Abilene Zoo Hosts "Zoolute Day" for Military Families

The Abilene Zoo will be hosting a “Zoolute Day" this weekend, said a press release Tuesday. This day is to honor active and retired military families with a free day of food and fun on Saturday, May 21, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Military families will be admitted free with the presentation of a U.S. Military ID. A free lunch and snacks will be served from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m, and children are invited to bounce in an air castle, listen to keepers talk about their animals and enjoy musical performers throughout the day.

“Abilene is famous for its relationship with Dyess Air Force Base, and this is just another way to show the community’s gratitude to our military families,” said Executive Director Bill Gersonde. “Our volunteers and sponsors go all out to make Zoolute a big day.”

Dyess AFB leaders and other local dignitaries will be on hand for the 8:45 a.m. opening ceremony, and Hardin-Simmons University music professor Melody Rich will sing the national anthem while Cooper High School ROTC present the colors.

Door prizes include a $100 gift certificate for Perini Ranch Steakhouse, as well as gift certificates from Discount Tire. American and Texas flags flown over the U.S. and state capitols will be given away compliments of U.S. Rep. Randy Neugebauer and Texas Rep. Susan King.

Zoolute to Dyess Schedule:

8:45 a.m. Opening Ceremonies

9 am. Zoo Opens

10 a.m. Abilene Community Band

11:30 a.m. Abilene High School Jazz Band

12:30 p.m. Abilene High School Steel Drum Band

1:30 p.m. The Piano Man, Mike Schuler

2:30 p.m. Abilene Pipers

3:30 p.m. Prize Drawings

4 p.m. Last admittance to the zoo

For more information, go to www.abilenezoo.org, or call 325-676-6085.