In The Event That...

You Like It Wild

by Alex Symonds

Sat.-Sun., June 30-July 1, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., free with regular zoo admission of $13.95-$16.95, Philadelphia Zoo, 3400 W. Girard Ave., 215-243-1100, www.philadelphiazoo.org

Unlike most cats, independent lady cheetahs carefully choose their mates in both the wild and captivity. The Philadelphia Zoo's newly acquired female has three lucky bachelors to pick from. Although there won't be any cheesy talk show hosts or "whoopie" questions, there will be a Love Connection-ish dating game of sorts.

After checking out the eligible felines, zoo patrons are invited to cast their vote for the bachelor most likely to succeed. Potential partners Rasi, Micah and Spidi are all good-looking cats, so who should you choose? Kristin Lewis-Waldron, the zoo's director of public programs, suggests going with "the most laid-back animal." Personally, she's backing the social and curious Spidi.

Although the female cheetah will ultimately make her own decision, those who read her mind and vote accordingly will have the chance to win a cheetah stuffed animal.

May the best cheetah get some.