Zoobilee proves wildest party in town

Natalia Jones

Things got a little wild during this year’s Zoobilee. For the first time in its 10-year-history, the event was held at the Frank Buck Zoo.

“It’s so exciting,” said Frank Buck Zoological Society President Nancy Moore. “I’ve wanted this to happen for a couple of years now and I just think it’s so fun to be outdoors and at the zoo.

We have so many patrons who pay for the Zoobilee each year, but have never been to the zoo. It’s a pleasure to be able to bring them here.”

Originally, the Zoobilee has been held in a more formal setting at the Centennial Hall in Lindsay and at the Gainesville Civic Center.

The 2009 Zoobilee, however, was much more casual. From 6:30-8 p.m., attendees got to explore the zoo and meet a few of its inhabitants up close.

Several Zoobilee guests enjoyed hand feeding giraffes on the African Savannah. Ryan Herman, Frank Buck Zoo education coordinator, was on hand to answer questions about Charlie, a yellow native Amazon parrot, who likes to talk and sing while Eve Klinger, central zoo keeper, spoke about Nola, a brown bear, who loves to eat peanuts. Critterman was also present to help facilitate a few animal encounters during the evening.

This year’s Zoobilee was called “A To Do at the Zoo” and proceeds raised from the event will go towards a much needed bear exhibit for Nola and Brighton, an East Texas black bear who also resides at the zoo.

Once it turned dark, sections of the zoo were closed off as Zoobilee attendees enjoyed the sounds of the Wonder Band. Thanks to a donation made by Joe Walters Lumber Company, party goers enjoyed dancing on a dance floor made especially for the evening.

During the event, party goers enjoyed a silent auction, open bar and seating and nibbling on the tastes of Cooke County. Spread throughout the zoo, attendees were able to help themselves to portions of some of Cooke County’s best restaurants and caterers including: Backstage Cafe, Dieter Brothers, Edelweiss Tea Haus, Fischer’s Meat Market, Glazer’s Distributors, Kare Wade, Rumpy’s, Sarah’s on the Square, Sunset Rendezvous, The Center Restaurant, Wint’s Catering, Republic National, Ben E. Keith and Still on the Corner.

“It’s a neat treat to have one place where people can enjoy samples and get a real taste of Gainesville,” said Moore.

Fear of rain had been a big concern for many Zoological Society board members. Fortunately, the nearly week-long rain subsided just in time for the Zoobilee. Just incase it did not, tents were placed around the zoo and over tables so the party could still go on as planned.

“We were very nervous, hence our decision to put up the tents,” said Moore. “Even though it didn’t rain, I actually think they give it more of a party atmosphere.”

Overall, added Moore, the “To Do at the Zoo” was a success. However, it is to be determined if next year’s Zoobilee will return to the wild.

“We’ve had really favorable comments, but it’s really up to the board,” said Moore. “I think everyone would like to but it also depends on if the food vendors would like to do it again next year too.”

Sponsors for the 2009 Zoobilee included First State Bank, TNT Electric, the Gainesville Daily Register, W.W. Howeth Co. and Tommy and Kay Jones.

Zoo Boo is the next event slated to be held at the Frank Buck Zoo by the Zoological Society. To be held Saturday, Oct. 31 from 6-8 p.m., Zoo Boo is a non-scary, family-friendly Halloween celebration. Costume contests, games and giveaways will be held by Radio Disney from 4-6 p.m. in the Leonard Park Pavilion and dinner concessions will be available with proceeds to go towards the new bear exhibit. Tickets are $6 for adults and $8 for children.

For more information on Zoo Boo and other upcoming events to be held at the Frank Buck Zoo, visit www.frankbuckzoo.com or call (940) 727-9097. To make a donation for the bear exhibit, contact Nancy Moore at 665-0214 or Karen Cook at 665-1711.