House of Lights ready to Shine

Parker City--Omar the camel is ready for the lights to shine. Omar is just one of the many attractions at this year's ME's Zoo House of Lights.

Since 1987, the Oren family has shared their family tradition with the community.

The zoo brings a glow to the holidays with a display of about 180,000 lights. Kim Oren, who owns the zoo with her mother, Eileen Oren-Taylor, said even Omar gets excited when they start setting up the lights.

"He starts swaying and just watches as the lights come together," Oren said.

Besides the numerous animals and lights on display, holiday festivities at the zoo include a visit with Santa at the gazebo and a gift shop. There are fires and hot beverages to help people warm themselves, with Christmas music to add to the holiday spirit.

"It's really spectacular," Oren-Taylor said. "It's like a wonderland."

Oren-Taylor said seeing all the families who come together to attend the House of Lights warms her heart. It's also a heart-warming time for the Oren because the House of Lights is a dream carried out to remember of their late husband and father, Max Oren. He loved Christmas, and his family and friends gave him a welcome home with 10,000 lights after receiving medical treatments 16 years ago.

"He gave eight years of his life to see the lights one more time," Oren said.

The zoo does accept free-will donations for those who want to do drive-by visits, but Oren said she wants people to know the House of Lights is not just about raising money, although all proceeds go toward maintenance of the animals.

"We would do it for free if we could," she said.

Regular charge for admission into the zoo applies, which is $4.50 for ages 1-12 and $5.50 for ages over 12. The House of Lights will be ready Nov. 27. Hours are 5:30-10:30pm Thursday-Sunday and all week from Dec. 18-25. Information: www.meszoo.com or 468-7479.