10.29.2018
Exploring Pittsburgh!
Individuals supported by Merakey Allegheny Valley School at the Edward J. Zapp Center have been busy in and around Pittsburgh, PA. They began their last summer trip with a visit to Kennywood Park. Everyone loved the sights and sounds and learning about the history of the park and the region. They also sampled delicious Kennywood treats.
The next stops were to the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium. The group enjoyed learning about different animal species and their habitats. They explored the new Jungle Odyssey, which is home to capybaras, anteaters, ocelots and even a pigmy hippo. They also stopped at The Islands, filled with clouded leopards, Galápagos tortoises, Philippine crocodiles, and Visayan warty pigs. After looking at all the new exhibits, everyone ate lunch at The Jambo Grill.
In September, they visited the National Aviary, which recently opened an outdoor butterfly garden. Everyone enjoyed finding several butterflies including the monarch, painted lady, swallowtails, and even the buckeyes. They got to hold and even feed the butterflies using a nectar and fruit mixture provided by the Aviary. After the garden excitement, the group had lunch at Atria's Cafe in the Aviary.
Thank you to the Walter F. and Ellen H. Nicoden Fund of The Pittsburgh Foundation for funding these exciting trips!