Something Else You Get to Pay For: Foodstamp Zoo Admissions

[Mike Ellis]

Keep paying those taxes, gentlemen. Cough up those bucks!

And SHAME SHAME SHAME on those of you who disapprove of this heartwarming program. Don't you realize that all those people you are supporting need some entertainment while you are selfishly enjoying your day of work?

People are suffering, and if watching the chimps fling poo helps alleviate their pain, it's the least we can do.

It could be harmful to the animals to have so much human attention though, so I am sending a letter to the Houston City Council demanding that instead of giving them free admission to the zoo, that the money be spent installing windows, bars, and popcorn machines at your employers so that these folks can sit in comfort and watch YOUR antics while you work, so they can see where their money comes from. It would be win-win for everybody!

Houston Zoo will let families on food stamps enter for free | Chron.com - Houston Chronicle

July 24, 2008, 6:28AM
Houston Zoo will offer free admission to poor
Policy change reflects effort to expand access

By ANTHONY WILLIAMS
Copyright 2008 Houston Chronicle

Despite record crowds, officials with the Houston Zoo are looking for ways to attract more low-income families.

Starting Aug. 1, families that use the Lone Star card to receive food stamps and other benefits will have unlimited free admission for themselves and up to eight others.

"We're always trying to expand access," said Deborah Cannon, president and CEO of the Houston Zoo, which set an attendance record with 1.6 million visitors in 2007.

On July 1, ticket prices increased by 25 cents for senior citizens and by $1 for children over 2. Adult admission remains at $10.

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