They say every dog has his day, but in this case our cougar, Sandy, had her day! June 7th was "Meet Sandy Day" at Popcorn Park.

Sandy was chosen last year as the official mascot of the Ocean County Campus of Kean University. They had no mascot previously and decided to "adopt" Sandy. The OCC of Kean U. planned to raise $1,500 annually to be donated towards Sandy's care and the upkeep of her enclosure through fundraising events throughout the year. Merchandise sales, sporting events, contests and activities on its website were some of the ways they've planned on supporting Sandy.

Sandy, meanwhile, will remain here at Popcorn Park, basking in the glory of Kean University's kindness, as traveling to events would be potentially dangerous for both Sandy and curious humans.

The day included tables of information and merchandise, the sale of which would be donated to Sandy. The centerpiece was beautiful stuffed Sandy cougars with Kean@Ocean bandanas.

Pictured above are: John Bergmann, Tara Higgins (Director of Student Government, Kean College), James McGinty (Executive VP Ocean County College), Robert Cirasa (Director Kean at Ocean Program), Barbara Lathrop, Joe Friedman, Gerry Friedman.

Popcorn Park is deeply grateful for the efforts of Kean U. in their helping Sandy and bringing attention to the plight of other cougars at the zoo also in need of support.

Pictured are: Melinda Luciano (Student Leader), Matt Peterson (Zoo staff), Teresa Rutan (zoo staff), Corinne Monahan (zoo staff), Chris Hattrich (zoo staff), Melvin Luciano ( student leader), Orly Meneses (student Leader)

Thanks also to staff who provide Sandy with loving care all year `round.