Brookfield Zoo Chicago prepares for new primate habitats Western lowland gorillas have moved into a new indoor habitat at Brookfield Zoo Chicago as part of the preparation for the James & Elizabeth Bramsen Tropical Forests, a new outdoor home for primates opening this summer. The new $66 million setup, which encompasses nearly three acres, will include two indoor habitats (one of which is viewable by the public) and four outdoor habitats for western lowland gorillas, Bornean orangutans and several monkey species. In addition to the zoo’s six western lowland gorillas, four of whom were born at Brookfield Zoo, a group of “bachelor” gorillas from partner zoos will join them, as well as five spider monkeys rescued from illegal wildlife trading. “The gorillas are quickly settling in, displaying adaptability and engaging in natural behaviors as they climb, explore and interact with their new environment,” Kim Skelton, director of primate care and conservation, shared in a news release. Bramsen Tropical Forests is named for James Bramsen, a life trustee, and Elizabeth Hamill Bramsen, vice chairman of the zoo’s board of trustees “This new addition to Brookfield Zoo Chicago – which prioritizes the primates’ welfare, enriches their daily lives and supports the conservation of their species – is truly special,” Elizabeth Bramsen said in the release. “We are thrilled to see the gorillas in their new indoor habitat and look forward to seeing them outdoors later this spring.” Contributions to the project can be made at brookfieldzoo.org/GrowTheForest. Egg hunts set at Berens Park in Elmhurst The Elmhurst Park District hosts two sessions of egg hunts for children 2 to 10 years old on April 19 at the baseball fields at Berens Park, 493 N. Oaklawn Ave., Elmhurst. They are from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. or 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Yard games will be available, and food trucks will be at the park. Adults must accompany children and should bring a basket for the eggs. The event is free but requires registration at epd.org. Parking is available at the parks’ east and west lots. Information is at 630-993-8900. More than 400 climb stairs to benefit lung association More than 400 people took to the stairs at Oakbrook Terrace Tower as part of the American Lung Association’s Fight For Air Climb. The combined efforts of individuals and teams raised more than $120,000. (Jayne Killelea/American Lung Association) Teams and individuals, including firefighters, climbed 30 floors at Oakbrook Terrace Tower last month as part of the American Lung Association’s Fight For Air Climb, raising more than $120,000 by climbing 660 stairs. The money raised by the more than 400 participants will be used to support the nearly 1.8 million Illinois residents who have lung disease. “It is wonderful to see our community members come together to bring awareness toward the importance of lung health and their ongoing efforts to defeat the leading cause of cancer deaths in the nation,” association Executive Director Danielle Trojanek said in a news release. The American Lung Association works to save lives by improving lung health and using advocacy, research and education to prevent lung disease. Information is at 800-586-4872 or Lung.org. ‘The Little Mermaid’ hits stage at Nazareth Academy Nazareth Academy presents its spring musical, “The Little Mermaid,” at 7 p.m. April 11 and 12 and at 2 p.m. April 12 and 13 in its Romano Family Theatre, 1209 W. Ogden Ave., La Grange. The musical, based on Disney’s animated film and one of Hans Christian Andersen’s most loved fairy tales, showcases students. “As we celebrate Nazareth Academy’s 125th anniversary, this production offers a special opportunity to bring our community together in a shared experience of magic, music and joy,” director Aileen O’Carroll shared in a news release. Tickets cost $15 for general admission and $10 for students and seniors. They are available via the school’s website, www.nazarethacademy.com. Information is at 708-354-0061. Podiatrist moves clinic from Hinsdale to Western Springs Northern Illinois Foot & Ankle Specialists has opened a new office at 608 Hillgrove Ave., Western Springs, with patients starting there April 7. The office previously was in Hinsdale. A grand opening event is planned for May 8. The public is invited to explore the new clinic and to meet its staff. Entertainment, food, drinks and raffles will be included. “We are thrilled to expand our services in a location that allows us to enhance the patient experience while continuing to provide the highest level of podiatric care,” Dr. Ashley Lee, lead podiatric specialist, shared in a news release. Northern Illinois Foot & Ankle Specialists offers care at 16 locations. Information is at www.illinoisfoot.com or 847-639-5800. ‘Annie Jr.’ takes the stage April 11-13 The Academy of Music and Art presents several performances of “Annie Jr.” at Mario Parente Theater, 1S325 Ardmore Ave., Oakbrook Terrace. Tickets are available for the show at 7 p.m. April 11 and April 12 and at 3 p.m. April 13. They cost $25 per person plus a service fee. Buy tickets at https://cur8.com/14060/project/130526. Information is at 630-654-8426 or email at information@academyofmusicart.com. Send news to pioneerwest@tribpub.com. ...read more read less