Do the elephants really dance at the “Elephant Waltz?”
Well they do some pretty amazing things and are rewarded with a feast of healthy treats, but as far as dancing goes, I guess that would depend on your definition of dancing. If you ever saw me on a dance floor then yes, I guess you would consider the elephant’s moves graceful dancing by comparison.
To begin with let’s be clear on exactly what the “Elephant Waltz” is. It’s a fundraiser for the Cambridge and District Humane Society. This was the 16th annual of this successful event. Successful because it has:
- Raised awareness of the good works of the African Lion Safari in studying and protecting many species.
- Raised awareness of the facilities and fine restaurant at the African Lion Safari (Mombasa Market Restaurant)
- Raised awareness of the fine work the Cambridge and District Humane Society does in our community
- And raises funds so they can continue to do this work (Over $500,000.- has been raised by the previous 15 Elephant Waltz events.)
The Elephant Waltz provides attendees the opportunity to an “up-close” look at some of the variety of animals in the care of the African Lion Safari. Their knowledge and caring staff are willing to answer an array of questions.
The doors opened at 5 o’clock and there was plenty of time to socialize with friends that share your love of animals. There are penny and silent auctions to tempt you. For those that like to dream there are items in the live auction to check out.
The wise lay early claim to their territory on the patio for the best view of the the guests of honor arrival.
Once in place the feast quickly begins. The only question is who enjoys the feast more, the participants or those left to watch.
While the special guests dine Safari staff are on hand to inform, educate and answer questions.
It’s amazing watching what an elephant can do with its trunk. They use it for picking up food, squirting water into their mouth, and breathing.
A few years ago a trainer told me they have so much control with their trunk that they could pick a coin up off the ground. As for dancing, you sure wouldn’t want them stepping on your toes.
When you’re little sometimes putting your elbows on the table just isn’t enough. Sometimes you just have to climb right on the table.
Everyone on patio got a chuckle and an “awe” moment when one of the two 2 year olds left the dining table and wondered around to the other side of the bales, and up into the freshly planted garden so people could pet her. It wasn’t enough to climb into the garden but she walked the length of it to make sure everyone that wanted to pet her had a fair chance. Then she realized what a feast lay on the ground behind the table (knocked down there by the bigger elephants) so she jumped down and had her own dinner party. Then it was time for more petting so back into what used to be a garden as she made her way back to her spot in the herd.
The staff of Mombasa Market Restaurant then did a great job making sure the two legged animals were fed as well as the elephants. A cold and hot buffet were followed by a scrumptious dessert buffet.
Tom from Mombasa Market Restaurant describes the evening’s menu.
Master of ceremonies for the evening was Mark Paine who is the morning show co-host at “The Grand – 101.1 Radio” Mark is a real professional and I have enjoyed watching him at work at the “Elephant Waltz” for several years now. He’s fun, he’s entertaining, and he never lets you forget that the reason your there is to help the animals and the shelter.
The bone board had several bones needed by the “furry friends” in the care of the shelter. You could purchase and donate any bone of your choice to help the animals.
“The Glitter Girls” are the force behind the event. They’re the reason it is such a great success.
If you have never been to the Elephant Waltz you really should try and get tickets. It is sold out every year. You know with it being held at the African Lion Safari you’re just going to “go wild” having a great time.
It’s an evening that will satisfy your palate as well as your heart and soul.
I am John Mitchell, a storyteller, artist, photographer specializing in the creation of images that tell your story and available for event photography. I can be reached through my website or by phone at 519-624-8460
