Dean Schuster will be running all day on a treadmill at the Zoo�s penguin exhibit to raise money for Oceanites (Ocean-Eye-Tees)�a non-profit organization that does real-world penguin research and conservation on the Antarctic Peninsula. Schuster will actually run about 50 miles during the course of the day, from 9:00am to 5:00pm.

In addition to supporting the ongoing work of the Oceanites project to protect Antarctic penguins, a portion of the funds raised by Schuster will be donated to the Riverbanks Conservation Support Fund, allowing for a member of Riverbanks� staff to participate in another important field conservation initiative protecting Humboldt penguins in Peru.

�Conserving the natural world is a sacred responsibility. I�ve enjoyed the Zoo as a visitor for over 15 years; now I�m working with Riverbanks to support real-world conservation,� said Schuster. �I feel extremely lucky to be a part of something that�s so important and close to my heart.�

As part of his commitment to this important cause, Schuster is training to run the Antarctica Marathon on March 9, 2012. Proceeds from the 26.2 mile race will benefit Oceanites� ongoing research and conservation field work.

Guests are invited to stop by and talk with Schuster throughout his day-long run at the Zoo. Penguin Coast is located inside the Birdhouse at Riverbanks.

To keep track of Schuster�s journey, follow him on Twitter at @deanguin or online at www.runningwithpenguins.com. To make a donation in support of the Riverbanks Conservation Support Fund, visit www.riverbanks.org and click on Donate. (Images provided by RunningWithPenguins.com.)

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