Bayside's Festivus Exploited for a Kosher Cut

Bayside should be offended.

A TV holiday that fictitiously began with Seinfeld's Costanza family in Bayside was reportedly exploited by a convicted drug dealer for a kosher cut of meat.

Orange County inmate Malcolm Alarmo King reportedly cited his observance of Festivus to as cause to be served special kosher meals, reserved for inmates with religious dietary restrictions.

King's attorney told the Orange County Register that King wasn't an observer of Festivus, but wanted kosher meals, which are double portioned, to maintain the health of his physique.

An Orange County judge, the attorney claims, advised him to cite a religious need if he wanted better fare.

Salami is reportedly normally served as protein to inmates without special eating restrictions in the California prison where King was held.

The County's Sheriff's Department, which paid for the more expensive food option, asked King in May about the observance. King answered "Healthism." A county attorney then researched the holiday, and discovered its TV beginnings.

The judge's order for special servings was reportedly still upheld until King was released from jail in October, to be turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement, where he awaits deportation.

Costanza's family lived in Bayside, until the neighborhood got wind of their special holiday season observance.

In "The Strike" episode of Seinfeld, George Costanza tells his boss, "I was afraid that I would be persecuted for my beliefs. They drove my family out of Bayside, Sir!"

Festivus is celebrated on December 23rd. Check back in with Bayside Patch for more on Festivus.