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Zoology Zone and Science Center to Open at Valley Park

Andy McKee announces plans for the Zoology Zone and Science Center while Chamber of Commerce president Ashley Alford Glance (left), County Commissioner Andy Skidmore and Hurricane Mayor Scott Edwards (right) look on.

The Commons building at Valley Park is now the Zoology Zone and Science Center. The center will augment the trails, the playgrounds, the wave pool, and the baseball and soccer fields at Valley Park to produce family-friendly experiences for visitors.

Andy McKee, president of the center, was welcomed by Putnam County Chamber of Commerce president Ashley Alford Glance, County Commissioner Andy Skidmore and Hurricane Mayor Scott Edwards at a media announcement at The Commons on Wednesday, May 10th.

The transition of the building was made possible by relocating and renaming the Reptile House and Rescue which was housed at the Huntington Mall. Reptile House and Rescue originally started as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit named the Mountain State Reptile Rescue. The Zoology Zone and Science Center will continue to operate as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. McKee stated that the name change reflects an expanded focus that encompasses more than snakes, lizards, and a rescue mission. The stated goal of the Zoology Zone Science Center is to serve as a resource and a hands-on immersive learning opportunity for families, for kids, and for adults of all ages. The ultimate goal is for visitors experience and enjoy different areas of science.

McKee said that the summer camps which were offered by the Reptile House and Rescue will continue but in a different format. There will be back-to-school summer camps two weeks prior to the start school in Putnam and surrounding counties.

The cost of general admission is less than wave pool admission. The cost is $7 for adults, $5 for children, and half off for first responders and military personnel. Family passes are available at $35 per month. The center will employ three full-time and five part-time staffers.

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