America’s Teaching Zoo and the Moorpark College Foundation will be hosting their third annual fundraiser event, Rendezvous at the Zoo, on Oct. 9, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at America’s Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College to raise money for animal care, and to let the public have a chance to meet some of their animals.

“Proceeds from fundraiser will be used towards the process of master planning new enclosures for EATM’s large carnivores, assisting in covering costs of veterinary care, and providing student scholarships,” said EATM Department Chair Brenda Woodhouse.

Ticket holders will get a chance to bid in a silent auction for a chance to name the newest addition to America’s Teaching Zoo, a 10-month-old African male lion cub that was donated by the Lion Habitat Ranch in Henderson, Nevada.

Guests also have the option to arrive early from 5 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. to walk around leisurely and meet and greet the animals. During the event, guests will have the opportunity to go on a tour of the zoo, and be treated to an animal show at the end of the evening.

In addition, Moorpark College Interim President Dr. Bernard Luskin will be presented with the first ever Platinum Paw Award by the students of EATM for his lasting impression, or paw print at America’s Teaching Zoo.

“I am looking forward to Rendezvous at the Zoo,” said Woodhouse. “It is wonderful to see people having a good time while supporting the zoo and students. The students have worked very hard organizing the event and the EATM staff is very proud of all they have accomplished.”

The difference between this event and other Rendezvous at the Zoo events is that this event will be held during the evening, and it is the first 21 and over fundraiser.

Visitors are welcome to sample wine and appetizers, while enjoying the panoramic views from the zoo.

“Wine for event was donated by the Greenstone Family and a local winery,” said Sophomore Noa Albert, who is majoring in Exotic Animal Training and Management at Moorpark College. Albert is also on the Rendezvous committee.

The event is to be sponsored by Engage: BDR, PACKIT Freeze + Go, McNellis Family, Firemans Brew, and actress Betty White who is a big supporter of the LA Zoo.

Some other items one could win in the silent auction are, Mammoth and Big Bear cabin vacation stays, dinner at the Camarillo fire house, spa items, zoo tickets, and behind the scene tours to see lions and jaguars at America’s Teaching Zoo.

Tickets go on sale online for $50, plus an additional dollar for a processing fee, and can also be purchased at the door at America’s Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College for $65.

For more information, go to http://zoo.moorparkcollege.edu/events/