Wishing Zoos Didn’t Exist Is Offensive in Rochester, Minnesota?

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This isn't a story about the Minnesota Zoo in particular. It's the story about a guy writing a story about something that happened at a zoo and someone else taking the author to task for this opinion: it would be just fine if zoos didn't exist.

It's me, I'm the guy. But before we get to the bru-haha, let's relive the story about a dough-headed parent trying to show off to their kid...

What's the best way to parent? Experts would say to set smart limits, don't clip their wings, and don't try to fix everything. Is "get in there with the elephants" on that list? No? Well, one Wisconsin guy didn't get the memo.

WISN, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, reported a Wisconsin dad was trying to impress his daughter by climbing over a locked fences area at the Milwaukee County Zoo elephant exhibit. His goal was to hang out with the elephants.

What's the best way to parent? Experts would say to set smart limits, don't clip their wings, and don't try to fix everything. Is "get in there with the elephants" on that list? No? Well, one Wisconsin guy didn't get the memo.

Read More: Wisconsin Dad Breaks Into Zoo's Elephant Area To Impress Daughter

At the end of the story I included this author's note...

Let me be clear, I think it is fantastic people respond to what I write. That's why I include the link to my email on every story. Usually, I'm not surprised when I get an angry response. It often goes along with the type of story. People have opinions, and unless they're super rude, well, it's cool.

However, this one arrived in my email and the entire message was in the subject line. I obviously struck a nerve.

Again, I'm 100% in favor of everyone speaking up and being heard. I just never expected that kind of response. And calling me a shock-jock tickles me down to my toes. Am I a shock jock? I think I'm kinda overbearing, but I'm not trying to book people onto the show to strip and sing Tip Toe Thru the Tulips.

Also, did they really tell me to go back to ma? Like my mom If so, that makes it even more tremendous.

Anyway, here's what I said back...

Hiya!

Thanks for your note. If the world were up to me, and I could change stuff with a snap of my fingers, those animals would go to non-zoo species appropriate habitats for retirement. Then the zoos could be used for a lot of other purposes...they're always beautifully laid out and landscaped.

Have a great day!

j

James Rabe
Townsquare Media - Rochester
Y-105FM Early Morning Show
Rochester Today KROC-AM/96.9FM
National Classic Hits Afternoon Host
http://y105fm
http://krocnews.com

This is what I would call a "live and learn" situation.

Just a touch more if you can stand it. I feel this way about zoos because I can't help but look at exhibits and think, "Aren't they super bored...they look bored, don't they?" I could be completely wrong. I often am. .

What do you think? Zoos a problem for you or do you love 'em? Either answer is cool, I'm just curious what you think.

As always, if you have a comment, complaint, or concern about something I wrote here, please let me know: james.rabe@townsquaremedia.com

Listen to James Rabe Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 11-Noon on KROC AM 1340 and 96.9 FM and Weekdays with Jessica Williams Weekday from 6 - 10 AM on Y-105 FM