The weather has been terrific and construction on Africa!—the first phase of the Peoria Zoo expansion project—has really taken off.  Work is occurring throughout the entire six acres, from the erection of the steel beams for the tree-tops boardwalk on the north end to the completion of the block work for the small animals building on the south end.  In the middle of the site, the lion exhibit is taking shape.  A huge hole was excavated and now a 19 foot rock wall restraint is being constructed along the west edge. On May 9^th, the Park Board approved the addition of the Zambezi River Lodge to the project.  This themed building will be located in the village area and will provide restaurant capabilities for zoo patrons and special events.