Moody Garden's very own penguin mascot - King Tux - will serve as the parade marshal of the 12th annual Krewe of Barkus & Meoux Parade, set to take place at 1pm on Valentine’s Day, Sunday, February 14. Accompanied by the Ball High School color guard, King Tux will lead pets and their humans down the parade route, beginning at 27th and Seawall Boulevard and continuing west on Seawall Boulevard to 46th street. The parade will disband in the parking lot at the Academy Sports and Outdoor store. Sponsored by and benefitting exclusively the Galveston Island Humane Society (GIHS), proceeds from the Krewe of Barkus & Meoux Parade will be used to sponsor the GIHS’ annual “Fix ‘Em for $5” spay/neuter program, held in conjunction with the national Spay Day USA, beginning the week of February 22nd.

The cost to participate is $20 per pet, if pre-registered by February 5th, and does include the 2010 parade T-shirt. Parade-site registration is $25, with only a limited quantity of parade T-shirts guaranteed. All registered pets will receive a complimentary parade bandana. Proof of current rabies vaccinations is required for all pets and all pets walking must be on a leash no longer than six feet. No retractable leashes will be allowed. Both pets and pet owners are encouraged to dress in Mardi Gras costume, with a special costume contest and judging scheduled to take place prior to the start of the parade. Winners of the contest will be announced and recognized at the conclusion of the parade in the staging/tent area in the parking lot across from Academy. Beads will not be provided. Parade participants who wish to throw beads will be required to bring their own supply.

In the spirit of Mardi Gras, the Galveston Island Humane Society also extends an invitation to any animal rescue organization in the area to participate. The fee is a minimum contribution of $25 per organization and requires a representative of the animal welfare organization to contact GIHS in advance to make reservations to participate.

King Tux arrived at Moody Gardens when the Aquarium Pyramid first opened in 1999. Penguins are some of the most popular animals at this premier family destination complex, making King Tux a natural representative and ambassador for Moody Garden’s core missions and living creatures.

Check in and on-site registration will begin at 11am at 26th and Seawall Boulevard. To request a registration form or for more information about the parade, call the GIHS office at 409.740.1919 or register online at www.galvestonhumane.org.

The Galveston Island Humane Society is temporarily located at 5301 Avenue S, while the organization’s new facility is under construction. Shelter hours are 11-6, Monday- Friday; 11-5, Saturday; closed Sunday.