The City of Merced Parks and Recreation Department is looking for volunteers to help put on our 'Lights Before Christmas' event. We need people to help Dec. 11 and Dec. 12 from 3:30 to 8 p.m. both days. This is a great way for high school students to earn community service hours and also get an inside peak at the Zoo. Go to www.cityofmerced.org and click on the article that says Volunteers Needed.

'Twas the 'Lights Before Christmas',

And at Applegate Zoo,

More volunteers were needed,

Like you, you and you.

The stockings were hung

By our volunteers with care,

Knowing crowds of visitors

Soon would be there.

(With even more sincere apologies to Clement Clarke Moore.)

'Lights Before Christmas' puts holiday shine on Applegate Zoo

Steer the sleigh to Applegate Zoo Friday, Dec. 11 and Saturday, Dec. 12 for the 'Lights Before Christmas' extravaganza.

It runs from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. both days. The decorations will remain up through the month.

There's never been an opportunity like this to see the Zoo decked out in its best Christmas garb and decorations.

Kids of all ages can make decorations in Santa's Workshop, pet some of the 'reindeer' and visit with Santa.

The cost is $3, with kids 5 and under $1.

It's sponsored by the Merced Parks and Recreation Department and the Merced Zoological Society.

The Zoo is located at 1045 W. 25th (25th and R streets).

For a current listing of activities go to www.MercedZoo.org

There are still a few spots in the Zoo waiting to be filled with decorations. If you or your group, business or organization would like to sponsor a space, please call 209-385-6298.mso-ligatures: standard">

Twas the 'Lights Before Christmas,

And at Applegate Zoo,

All the creatures were stirring,

Even both our emus.

The stockings were hung

By our bobcat with care

In hopes that Saint Nicholas

Soon would be there.