
The 4th of July is a play time for most people. However for team members at our park it's time to work hard and host thousands of eager vacationers. For the animal trainers and performers at the VIVA stadium there are a ton of things to accomplish. We continue to watch and care for our new baby beluga (who is doing very well). There's also our normal day to day duties... preparing fish for the entire animal collection, endless cleaning, hosting guests in our Beluga Interaction Program, behind-the-scenes tours and photo sessions, and 6 shows. Yes, we have lots to do on this holiday for most, but one of the busiest days of the year for us.
We do, however, manage to have our share of fun. One of my favorite traditions is our annual pot luck. Oh yeah! Ann's devilled eggs. Karly's pasta salad. Meagan's ice cream desert. My fried chicken (ok, not quite home made but by the looks of the empty container I think the team enjoyed it). And let's not forget Greg, who when asked what he brought for the pot luck replied, “I brought the water.” You can best believe that the entire day whenever one of us was thirsty, we summoned Greg to get us a refreshing glass of H2O. And what a trooper, he actually made good on his promise! Despite the hard work, we managed to eat well, share some laughs, and spend time with good friends. Not too different than what our guests are doing on this day that we celebrate our freedom.
Happy Independence Day! Continued success and blessings.
Chuck Cureau

