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News Bites continued Kids—or adults—can write a story about or draw
a picture of their pet, and these are displayed on
PROGRAMS Lasting Memories the wall as a tribute to their loved one. All of these
commemorative items are saved and compiled into
Brookfield Zoo has something a book. The books are available for guests to page
for everyone. That includes through, and are rotated on a regular basis to give
individuals who might have a difficult time people a chance to reminisce about pets that will
visiting the zoo and seeing an abundance forever live on in their memories.
of animals: those who recently have lost an
animal companion. It can be difficult for children to recover from a
A tucked-away corner in Hamill Family Play painful loss, and it can be just as difficult to talk to
Zoo offers empathy, understanding, and young ones about the loss of a pet, but Hamill Family
support for those who are mourning a
furry (or scaly, or finned) friend. Play Zoo staff recognize that along
with all the joy animals can bring,
there also can be heartbreak. In
addition to fostering a love of
animals big and small, the Play
Zoo staff also strive to provide
compassion and comfort for both
young and old during difficult times.
COMMUNITY Honoring Our Heroes Veterans participating in the 2017 Wounded
Warrior Project bike ride at Brookfield Zoo.
Brookfield Zoo guests often leave the park
inspired by the connection they’ve made with animals and Hosting this event is not the only way the Chicago Zoological
nature. And sometimes, connecting with other guests can be Society supports veterans. Last year, the Society held a 50th Vietnam War
just as inspiring. commemoration ceremony and recognized women in the military with
a special ceremony on Veterans Day (each year we hold a special Veterans
On June 21, Brookfield Zoo guests will have the opportunity Day event). Additionally, active, reserve, and retired members of the military
to cheer on local veterans as they conclude the first day of receive free zoo admission year-round.
a three-day, 60-mile bike ride organized by the Wounded
Warrior Project, which provides a variety of programs, Come support these very special warriors on June 21.
services, and events for wounded military veterans. One of
30 nationwide, the ride is held annually to help wounded
veterans ease back into society.
Participating in the bike ride helps veterans overcome physical
and emotional wounds and regain confidence they might have lost.
The crowds watching the bike ride and cheering these veterans on
encourage them and provide them with the knowledge that they
have support as they re-enter society—and it also can be an inspiring
reminder about the resilience of the human mind and body.
10 GATEWAYS | NEWS BITES
