We are going to the Zoo!
For your birthday this year, we are taking a trip to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Columbus, OH
Set along the scenic banks of the Scioto River, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium offers a refined, immersive escape into the natural world. Thoughtfully designed habitats bring you close to all kinds of animals and marine life, in settings that feel both expansive and intimate. I got chance to play a concert at the zoo in 1989 and it was impressive back then. I can only imagine what it’s like now!
They ran into a bit of trouble recently...
After Jack Hanna retired in 2020, the next CEO and CFO embezzled millions. They were convicted in 2024.
BUT THE ANIMALS ARE FINE
Animals don’t care about people problems. They just live where they live and do what they do. They live by pond rules, and it all works out for them. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is HUGE, and designed elegantly. We have an amazing zoo in St. Louis, so I’m not expecting it to blow our socks off, BUT LOOK WHAT THEY HAVE..
THEY HAVE MOOSE!
At the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, the moose habitat offers a rare and quietly moving look at animals whose stories are as compelling as their size. Today, the zoo is home to three moose: Bert, Violet, and Scarlet — each with a rescue story rooted in Alaska.
Bert, a male born in 2022 (about 4 years old), was found alone near a beach in Nikiski, Alaska after likely becoming separated from his mother. He was rescued, rehabilitated, and eventually brought to Ohio, where he has grown into a strong young bull.
Violet, also born in 2022 (about 4 years old), was rejected by her mother for unknown reasons. After being cared for by wildlife experts in Alaska, she arrived at the zoo alongside Bert. Her name reflects native Alaskan plant life, tying her identity to her origins.
Scarlet, another 2022-born female (about 4 years old), shares a similar beginning. Found orphaned in the wild, her early history is less known, but she too was given a second chance through rescue and relocation.
Together, these moose represent resilience—each one a survivor, now thriving in a carefully designed habitat that mirrors the quiet forests they once called home.
THEY’VE SUFFERED A LOSS THAT MIGHT AFFECT OUR VISIT.
STRAWBERRY 2021-2026
As one of the first moose to arrive in the current group, Strawberry played an important role in shaping the social dynamic of the habitat. She adapted alongside the later arrivals—Bert, Violet, and Scarlet—serving as a calm and grounding influence as they adjusted to their shared environment. Care staff often observed her tolerant nature, particularly with the younger females. Her ability to coexist peacefully within the group contributed to a stable and cohesive herd structure.
Over time, she became a quiet anchor of the exhibit—familiar, dependable, and deeply valued by those who cared for her each day. Though this is a big loss, her presence endures in the rhythms and relationships she helped establish.
So the moose might be sad, and that might affect out day, but the zoo has not said anything about cancelling due to her passing, so here’s what we’re doing:
SATURDAY MORNING
WE GET TO FEED THE MOOSE
In honor of your birthday, I have purchased us two tickets to the zoo’s VIP Moose Experience. We get to go up close and behind the scenes for a guided tour, and we will get to hand-feed a moose. Here’s another video about it, from a news story by a local TV station. Rest well tonight, my love. Tomorrow morning you finally meet a moose!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY PUNKIN
I pray the you get every good thing, today and always. I’m honored to be your guy.
…E…