the caregivers learnt a lot from you.
Happy 3+6=9 Anniversary!! Only one year ago — really?! It seems as if it has been longer. Thank you Jen for celebrating today with your sponsorship. April 28 is a lucky day. You all must feel very proud. A wonderful accomplishment. Looking forward to many years full of close bonds, forages, reading, movie watching, mischievous capers, mall walking, raspberry blowing, foot stomping, finger pokes, and breathy laughter from this magnificent group of nine.
And a big, warm “Thank You!” shout out to everyone involved in “Chimpanzees In Need” for making all this happen. Hard to imagine there was a time without these dear chimp people at the sanctuary.