Press Release Contact:
Annette Eyman Director of Communications Papillion-La Vista Public Schools 420 S. Washington St., Papillion, NE 68046 Phone (402) 537-6209 Fax (402) 537-6216
PLSD Zoo Academy Students to Testify Before Legislature on Banning Shark Fin Products in Nebraska While most students are sitting in classrooms learning on Friday, January 31, students of the Papillion-La Vista School District Zoo Academy will be taking their learning outside the classroom by testifying before the Nebraska Legislature. A small group of students will travel to Lincoln to testify on behalf of Senator Nordquist’s proposed bill LB 921 that would prohibit the possession, sale, trade and distribution of shark fins in the state of Nebraska. The students have been working on this project for several years. In 2012, PLSD Zoo Academy students presented to Senator Jeremy Nordquist proposing that products made from shark fins be banned in the state of Nebraska. Shark finning refers to the catching of sharks, removing their fins and throwing the sharks back into the ocean. De-finning of sharks leads to the death of millions of sharks each year through suffocation or being eaten by other ocean predators. In many countries, shark fins are considered a delicacy and can bring a big profit to those selling them. Over the last two years, PLSD Zoo Academy students have worked with local organizations and made several presentations on the importance of banning shark fins. Although Nebraska is land locked and the nearest ocean is thousands of miles away, shark fin products can still be purchased here. The PLSD Zoo Academy students have visited many local markets where they have been able to purchase the products. Intrigued by the student’s proposal, Senator Nordquist introduced Legislative Bill 921. The bill is now in committee. The public hearing by the Judiciary Committee will take place on Friday, January 31 at 1:30 p.m. in room 1113 of the Capital. The purpose of this hearing is to show the impact of the possession, sale, trade and distribution of shark fins in the State of Nebraska. Papillion-La Vista Zoo Academy students along with others will be able to express their opinions to committee members. Many individuals will be there to show their support for the bill and the students work, including Henry Doorly Zoo officials, representatives from DiVentures as well as others. After the hearing, the committee can decide if the bill will be sent to general file, postponed or if no action is taken. The PLSD Zoo Academy students have become very passionate about this project. It is a great opportunity for them to bring their learning to life.