The City of Hutto is home to the only hippopotamus mascot in the United States. But how did our community become known way-back-when for an animal so wild and remote? And what does it really mean to be part of "hippo nation"? Take a fun look inside the legends and folklore in the City's short new documentary film. Called "Hippo Loose in Hutto: The Legend of Hutto, Texas" was released on Feb. 15, 2023 in honor of World Hippo Day and is now available on YouTube.
The film was shot at iconic spots around Hutto including Memorial Stadium, KOKEFEST, Hippo Cafe, One Eleven East in Downtown Hutto, Hutto High School and more. The City invited Hutto ISD to compose an original song for the film, with Ms. Lexie DeAnda stepping up to write the "Hippo Strong" anthem performed in the film by her students at Veterans' Hill Elementary School.
Viewers of "Hippo Loose in Hutto" may recognize local faces in the cast including:
- Catarina "Kitty" Bellenir & Sgt. Josh Bellenir - Hutto teacher and police officer
- Rose & Troy McMillin - Long-time Hutto volunteers
- Mike Fowler - Hutto historian and former mayor
- Sonia Herrera - Hutto Chamber of Commerce staff
- Greg Ray - Owner, Set in Stone Statuary
- Todd Robison - Voice of Hutto Hippos Football
- Brad LaPlante - Hutto School District Athletic Director
- City of Hutto Community Outreach Manager Kristi Barnes
