October 16, 2003

Boo At The Zoo Moved To Oct. 26 To Avoid Conflict With BSU Game

To avoid additional traffic congestion and competition with the San Jose State-Boise State football game on Oct. 25, Boo at the Zoo has been moved to Sunday, Oct. 26. The annual Halloween party, which runs from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., is sponsored by the Friends of Zoo Boise and the Boise Parks & Recreation Department. Boo at the Zoo and the Bronco football game were both scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 25. However, the originally scheduled kickoff time of 6:05 p.m. was shifted to 1 p.m., creating the potential for traffic problems for football fans and zoo visitors. “We made the decision to move the event because of safety concerns and limited parking in Julia Davis Park,” said Zoo Director Steve Burns. “Zoo Boise regrets the inconvenience to children and families planning to attend on Saturday.” Zoo Boise has been working closely with Boise State to notify fans and zoo visitors about the new date. “Boise city appreciates the cooperation of Boise State as we try to let people know about the change,” said Mayor Carolyn Terteling-Payne. “We believe the new date will provide a safe experience for children who look forward to this fun event all year.” “Having both events at the same time would have created major parking problems,” said Boise State spokesman Bob Evancho. “We regret that this scheduling conflict occurred, and we appreciate the willingness of Zoo Boise and the city to move their event to Oct. 26.” Boo at the Zoo is Zoo Boise’s largest event, attended by an average of 7,000 children annually. Last year it raised $20,000 for zoo operations. Admission to Boo at the Zoo is free for children age 3 and younger, $2.30 for 4-11, $4.80 for 12-61 and $2.55 for seniors. Friends of Zoo Boise members are admitted free with a pass and photo ID. For more information, call 384-4125 or visit www.cityofboise.org/parks/zoo. -30- Contacts Amy Stahl City of Boise Community Relations Coordinator 384-4060, ext. 304 Steve Burns Zoo Boise director 384-4125 Media Contact Bob Evancho University Relations, Boise State 426-1643