WHO'S WHO AT THE ZOO
Member Stories As a Member of Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, you may be familiar with the fun benefits of being a part of our organization. Many people choose to become Members for the exclusive discounts, events, news around the Zoo—and of course unlimited admission to see their favorite animals and gardens.
We have noticed it is the “bonus” benefits that keep Members supporting our Zoo though. Continuous visits here reinforce our Members’ passion for nature and wild places. We love watching this passion grow through your families and continuing for many years. Every Member has a unique story and here are a few thoughts from your Member family.
John and Kathleen Neel Members for 15 years. Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens has been a regular and ongoing part of our lives, individually and as a family, for more than 50 years. From childhood memories of visiting the polar bear and eating ice cream cones by the kiddie rides near the Trout River; to admiring the new baby giraffes with their mothers; from celebrating our daughter’s birthdays; to picnics with family and friends, we have seen many changes and improvements that we believe make our Zoo one of the premiere zoos in the nation. While Kathleen’s favorite animal at the zoo is definitely the elephant and John likes to visit the big cats, we have no particular favorite exhibit but enjoy spending time at all the exhibits and, lately, you can find us being entertained and fascinated by the Greater Flamingos in the African Loop. We have been Zoo Members for 15 years and, in addition to participating in the Snapshot Society, we enjoy the free general admission to be able to visit the zoo any time it is open as well as discounts at the gift shop and restaurants. As Zoo Members, we are excited to be a part of the future of this valuable city resource and look forward to seeing and being involved in its continuing efforts in conservation and education. .
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WILD MAGAZINE • FALL 2021 • JACKSONVILLE ZOO AND GARDENS