WPVI Star Forced in Retirement

One of WPVI's (Philly) biggest stars was forced into retirement all because of the snow.

Experts say the star, seen by thousands of people each and everyday is too old and the snow finally did the star in.

Of course we're talking about the Philadelphia's 6ABC ZooBalloon.

The Balloon said an early goodbye Tuesday after suffering irreparable damage in the snowstorm the day before.

The Philly Inquirer says that Zoo officials, on the recommendation of the balloon's manufacturer, Lindstrand Hot Air Balloons Ltd. in England, performed a controlled release of its 220,000 cubic feet of helium.

An estimated five to 10 tons of snow - about the equivalent of five hippos - had fallen on the balloon.

The ZooBalloon, was owned by the zoo and sponsored by 6ABC, flew guests up to 400 feet in the air in the spring and summer for a view of the zoo's grounds, Fairmount Park, and Center City.

The ZooBalloon was expected to last only until Labor Day this year, which was planned to be its last flight.