The California Living Museum in Bakersfield is asking visitors for donations in exchange for admission to the zoo Friday until 3 pm. The community supported Museum began in 1983 and continues to grow and thrive with memberships, fund raisers and donations like today’s event. Manager Lana Fain says the 36 year old zoo is home to native plants and animals, and encourages people to donate meat, mixed berries, yams, vegetables, dog food, nuts and cereal. Items such as Ziploc freezer bags, Dawn detergent and reams of white paper are also on the contribution list. The zoo will accept a $25 gift card from Petsmart, Albertsons and even Lowes in lieu of cash and let 2 adults and 2 children roam the grounds on Feasts for the Beast Day.

Jill Michaels