n a landslide victory announced March 16, 2005, ETA attendees in Las Vegas voted Edwin the Elephant the most popular of The Green Sheet booth menagerie. Many commentators called the race "tick-tight," but trade show guests from around the country chose Edwin over five squishy contenders.

Campaign Manager Julie O'Ryan said representatives from both Asian and African species hailed Edwin's victory as a "win for elephants everywhere." Opponents' responses were mixed.

Known for his philosophical stance on many issues, Zachary the Zebra was congratulatory, citing Edwin's jovial, good-natured trumpeting and ability to balance on one foot as worthy competition in the talent portion of the contest.

George the Giraffe praised Edwin for his trustworthy steadfastness in difficult situations. "I'd stick my neck out for him any time," George said.

Taylor the Turtle could not be reached for comment. He was last seen ambling off Interstate 10 for a date smoothie near Indio, Calif., apparently lost on the way home from Las Vegas. O'Ryan said his slow pace had become "somewhat of an issue" during the race, slowing down scheduled events. She surmised that the desert climate might have been more appropriate for a tortoise than for a Hawaiian sea turtle.

Also affected by the desert air was Darcy the Dolphin, who carried a water tank and spritzer bottle making campaign stops around the Expo Floor. "It's not the heat, it's the aridity," Darcy wheezed and whistled.

In several exit polls, ETA attendees said they had voted Lonnie the Lion "Mr. Uncongeniality" due to his voracious propensity for ripping the flesh off the competition. Lonnie said his actions were "misinterpreted and blown out of proportion by the liberal media" and plans to start the recount process within the week.

Las Vegas' best known animal rights activists, Siegfried and Roy, did not attend ETA but submitted votes by absentee ballot.

Edwin plans to take time to relax and "review his options," O'Ryan said. Possibilities include a recurring role on the CBS series "CSI," filmed on location in Las Vegas, and pit boss at the Bellagio.