LILBURN, Ga., Jan. 28, 2004 (PRIMEZONE) -- General Beau Lee, Ph.D., Georgia's Official Weather Prognosticator, will provide his critical decision on his one day of labor -- Groundhog Day, Monday, February 2, 2004, Sunrise, at The Yellow River Game Ranch. The 14-year-old groundhog has a 93% rate of accuracy. The other one -- a mere 37%.
Adding to the suspense is Beau's slightly overweight condition and the feeling that he may be contemplating retirement. He is now the equivalent of a 72-year-old individual. A hammock is a new addition to his estate, Weathering Heights.
Photos accompanying this release available at http://media.primezone.com/prs/?pkgid=776 and http://media.primezone.com/prs/?pkgid=314
Scheduled to announce Beau's prediction is The Honorable Cathy Cox, Georgia's Secretary of State, now serving her second term in office. Secretary Cox is noted for her public service and for initiating better protection of Georgia's historical treasures in the new State Archives facility. She will present a "Resolution Recognizing Beau's Historical Significance to Georgia."
In light of Beau's slightly pudgy physique, Waffle House will present a special high-protein health plate, Cheese 'N Eggs and Grilled Chicken, served in Beau's Bowl by Carl O. Smith, Area Vice President. A pound-and-a-half weightier than his last appearance, Beau consumes as much as three quarters of a pound of vegetables a day -- equivalent to a 175-pound person eating 15 pounds of salad a day. The entrance to Beau's Official Mansion has been widened.
Beau will be featured on Animal Planet's "Day of the Groundhog," a newly produced, hour-long special airing on Monday, February 2nd at 9:00 PM; Tuesday, February 3rd at Noon; and Wednesday, February 4th at 4:00 AM.
Beau's Official Prediction will be posted live on the Game Ranch web site as soon as it is proclaimed.
Col. Art Rilling, CEO of The Yellow River Game Ranch, comments, "Beau is an Aquarius, so we know that he's an independent thinker, but fair and objective. We're also aware that, when left on his own, he's not fond of exercise! We stand by our motto, `Only The Beau Knows'."
Secretary Cox commented, "I am extremely excited to assist Beau in announcing his accurate weather forecast for the coming season. Beau is a dedicated public servant and I am very proud to have him as a resident of our state!"
If Beau spies his image, at least six more weeks of winter will occur. Should Beau not find his shadow, American citizenry may anticipate spring and accompanying allergies in six weeks. Last year's announcement was again correct when Beau predicted an early spring.
All visitors will be admitted free between 6:00 AM and 8:00 AM on February 2nd. Those observing a birthday on February 2nd -- or named 'Beau' -- will be admitted free all day.
The Yellow River Game Ranch, a 24-acre animal preserve, is now celebrating its 42nd year of introducing people-friendly wildlife to children and adults. The Game Ranch is open seven days a week at 9:30 AM with the last ticket sold at 5:00 PM.
For further information, visit:
Game Ranch web site: www.yellowrivergameranch.com/press
Beau's Bio: www.yellowrivergameranch.com/bio.htm
January 28, 2004 -- (Official Prediction to follow at Sunrise, Monday, February 2, 2004)
