SANTA ANA : Zoo to Raise Funds With Oldies Concert

The Santa Ana Zoo is expected to be transformed into a rock ‘n’ roll paradise tonight as it kicks off a major fund-raising campaign with an oldies concert.

The concert, called “Rockin’ Zoo-S.A.,” will feature local groups Rock Around the Clock and Surf City. Radio station KODJ disc jockey Verna McKay will serve as master of ceremonies.

In addition to the concert, guests will have the opportunity to ride the zoo’s Asian elephant and to be photographed getting in a fiberglass wave. More than 250 Hula-Hoops, paddle balls and yo-yos will also be available for children to play with.

Classic cars from the ‘50s and ‘60s will be on display and food including Coca-Cola, hamburgers, chips and popcorn, will be on sale. Picnic baskets will not be allowed into the zoo, organizers said.

A Coke vending machine, donated by Coca-Cola, as well a limousine ride to Disneyland will be raffled off during the festivities.

Proceeds from the concert will help fund the first stage of the zoo’s ambitious 10-year, $10-million master plan.

Tickets for the event, which begins at 6:30 p.m., are limited and will be sold at the door on a first-come, first-served basis. Tickets are $5 and children under the age of 5 will be admitted free. The zoo is at 1801 E. Chestnut Ave.