Cutout Characters Warn Virginia Zoo's Visitors Not to Smoke

By Diane Paluzzi

Norfolk, VA - The Virginia Zoo will go smoke free today, September 3, and has brought on some special, new staff members to help spread the word. “They are two dimensional,” notes executive director Greg Bockheim, “but are vibrant additions to the Zoo staff, and we are certain that they will be effective in spreading the word of the Zoo’s no smoking policy in a friendly way.” The flat, new staff members are new signs drawn in the likeness of an actual zookeeper. These fun, life-size “zookeeper cutouts” will make smoke free signage friendly and visible.

Previously, smoking was permitted outdoors at the Zoo, but prohibited in buildings. As of September 3, all smoking will be banned throughout the entire Zoo.

If necessary, visitors needing to leave the Zoo to smoke and then return, may request a hand stamp at the front entrance for easy access back into the Zoo.

Families visiting the Virginia Zoo expect a nature centric, educational and fun time while on grounds.

“The Zoo is really a living classroom, and it is important to us to maintain this unique setting and to provide a quality experience for Zoo visitors. Smoking on Zoo grounds has been the number one complaint of Zoo visitors since I arrived here,” said Virginia Zoo Executive Director Greg Bockheim. “We expect a positive reaction from the majority of our more than 400,000-plus visitors each year who will appreciate the smoke-free environment and the new, smoke-free ambassadors!”

By inspiring our visitors and others to care and act, the Virginia Zoo is making a difference in our planet’s future.

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

1. Executive director Greg Bockheim welcomes a new “staff” member who will help spread the word about the Virginia Zoo going smoke free.

2. The life-size cut-out signs are designed to look like zookeepers. Our giraffe can’t even tell the difference!

As an accredited Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) facility, the Virginia Zoo exhibits over 350 animals, beautifully manicured grounds and offers a fun-filled day for all. For more than a century, the Virginia Zoo has demonstrated a commitment to wildlife, conservation and education. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and located at 3500 Granby Street in Norfolk. Daily admission prices are $7.00 for adults, $6.00 for seniors (age 62 and over), and $5.00 for children ages 2-11. Visit www.virginiazoo.org or call (757) 441-2374 for more information.

To view Virginia Zoo's web page on Zoo and Aquarium Visitor, go to:  http://www.zandavisitor.com/forumtopicdetail-118-Virginia_Zoo