FAU has decided to postpone its fourth annual bonfire, which was originally slated for Thursday, Aug. 25 at 8:00 p.m. For the last four years, FAU wished good luck to the Owls on their first game in the football season by burning an effigy of the opposing team’s mascot.

“I am 100 percent sure [it’s going to be postponed],” said Mike Burdman, student government coordinator. “We haven’t made an official announcement yet.”

He said he’ll make it public tomorrow, after an 11:30 a.m. meeting with representatives from the facilities department, the alumni association and student government.

“The purpose is for all of us to come together and come up with a plan to reschedule the event,” said Burdman. He explained the possibility of Hurricane Irene hitting campus and disrupting the fire makes the event dangerous.

For now, the wood that has been allocated for the bonfire will be stored elsewhere.

“We’re going to have to obviously secure it, and that is not something I am an expert in,” said Burdman. “Any huge gust of wind would make it unsafe to have a bonfire. You never know which way it’s going to blow the flames. We’re just going to need to take it safe, rather than put anybody at risk.”

Update (8/23/11 6:30 p.m. EST):

Mike Burdman, Coordinator of Student Government, e-mailed the writer with this update:

4th Annual Fall Bonfire Postponed

 

Attention Owls:

 

Due to the potential acclimate weather produced by Hurricane Irene, the 2011 Fall Bonfire Committee, in consultation with FAU Facilities, FAUPolice and the Boca Raton Fire Department feel it is best to CANCEL the August 25, 2011 Fall Bonfire and reschedule it to a later date.

 

Having any kind of bonfire in high winds and rain could be dangerous to people, surrounding structures, and wildlife.

 

A new date for the Fall Bonfire will be coordinated soon and communicated to the FAU Community.

 

Keep safe and Go Owls!

 

Sincerely,

Mike Burdman