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Dickerson Park Zoo

1401 West Norton Road

Springfield, MO 65803

Dickerson Park Zoo

417-833-1570

Mission Statement

Dickerson Park Zoo connects people with animals to create adventures that encourage discovery and inspire conservation action.

Adopted by the Springfield-Greene County Park Board, December 2010.

Dickerson Park Zoo History

Established by the Springfield Park Board in 1922, Dickerson Park Zoo was initially developed with the help of WPA labor and funds in the 1930s. From then until the 1970s, very little development or support occurred, and by 1975, the zoo had become a run-down liability to the City of Springfield. The zoo was on the verge of being closed, but a commitment was made by the City and a newly formed support group now known as Friends of the Zoo to save the zoo. The next 10 years marked significant improvements and a repositioning of the zoo as a valuable cultural asset to the community. The Friends organization developed a membership base, launched education programs, and garnered support of donors for new projects and improvements. The City of Springfield committed budget dollars and instituted an admission fee to help offset expenses. The zoo, located on a beautiful tract of land with much potential, had been saved. Now it was time to plan an orderly approach to its future.

The revitalization of Dickerson Park Zoo coincided with philosophical changes being experienced by zoos nationwide, and a mission recognizing the objectives of recreation, education, conservation and research was adopted and used as a guidepost for charting the growth and purpose of the zoo. A master plan, adopted in 1985, visualized a new zoo, utilizing geographic themes and phased development addressing the mission objectives as guiding concepts. The zoo became involved in several Species Survival Plans, most notably Asian elephants, maned wolves and cheetahs, finding success with each endeavor. In-house and outreach education programs became valuable services offered and used by the community, and fun, family-oriented special events drew large numbers and gained additional support for the growing zoo. The growth of tourism in the region also contributed to increases in attendance and offered visitors to the community another attraction when visiting the Ozarks.

The zoo was accredited by theAmerican Zoo and Aquarium Association in 1986, and has been reaccredited in two subsequent reviews, most recently in 1996. With success comes expectations for additional services and exhibits, and the need for increased revenues for operation of the zoo. An update and revision of the master plan was completed in 1996, and efforts are underway to assure that funding, both private and public, is in place to enable the projects in the master plan to be accomplished by 2010. The zoo enjoys a positive place in the cultural fabric of the community, and all indications are that it will continue to be treasured as one of the city’s crown jewels.

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AARP Events for Springfield

AARP Events for Springfield

• The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout

  Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT

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• Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi

  Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. CT

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• Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication

  Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT

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											<div>1401 West Norton Road</div>
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							<span>Springfield</span>,
							<span>MO</span>
												<span>65803</span>
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										<a href="http://www.dickersonparkzoo.org/" target="_blank">Dickerson Park Zoo</a>
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												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 417-833-1570</div>
				
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						<p><b>Mission Statement</b></p>
<p>Dickerson Park Zoo connects people with animals to create adventures that encourage discovery and inspire conservation action.</p>
<p>Adopted by the Springfield-Greene County Park Board, December 2010.</p>
<p><b style="line-height: 1.4;">Dickerson Park Zoo History</b></p>
<p>Established by the Springfield Park Board in 1922, Dickerson Park Zoo was initially developed with the help of WPA labor and funds in the 1930s. From then until the 1970s, very little development or support occurred, and by 1975, the zoo had become a run-down liability to the City of Springfield. The zoo was on the verge of being closed, but a commitment was made by the City and a newly formed support group now known as Friends of the Zoo to save the zoo. The next 10 years marked significant improvements and a repositioning of the zoo as a valuable cultural asset to the community. The Friends organization developed a membership base, launched education programs, and garnered support of donors for new projects and improvements. The City of Springfield committed budget dollars and instituted an admission fee to help offset expenses. The zoo, located on a beautiful tract of land with much potential, had been saved. Now it was time to plan an orderly approach to its future.</p>
<p>The revitalization of Dickerson Park Zoo coincided with philosophical changes being experienced by zoos nationwide, and a mission recognizing the objectives of recreation, education, conservation and research was adopted and used as a guidepost for charting the growth and purpose of the zoo. A master plan, adopted in 1985, visualized a new zoo, utilizing geographic themes and phased development addressing the mission objectives as guiding concepts. The zoo became involved in several Species Survival Plans, most notably Asian elephants, maned wolves and cheetahs, finding success with each endeavor. In-house and outreach education programs became valuable services offered and used by the community, and fun, family-oriented special events drew large numbers and gained additional support for the growing zoo. The growth of tourism in the region also contributed to increases in attendance and offered visitors to the community another attraction when visiting the Ozarks.</p>
<p>The zoo was accredited by theAmerican Zoo and Aquarium Association in 1986, and has been reaccredited in two subsequent reviews, most recently in 1996. With success comes expectations for additional services and exhibits, and the need for increased revenues for operation of the zoo. An update and revision of the master plan was completed in 1996, and efforts are underway to assure that funding, both private and public, is in place to enable the projects in the master plan to be accomplished by 2010. The zoo enjoys a positive place in the cultural fabric of the community, and all indications are that it will continue to be treasured as one of the city&rsquo;s crown jewels.</p>		</div>
		

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											<div>1401 West Norton Road</div>
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							<span>Springfield</span>,
							<span>MO</span>
												<span>65803</span>
											</div>
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										<a href="http://www.dickersonparkzoo.org/" target="_blank">Dickerson Park Zoo</a>
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												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 417-833-1570</div>
				
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				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p><b>Mission Statement</b></p>
<p>Dickerson Park Zoo connects people with animals to create adventures that encourage discovery and inspire conservation action.</p>
<p>Adopted by the Springfield-Greene County Park Board, December 2010.</p>
<p><b style="line-height: 1.4;">Dickerson Park Zoo History</b></p>
<p>Established by the Springfield Park Board in 1922, Dickerson Park Zoo was initially developed with the help of WPA labor and funds in the 1930s. From then until the 1970s, very little development or support occurred, and by 1975, the zoo had become a run-down liability to the City of Springfield. The zoo was on the verge of being closed, but a commitment was made by the City and a newly formed support group now known as Friends of the Zoo to save the zoo. The next 10 years marked significant improvements and a repositioning of the zoo as a valuable cultural asset to the community. The Friends organization developed a membership base, launched education programs, and garnered support of donors for new projects and improvements. The City of Springfield committed budget dollars and instituted an admission fee to help offset expenses. The zoo, located on a beautiful tract of land with much potential, had been saved. Now it was time to plan an orderly approach to its future.</p>
<p>The revitalization of Dickerson Park Zoo coincided with philosophical changes being experienced by zoos nationwide, and a mission recognizing the objectives of recreation, education, conservation and research was adopted and used as a guidepost for charting the growth and purpose of the zoo. A master plan, adopted in 1985, visualized a new zoo, utilizing geographic themes and phased development addressing the mission objectives as guiding concepts. The zoo became involved in several Species Survival Plans, most notably Asian elephants, maned wolves and cheetahs, finding success with each endeavor. In-house and outreach education programs became valuable services offered and used by the community, and fun, family-oriented special events drew large numbers and gained additional support for the growing zoo. The growth of tourism in the region also contributed to increases in attendance and offered visitors to the community another attraction when visiting the Ozarks.</p>
<p>The zoo was accredited by theAmerican Zoo and Aquarium Association in 1986, and has been reaccredited in two subsequent reviews, most recently in 1996. With success comes expectations for additional services and exhibits, and the need for increased revenues for operation of the zoo. An update and revision of the master plan was completed in 1996, and efforts are underway to assure that funding, both private and public, is in place to enable the projects in the master plan to be accomplished by 2010. The zoo enjoys a positive place in the cultural fabric of the community, and all indications are that it will continue to be treasured as one of the city&rsquo;s crown jewels.</p>		</div>
		

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Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242]
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		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Dickerson Park Zoo</h1></header>

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											<div>1401 West Norton Road</div>
											<div>
							<span>Springfield</span>,
							<span>MO</span>
												<span>65803</span>
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					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="http://www.dickersonparkzoo.org/" target="_blank">Dickerson Park Zoo</a>
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												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 417-833-1570</div>
				
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						<p><b>Mission Statement</b></p>
<p>Dickerson Park Zoo connects people with animals to create adventures that encourage discovery and inspire conservation action.</p>
<p>Adopted by the Springfield-Greene County Park Board, December 2010.</p>
<p><b style="line-height: 1.4;">Dickerson Park Zoo History</b></p>
<p>Established by the Springfield Park Board in 1922, Dickerson Park Zoo was initially developed with the help of WPA labor and funds in the 1930s. From then until the 1970s, very little development or support occurred, and by 1975, the zoo had become a run-down liability to the City of Springfield. The zoo was on the verge of being closed, but a commitment was made by the City and a newly formed support group now known as Friends of the Zoo to save the zoo. The next 10 years marked significant improvements and a repositioning of the zoo as a valuable cultural asset to the community. The Friends organization developed a membership base, launched education programs, and garnered support of donors for new projects and improvements. The City of Springfield committed budget dollars and instituted an admission fee to help offset expenses. The zoo, located on a beautiful tract of land with much potential, had been saved. Now it was time to plan an orderly approach to its future.</p>
<p>The revitalization of Dickerson Park Zoo coincided with philosophical changes being experienced by zoos nationwide, and a mission recognizing the objectives of recreation, education, conservation and research was adopted and used as a guidepost for charting the growth and purpose of the zoo. A master plan, adopted in 1985, visualized a new zoo, utilizing geographic themes and phased development addressing the mission objectives as guiding concepts. The zoo became involved in several Species Survival Plans, most notably Asian elephants, maned wolves and cheetahs, finding success with each endeavor. In-house and outreach education programs became valuable services offered and used by the community, and fun, family-oriented special events drew large numbers and gained additional support for the growing zoo. The growth of tourism in the region also contributed to increases in attendance and offered visitors to the community another attraction when visiting the Ozarks.</p>
<p>The zoo was accredited by theAmerican Zoo and Aquarium Association in 1986, and has been reaccredited in two subsequent reviews, most recently in 1996. With success comes expectations for additional services and exhibits, and the need for increased revenues for operation of the zoo. An update and revision of the master plan was completed in 1996, and efforts are underway to assure that funding, both private and public, is in place to enable the projects in the master plan to be accomplished by 2010. The zoo enjoys a positive place in the cultural fabric of the community, and all indications are that it will continue to be treasured as one of the city&rsquo;s crown jewels.</p>		</div>
		

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							<span>Springfield</span>,
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												<span>65803</span>
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										<a href="http://www.dickersonparkzoo.org/" target="_blank">Dickerson Park Zoo</a>
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												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 417-833-1570</div>
				
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						<p><b>Mission Statement</b></p>
<p>Dickerson Park Zoo connects people with animals to create adventures that encourage discovery and inspire conservation action.</p>
<p>Adopted by the Springfield-Greene County Park Board, December 2010.</p>
<p><b style="line-height: 1.4;">Dickerson Park Zoo History</b></p>
<p>Established by the Springfield Park Board in 1922, Dickerson Park Zoo was initially developed with the help of WPA labor and funds in the 1930s. From then until the 1970s, very little development or support occurred, and by 1975, the zoo had become a run-down liability to the City of Springfield. The zoo was on the verge of being closed, but a commitment was made by the City and a newly formed support group now known as Friends of the Zoo to save the zoo. The next 10 years marked significant improvements and a repositioning of the zoo as a valuable cultural asset to the community. The Friends organization developed a membership base, launched education programs, and garnered support of donors for new projects and improvements. The City of Springfield committed budget dollars and instituted an admission fee to help offset expenses. The zoo, located on a beautiful tract of land with much potential, had been saved. Now it was time to plan an orderly approach to its future.</p>
<p>The revitalization of Dickerson Park Zoo coincided with philosophical changes being experienced by zoos nationwide, and a mission recognizing the objectives of recreation, education, conservation and research was adopted and used as a guidepost for charting the growth and purpose of the zoo. A master plan, adopted in 1985, visualized a new zoo, utilizing geographic themes and phased development addressing the mission objectives as guiding concepts. The zoo became involved in several Species Survival Plans, most notably Asian elephants, maned wolves and cheetahs, finding success with each endeavor. In-house and outreach education programs became valuable services offered and used by the community, and fun, family-oriented special events drew large numbers and gained additional support for the growing zoo. The growth of tourism in the region also contributed to increases in attendance and offered visitors to the community another attraction when visiting the Ozarks.</p>
<p>The zoo was accredited by theAmerican Zoo and Aquarium Association in 1986, and has been reaccredited in two subsequent reviews, most recently in 1996. With success comes expectations for additional services and exhibits, and the need for increased revenues for operation of the zoo. An update and revision of the master plan was completed in 1996, and efforts are underway to assure that funding, both private and public, is in place to enable the projects in the master plan to be accomplished by 2010. The zoo enjoys a positive place in the cultural fabric of the community, and all indications are that it will continue to be treasured as one of the city&rsquo;s crown jewels.</p>		</div>
		

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		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Dickerson Park Zoo</h1></header>

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											<div>1401 West Norton Road</div>
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							<span>Springfield</span>,
							<span>MO</span>
												<span>65803</span>
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					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="http://www.dickersonparkzoo.org/" target="_blank">Dickerson Park Zoo</a>
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						<p><b>Mission Statement</b></p>
<p>Dickerson Park Zoo connects people with animals to create adventures that encourage discovery and inspire conservation action.</p>
<p>Adopted by the Springfield-Greene County Park Board, December 2010.</p>
<p><b style="line-height: 1.4;">Dickerson Park Zoo History</b></p>
<p>Established by the Springfield Park Board in 1922, Dickerson Park Zoo was initially developed with the help of WPA labor and funds in the 1930s. From then until the 1970s, very little development or support occurred, and by 1975, the zoo had become a run-down liability to the City of Springfield. The zoo was on the verge of being closed, but a commitment was made by the City and a newly formed support group now known as Friends of the Zoo to save the zoo. The next 10 years marked significant improvements and a repositioning of the zoo as a valuable cultural asset to the community. The Friends organization developed a membership base, launched education programs, and garnered support of donors for new projects and improvements. The City of Springfield committed budget dollars and instituted an admission fee to help offset expenses. The zoo, located on a beautiful tract of land with much potential, had been saved. Now it was time to plan an orderly approach to its future.</p>
<p>The revitalization of Dickerson Park Zoo coincided with philosophical changes being experienced by zoos nationwide, and a mission recognizing the objectives of recreation, education, conservation and research was adopted and used as a guidepost for charting the growth and purpose of the zoo. A master plan, adopted in 1985, visualized a new zoo, utilizing geographic themes and phased development addressing the mission objectives as guiding concepts. The zoo became involved in several Species Survival Plans, most notably Asian elephants, maned wolves and cheetahs, finding success with each endeavor. In-house and outreach education programs became valuable services offered and used by the community, and fun, family-oriented special events drew large numbers and gained additional support for the growing zoo. The growth of tourism in the region also contributed to increases in attendance and offered visitors to the community another attraction when visiting the Ozarks.</p>
<p>The zoo was accredited by theAmerican Zoo and Aquarium Association in 1986, and has been reaccredited in two subsequent reviews, most recently in 1996. With success comes expectations for additional services and exhibits, and the need for increased revenues for operation of the zoo. An update and revision of the master plan was completed in 1996, and efforts are underway to assure that funding, both private and public, is in place to enable the projects in the master plan to be accomplished by 2010. The zoo enjoys a positive place in the cultural fabric of the community, and all indications are that it will continue to be treasured as one of the city&rsquo;s crown jewels.</p>		</div>
		

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											<div>1401 West Norton Road</div>
											<div>
							<span>Springfield</span>,
							<span>MO</span>
												<span>65803</span>
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					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="http://www.dickersonparkzoo.org/" target="_blank">Dickerson Park Zoo</a>
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												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 417-833-1570</div>
				
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						<p><b>Mission Statement</b></p>
<p>Dickerson Park Zoo connects people with animals to create adventures that encourage discovery and inspire conservation action.</p>
<p>Adopted by the Springfield-Greene County Park Board, December 2010.</p>
<p><b style="line-height: 1.4;">Dickerson Park Zoo History</b></p>
<p>Established by the Springfield Park Board in 1922, Dickerson Park Zoo was initially developed with the help of WPA labor and funds in the 1930s. From then until the 1970s, very little development or support occurred, and by 1975, the zoo had become a run-down liability to the City of Springfield. The zoo was on the verge of being closed, but a commitment was made by the City and a newly formed support group now known as Friends of the Zoo to save the zoo. The next 10 years marked significant improvements and a repositioning of the zoo as a valuable cultural asset to the community. The Friends organization developed a membership base, launched education programs, and garnered support of donors for new projects and improvements. The City of Springfield committed budget dollars and instituted an admission fee to help offset expenses. The zoo, located on a beautiful tract of land with much potential, had been saved. Now it was time to plan an orderly approach to its future.</p>
<p>The revitalization of Dickerson Park Zoo coincided with philosophical changes being experienced by zoos nationwide, and a mission recognizing the objectives of recreation, education, conservation and research was adopted and used as a guidepost for charting the growth and purpose of the zoo. A master plan, adopted in 1985, visualized a new zoo, utilizing geographic themes and phased development addressing the mission objectives as guiding concepts. The zoo became involved in several Species Survival Plans, most notably Asian elephants, maned wolves and cheetahs, finding success with each endeavor. In-house and outreach education programs became valuable services offered and used by the community, and fun, family-oriented special events drew large numbers and gained additional support for the growing zoo. The growth of tourism in the region also contributed to increases in attendance and offered visitors to the community another attraction when visiting the Ozarks.</p>
<p>The zoo was accredited by theAmerican Zoo and Aquarium Association in 1986, and has been reaccredited in two subsequent reviews, most recently in 1996. With success comes expectations for additional services and exhibits, and the need for increased revenues for operation of the zoo. An update and revision of the master plan was completed in 1996, and efforts are underway to assure that funding, both private and public, is in place to enable the projects in the master plan to be accomplished by 2010. The zoo enjoys a positive place in the cultural fabric of the community, and all indications are that it will continue to be treasured as one of the city&rsquo;s crown jewels.</p>		</div>
		

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Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243]
Code Context
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											<div>1401 West Norton Road</div>
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							<span>Springfield</span>,
							<span>MO</span>
												<span>65803</span>
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					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="http://www.dickersonparkzoo.org/" target="_blank">Dickerson Park Zoo</a>
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												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 417-833-1570</div>
				
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				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p><b>Mission Statement</b></p>
<p>Dickerson Park Zoo connects people with animals to create adventures that encourage discovery and inspire conservation action.</p>
<p>Adopted by the Springfield-Greene County Park Board, December 2010.</p>
<p><b style="line-height: 1.4;">Dickerson Park Zoo History</b></p>
<p>Established by the Springfield Park Board in 1922, Dickerson Park Zoo was initially developed with the help of WPA labor and funds in the 1930s. From then until the 1970s, very little development or support occurred, and by 1975, the zoo had become a run-down liability to the City of Springfield. The zoo was on the verge of being closed, but a commitment was made by the City and a newly formed support group now known as Friends of the Zoo to save the zoo. The next 10 years marked significant improvements and a repositioning of the zoo as a valuable cultural asset to the community. The Friends organization developed a membership base, launched education programs, and garnered support of donors for new projects and improvements. The City of Springfield committed budget dollars and instituted an admission fee to help offset expenses. The zoo, located on a beautiful tract of land with much potential, had been saved. Now it was time to plan an orderly approach to its future.</p>
<p>The revitalization of Dickerson Park Zoo coincided with philosophical changes being experienced by zoos nationwide, and a mission recognizing the objectives of recreation, education, conservation and research was adopted and used as a guidepost for charting the growth and purpose of the zoo. A master plan, adopted in 1985, visualized a new zoo, utilizing geographic themes and phased development addressing the mission objectives as guiding concepts. The zoo became involved in several Species Survival Plans, most notably Asian elephants, maned wolves and cheetahs, finding success with each endeavor. In-house and outreach education programs became valuable services offered and used by the community, and fun, family-oriented special events drew large numbers and gained additional support for the growing zoo. The growth of tourism in the region also contributed to increases in attendance and offered visitors to the community another attraction when visiting the Ozarks.</p>
<p>The zoo was accredited by theAmerican Zoo and Aquarium Association in 1986, and has been reaccredited in two subsequent reviews, most recently in 1996. With success comes expectations for additional services and exhibits, and the need for increased revenues for operation of the zoo. An update and revision of the master plan was completed in 1996, and efforts are underway to assure that funding, both private and public, is in place to enable the projects in the master plan to be accomplished by 2010. The zoo enjoys a positive place in the cultural fabric of the community, and all indications are that it will continue to be treasured as one of the city&rsquo;s crown jewels.</p>		</div>
		

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											<div>1401 West Norton Road</div>
											<div>
							<span>Springfield</span>,
							<span>MO</span>
												<span>65803</span>
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					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="http://www.dickersonparkzoo.org/" target="_blank">Dickerson Park Zoo</a>
								</div>
												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 417-833-1570</div>
				
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				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p><b>Mission Statement</b></p>
<p>Dickerson Park Zoo connects people with animals to create adventures that encourage discovery and inspire conservation action.</p>
<p>Adopted by the Springfield-Greene County Park Board, December 2010.</p>
<p><b style="line-height: 1.4;">Dickerson Park Zoo History</b></p>
<p>Established by the Springfield Park Board in 1922, Dickerson Park Zoo was initially developed with the help of WPA labor and funds in the 1930s. From then until the 1970s, very little development or support occurred, and by 1975, the zoo had become a run-down liability to the City of Springfield. The zoo was on the verge of being closed, but a commitment was made by the City and a newly formed support group now known as Friends of the Zoo to save the zoo. The next 10 years marked significant improvements and a repositioning of the zoo as a valuable cultural asset to the community. The Friends organization developed a membership base, launched education programs, and garnered support of donors for new projects and improvements. The City of Springfield committed budget dollars and instituted an admission fee to help offset expenses. The zoo, located on a beautiful tract of land with much potential, had been saved. Now it was time to plan an orderly approach to its future.</p>
<p>The revitalization of Dickerson Park Zoo coincided with philosophical changes being experienced by zoos nationwide, and a mission recognizing the objectives of recreation, education, conservation and research was adopted and used as a guidepost for charting the growth and purpose of the zoo. A master plan, adopted in 1985, visualized a new zoo, utilizing geographic themes and phased development addressing the mission objectives as guiding concepts. The zoo became involved in several Species Survival Plans, most notably Asian elephants, maned wolves and cheetahs, finding success with each endeavor. In-house and outreach education programs became valuable services offered and used by the community, and fun, family-oriented special events drew large numbers and gained additional support for the growing zoo. The growth of tourism in the region also contributed to increases in attendance and offered visitors to the community another attraction when visiting the Ozarks.</p>
<p>The zoo was accredited by theAmerican Zoo and Aquarium Association in 1986, and has been reaccredited in two subsequent reviews, most recently in 1996. With success comes expectations for additional services and exhibits, and the need for increased revenues for operation of the zoo. An update and revision of the master plan was completed in 1996, and efforts are underway to assure that funding, both private and public, is in place to enable the projects in the master plan to be accomplished by 2010. The zoo enjoys a positive place in the cultural fabric of the community, and all indications are that it will continue to be treasured as one of the city&rsquo;s crown jewels.</p>		</div>
		

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		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Dickerson Park Zoo</h1></header>

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					<div>
											<div>1401 West Norton Road</div>
											<div>
							<span>Springfield</span>,
							<span>MO</span>
												<span>65803</span>
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					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="http://www.dickersonparkzoo.org/" target="_blank">Dickerson Park Zoo</a>
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												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 417-833-1570</div>
				
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						<p><b>Mission Statement</b></p>
<p>Dickerson Park Zoo connects people with animals to create adventures that encourage discovery and inspire conservation action.</p>
<p>Adopted by the Springfield-Greene County Park Board, December 2010.</p>
<p><b style="line-height: 1.4;">Dickerson Park Zoo History</b></p>
<p>Established by the Springfield Park Board in 1922, Dickerson Park Zoo was initially developed with the help of WPA labor and funds in the 1930s. From then until the 1970s, very little development or support occurred, and by 1975, the zoo had become a run-down liability to the City of Springfield. The zoo was on the verge of being closed, but a commitment was made by the City and a newly formed support group now known as Friends of the Zoo to save the zoo. The next 10 years marked significant improvements and a repositioning of the zoo as a valuable cultural asset to the community. The Friends organization developed a membership base, launched education programs, and garnered support of donors for new projects and improvements. The City of Springfield committed budget dollars and instituted an admission fee to help offset expenses. The zoo, located on a beautiful tract of land with much potential, had been saved. Now it was time to plan an orderly approach to its future.</p>
<p>The revitalization of Dickerson Park Zoo coincided with philosophical changes being experienced by zoos nationwide, and a mission recognizing the objectives of recreation, education, conservation and research was adopted and used as a guidepost for charting the growth and purpose of the zoo. A master plan, adopted in 1985, visualized a new zoo, utilizing geographic themes and phased development addressing the mission objectives as guiding concepts. The zoo became involved in several Species Survival Plans, most notably Asian elephants, maned wolves and cheetahs, finding success with each endeavor. In-house and outreach education programs became valuable services offered and used by the community, and fun, family-oriented special events drew large numbers and gained additional support for the growing zoo. The growth of tourism in the region also contributed to increases in attendance and offered visitors to the community another attraction when visiting the Ozarks.</p>
<p>The zoo was accredited by theAmerican Zoo and Aquarium Association in 1986, and has been reaccredited in two subsequent reviews, most recently in 1996. With success comes expectations for additional services and exhibits, and the need for increased revenues for operation of the zoo. An update and revision of the master plan was completed in 1996, and efforts are underway to assure that funding, both private and public, is in place to enable the projects in the master plan to be accomplished by 2010. The zoo enjoys a positive place in the cultural fabric of the community, and all indications are that it will continue to be treasured as one of the city&rsquo;s crown jewels.</p>		</div>
		

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											<div>1401 West Norton Road</div>
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							<span>Springfield</span>,
							<span>MO</span>
												<span>65803</span>
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										<a href="http://www.dickersonparkzoo.org/" target="_blank">Dickerson Park Zoo</a>
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												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 417-833-1570</div>
				
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						<p><b>Mission Statement</b></p>
<p>Dickerson Park Zoo connects people with animals to create adventures that encourage discovery and inspire conservation action.</p>
<p>Adopted by the Springfield-Greene County Park Board, December 2010.</p>
<p><b style="line-height: 1.4;">Dickerson Park Zoo History</b></p>
<p>Established by the Springfield Park Board in 1922, Dickerson Park Zoo was initially developed with the help of WPA labor and funds in the 1930s. From then until the 1970s, very little development or support occurred, and by 1975, the zoo had become a run-down liability to the City of Springfield. The zoo was on the verge of being closed, but a commitment was made by the City and a newly formed support group now known as Friends of the Zoo to save the zoo. The next 10 years marked significant improvements and a repositioning of the zoo as a valuable cultural asset to the community. The Friends organization developed a membership base, launched education programs, and garnered support of donors for new projects and improvements. The City of Springfield committed budget dollars and instituted an admission fee to help offset expenses. The zoo, located on a beautiful tract of land with much potential, had been saved. Now it was time to plan an orderly approach to its future.</p>
<p>The revitalization of Dickerson Park Zoo coincided with philosophical changes being experienced by zoos nationwide, and a mission recognizing the objectives of recreation, education, conservation and research was adopted and used as a guidepost for charting the growth and purpose of the zoo. A master plan, adopted in 1985, visualized a new zoo, utilizing geographic themes and phased development addressing the mission objectives as guiding concepts. The zoo became involved in several Species Survival Plans, most notably Asian elephants, maned wolves and cheetahs, finding success with each endeavor. In-house and outreach education programs became valuable services offered and used by the community, and fun, family-oriented special events drew large numbers and gained additional support for the growing zoo. The growth of tourism in the region also contributed to increases in attendance and offered visitors to the community another attraction when visiting the Ozarks.</p>
<p>The zoo was accredited by theAmerican Zoo and Aquarium Association in 1986, and has been reaccredited in two subsequent reviews, most recently in 1996. With success comes expectations for additional services and exhibits, and the need for increased revenues for operation of the zoo. An update and revision of the master plan was completed in 1996, and efforts are underway to assure that funding, both private and public, is in place to enable the projects in the master plan to be accomplished by 2010. The zoo enjoys a positive place in the cultural fabric of the community, and all indications are that it will continue to be treasured as one of the city&rsquo;s crown jewels.</p>		</div>
		

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Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244]
Code Context
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                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");
                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html");
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		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Dickerson Park Zoo</h1></header>

		<div class="row">
			<div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer">
				<p>
					<div>
											<div>1401 West Norton Road</div>
											<div>
							<span>Springfield</span>,
							<span>MO</span>
												<span>65803</span>
											</div>
					</div>
				</p>
								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="http://www.dickersonparkzoo.org/" target="_blank">Dickerson Park Zoo</a>
								</div>
												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 417-833-1570</div>
				
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				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p><b>Mission Statement</b></p>
<p>Dickerson Park Zoo connects people with animals to create adventures that encourage discovery and inspire conservation action.</p>
<p>Adopted by the Springfield-Greene County Park Board, December 2010.</p>
<p><b style="line-height: 1.4;">Dickerson Park Zoo History</b></p>
<p>Established by the Springfield Park Board in 1922, Dickerson Park Zoo was initially developed with the help of WPA labor and funds in the 1930s. From then until the 1970s, very little development or support occurred, and by 1975, the zoo had become a run-down liability to the City of Springfield. The zoo was on the verge of being closed, but a commitment was made by the City and a newly formed support group now known as Friends of the Zoo to save the zoo. The next 10 years marked significant improvements and a repositioning of the zoo as a valuable cultural asset to the community. The Friends organization developed a membership base, launched education programs, and garnered support of donors for new projects and improvements. The City of Springfield committed budget dollars and instituted an admission fee to help offset expenses. The zoo, located on a beautiful tract of land with much potential, had been saved. Now it was time to plan an orderly approach to its future.</p>
<p>The revitalization of Dickerson Park Zoo coincided with philosophical changes being experienced by zoos nationwide, and a mission recognizing the objectives of recreation, education, conservation and research was adopted and used as a guidepost for charting the growth and purpose of the zoo. A master plan, adopted in 1985, visualized a new zoo, utilizing geographic themes and phased development addressing the mission objectives as guiding concepts. The zoo became involved in several Species Survival Plans, most notably Asian elephants, maned wolves and cheetahs, finding success with each endeavor. In-house and outreach education programs became valuable services offered and used by the community, and fun, family-oriented special events drew large numbers and gained additional support for the growing zoo. The growth of tourism in the region also contributed to increases in attendance and offered visitors to the community another attraction when visiting the Ozarks.</p>
<p>The zoo was accredited by theAmerican Zoo and Aquarium Association in 1986, and has been reaccredited in two subsequent reviews, most recently in 1996. With success comes expectations for additional services and exhibits, and the need for increased revenues for operation of the zoo. An update and revision of the master plan was completed in 1996, and efforts are underway to assure that funding, both private and public, is in place to enable the projects in the master plan to be accomplished by 2010. The zoo enjoys a positive place in the cultural fabric of the community, and all indications are that it will continue to be treasured as one of the city&rsquo;s crown jewels.</p>		</div>
		

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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2>
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2>
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 12:00&nbsp;p.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

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											<div>1401 West Norton Road</div>
											<div>
							<span>Springfield</span>,
							<span>MO</span>
												<span>65803</span>
											</div>
					</div>
				</p>
								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="http://www.dickersonparkzoo.org/" target="_blank">Dickerson Park Zoo</a>
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												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 417-833-1570</div>
				
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				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p><b>Mission Statement</b></p>
<p>Dickerson Park Zoo connects people with animals to create adventures that encourage discovery and inspire conservation action.</p>
<p>Adopted by the Springfield-Greene County Park Board, December 2010.</p>
<p><b style="line-height: 1.4;">Dickerson Park Zoo History</b></p>
<p>Established by the Springfield Park Board in 1922, Dickerson Park Zoo was initially developed with the help of WPA labor and funds in the 1930s. From then until the 1970s, very little development or support occurred, and by 1975, the zoo had become a run-down liability to the City of Springfield. The zoo was on the verge of being closed, but a commitment was made by the City and a newly formed support group now known as Friends of the Zoo to save the zoo. The next 10 years marked significant improvements and a repositioning of the zoo as a valuable cultural asset to the community. The Friends organization developed a membership base, launched education programs, and garnered support of donors for new projects and improvements. The City of Springfield committed budget dollars and instituted an admission fee to help offset expenses. The zoo, located on a beautiful tract of land with much potential, had been saved. Now it was time to plan an orderly approach to its future.</p>
<p>The revitalization of Dickerson Park Zoo coincided with philosophical changes being experienced by zoos nationwide, and a mission recognizing the objectives of recreation, education, conservation and research was adopted and used as a guidepost for charting the growth and purpose of the zoo. A master plan, adopted in 1985, visualized a new zoo, utilizing geographic themes and phased development addressing the mission objectives as guiding concepts. The zoo became involved in several Species Survival Plans, most notably Asian elephants, maned wolves and cheetahs, finding success with each endeavor. In-house and outreach education programs became valuable services offered and used by the community, and fun, family-oriented special events drew large numbers and gained additional support for the growing zoo. The growth of tourism in the region also contributed to increases in attendance and offered visitors to the community another attraction when visiting the Ozarks.</p>
<p>The zoo was accredited by theAmerican Zoo and Aquarium Association in 1986, and has been reaccredited in two subsequent reviews, most recently in 1996. With success comes expectations for additional services and exhibits, and the need for increased revenues for operation of the zoo. An update and revision of the master plan was completed in 1996, and efforts are underway to assure that funding, both private and public, is in place to enable the projects in the master plan to be accomplished by 2010. The zoo enjoys a positive place in the cultural fabric of the community, and all indications are that it will continue to be treasured as one of the city&rsquo;s crown jewels.</p>		</div>
		

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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 12:00&nbsp;p.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2>
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					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 12:00&nbsp;p.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/springfield-mo/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
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	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
	<ul class="list">
		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
	</ul>
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		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MO">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-MO">Renew</a> or 
			<a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div>
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<div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer">
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<h2>Contact AARP<br />Missouri</h2>
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<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MOAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">MOAARP@aarp.org </a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/missouri/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Missouri</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/missouri/contact-aarp-missouri-2/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-SPRINGFIELD-MO" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


</ul>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aarpmissouri" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
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include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546
View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481
Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963
AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136
PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501
ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ??
Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491
Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193
Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167
[main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118