Last furrier in Madison closing

Hopefully this is a sign of the times.

http://host.madison.com/wsj/business/last-fur-shop-to-close-in-madison/article_35618fc3-9734-571b-b0fb-1f1e25c46ebf.html

Rennet

A back to school heads-up...

Rennet - an animal derived coagulant used to make many types of cheese, comes from calves, and is a byproduct of veal production.  

Madison's school district has confirmed their provider, Land O'Lakes, uses rennet in its cheese.

Extended public comment period on delisting of the Gray Wolf

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has extended the public comment period on the delisting of the Gray Wolf from the endangered and threatened wildlife and plant protections, and modifications to the classification of other species.  The new deadline is October 28, 2013.  To submit a comment, visit this website and follow these instructions.  Note that the Proposed Rule is to delist the Gray Wolf and not the Mexican Wolf.  As you can see in my comment below I didn't understand that aspect of the rule change.

I am writing as a private citizen. I do not believe that the Gray Wolf and the Mexican Wolf should be removed (delisted) from protection as an endangered animal. In my view there is insufficient evidence to support removing protections for these species of animal. Predators like these wolves play an important part in nature - they help maintain healthier populations of other animals and limit overpopulation. Delisting these wolves will also allow the hunting, trapping, and hounding of these magnificent animals. While I cannot say that hunting is immoral in itself, I can certainly argue that certain types of hunting are immoral when they include cruel and inhumane treatment of animals. Please continue to protect the Gray and Mexican Wolf population for their own sake, for nature itself, and for future generations to enjoy and live with.

Navy admits war games will kill and injure thousands of cetaceans

In its application to take part in 'war games' off the coasts of California, Florida, and Hawaii, the U.S. Navy has admitted that hundreds of dolphins and whales will be killed and injured over the next few years.  The U.S. military budget of the U.S. is over $680 billion annually, equivalent to the next thirteen highest spending countries.

Link: http://www.treehugger.com/ocean-conservation/navy-admits-war-exercises-will-kill-hundreds-whales-and-dolphins.html

Princess Irina of Romania charged in Oregon cockfighting ring

Wow, this is a bizarre story.

Link: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2398406/Romanian-princess-served-tacos-beer-eastern-Oregon-cockfight-derbies.html

UW-Madison carnivore expert finds Wisconsin wolf hunt unsustainable, action needed

Associate Professor Adrian Treves, of the UW-Madison's Nelson Institute, is finding that delisting wolves from the endangered species act and encouraging hunting of the animal is unsustainable.

More information about Prof. Treves studies can be found via Milwaukee Public Radio, here: http://www.wuwm.com/post/researcher-state-wolf-hunt-unsustainable

The public has until September 11th to comment on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services' plan to delist the gray wolf from federal protections.  Anyone can comment using the instructions here: http://www.fws.gov/home/feature/2013/pdf/Gray_Wolf_Comment_Period_Bulletin.pdf

Dozens of dolphin deaths on Eastern U.S. seaboard have scientists concerned

The cause of the deaths, which is mostly affecting males and calves, is not known.  But the cause could be related to pollution, which is suppressing the immune systems of the dolphins.

Link: http://www.cnn.com/2013/08/20/us/dolphins-dying/

Lions attack handlers at circus in Ukraine

Several lions attacked their human handlers during a performance in L'viv, Ukraine, in 2010.  Circuses are much loved in the Former Soviet Union (as they are in the U.S.), but there are far fewer safety precautions or laws protecting animals.  In the apartment building where I lived in Ukraine's capital of Kyiv, a neighbor kept a bear and a porcupine in a van downstairs.  The L'viv story is being picked up by U.S. blogs after being found and posted on Reddit.

Many people and organizations, including the Humane Society, are against using animals in circuses.

Warning: the following footage is disturbing.

Link: http://dangerousminds.net/comments/circus_lions_decide_theyre_not_going_to_take_it_anymore and http://www.theguardian.com/world/2010/oct/05/lion-attack-trainers-ukraine-circus

Millions of pounds of meat shipped at 6,500 facilities without proper inspections due to computer glitches

From the New York Times...

A troubled new computer system used by inspectors at the nation’s 6,500 meatpacking and processing plants shut down for two days this month, putting at risk millions of pounds of beef, poultry, pork and lamb that had left the plants before workers could collect samples to check for E. coli bacteria and other contaminants.

Read More: http://www.nytimes.com/2013/08/18/us/computer-system-failed-at-meatpacking-plants-but-shipping-continued.htmlhttp://www.nytimes.com/2013/08/18/us/computer-system-failed-at-meatpacking-plants-but-shipping-continued.html

Major beef recall in effect for the U.S.

The US Department of Agriculture has forced the National Beef Packing Company recalling 50,000 pounds of processed beef from stores due to e.coli bacteria contamination.  This follows over 20,000 pounds of meat that were recalled in June from the same Kansas-based company.

Link: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/07/31/beef-recall_n_3685744.html

Armed DNR and Sheriff's Deputies raid no-kill shelter in Kenosha County

Thirteen armed officers raided a no-kill shelter to capture a fawn which was on its way to a sanctuary in Illinois.  The DNR and Kenosha County Sheriff's Department officers put the fawn in a body bag and later euthanized it. The operation also included the taking or aerial photographs. Please call or email the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and tell them you think this was an overreach and waste of money (not to mention being cruel and stupid).

Link:  http://www.wisn.com/news/armed-agents-raid-animal-shelter-for-baby-deer/-/9373668/21272108/-/item/0/-/13d8x2mz/-/index.html

Simpsons' co-creator donating $100 million to help animals

Sam Simon's other projects include giving vegan food to homeless people.

Vegan Potluck TODAY at Lakeview Park in Middleton

I've been to a few of these and they never disappoint.  Healthy and filling food that's good for animals as well as the environment, shared with great people.  All are welcome at this awesome potluck!  Starts at noon at Lakeview Park in Middleton!  See you there!

RSVP: http://www.meetup.com/VegMadison/events/125124172/

Wisconsin Listeria 'craft' cheese outbreak results in miscarriage, death, hospitalizations

The Listeria contamination which resulted in a nationwide recall of Waterloo, Wisconsin-based Crave Brothers Farmstead craft cheeses do not appear to be causing further loss of life.  Earlier this month one person died, a pregnant mother had a miscarriage, and three others were hospitalized due to illness from Listeria bacteria traced to the 1,500 head dairy farm.

Link: http://www.jsonline.com/business/crave-brothers-cheese-recall-extends-to-four-states-b9949775z1-214602261.html

The tick that makes people allergic to red meat has made it to Wisconsin

The lone star tick is either, "close to established if not already established in the southern part of the state," according to an entomologist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The tick carries bacteria which may make some people allergic to red meat. The bacteria can also cause a debilitating condition called human monocytic ehrlichiosis.

Link: http://www.news.wisc.edu/21971

New study links fish oil supplements to cancer

The National Cancer Institute and researchers at Ohio State University have found that subjects with high levels of omega-3 supplements from fish oil had a 43% higher chance of developing prostate cancer than those with the lowest levels of this type of fatty acid.

Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in non-marine life, such as in flaxseed and walnuts.  There doesn't appear to be any risk of cancer from consuming these products.

Link: http://vegnews.com/articles/page.do?pageId=5968&catId=8

NYT: PETA under the spotlight for its euthanasia policy

The dilemma of whether to confine an abandoned, mistreated, or sick pet to a life of confinement in a cage or a cell, versus euthanasia is an impossible situation to be in as an animal lover.  There is no right answer.  I admire those who are working towards creating no-kill policies in animal shelters, but the reality will continue to be that there are millions of dogs and cats in shelters, and up to 4 million are put down every year.  I don't think this will change much until:

1. breeders are put out of business
2. animal mistreatment is taken more seriously
3. spaying and neutering becomes compulsory
4. people adopt instead of buy pets

Link: http://www.nytimes.com/2013/07/07/us/peta-finds-itself-on-receiving-end-of-others-anger.html

American Institute for Cancer Research supports plant-based diets

A major cancer research organization has come out in support of plant-based diets in endorsing the documentary Forks Over Knives and the book The China Study.  The organization claims that one-third of cancers could be prevented through better diets, increased exercise, and through weight loss.

Check out the AICR's website: http://www.aicr.org/about/advocacy/the-china-study.html

Wait, what? ZERO letters supporting DNR's wolf hunting plan?

Our lovely, politically appointed and sports and agriculture supported Natural Resources Board here in Wisconsin recently voted overwhelmingly to increase wolf hunting quotas in the state.  Their reason was that the public was behind it.

But guess what...?  No one supported it in a Department of Natural Resources poll.  Not one single letter came in support of raising wolf hunting quotas.

On the other hand, there were over 1,400 letters opposed.

This is in addition to a Humane Society of the United States poll showing 80% of the public is opposed to wolf hunting.

Meanwhile, hunting advocates simply say, well, gee... it's an emotional and controversial issue... and continue to support increasing hunting quotas without any evidence that the current wolf pack can sustain such a massive slaughter (there are only a few hundred wolves in the state, and hunters want to kill over 300 this coming season).

I call bullshit on this the 'Natural Resources' Board.  It is nothing but a rubber stamp for industries that thrive off of the status quo - killing, trapping, hounding, etc., not to mention all their friends who support animal based agriculture.

Link: http://wiwildlifeethic.org/2013/07/03/natural-resources-board-ignores-massive-public-opposition-to-wolf-kill-quota/

Dr. Zorba Paster mischaracterizes #vegans on #WPR show

Zorba Paster responded to a caller concerned about a family member who had taken up veganism like 'it was the holy grail.'  Dr. Paster responded by saying that, "Vegans tend to have an element of religiosity."  He may as well have called vegans a cult. I find this to be offensive, as well as incorrect.  Vegans, in my view, are the opposite of this... we use science and empiricism to make our decisions about the way we live.  Contrast that to the typical meat and dairy consumer who uses food as a ritual, eats it out of tradition rather than free choice, and finally, has blind faith that the animals are treated well before being killed or used and that it is justified because that's what we're supposed to think, rather that what we can know by using our own eyes and ears (not to mention our brains).  Listen to the 6/29/13 show at http://www.wpr.org/zorba/listen.cfm and let Dr. Paster know how you feel about his portrayal of us vegans as a group.

Vote NO!!! on @WillyStreetCoop referendum to expand meat and dairy offerings

If you are a member of the Willy St. Co-op in Madison, Wisconsin, I encourage you to vote NO on the referendum to expand meat and dairy offerings through a $4 million dollar expansion at the store.  You can see my reasons why in the letters below, as well as print off and send in your own ballot to the Co-op.  The deadline is 6 p.m. on July 16th, so please hurry!!!

My letter to the coop on June 25th:

Hello,

With all due respect, I am concerned about the news release regarding the $4 million dollar expansion of Willy St. East.   

I am a proud owner and live just two blocks away.   

I dispute that an expanded meat and dairy section at our Co-Op is necessary.  While I do support the Co-Op's goal to buy from local producers that treat their animals well, it is a fact that animal-based agriculture is far less sustainable than plant foods.  Animal products require more fuel, more water, more land, and more energy to produce than food that is equally or more healthful.  These food sources also create more waste, and more dangerous to workers, and of course involve pain and suffering on the animals themselves.  

Additionally, dairy and meat products contain dangers that plants don't.  Red meat is carcinogenic, no matter how it is cooked.  Meat and dairy are known to lead to obesity and diabetes, which is at an epidemic level right now.  And I could go on and on.  Whole plant foods do not carry inherent risks like these.

I guess I would just ask whether the Co-op decision makers have considered this information, or if they disagree for some reason?  I urge them to reconsider expanding the meat and dairy sections at Willy East.  

I love the Co-Op, but as an 18-year long vegan who is committed to doing as much as possible to reduce my impact on the earth, I just don't think this is the right trend to be setting. 

Cheers,
Dan

The Co-op's response on July 1st:

Hi Dan, 

Thank you for your thoughtful comment, and for contributing your viewpoint on aspects of the remodel that weigh heavily for you.   

In regards to the meat and dairy section expansion, we have had many Owners who have requested an expanded meat section similar to Willy West.  Of course, we also have Owners like yourself (as well as myself) who do not eat meat and therefore would not benefit from such an expansion. 

Ultimately, there are a number of issues that the remodel hopes to address, and we are unclear as to what the final blueprints would be.  It is a challenge to make set plans when the original amount approved by Owners was $2 million, and the needs & wants list expands that cost quite a bit.  There are many other aspects of the remodel on the table though, well beyond meat and dairy expansion.   

What is important to note though is that, as a cooperative business owned by approximately 30,000 Owners, we constantly weigh conflicting interests.  We do our best to offer things that appeal to multiple diets and lifestyle choices.  Animal products will remain a huge tension and conflict with Owners; this is inevitable regardless of the remodel. There is unfortunately not an easy answer.  Yet, we are listening.  We continue to expand our vegan and vegetarian options based on Owner input, and will also attempt to expand our meat selection based on the same criteria.  There are other products, such as soy and gluten, that other Owners have strong feelings about as well.  There is no shortage of controversial ingredients, employment practices, and corporate interests in regards to food products.  I personally have very strong feelings in regards to labor conditions of those who grow, package, and prepare the food we sell, and also hope to reduce my impact on the earth. 

Somehow we still have to weigh and consider all of this, and try to make the best decisions as a cooperative.  We remain interested in your input, and appreciate your thoughts on this issue.
Best, 

Dawn Matlak
Interim Director of Cooperative Services
608.251.6776

My reply on July 1st:

Dear Dawn,

Thank you for your kind, intelligent, and personal note!  I admire what you all do, and encourage you to keep up the good work.  As a vegan activist I try to do all I can to tell other people what I know about the health, environmental, and ethical costs of meat and dairy.  

I do have to respect the choices of others, but I still want it to be an informed choice and not one that people take without being informed.  I am not sure that wanting something that Willy West has, just because they have it, passes what I would consider to be a critical and informed decision.  More like a gut decision if you ask me.  :)))) 

Best Regards,
Dan

Kaiser Permanente urges its physicians to promote plant-based diets

Kaiser Permanente, one of the United States' largest health care providers and insurers, as well as one of the most reputable sources on health research, has endorsed plant-based diets in an article shared with its over 14,000 doctors.

Link: http://www.thepermanentejournal.org/issues/2013/spring/5117-nutrition.html

Vegan brunch at Wil-Mar Center Sunday, June 30 from 9 a.m. -1 p.m.

Proceeds will go to Primates, Inc., a new nonprofit which aims to protect and serve primates.  The event will take place at Madison, Wisconsin's Wil-Mar Center, which is just off of Willy St. on the near east side.

http://www.meetup.com/Madison-Vegan-Drinks/boards/view/viewthread?thread=35812492

Pig wrestling is illegal in Wisconsin and should be stopped

Wisconsin law prohibits animal fights except those at rodeos, pig wrestling is illegal under state law, and carries fines to exhibitors as well as spectators.  Despite this fact, several localities sponsor these events.  If you are able to help pigs and hogs by preventing this arcane and cruel practice, please visit the following website and get involved:  http://www.nopigwrestling.org/the-law-4.html

Notice how these men literally throw the hog into a large metal barrel.

Paula Deen: "Every creature on this Earth deserves equal rights" #irony

It is incomprehensible to me that Paula Deen, a person who is both suffering from her food choices as well as profiting from the enslavement, abuse, and killing of animals, should go on national television and use the term 'creatures' to describe her feelings about equality among people of different races.

What the hell is she talking about?  Please someone show her the door to the exit...  

Jessica Williams on Paula Deen's recipes

"Paula Deen's words aren't hurting black people anywhere near as much as her recipes are." - Jessica Williams from the Daily Show on Comedy Central.

Watch the whole clip at http://www.hulu.com/watch/503522

Vegan Food Pyramid poster

Link: VeganFoodPyramid.com

Humane Society poll finds Wisconsin opposes wolf hunting 8-to-1

These results should give proponents of wolf hunting some serious pause.

Link: http://isthmus.com/article.php?article=40210

Turtle death reward at #DelevanWIS Golf Club tops $8000

Over $8,000 is reward money has been put up to find and prosecute the person or persons who ruthlessly attacked and killed a pregnant snapping turtle at the Delbrook Golf Course near Delavan, Wisconsin, on June 10th.

Link: http://host.madison.com/news/local/crime_and_courts/reward-in-case-of-turtle-beaten-to-death-tops/article_ac3cfee8-91f4-50c9-9f72-4b2c39febaa5.html

NPR highlights new study linking brats, hot dogs, bacon, and red meat to diabetes

The links between health and eating processed meat like bacon, brats, and hot dogs, as well as red meat, just keep getting more clear.  Recently it was cancer (carcinogens are present no matter how much seasoning is used or how you cook it), and now there is evidence linking these foods to diabetes.  The links of these foods to obesity and heart disease are also well founded.

I get that lots of people like to eat these culturally-based, salty, protein-rich foods.  But at what cost?  And aren't meat substitutes just as enjoyable to eat, and without the health, environmental, or ethical disadvantages?

Even if elimination of these products from the diet isn't possible, what about simply cutting down?

Link:  http://www.npr.org/blogs/thesalt/2013/06/18/192810562/hot-dogs-bacon-and-red-meat-tied-to-increased-diabetes-risk

Madison video project aims to discuss sustainability and food

While I am not sure this is specifically a vegan or vegetarian project, but it does seem to be looking at the relationship between factory farming and environmental degredation.  So that's cool.  And, I think one of the filmmakers is a neighbor, too.  Check it out at http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1994617480/tasty-guide-to-a-healthy-planet.



More info: http://www.thedailypage.com/daily/article.php?article=40183

Mother Jones magazine takes on Big Ag in July issue

Check out the link below to the full article on factory farming in Mother Jones.

Link: http://www.motherjones.com/environment/2013/06/ag-gag-laws-mowmar-farms

Milwaukee aquaponics project in trouble

In theory, it sounds great... Create a way to raise fish and use their waste to grow veggies.  But you have to feed the fish something right?  And that is probably some other animal product.  Is it really worth the trouble? 

"The saga of Sweet Water “Organics” continues (VIDEO)" http://feedly.com/k/12BtnMw

Wisconsin legislature seeks to exempt University animal research from open records law

This is appalling. We need more transparency in animal research, not less. 

Link: http://allanimalsblog.org/2013/05/23/uw-madison-wants-to-protect-research-by-limiting-open-records-law/

PETA has new online game out where you can punch and kick animal researchers

There is a pretty gory and sad new game out from PETA.  I can appreciate that People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) is targeting young people with it, but I'm afraid that it is highly inappropriate for children and anyone with violent tendencies.  PETA should take the high ground on violence and abuse of animals, and not encourage or glorify violence against people.

Link: http://features.peta2.com/cage-fight-mma-game/

Chicago animal welfare nonprofit asks Goodman Center to improve chicken coop conditions

I was impressed by the tone of a letter written to the Madison's Goodman Community Center regarding its 'backyard chicken coop.'  It doesn't ask the Goodman Center to get rid of the coop, but rather instructs them on what can be improved or changed.

Link: http://freefromharm.org/animal-cruelty-investigation/backyard-chickens-in-peril/

Image of elephant fetus confuses abortion foes

While I am entirely pro-choice, I am also pro-animal-rights.  That is why I like this elephant fetus meme which is making the rounds on social networks.  Try posting it and see what peoples' responses are.

The Daily Show takes on #AgGag laws

Activists who take videos of animals being mistreated could be put on a terrorist watchlist.  (Link: http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/tue-june-11-2013/blowing-the-whistle-on-whistleblowers)

The Daily Show with Jon Stewart
Get More: Daily Show Full Episodes,Indecision Political Humor,The Daily Show on Facebook

Hundreds of pheasants dead in fire at Wisconsin 'sporting' complex

Except for the recent poultry processing factory disaster in Northeastern China, it has been awhile since I've heard of a poultry barn fire, but one took place last night at the Wern Valley Sportsmen's Club in Waukesha, Wisconsin, resulting in over six hundred pheasant deaths.

When making a statement, the club groundskeeper   said,  "It could have been a lot worse."  While it is hard for me to imagine anything worse, this much is true: poultry barn fires can often result tens of thousands of bird fatalities at a time.  I can only assume he was talking about property, or human life, and not about the birds.

Link: http://www.jsonline.com/news/waukesha/authorities-called-to-five-alarm-barn-fire-in-genessee-b9931113z1-210975271.html

Group offers $1,000 reward for details on Delavan golf course turtle attack

The Global Conservation Group (GCG) is offering $1,000 to anyone who can help identify the person or persons responsible for a horrific attack on a turtle there.  The Delbrook Golf Course in Delavan, Wisconsin, said there were about 35 golfers on the course when the attack took place on June 10th.

Link: http://www.examiner.com/article/gcg-offers-1-000-reward-for-information-on-turtle-abuse

PBS NewsHour discusses genetic modification of animals

It was great to hear this story on the moral uses of animals on national news.

Link: http://www.pbs.org/newshour/rundown/2013/06/when-does-genetic-modification-of-animals-cross-a-line.html

Mad City Vegan Fest is at Goodman Center on Saturday 10-5 p.m.

Be sure to stop by the Goodman Center just off of Atwood Avenue to see, hear, and taste what Veganism is all about.  I guarantee that you will learn something, feel something, and come away stuffed with great food.

Link: http://www.veganfest.org/

Poultry Factory Disaster in China: Over 120 workers killed

One of the worst food industry disasters ever happened this week at a 'model' poultry processing factory in Northeastern China, killing over 120 workers due to ammonia poisoning.  The factory processed about 100,000 chickens per day with a total workforce of 300-400.  The factory had been praised by officials as being one of the most modern industrial food processing facilities in the country. Slaughterhouse work is known to be one of the most punishing and dangerous jobs in the world.

Link: http://www.nytimes.com/2013/06/05/world/asia/chinese-poultry-factory-was-considered-a-model.html

Little boy realizes his kalimari is not something he can eat

How often do we ask our children to deny the compassion that they are born with, and that we are constantly teaching them?  Some are very smart, and realize that they cannot simultaneously have compassion for, and also eat, animals.  Just watch...


P.S. I did not have this realization until I was 12 or 13.

From: http://dangerousminds.net/comments/little_boy_discovers_meat_is_murder_makes_his_mom_cry

New autoimmune theory of cancer: How tumors use meat to grow

I have no training or education that really helps me to understand this theory, but I do believe that those who pursue a plant-based diet have lower cancer rates.  There could of course be many reasons for this, but if this autoimmune theory proves to be valid I'm sure it will be more convincing than the fact that overall vegetarians and vegans live longer and have fewer health problems.

Link: http://nutritionfacts.org/2013/05/14/how-tumors-use-meat-to-grow

Mad City Vegan Fest Kickoff with Jamie Kilstein June 7 at Union South

"Come kick-off the fest with comedian Jamie Kilstein! Jamie Kilstein, host of Citizen Radio, has had appearances on The Conan O'Brien show, MSNBC's Up with Chris, Countdown with Keith Olbermann, Showtimes The Green Room, CNN's The Joy Behar Show, and many more!

Buy tickets online: http://veganfest.org/jamie-kilstein.php

$10 in advance online, $12 at the door."

Link: http://www.meetup.com/Madison-Vegan-Drinks/events/120027932/?a=ea1_grp&rv=ea1

New research finds that dolphins call each other using names

This evidence is the first known of any animal other than humans who are able to call and reply to one another using unique names.

Link:  http://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2013/02/20/172538036/researchers-find-that-dolphins-call-each-other-by-name

Man arrested at gunpoint for hunting ducks from fraternity porch #UW

The event took place at 6 p.m.  Since the man appears to be a member of a UW-Madison fraternity, my guess is that he was not hunting for food.  Rather, I am assuming the ducks woke him from a long day's rest, and the man was taking revenge on them.

Link: http://host.madison.com/news/local/crime_and_courts/man-arrested-at-gunpoint-after-shooting-at-ducks-on-lake/article_e53f4ca6-6f0a-506e-bb29-ce86cc86e920.html

UW-Madison receives grant to reduce greenhouse emissions from dairy farms

I know another brilliant and easy way to cut down on the crazy amounts of greenhouse gases coming from animal-based agriculture...  stop eating animal products!  But seeing as most people aren't willing to go truly green with their diets, I am glad that there is attention (and dollars) going to mitigating the effects of pollution from animal 'production.'

Link: http://host.madison.com/news/state-and-regional/uw-wins-federal-grant-to-study-greenhouse-gases/article_b63c0024-8965-5e0e-ba76-3aab355796fb.html

Mark your calendars! Mad City Vegan Fest is June 8th in Madison, WI

The Mad City Vegan Fest is coming again to Madison this year.  Taking place at the Goodman Center on Madison's near east side from 10-5 pm on June 8th, it promises to be another informative and fulfilling event.

All are welcome to come find out the whys and hows of cutting down on meat, fish, poultry and dairy.

Link:  http://www.veganfest.org/

Humane Society president speaks out about Ag-Gag laws on Ellen

Read and listen to why Ag-Gag laws are not just bad for animals and the environment, but also for people here: http://hsus.typepad.com/wayne/2013/04/ellen-speaks-out-on-ag-gag-bills.html

Whales and monkeys pass along behavior and culture like humans

 "I've been arguing for over a decade now that cultural transmission is important in cetacean societies," said study co-author Luke Rendell, a marine biologist at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland. 

Link: http://www.designntrend.com/articles/3993/20130425/whales-monkeys-pass-behavioral-traits-culture-down-humans.htm

Many Organic Eggs come from Factory Farms

Just because something has an organic label doesn't mean that it comes from a small farm where animals are well treated. Link:  http://www.cornucopia.org/organic-egg-scorecard/

Heart disease linked to bacteria, not just fat, from meat

Recent evidence has found that a chemical called TMAO, which is released into the blood after meat consumption, is linked to heart disease.  The chemical is found at much lower levels among vegans or vegetarians.  The research shows that fat is not the only risk factor for heart problems related to eating meat.

Link: http://www.nytimes.com/2013/04/08/health/study-points-to-new-culprit-in-heart-disease.html and http://www.npr.org/2013/04/12/177029247/red-meats-heart-risk-goes-beyond-the-fat

Petition to roll back hunting in Wisconsin parks

Please sign the attached petition to demand the DNR roll back hunting and fishing in Wisconsin's state parks.  The ability to hunt in state parks is dangerous and unnecessary.

Link: http://signon.org/sign/repeal-illegal-wi-state?source=c.fwd&r_by=6348706

More information about changes happening to statewide conservation: http://host.madison.com/ct/news/local/writers/mike_ivey/cracks-appearing-in-conservation-congress/article_da428798-a7a5-11e2-bfe9-0019bb2963f4.html

Help needed to expand scope of dolphin-safe fishing practices at WTO

The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) is calling on citizens to submit comments in support of the expansion of World Trade Organization fishing rules that protect dolphins.  Please read the background on these rules here and follow the instructions on the Federal Register on how to submit your comments.  The comment period ends on May 6, 2013, so urgent action is needed.  Please encourage your friends and others to submit comments as well.

Reminder: April 20 - Vegan Bake Sale/Benefit for Alliance for Animals

Hey friends of animals!  The Goodman Community Center at 149 Waubesa St. in Madison will host the Worldwide Vegan Bake Sale as a benefit for the Wisconsin-based group Alliance for Animals.  You can donate baked goods, or just come to the event and buy treats that others have made.

Mark your calendars!  April 20th, 2013 from 10 am - 2 pm

Event link: http://allanimalsblog.org/2013/03/25/worldwide-vegan-bake-sale-april-20/

Anti-Wolf Hunting Activist Melissa Smith unseats Conservation Congress incumbant

This is truly great news for Wisconsin - that Dane County is now represented in the state's Conservation Congress by Melissa Smith. In her statement, Smith stated she is not anti-hunting, but is against trapping, wolf hunting, and using dogs for hunting.  I know that it was not easy putting together a challenge to the incumbent, but the hard work has paid off. Hooray!

Link: http://www.thedailypage.com/daily/article.php?article=39610

Scott Walker and Wisconsin's Natural Resources Dept removing scientists from committees

The Walker administration is literally removing scientists from these committees and replacing them with people who want to turn our forests and parks into nothing more than game reserves.  You can stop this by supporting progressive conservation groups like the Sierra Club, or get involved in the Wisconsin Conservation Congress and stop the trend.  There is a meeting tonight (Monday, April 8 at 7 p.m.) in all of Wisconsin's 72 counties that is open to the public - your vote is needed!

Link: http://www.wisconsinoutdoorfun.com/article/20130407/GPG0204/304070242/Pat-Durkin-column-DNR-loses-credibility-committee-revamp

Flu concern in China as six deaths reported; 20,000 birds culled in Shang Hai

People are being urged to avoid live poultry and take other precautions to avoid contracting the flu in China, where six people have died so far, according to news reports. Over three to five million people contract severe influenza per year worldwide, resulting in up to half a million deaths.  In 2003, the SARS epidemic (a respiratory disease also linked to animals) in southern China, killed over 700 people - the death rate was over 50% for infections among people 65 years and older.

The risk of a worldwide pandemic is a serious issue.  In 1918, the Spanish flu epidemic infected up to half a billion people and took the lives of 50-100 million people (about 3-5% of the world's population at the time).


Links: http://www.nytimes.com/2013/04/06/world/asia/china-escalates-response-to-avian-flu-outbreak.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spanish_flu

April 8 Wisconsin Conservation Congress Election Voting Guide

This was put together by Melissa Smith, who is running for a spot on the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources 'Conservation Congress,' an advisory body.  Please attend the April 8th election in your county (all 72 of Wisconsin's counties will have a meeting - find your's here).  All meetings commence at 7 p.m.

Dane County's meeting will be at Sun Prairie High School, Performing Arts Center, 888 Grove St., Sun Prairie, WI 53590

As far as the voting issues - here is a guide:

Conservation Congress Voting Guide. Many of these questions are loaded and double negatives. Myself along with a former wolf biologist for the DNR who appeared at the True Wolf expert panel, went through each question for you. It's messy but this should work out.
Wisconsin Conservation Congress Questionnaire Guide
33. Rifles on deer statewide NO34. Lifting pheasant bag limit NO35. Tagging pheasants by gender YES
36. Willow stakes for trapping NO
37. Expanding Mink and Muskrat trapping NO
38. Training hounds on bears during hunting season LEAVE BLANK
39. Expanding trap check time from 24 hours to 4 days for weasels NO
40. 24 hour reporting of otters trapped YES
41. Leaving blind unattended NO
42. Eliminating the Waushara refuge, open to hunting and trapping NO
43. Eliminating armband requirement for pheasant hunting NO
44. Controlling number of hunters on Doves YES
45. increasing pheasant hunting fee YES
46. Rifles on deer north of hwy 54 NO
47. Rifles on deer Shawano county NO
48-51 DOGS ON WOLVES- questions are loaded!!!! CAUTION NO RIGHT ANSWER. DO NOT ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS, LEAVE BLANK!!!
52-63 Expanding waterfowl hunting NO
64. Expanding Bobcat hunting and trapping NO
65. Shrinking Canada goose Horicon area YES
66. Proposal one NO
67. Proposal Two NO
68. PROHIBIT THE USE OF DOGS TO HUNT WOLVES YES
69. bag limit for panfish YES
70. Expanding hunting and trapping in state parks NO
71. transfer of bear hunting tags to veterans NO
72. removing antlerless season NO
73. Removing tag requirements on bear hunting NO
74. Using any type of light to hunt predators NO
75. Allowing trapping on National park land NO
76. Extend muskrat season NO
77. Increasing bobcat hunting and trapping NO
78. combining start hunt dates on wolves, a coyote, bobcats, foxes NO
79. closing bear dog hunting 7 days before season LEAVE BLANK
80. increase out of state deer hunting license fee YES
81. archery vs. gun tags for deer YES
82. Registering non motorized boats with DNR NO
83. reduced fees for active military NO
84. hunting feral pigs without license NO
85. transfer of permits to seniors. NO
86. concealment for duck hunting NO
87. Minnows YES
88. allowing 14 year olds to hunt alone NO
89. 16 and 17 year old to hunt alone NO
90. removal of trout stamp for 16 and 17 year olds, NO
91. Removal of waterfowl stamp for 16 and 17 year olds NO
92, earlier pheasant hunting time so hunters don’t get too hot NO
93. Reducing bag limit on bluegill in a specific lake YES
94. Reducing bag limit on crappie in a specific lake YES
95. Pan fish limit YES
96. Walleye size limit YES
97. Musky size limit YES
98. Pike size limit YES
99. YEAR ROUND COYOTE HUNTING NO36. Willow stakes for trapping NO37. Expanding Mink and Muskrat trapping NO38. Training hounds on bears during hunting season LEAVE BLANK39. Expanding trap check time from 24 hours to 4 days for weasels NO40. 24 hour reporting of otters trapped YES41. Leaving blind unattended NO42. Eliminating the Waushara refuge, open to hunting and trapping NO43. Eliminating armband requirement for pheasant hunting NO44. Controlling number of hunters on Doves YES45. increasing pheasant hunting fee YES46. Rifles on deer north of hwy 54 NO47. Rifles on deer Shawano county NO48-51 DOGS ON WOLVES- questions are loaded!!!! CAUTION NO RIGHT ANSWER. DO NOT ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS, LEAVE BLANK!!!52-63 Expanding waterfowl hunting NO64. Expanding Bobcat hunting and trapping NO65. Shrinking Canada goose Horicon area YES66. Proposal one NO67. Proposal Two NO68. PROHIBIT THE USE OF DOGS TO HUNT WOLVES YES69. bag limit for panfish YES70. Expanding hunting and trapping in state parks NO71. transfer of bear hunting tags to veterans NO72. removing antlerless season NO73. Removing tag requirements on bear hunting NO74. Using any type of light to hunt predators NO75. Allowing trapping on National park land NO76. Extend muskrat season NO77. Increasing bobcat hunting and trapping NO78. combining start hunt dates on wolves, a coyote, bobcats, foxes NO79. closing bear dog hunting 7 days before season LEAVE BLANK80. increase out of state deer hunting license fee YES81. archery vs. gun tags for deer YES82. Registering non motorized boats with DNR NO83. reduced fees for active military NO84. hunting feral pigs without license NO85. transfer of permits to seniors. NO86. concealment for duck hunting NO87. Minnows YES88. allowing 14 year olds to hunt alone NO89. 16 and 17 year old to hunt alone NO90. removal of trout stamp for 16 and 17 year olds, NO91. Removal of waterfowl stamp for 16 and 17 year olds NO92, earlier pheasant hunting time so hunters don’t get too hot NO93. Reducing bag limit on bluegill in a specific lake YES94. Reducing bag limit on crappie in a specific lake YES95. Pan fish limit YES96. Walleye size limit YES97. Musky size limit YES98. Pike size limit YES99. YEAR ROUND COYOTE HUNTING NO

More information, visit: http://dnr.wi.gov/about/wcc/springhearing.html

Killer Dolphins Escape in Ukraine

Wonderful or terrible news, depending on how you look at it.

Link:  http://www.theatlanticwire.com/global/2013/03/ukraine-might-have-military-trained-killer-dolphins-might-have-escaped/63036/

UNEP Calls on Wealthy Countries to Cut Meat Consumption in Half

Indeed, meat consumption is going down in developed countries, although it could be even halved according to the United Nations Environmental Programme.

Link: http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2013/feb/18/halve-meat-consumption-scientists?intcmp=122

Former USDA Agent: Torture and abuse in Wildlife Services common

Describing the abuse of wildlife like coyotes, the former agent said:

"That was regular practice," said Strader, who in 2009 left Wildlife Services, a little-known program within the USDA. The program is tasked with humanely killing wildlife seen as a threat to the environment and livestock, as well as protecting the public from wildlife hazards to commercial planes at airports. "You let your dogs fight with them. That was part of the job," said Strader. "There's not a person in Wildlife Services who is not aware of it."

Link: http://www.foxnews.com/us/2013/03/12/animal-torture-abuse-called-regular-practice-within-federal-wildlife-agency/

Why hounding wolves must be stopped

Preventing the torture or animals should be a fundamental principle of law.  Just like humans, animals experience pain and loss, as well as fear.  Allowing intense pain and fear to continue during a hunt solely for the purpose of human pleasure, or for 'training' purposes, ought to be banned.  If there isn't a law preventing it in your state, there should be.

Wisconsin is on the verge of allowing hunting with dogs, and if it goes ahead, it will be the first state to allow it.

You will soon see more and more videos of the one below of a coyote - but with wolves.  

The video is extremely graphic - watch at your own risk.

Second Wisconsin barn fire in 2013 claims another twenty-one cows

Just one month after a barn fire which led to the death of over 120 cows near Manitowoc, Wisconsin, another barn fire - this time in Ft. Atkinson - has resulted in twenty-one lives lost.  The farm owner, Bill Erkhe, was returning from a vacation at the time of the fire.  Firefighters used nearly 300,000 gallons of water trying to put out the blaze - which they used to save some cows as well as protect other buildings at the farm.

Link: http://host.madison.com/wsj/news/local/barn-fire-kills-at-least-cows-near-fort-atkinson/article_a08dcc9a-7395-11e2-971b-001a4bcf887a.html

Exploring links between animal mistreatment and criminal violence

Violent crime is strongly linked to cruelty of animals in a number of studies - findings show that at least 50% of offenders in many types of violent behavior previously were involved in cruelty towards animals.

Link: http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/bear-in-mind/201301/bang-bang-we-all-fall-down

A hit and a miss: Guardian article on quinoa and veganism by Joanna Blythman

A recent article pointing to the problem of increasing demand for quinoa worldwide is having in Peru and Bolivia is full of holes.

The first is that vegans alone (a tiny consumer minority) are driving quinoa consumption.  Perhaps it is being driven by vegetarians or health-conscious meat eaters.  Where is the proof that vegans are to blame?

Second, the article alleges that a vegan 'lobby' (a hilarious choice of words, especially if you compare it to animal agriculture - check out http://www.countinganimals.com/meat-industry-advertising/ for a U.S. comparison in advertising dollars.

Third, and this point has been made already, that most soya goes to feed animals, not vegetarians and vegans.  The percentage is about 97% worth, I believe.

Finally, I think Ms. Blythman makes an incorrect assumption that all vegans really care about humans and social justice.  I think it's true for the most part - and definitely true for this reader.  But why does she not hold non-vegans to the same standard?

Overall, I found this article to be interesting in its approach, but to give it the headline it received and to single out vegans and vegetarians amounts to nothing more a cheap shot which doesn't begin to address the real problem:  climate change.

Link:  http://m.guardiannews.com/commentisfree/2013/jan/16/vegans-stomach-unpalatable-truth-quinoa

Wolf Memorial at DNR Headquarters in Madison

I just attended a very moving memorial for the over-100 wolves who were
killed in Wisconsin's innaugural wolf hunting season. I'd say there were
40 people or so, plus 2 or 3 camera crews. The program consisted of
several speeches, the lighting,then extinguishing of 117 candles, plus a
poem and bell ringing in honor of these wolves' lives. The event was
cosponsored by the Alliance for Animals and Wisconsin Wildlife Ethic.
There was a single protester of our event, which if you ask me is like
protesting a funeral (see photo).

Vegetarians live longer, study shows

A very large study conducted by Loma Linda University looking at a variety of dietary choices by tens of thousands of study participants dating back to 1958 has found that those who kept a vegetarian diet tended to live longer than those who ate meat.  The study also found that vegans, or those who eschew dairy and eggs in addition to meat, had lower rates of cancer.

Vegetarian diets not only lengthend lifespans according to the study, but also reduced:

a person's risk for diseases, such as cancer, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes, control body mass index and waist size, and boost brain health.

Link: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/10/12/vegetarians-live-longer-longevity_n_1961967.html?utm_hp_ref=healthy-living

120 Cattle perish in Manitowoc-area dairy barn fire

The number of animals that die in fires every year is in the tens of thousands. It is a fact that is often overlooked when weighing the costs and benefits of factory farming - but one that should not be ignored. This is something that can happen even at the smallest of farms.

Link:  http://host.madison.com/news/state-and-regional/wisconsin-dairy-barn-fire-kills-cattle/article_db5aff20-89e6-5db6-9315-7be4a6736aa7.html

Dogs are biggest loser, as Wisconsin judge lifts wolf hunting injunction

A Dane County judge has lifted his injunction against wolf 'hounding.'  Taxpayers will pick up the tab for dogs that are killed or wounded up to $2,500 per dog.  The state paid out $37,000 to bear and other hunters for their dead dogs in 2011.  If the law stands, Wisconsin will be the only state to allow wolf hunting with dogs - a totally unscientific and cruel approach to wolf management.

Link:  http://www.jsonline.com/sports/outdoors/judge-allows-wolf-hunting-with-dogs-i188jcv-185706241.html

More info about wolf depredation:  http://wiwildlifeethic.org/2012/06/21/the-livestock-depredation-payment-gravy-train-and-wolves-as-scapegoats/