Hello ____, I understand that Kathie Hahn spoke with you today regarding the postings of ______ on your forum. Kathie said that she had a nice talk with you and gave you some background about Bird Paradise. I completely understand your position regarding the selling of birds. I respect your opinions and truly believe you have every right to express them. However, _______ is using your forum to slander my name. There is much you do not know about me. My background is in elementary education. When my husband opened our store, my father was dying of cancer. I did not feel that I could put 100% into my classroom and so decided to take a break from teaching. I agreed to help open Bird Paradise. Several years later, I am still there. It is NOT my passion. My expertise and "gift" is in teaching. Since my husband needs me to help out at our store, I have taken on the responsbility of educating customer s on how to properly provide birds with the optimal environments. There have been MANY instances when I have refused sales to people because I do not consider them worthy of being owned by a bird. Our store may be the largest in physical size. However, the number of birds is modeest in relation to the square footage of the store. We on the other hand, have more dry goods. We pride ourselves on the diet we give our birds and on the day to day care and socialization given them. ----- I am passionate about animals. I have three small dogs. They sleep with me at night and during the day, have a custom bed with memory foam and luxurious FAUX fur coverings. They have never eaten commercial dog food. I have wild salmon flown in and all their vegetables, etc. are organic. They are taken for regular checkups and dental cleanings and if I suspect they are not feeling 100%, I have them at the vet immediately. ------Yes, I have birds as well. But maybe _______ doesn't know th at they are all flighted and have an entire floor of my home in which to play, sleep, eat, etc. They eat organic fruits and veggies and have full freedom. They have foraging toys galore because I realize their need for mental stimulation. They have hanging gyms and java stands on which to play.----- You and I will probably never have a meeting of the minds when it comes to many animal issues. However, I respect your opinions and I want you to know that this world is a better place with pets in it. Not everyone though, should have the responsbility of a pet in their care. I can assure you though, that my pets have a wonderful life. You see, if a person and an animal were lying in the street and I could only help one, there would be no doubt, that I would help the animal. Most people could learn a lot from the unconditional love and acceptance of pets. ------- Now that you know a little about me, I would kindly request that you remove the posts by ________ and all others that slander my name. I'm sure you are a reasonable person and can understand the anguish your forum has brought me. Protestors have the right to express their views, not the right to maliciously villify my character. I thank you in advance for your prompt attention to the above matter. I would like to know more about your organization and would gladly read any information you can send me. Regards, Kathy Lance
