LEHIGH VALLEY ZOO’S RED PANDA HABITAT CONSTUCTION IS UNDERWAY

Newsroom
Lehigh Valley Zoo
March 13, 2024

LEHIGH VALLEY ZOO’S RED PANDA HABITAT CONSTUCTION IS UNDERWAY
D&S Elite Construction, Inc. Anticipates Project Completion by Late Spring

(Schnecksville, PA) –Lehigh Valley Zoo, in conjunction with project manager D&S Elite Construction, Inc., is excited to announce that construction of the zoo’s new habitat for red pandas is underway. The exhibit is expected to be completed for a Grand Opening later this spring.

The location, which previously housed the North American prairie dogs, has been reimagined for a habitat designed to meet the standards of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the zoo’s accrediting body, as well as to maximize the welfare of red pandas.

“D&S Elite Construction, Inc. is excited for the opportunity to collaborate with the Lehigh Valley Zoo and a talented team of tradespeople to create this remarkable habitat for the Red Panda,” said Allen Butler, D&S Elite Construction’s Vice President of Construction, Inc. “We are eager to develop and construct an exhibit that not only provides visitors with a personal and up-close experience, but also contributes to educating the community about the plight of this endangered species for generations to come.”

LV Zoo President and CEO Amanda Shurr added, “This is an exciting time for the Lehigh Valley Zoo and we are happy to work together with D&S Elite Construction to bring this new species to our zoo. We are thrilled to play a role in the conservation of this endangered species and to offer our community the opportunity to learn about red pandas and observe them in a modern habitat.”

Red pandas have a population reported to be fewer than 10,000 in the wild as a result of deforestation, poaching, accidental trapping, and illegal pet trade. Providing a home for red pandas at LV Zoo supports the zoo’s vision of partnering with the community to be a leader in conservation education and action.

As part of its master plan, LV Zoo intends to further grow the zoo with species from the Himalayan region as they are temperature-hardy and will be able to handle the North American climate year-round. These new species will continue to provide the opportunity for the Lehigh Valley community to learn about the natural world around us and, hopefully, support the zoo in its ongoing conservation efforts.

The community is encouraged to support LV Zoo’s red pandas by visiting lvzoo.org/red-panda. All individual donors who contribute at least $500 will receive recognition on exhibit signage. LV Zoo is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that relies on the support of our community to grow and prosper.

Guests can visit current LV Zoo residents seven days a week during its current winter hours of 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Beginning on April 1, the zoo extends to its in-season hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at lvzoo.org.

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D&S Elite Construction, Inc., headquartered in Douglassville, Pa., is a full service general contracting company serving Lehigh, Berks, Chester, Montgomery, and neighboring counties. Specializing in both commercial and residential construction, D&S Elite Construction, Inc. works closely with homeowners and businesses to create beautiful, functional spaces tailored to individual needs. With a commitment to excellence, D&S Elite Construction, Inc. adheres to the highest industry standards, ensuring longevity and durability in every project. Employing industry-leading construction practices and utilizing top-quality materials designed to withstand the tests of time and usage, the company delivers unparalleled workmanship, exceptional service and elite results that will last for generations. This dedication to quality craftsmanship and enduring outcomes is encapsulated in their tagline, “Your Legacy Builder™.” https://www.dseliteconstruction.com

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but it has been treasured community landmark for centuries. Located in the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Game Preserve, the mission of the Lehigh Valley Zoo is to connect its community with nature to empower people to protect wildlife. We have achieved our mission and educated more than five million people. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Lehigh Valley Zoo hosts year-round, family-friendly events and activities, educational programs, and camps. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

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— SmartFun—

LV ZOO MOURNS THE LOSS OF EMMY, FEMALE OSTRICH

Newsroom
Lehigh Valley Zoo
Mar 1, 2024

LV ZOO MOURNS THE LOSS OF EMMY, FEMALE OSTRICH

(Schnecksville, PA) – Lehigh Valley Zoo is deeply saddened by the passing of 16-year-old female ostrich, Emmy. Emmy arrived at the zoo in 2008 along with Bane, LV Zoo’s male ostrich. Shortly after arrival, the duo was introduced to LV Zoo’s two female Grant’s zebras, Glenda and Rylea, with whom they shared an exhibit for the past 15 years.

LV Zoo’s animal care staff said Emmy was a very curious ostrich and would spend her time investigating her habitat. She would often peck at objects around her, especially if they were shiny. She loved a good bath so much that she would spend her time playing in the sprinkler or staying out in the rain. She would often be seen standing in the front of the habitat where she would watch as people walked by. Emmy will be dearly missed by all staff and guests.

Guests can visit all the African species, along with the rest of the zoo residents, during LV Zoo business hours of 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. seven days a week. Tickets can be purchased at www.lvzoo.org.

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— SmartFun—

WINTER LIGHT SPECTACULAR SETS NEW ATTENDANCE RECORD IN 2023

Newsroom
Lehigh Valley Zoo
Jan. 4, 2024

WINTER LIGHT SPECTACULAR SETS NEW ATTENDANCE RECORD IN 2023
The Popular Holiday Event Drew 59,750 Guests to LV Zoo

(Schnecksville, PA) –Lehigh ValleyZoo is excited to announce that the 10^th-annual Winter Light Spectacular (WLS), presented by Service Electric TV & Communications and powered by Christmas Décor, set a new attendance record with 59,750 guests in 2023. The event, held between Nov. 10 and Dec. 31, averaged 1,707 guests per night over 33 public dates and a pair of private openings.

The record was set despite five weather cancellations – the second-highest total in the 10-year history of the event.

“We are so pleased and appreciative that so many residents of the Lehigh Valley – as well as in the surrounding regions – have made Winter Light Spectacular a family tradition,” LV Zoo President & CEO Amanda Shurr said. “Aside from providing a unique experience to celebrate holiday cheer, this event is our largest annual fundraiser to support animal conservation projects and programs at the zoo. We are also thankful for our title sponsors, Christmas Décor and Service Electric, for providing the ability to refresh the event to keep it new and exciting every year.”

An additional WLS milestone was hit on Dec. 26 when the zoo welcomed its 500,000^th guest in the history of this event. Through 10 years, WLS had drawn a total combined attendance of 510,293.

LV Zoo is looking forward to 2024 and completing the construction of a new habitat for red pandas. This project was announced late last year and the zoo is thrilled with the support it has already received. Red pandas are classified as an endangered species and their addition ties directly to LV Zoo’s vision to be a leader in conservation action. Information on how to support this effort can be found at lvzoo.org/red-panda.

LV Zoo remains open for its winter hours of Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tickets are available at lvzoo.org.

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Christmas Décor, a sister company to Pennsylvania Lawn & Landscape, has provided professional full-holiday service for both Residential and Commercial properties since 1996. We provide all the best quality materials needed to complete the installation and ensure the display is not only safe, but beautiful. We will return regularly to inspect your display and provide any necessary services. Holiday lighting was always a passion and decided it was a great way to provide year-round work for our company. We have completed numerous beautiful unique displays for so many wonderful clients over the past 20 years that it humbles us just how much Christmas means to so many. We also believe Christmas is about giving back to our communities. By doing fundraisers like the “Pay it Forward” golf tournament and supporting our servicemen and servicewomen through the “Decorated Soldier” program, we hope to share our success with those who are less fortunate or have sacrificed so much for us to have these opportunities. Visit noholidayhassles.com for more information.

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About Service Electric Cable TV and Communications… Established in 1948 and still family owned, Service Electric is the largest privately held internet provider to homes and businesses in the Lehigh Valley, Wilkes-Barre, PA and Hunterdon County, NJ. As the first company to bring internet to the Lehigh Valley, Service Electric continues to build its positive reputation in the community and the communications industry, offering a variety of Internet, TV, telephone and telecommunication services. Service Electric comprises three divisions; SECTV, serving residential customers, SEB – Service Electric Business – serving business and commercial customers, and SEN – Service Electric Network – the in-house production company, bringing a variety of local sports and entertainment to viewers. For more information, visit www.sectv.com.

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but it has been treasured community landmark for centuries. Located in the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Game Preserve, the mission of the Lehigh Valley Zoo is to connect its community with nature to empower people to protect wildlife. We have achieved our mission and educated more than five million people. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Lehigh Valley Zoo hosts year-round, family-friendly events and activities, educational programs, and camps. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

IT’S RED PANDAMONIUM AT THE LEHIGH VALLEY ZOO!

Newsroom
Lehigh Valley Zoo
Nov 24,2023

IT’S RED PANDAMONIUM AT THE LEHIGH VALLEY ZOO!
Lehigh Valley Zoo Announces Campaign to Bring Red Pandas

(Schnecksville, PA) –Lehigh Valley Zoois excited to announce the construction of a new habitat for red pandas. The Zoo plans to work closely with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums(AZA) and its Species Survival Plan (SSP) to identify the best possible red pandas to welcome to the Zoo in 2024.

The Zoo is reimagining the space that previously housed the North American prairie dogs into an exhibit that will stand the test of time. This habitat will be designed to meet the standards of the AZA, the zoo’s accrediting body.

“As we build this exhibit, we are looking towards the future,” said Amanda Shurr, President and CEO. “As part of Lehigh Valley Zoo’s master plan, we will be introducing species native to Asia to the zoo. Red pandas are the first species that we plan to welcome from this region, and we are excited to continue to bring in new and different species, ones that have not yet been a part of our zoo family.”

LV Zoo plans to focus on species from the Himalayan region as they are temperature-hardy and will be able to handle the North American climate year-round.

Red pandas are an endangered species with a population reported to be fewer than 10,000 in the wild as a result of deforestation, poaching, accidental trapping, and illegal pet trade. Providing a home for red pandas at Lehigh Valley Zoo supports the Zoo’s vision of the conservation of the species, while educating our guests about the importance of wildlife conservation.

Lehigh Valley Zoo is a registered 501c3 non-profit organization that relies on the support of our community to grow and prosper. The community can help welcome red pandas to the Lehigh Valley by visiting lvzoo.org/red-panda. Individual gifts not only make an investment to welcome red pandas in 2024, but also make an investment in the Zoo’s ability to welcome new species in the future. All individual donors who contribute at least $500 will receive recognition on exhibit signage. For a limited time, the Red Panda ADOPT package includes an invitation for two to a cocktail party to view the habitat before it opens to the public, along with donors who contribute at least $250.

Guests can visit current LV Zoo residents during Winter Hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdaythrough Sunday. Tickets can be purchased at lvzoo.org. In addition, the 10^th Anniversary of Winter Light Spectacular, presented by Service Electric TV & Communications and powered by Christmas Décor, is underway with 31 remaining dates through Dec. 31. Please visit winterlightspectacular.com to purchase tickets or review hours, activities, and performance times.

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— SmartFun—

STUFFED PUFFS® AT WINTER LIGHT SPECTACULAR. YUM.

Newsroom
Lehigh Valley Zoo
Nov 02,2023

STUFFED PUFFS® AT WINTER LIGHT SPECTACULAR. YUM.
Lehigh Valley Marshmallow Company Returns as “Official S’mores of Winter Light Spectacular”

(Schnecksville, PA) – Celebrating its 10th Anniversary in 2023, Winter Light Spectacular (WLS) at Lehigh Valley Zoo has become the most popular holiday destination in the region. For the third consecutive year, the event is proud to offer the perfect holiday treat — as Bethlehem-based Stuffed Puffs® returns as the “Official S’mores of Winter Light Spectacular.”

With five Stuffed Puffs® Fire Pits throughout the zoo, as well as an additional fireplace in the Jingle Lodge Lounge VIP Room, making s’mores has always been part of the family tradition at WLS. Stuffed Puffs® Classic Milk Chocolate Filled Marshmallows make s’mores easier and even more delicious with their fluffy vanilla marshmallow stuffed with real milk chocolate that melts from the inside out.

“We are thrilled that the 10th Anniversary of Winter Light Spectacular is around the corner,” said Amanda Shurr, President & CEO of LV Zoo. “Every year, we work with our partners to make enhancements and provide the best possible experience. In the case of our S’mores, the proof is in the marshmallow. Our guests were thrilled with the addition of Stuffed Puffs® in 2021, and we remain equally as thrilled to partner with a local company.”

Additionally, the event offers Stuffed Puffs® Cookies ’N Crème Marshmallows, which elevate hot chocolate or coffee to a whole new level.

WLS, presented by Service Electric TV & Communications, is scheduled for 38 dates this season, spanning from Friday, Nov. 10, through Sunday, Dec. 31. Tickets are on sale now at winterlightspectacular.com.

Located at the LV Zoo and powered by Christmas Decor, WLS is the zoo’s largest annual fundraiser and was featured by USA Today in “Holiday light displays worth traveling for across America.” Revenue from the event supports the zoo’s animal programs and ongoing operations.

In addition to the Stuffed Puffs® Fire Pits, WLS features 1.2 million lights – a total more than any other Pennsylvania attraction, classic holiday scenes, numerous photo opportunities, hot chocolate and many other holiday treats. There will also be numerous live performances every night featuring popular princesses Elsa, Belle and Cinderella; as well as professional family photo opportunities with Santa Claus, presented by Dan’s Camera City, on most dates through Dec. 23. A full schedule of nighty events and activities is available at winterlightspectacular.com.

Please visit winterlightspectacular.com to purchase tickets or for more information and follow the Zoo on Facebook for daily WLS updates, promotions, contests, weather cancellations and much more.

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Stuffed Puffs® redefined the marshmallow category in 2019 with their launch of their Classic Milk Chocolate filled marshmallows. Founded by Michael Tierney, Stuffed Puffs® believes that Life Is More Fun Filled™ and that is meant quite literally. Their products melt from the inside out for the perfect S’more or S’mores Indoors™. They can also be used as a staple ingredient in baking, cooking, hot cocoa, or devoured straight out of the bag. Their new Bites items are available in delicious flavors like S’mores, Birthday Cake, Cinnamon Toast Crunch™, and Cookies `n Creme. Look for all flavors at Walmart locations nationwide.

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LV ZOO WELCOMES ANOTHER SCIMITAR-HORNED ORYX CALF TO THE HERD

Newsroom
Lehigh Valley Zoo
OCT 18, 2023

LV ZOO WELCOMES ANOTHER SCIMITAR-HORNED ORYX CALF TO THE HERD
Lehigh Valley Health Network is the Official Motherhood Partner of the LV Zoo

(Schnecksville, PA) – Lehigh Valley Zoo along with Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), is excited to welcome another scimitar-horned oryx calf to the herd. Born to mother, Too Haute, this is the 11th oryx calf born at the LV Zoo since 2014. Most recently, Scotty Jr. was born on Aug. 4. LVHN is the Official Motherhood Partner of the Lehigh Valley Zoo.

Since its birth on Oct. 8, the yet-to-be-named, female oryx calf and her mother spent just over a week apart from the herd to allow for bonding, nursing, and rest. This is the second calf born to Too Haute and father, Bakuli. Their daughter, Eclipse, was born at the LV Zoo on Nov. 9, 2022. Interestingly, both parents were also born at LV Zoo, Too Haute in 2019 and Bakuli — who was transferred to Fossil Rim Wildlife Center (Glen Rose, TX) this past March — in 2020.

Oryx gestation lasts approximately nine months, after which a single calf is born weighing approximately 20-30 pounds. For comparison, adult males weigh between 300-400 pounds and adult females weigh between 200-300 pounds. Calves are born with a yellow coat that lacks the distinguishing marks of the adult oryx. Calves start to wean around 3.5 months, at which time they become fully independent. Both males and females have long thin horns, which can grow more than three feet in length.

As an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), LV Zoo has participated in the Species Survival Plan (SSP) for scimitar-horned oryx for more than 10 years. Since bringing this species to Schnecksville in 2007, the Zoo has served as a successful breeding facility for this endangered antelope. In the 1980’s, the scimitar-horned oryx was declared extinct in the wild. Since that time, global efforts have been ongoing to aid in their conservation and reintroduction to the areas in Africa where they once roamed.

The Oryx calf still needs a name. In partnership with Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), LV Zoo is hosting a naming poll on Facebook this week — allowing guests and followers the opportunity to decide the final official name by voting for their favorite finalist.

Guests can visit the new Oryx calf along with the rest of the LV Zoo residents during LV Zoo’s in-season business hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. seven days a week. Tickets can be purchased at lvzoo.org.

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Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) includes 13 hospital campuses, four in Allentown, two in Bethlehem, one in Easton, one in East Stroudsburg, one in Hazleton, two in Pottsville, one in Lehighton and one in Dickson City, Pa.; 28 health centers; numerous primary and specialty care physician practices; 20 ExpressCARE locations including the area’s only Children’s ExpressCARE; pharmacy, imaging, home health, rehabilitation and lab services; and preferred provider services through Valley Preferred. Specialty care includes: trauma care for adults and children, burn care at the Regional Burn Center; kidney and pancreas transplants; perinatal/neonatal, cardiac, cancer, orthopedics, neurology, complex neurosurgery capabilities including national certification as a Comprehensive Stroke Center, and robotic surgery in 10 specialties. Lehigh Valley Topper Cancer Institute, Lehigh Valley Heart and Vascular Institute, Lehigh Valley Institute for Surgical Excellence, Lehigh Valley Orthopedic Institute and Lehigh Valley Fleming Neuroscience Institute physicians provide the most advanced treatments. Lehigh Valley Topper Cancer Institute is a member of the Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Alliance, an initiative that helps community providers improve the quality of cancer care and offers access to MSK clinical trials. Lehigh Valley Reilly Children’s Hospital, the community’s only children’s hospital, provides care in more than 30 specialties and general pediatrics. Lehigh Valley Hospital–Cedar Crest is ranked as the region’s No. 1 hospital for nine straight years and has been recognized among Pennsylvania’s top 10 hospitals for nine consecutive years by U.S. News & World Report. Lehigh Valley Hospital (LVH)–Cedar Crest, LVH–17th Street and LVH–Muhlenberg are the Lehigh Valley region’s only Magnet® hospitals for nursing excellence. Additional information is available by visiting LVHN.org or following us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.

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LV ZOO WELCOMES FIRST-EVER NEWBORN ALPACA

Newsroom
Lehigh Valley Zoo
Sep 20, 2023

LV ZOO WELCOMES FIRST-EVER NEWBORN ALPACA
Lehigh Valley Health Network is the Official Motherhood Partner of the LV Zoo

(Schnecksville, PA) – Lehigh Valley Zoo in conjunction with Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), is excited to announce the birth of a male baby alpaca, also known as a cria, born to mother Illuminati and father Havoc on Tuesday, Sept. 12. This birth represents a milestone for LV Zoo, as it is the first-ever alpaca born under its care

Illuminati and her cria are both reported to be healthy after spending the first day in the barnyard shelter stalls to allow for rest and bonding. Since then, they have been out on exhibit during the day. LV Zoo’s animal care staff had been closely monitoring Illuminati for signs of pregnancy as she and Havoc had been breeding since they arrived. Alpaca gestation typically lasts around 11-12 months.

Five-year-old Illuminati and seven-year-old Havoc came to the LV Zoo together in October 2022 from a private facility for breeding purposes. Alpacas are native to the central and southern Andes Mountains, from Peru to Argentina and are the smallest of the domesticated camelid species.

LVHN is the Official Motherhood Partner of the Lehigh Valley Zoo.

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LV ZOO WELCOMES A LV ZOO WELCOMES A TAMMAR WALLABY AND AN EASTERN SCREECH OWL

Newsroom
Lehigh Valley Zoo
Sep 15, 2023

LV ZOO WELCOMES A LV ZOO WELCOMES A TAMMAR WALLABY AND AN EASTERN SCREECH OWL
Both New Animals Make Their LV Zoo Debut on Friday, Sept. 15

(Schnecksville, PA) – Lehigh Valley Zoo, is excited to announce two new residents at the zoo: a male tammar wallaby from Buffalo, N.Y., and a female eastern screech owl from Alburtis, Pa.

Although LV Zoo features a bachelor mob of wallabies, tammar wallabies are a part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan (SSP). There are currently a total of just over 40 tammar wallabies at 12 AZA institutions combined across the United States

The yet-to-be-named eastern screech owl arrived at LV Zoo from Cricket Wildlife Center in Alburtis, Pa., which is the only wildlife rescue and rehabber in the Lehigh Valley. Found her injured as a fledgling in May 2023, her age is estimated to be around five months old. She had injured tendons in her leg and foot that inhibited her from being able to hunt, which meant that she could no longer survive in the wild. There are two color morphs for screech owls – red and grey. She is a red morph and will be living across from the Lehigh Valley Reilly Children’s Hospital North American River Otter Exhibit.

The new owl still needs a name. In partnership with Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), LV Zoo is hosting a naming poll on Facebook next week — allowing guests and followers the opportunity to decide the final official name by voting for their favorite finalist.

LVHN is the Official Motherhood Partner of the Lehigh Valley Zoo.

Guests can visit both new residents during LV Zoo business hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. seven days a week. Tickets are available for purchase at lvzoo.org.

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STACY GABEL TO PERFORM WORLD PREMIERE OF NEW ZOO SONG AT LVZOO

Newsroom
Lehigh Valley Zoo
June 22, 2023

STACY GABEL TO PERFORM WORLD PREMIERE OF NEW ZOO SONG AT LVZOO
Local Artist will Debut ‘At The Zoo-oo-oo’ at ‘Music, Movement & Stories’ on Saturday, Sept. 2

(Schnecksville, PA) – Lehigh Valley Zoo is excited to announce that local singer/songwriter/recording artist/author Stacy Gabel will perform the world premiere of her new song and video At the Zoo-oo-oo during the second-annual Music, Movement & Stories at LV Zoo on Saturday, Sept. 2, from 10:30 a.m.to 11:30 a.m. The event, part of the zoo’s annual Labor Day weekend Food Truck Festival, will also feature Gabel reading her new children’s book, also titled At the Zoo-oo-oo.

Tickets for Music, Movement & Stories can be purchased at lvzoo.org. Reservations include daytime admission to the zoo — and Food Truck Festival — for the same price as General Admission tickets: $16 for adult, $15 for seniors and $14 for children.

Gabel, a Lehigh Valley native, is an award-winning recording artist who performs regularly at Musikfest, LV Zoo’s Zoocoustic Night and at other various festivals and venues throughout the region and in Tampa, Nashville and Los Angeles.

She has won two Global Music Awards for lyricist, song and musician; has captured several local awards, including the top Fans Choice Award, Discovered Artist, Outstanding Female artist, Outstanding All Around Performer and Best Song; and has also been honored at Lehigh Valley Music Awards and for Best Song in the Pinnacle Film Awards. She recently released a five-track EP titled Straight to Voicemail in January.

Gabel also has extensive experience working with children throughout her career. With an educational background in Musical Theater, TV/Film and Children’s Television Production, Gabel’s first professional recording was for a collection of sacred songs for children. She is a former TV promo producer and writer at Nickelodeon/MTV Networks in New York City and Los Angeles, for which she sang in several radio/TV jingles and voiceovers for Nickelodeon and Nick at Nite. An accomplished performer in a variety of media, Gabel is also member of the Screen Actors Guild (SAG/AFTRA) and appeared in several TV and film roles, including appearances in General Hospital and Charmed.

Following Music, Movement & Stories, Gabel will perform some of her original songs and favorite covers from noon until 1 p.m. as part of the Food Truck Festival festivities.

The presave link for At the Zoo-oo-oo song/video is orcd.co/atthezoo. To purchase the book directly, please visit store.bookbaby.com or come to one of the scheduled book signings at Barnes & Noble and Moravian Book Shop. More information is available at stacygabel.com and at social handles @stacygabelmusic.

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LV Zoo’s sixth-annual Food Truck Festival, presented by Whitetail Disposal, takes place Labor Day weekend, Sept. 2-4, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aside from a visit with the animal residents, guests enjoy the opportunity to purchase offerings from at least seven different local food trucks each of the three days of the event. Additionally, adult beverages will be available for purchase from McCall Collective Brewing. Tickets can be purchased at lvzoo.org at the regular general admission prices: $16 for adult, $15 for seniors and $14 for children.

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—Smart Fun—

Welcomes a New Oryx, While Mourning The Loss of a Wallaby

Newsroom
Lehigh Valley Zoo
June 22, 2023

LV ZOO WELCOMES A NEW ORYX, WHILE MOURNING THE LOSS OF A WALLABY
Lehigh Valley Health Network is the Official Motherhood Partner of the LV Zoo

(Schnecksville, PA) – Lehigh Valley Zoo, along with Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), is excited to have welcomed a scimitar-horned oryx calf on Aug. 4. This calf born to mom Donnar is the 10^th oryx calf born at LV Zoo since 2014. LVHN is the Official Motherhood Partner of the Lehigh Valley Zoo.

Since its birth on Aug. 4, the yet-to-be-named, male oryx calf has spent several weeks apart from the herd with his mother, Donnar, to allow for bonding, nursing and rest. Donnar — who has been a member of LV Zoo’s oryx herd for nearly 10 years — has successfully raised several other calves and has proven herself to be a nurturing and protective mother. The oryx herd was integrated with the eland herd this past spring, making this the first time a calf has been born in the zoo’s multi-species setting. As always, the Animal Care and Veterinary teams have been diligent in monitoring all the antelope to see how they are handling the new addition.

As an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), LV Zoo has participated in the Species Survival Plan (SSP) for Scimitar-Horned Oryx for more than 10 years. Since bringing this species to Schnecksville in 2007, the Zoo has served as a successful breeding facility for this endangered antelope. In the 1980’s, the scimitar-horned oryx was declared extinct in the wild. Since that time, global efforts have been ongoing to aid in their conservation and reintroduction to the areas in Africa that they once roamed.

Unfortunately, LV Zoo is saddened to announce one of its Tammar Wallabies, Mose, unexpectedly passed away in early August at eight years old. Mose arrived at LV Zoo in 2015 with his half-sibling, Dwight, from Lincoln Children’s Zoo in Lincoln, Neb. They lived together in the habitat adjacent to the emus. Like many wallabies, Mose was timid and a bit skittish, but he would make his way over to Animal Care staff for his diet and to investigate new enrichment items. He also enjoyed taking naps in his exhibits’ bamboo forest, where he was very good at hiding in plain sight and having an occasional snack on nearby bamboo leaves. During the construction of Habitat Madagascar, the mob of Red Kangaroos moved in with the wallabies, creating a dynamic environment for the two species.

Mose will be dearly missed by all staff and guests. LV Zoo officials are hopeful to introduce another wallaby to both the habitat and to Dwight in the upcoming months.

Guests can visit all of the Australian and African species, along with the rest of our residents during LV Zoo business hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. seven days a week. Tickets can be purchased at lvzoo.org.

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