The Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) is looking for a new candidate to leap into office this summer as Mayor of Amphibiville. This 2-acre wetland village is home to the Detroit Zoo’s award-winning National Amphibian Conservation Center. This facility features spacious, naturalistic habitats for a spectacular diversity of frogs, toads, salamanders, newts and caecilians and highlights the critical role that they play in the environment.
Amphibiville’s outgoing mayor – Trinity Favazza, 14, of Shelby Township, Mich. – has proven herself to be a conservation champion during her two terms. Trinity has amassed many impressive accolades including the creation of a statewide Amphibian Conservation Awareness Week in 2018. She is a young leader who represents hope for the future of the planet and has done impressive work protecting local wetlands and bringing attention to amphibian conservation.
“Having a mayor of this important conservation center helps to engage younger generations who have so much to contribute as they grow up and become stewards of this planet,” said DZS Executive Director and CEO Ron Kagan.
To join the race to become the new Mayor of Amphibiville, candidates 7-12 years old who live in Michigan are invited to submit an essay of 100 words or fewer on what they can do to help amphibians. All entries must be submitted by April 30 to socialmedia@dzs.org or to Mayor of Amphibiville, Detroit Zoological Society, 8450 W. 10 Mile Rd., Royal Oak, MI 48067. Entries must include the candidate’s name, age, address and a daytime telephone number. The winner will be announced this summer with an official swearing-in ceremony.
The new Mayor of Amphibiville will have a plaque inscribed with his or her name displayed in the National Amphibian Conservation Center throughout the two-year term of office and will receive a family membership to the Detroit Zoo.