VOLUNTEERS
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b�a� o� D�ff �r�n�
D�u�m�r�!
Thrum, thrum, the sound of
the drum! Wild Beats is a docent
educational program started in mid-
2016 that uses hand drums to help
Zoo visitors experience how sounds
and sound combinations can be
used to communicate. Animals have
their own way of communicating
using sound; lions roar to show
their territory, birds sing to attract a
partner, and rattlesnakes shake their
tail to ward off threats. Through
Wild Beats, docents are helping
guests to better understand these
animals through participation in a
drumming and listening activity.
Wild Beats was developed from
the ideas of Maureen Chambers,
Wild Beats members (left to right): Jeff Reesor, Joyce Clark,
Maryann King, Fred Miller, Maureen Chambers, Bob Tabler
Maryann King and Fred Miller. Do-
cents Joyce Clark, Jeff Reesor and
Bob Tabler later joined the group,
making six members. The group’s
volunteer experience at the Zoo
ranges from 1 to 15 years, but only
two of the Wild Beats members had
any prior musical experience. So,
the six docents paid for hand drum
lessons from professional drum
instructor Rob Edwards, a teacher
of percussion for over 20 years, to
turn their creative educational ideas
into reality.
The results so far are big smiles
from Zoo guests and, hopefully, a
newfound connection and apprecia-
tion for animals, their use of sounds
and their day-to-day existence in
the remnant wild. Next time you
visit, be sure to listen for Wild Beats
as they just might call you to a
unique and enlightening Zoo experi-
ence. Just look for six drumming
docents on the front plaza periodi-
cally throughout the summer.
A Stellar Effort
On February 28, 2017, our Louisville Zoo Youth Board paid the remainder
of their $25,000 pledge one year early with a check for $12,500. This
amazing 50-member board, past and present, has donated $80,000 to-
ward major Zoo exhibits and other enhancements through money raised
by face painting, sand art and other fun activities for guests.
Volunteer Coordinator Diane Taylor has done a phenomenal job mentor-
ing this group to become compassionate, productive adults who care
about wildlife. Our volunteers are truly remarkable — thank you all for
your support!
Check photo (Left to right): Darryl Metzger, President of Foundation Board; Caleb O’Meara, Youth Board
Vice President; John Parker Lyons, Youth Board President; John Walczak, Zoo Director
Below: 2017 Youth Board
Louisville Zoo Trunkline • Summer 2017 • 23