Topeka, Kan. – Students in Washburn Tech’s carpentry program are using their skills to
create some holiday magic. They are constructing three cottages that are part of a
winter attraction at the Topeka Zoo, called Zoo Lights sponsored by Evergy.
This holiday experience, open from Nov. 27 through Dec. 24 and Dec. 26 through 30,
will serve as both a fundraiser for the zoo and a source of holiday cheer for the
community. Washburn Tech students are building structures, including Santa’s house,
that will be featured in the holiday village. Materials were donated by KBS and
Washburn Tech.
“This project is providing real-world work experience to our students while also giving
back to our community,” said David Praiswater, carpentry instructor, Washburn Tech.
“Thanks to the Topeka Zoo and its community partners for giving us this opportunity.”
Zoo Lights will encompass about 2/3 of the zoo and feature the brilliant glow of colorful
lights. Visitors may stroll down Candy Cane Lane, check out Sweets & Treats, surf over
to an oceanic scene, travel north to an Arctic wonder and end in the holiday village
where guests may shop while sipping cocoa and eating snacks.
Many sponsors and volunteers are making this project possible including Evergy, HME,
Inc., Schwerdt Design Group, PEC, KBS, ABC Supply, PKMR Engineers, Torgeson
Electric, TARC, Ernest-Spencer, Highland Millshop, Conroy Contractors, Inc., JF
McGivern Inc, Certus, Schmidtlein Excavating, Bahm Demolition, KS Sand & Concrete,
Frontier Self Storage, Zoo Docents and volunteers plus Visit Topeka.
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