Audio By Carbonatix
Every year, there is a culinary event I refuse to attend.
It’s called Feast With the Beasts and it is a fundraiser for Miami Metrozoo. As
a rule, I’m not a fan of zoos or anywhere else animals are held in captivity.
(Don’t get me started on the aquatic hellhole that is the Miami Seaquarium.)
Last week’s tragic incident at SeaWorld Orlando further proved that these
majestic animals belong in their natural habitats. So, no, you won’t catch me
anytime soon at the Miami Metrozoo — unless it’s for a protest rally.
However, the idea of munching on mini Kobe beef sliders
while watching lions and tigers pace uncomfortably in their pens is sickening
to me. Tonight, at Feast With the Beasts, over 1,000 well-heeled Miami
socialites will be supping on dishes from Azul, Caffe Abbracci, Ruth’s Chris
Steakhouse, Meat Market, Canyon Ranch and Sushi Samba. The juxtaposition
between eating gourmet fare and viewing penned up giraffes is offensive.
Ironically, proceeds from the pricey soiree are said to
support wildlife conservation and education. If they are so concerned with the
welfare of the 2,000 animals imprisoned in Kendall, they shouldn’t confine them
and force the primates and other intelligent animals to entertain the Christian
Louboutin-wearing crowd.
Adding to the spectacle tonight are fire breathers, belly
dancers and “live animal encounters.” Hmmm, all that beef from Meat Market
might make the Bengal tigers very, very hungry. Don’t say you weren’t warned.
