Press Release
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Jacksonville Zoo And Gardens Honors A Profession Of Dedication During National Zoo Keeper Week
July 20, 2010 - Jacksonville, Fl -
In recognition of the dedication of zoo keepers and aquarists nationwide, the American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK) (http://www.aazk.org) and zoos and aquariums across the nation celebrate National Zoo Keeper Week July 19-25. Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is proud to be a part of this tribute to those individuals who are dedicated to the care and preservation of its animals. The Zoo is holding a private luncheon for its 36 zoo keepers this week to show them its appreciation.
“So much of what the zoo keepers do is behind the scenes,” said Tony Vecchio, executive director of Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. “Our visitors get to see the end result – a fantastic Zoo; however, they don’t get to see the hard work, passion, and love for the animals that these people bring to their jobs everyday. The residents of our area should be very proud of the contribution these dedicated keepers make to our Zoo and our community.”
“This national celebration is in recognition of zoo keepers, aquarists, and the animal care professionals in our nation’s zoological parks and aquariums,” said Shane Good, President of AAZK. “Zookeepers serve as animal care experts, frontline educators, and conservationists. We are proud to have zoo keepers recognized for the important work they do on behalf of wildlife and conservation.”
Created by AAZK, Inc, National Zoo Keeper Week is celebrated each year beginning on the third Sunday in July. During the week, zoos nationwide honor animal care professionals and the work they do in animal care, conservation, and education. There are approximately 6,000 animal care professionals in the United States.
The American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK) is a non-profit volunteer organization made up of professional zoo keepers and other interested persons dedicated to professional animal care and conservation. The mission of AAZK is to advance excellence in the zoo keeping profession, foster effective communication beneficial to animal care, support deserving conservation projects, and promote the preservation of our natural resources and animal life. For more information, visit http://www.aazk.org.
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