Sent: Wednesday, September 10, 2003 11:29 PM
Subject: AHDF letter sent to Cavel area officials

Dear Mr. Hopkins:

On behalf of the membership of the American Horse Defense Fund (AHDF) and countless thousands more, I urge you to prevent the rebuilding and opening of the nation's most disreputable horse and pony killing operation. Aside from all the comments you have no doubt received, you ought to know that Cavel was caught accepting stolen horses which they killed under cover of darkness the day those poor animals arrived prior to the year 2000.

I do not have the records, but USDA made me aware of this. The AHDF also has read an eye witness account from 2002, made by an undercover person who was IN the plant where the horses and ponies were abused well in advance of slaughter.

The business of killing and butchering America's beloved symbol of freedom, the West, Olympic partner and children's mount is loathsome at best. Your county has been infamous for being home to this plant, why bring that infamy upon your fair county again? Dekalb, Ft. Worth, TX and Kaufman, TX will share the very dubious distinction of being horse killing capitols of the USA.

We are joined by literally millions of American's in our effort to end the slaughter of horses and ponies for human consumption abroad. The bill, H.R. 857 will pass Congress, maybe not in 2003, maybe not even in 2004, but it will become law and Cavel will be shut down. Then, finally, no more American horses will be served to wealthy foreigners for dinner at long last.

Lastly, the pollution is nasty and unhealthy for your town, even if the mere existence of such a dreadful business didn't taint the town. You may rest assured, if the plant reopens for killing, horse groups and grass roots horse lovers will see that a tourist boycott ensues in perpetuity. Feel free to contact us.

Sincerely,

Trina Bellak, Esq. President/Founder
Thanks for Caring -- American Horse Defense Fund, Inc
www.AHDF.org