Gatorland wants a new spokesperson for its first national promotional campaign -- and it could be you. The park is launching a nationwide hunt for someone to pitch its Jumparoo Shows, and is looking for an amateur version of The Crocodile Hunter--someone who will get down and dirty with the prehistoric creatures.

"No, they won't have to do any gator wrestling," said Michelle Harris, Gatorland's PR chief, in an article from the Orlando Sentinel Tribune. "We have a dedicated staff for that. They don't even necessarily have to love alligators. But they will work closely with our dean of gator wrestling, Tim Williams, and they will learn to appreciate the uniqueness of the creature."

Anyone can apply by submitting a three-minute videotape and a written explanation of why he or she is the perfect candidate. Creativity counts, she said. The entries should be sent to: Tales to Treasure, 14501 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, Fla. 32837.

Ten finalists from throughout the country will be selected for a free trip to Orlando. The winner will get $10,000, appear in a print ad campaign, and make occasional promotional appearances at the park and on various television talk shows. Until the winner is selected, Gatorland employee Spencer McNeal, a construction-project coordinator in the facilities-maintenance department, will represent the park.

[02/23/2001]