tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21938641986232697502024-03-05T01:03:10.123-05:00Save The Elephants at Toronto ZooSave the three Toronto Zoo elephants: Toka, Thika and Iringa. Either keep them in Toronto or send them to The National Elephant Center (TNEC) in Florida.save3elephantshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09617166812577324443noreply@blogger.comBlogger55125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193864198623269750.post-11182672561475907162013-09-20T12:07:00.001-04:002019-11-06T19:38:54.381-05:00Are elephants going to die because TO city cllrs wanted their profiles to look good?<p>"Are elephants going to die because TO city cllrs wanted their profiles to look good? Former Toronto Zoo CEO Peter Evans joins me. SHOWGRAM." - Jim Richards, radio host (<a href="https://twitter.com/JIMrichards1010/status/380754096489107456">source</a>)</p>
<p>(19-Sep-2013) Jim Richards interviews former Toronto Zoo CEO Peter Evans and Lisa Selby from Zoos Matter about concerns regarding the planned moving of the Toronto Zoo elephants by truck transport to California.</p>
save3elephantshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09617166812577324443noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193864198623269750.post-88792070830941094552013-09-19T00:07:00.002-04:002019-11-06T18:57:04.450-05:00Journey by Truck Could be Deadly, Experts Fear<p>As reported by <a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/toronto-elephants-journey-could-be-deadly-experts-fear-1.1859637">CBC News</a> (18-Sep-2013), the Toronto Zoo's plan to ship three aging African elephants in crates to an animal sanctuary in California is being criticized by several experts — including the zoo's former CEO — as being dangerous or even deadly.</p>
<iframe src="https://www.cbc.ca/i/caffeine/syndicate/?mediaId=2407275591" width="570" height="322" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<p>See also: <a href="http://save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2013/09/plan-to-move-elephants-by-truck-to.html">Plan to Move Elephants by Truck to California Sanctuary</a></p>save3elephantshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09617166812577324443noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193864198623269750.post-55130682894162347402013-09-19T00:00:00.002-04:002019-11-06T19:02:30.534-05:00Plan to Move Elephants by Truck to California Sanctuary<p>(18-Sep-2013) Toronto Zoo officials Chris Dulong and Jennifer Tracey spoke to <a href="http://www.citynews.ca/2013/09/18/toronto-zoo-officials-on-how-elephants-will-be-moved-to-california-sanctuary/">CityNews Toronto</a> about how the Toronto Zoo's three female African elephants are planned to make the trek to an animal sanctuary in California, 4218 km away, by truck in steel transport crates. Toka, Thika and Iringa are planned to travel after the Thanksgiving weekend (i.e.: after 14-Oct-2013).</p>
<iframe src='https://toronto.citynews.ca/video/iframe/593482582001/SyxzIeNcgb/2680303531001?auto_play_switch=false' allowfullscreen frameborder=0 width="560" height="315"></iframe>
<p>See also: <a href="http://save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2013/09/journey-by-truck-could-be-deadly.html">Journey by Truck Could be Deadly, Experts Fear</a></p>save3elephantshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09617166812577324443noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193864198623269750.post-37683645356488992702012-12-29T21:53:00.000-05:002012-12-29T21:53:30.752-05:00Truth for Toronto Zoo Elephants - Save Toronto Zoo Elephants<p>Video: "Truth for Toronto Zoo Elephants - Save Toronto Zoo Elephants"</p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/hQTTBGEEfqY?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<p>Description:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Stop the transfer of these elephants to a sanctuary with two tuberculosis deaths in 2 years and current active tuberculosis which was transmitted ON SITE from one elephant (now deceased) to another. These TB+ Asian elephants shared a barn with the African elephants for five years... the last African elephant to die, Ruby has had no cause of death ever determined and the sanctuary would not provide her tissue culture reports to the Toronto zoo, WHY?</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Transcript:</p>
<ul>
<li>0:00 - TUBERCULOSIS IS NOT FREEDOM</li>
<li>0:05 - Refuting Propaganda 2.0</li>
<li>0:10 - Why would anyone deliberately expose three healthy elephants to a deadly disease? In the name of a cause?</li>
<li>0:18 - And send them to a facility with proven tuberculosis transmission on site?</li>
<li>0:23 - [TRUTH] [LIES LIES LIES ...]</li>
<li>0:30 - Sometimes the TRUTH challenges what we want to believe in</li>
<li>0:35 - Toronto City Council Will force the Toronto Zoo Elephants to be moved to a sanctuary which has a scientifically proven tuberculosis risk in both its African and Asian herds. Why?</li>
<li>0:42 - What is objectionable, what is dangerous, about extremists is not that they are extreme, but that they are intolerant. The evil is not what they say about their cause but what they say about their opponents.</li>
<li>0:48 - Is your animal rights cause more important than true animal welfare?</li>
<li>0:53 - We are not your post children</li>
<li>0:58 - We are not a trophy</li>
<li>1:03 - We are not your victory</li>
<li>1:08 - You have no right to risk our lives in the name of your self-righteous dogma</li>
<li>1:13 - To sentence us to death ... With your propaganda</li>
<li>1:20 - We are NOT your political pawns</li>
<li>1:25 - This is not animal welfare</li>
<li>1:30 - This is Animal Abuse</li>
<li>1:35 - There are safer alternatives. But your egos and your arrogance have more value than the truth. More value than our LIVES</li>
<li>1:40 - WE ARE NOT YOUR CAUSE</li>
<li>1:45 - Your politics, journalist degrees and environmental studies diplomas negate reality? Or is it your egos?</li>
<li>1:50 - SAVE THE TORONTO ZOO ELEPHANTS</li>
<li>1:55 - Say NO to tuberculosis!</li>
<li>2:00 - Say NO to any risk. Say NO to any exposure. Say NO to false animal activism. Say NO to TUBERCULOSIS</li>
<li>2:05 - [SAY NO TO TB]</li>
<li>2:10 - Zoos exploit animals? Think again</li>
<li>2:15 - TRUTH: PAWS DID NOT TELL TORONTO ZOO ABOUT THEIR TUBERCULOSIS CRISIS</li>
<li>2:22 - Before they signed a contract with the Toronto Zoo.</li>
<li>2:29 - Citizens had to prove it with USDA DOCUMENTS</li>
<li>2:38 - Dragging the truth out tooth and nail...</li>
<li>2:43 - To Save Our elephant's lives from the ignorance of politicians and animal rights dogma</li>
<li>2:51 - You only meant well? Why don't you take this risk With your own pets and loved ones?</li>
<li>3:00 - Tuberculosis risks exist at the sanctuary</li>
<li>3:08 - What is more important? Your cause? Or our lives?</li>
<li>3:16 - This is just what we need? TUBERCULOSIS, take a long hard look</li>
<li>3:25 - [FAIL] What right does this man have to risk our lives?</li>
<li>3:33 - ... because you are a self-proclaimed environmental activist? [WHO'S PLAYING GOD?] Zoos? Or politicians and activists?</li>
<li>3:42 - [SAY NO TO TUBERCULOSIS] We are NOT your victory</li>
<li>3:50 - We are not your trophy</li>
<li>3:56 - We are not your political pawns</li>
<li>4:02 - Or your bargaining chips...</li>
<li>4:06 - [DON'T BELIEVE THE LIES]</li>
</ul>
<p>Other "Truth For Toronto Zoo Elephants" videos:</p>
<ul><li><a href="http://save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/12/truth-for-toronto-zoo-elephants-we-will.html"><u>Truth For Toronto Zoo Elephants - We Will Continue to Fight For You</u></a></li></ul>
<p>To learn more about the issue, and how you can help, see the <a href="http://save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/07/about.html"><u>About page</u></a>.</p>
save3elephantshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09617166812577324443noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193864198623269750.post-84934245818699103862012-12-23T05:58:00.000-05:002019-11-07T18:03:04.208-05:00Toronto Zoo Board Meeting (18-Dec-2012)<p>The Board of Management of the Toronto Zoo met on 18-Dec-2012 and discussed Item <a href="http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewAgendaItemHistory.do?item=2012.ZB18.5"><u>ZB18.5 Elephant Transfer Due Diligence</u></a>.</p>
<p>This Zoo Board meeting was the first meeting following the latest City of Toronto Council meeting. At that <a href="http://save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/12/elephants-at-toronto-city-council-27.html"><u>City Council meeting (27/28-Nov-2012)</u></a>, City Council reaffirmed their decision to send the three Toronto Zoo elephants to PAWS in Item <a href="http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewAgendaItemHistory.do?item=2012.EX24.30"><u>EX24.30 Elephant Transfer Status Update</u></a></p>
<p>As part of ZB18.5, the Toronto Zoo's CEO John Tracogna submitted documents:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/zb/bgrd/backgroundfile-53816.pdf"><u>Toronto City Council's motions regarding EX24.30</u></a></li>
<li>Toronto Zoo's Elephant Transfer Due Diligence Review (2012-11-18); <a href="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/zb/bgrd/backgroundfile-53817.pdf"><u>part 1</u></a>, <a href="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/zb/bgrd/backgroundfile-53828.pdf"><u>part 2</u></a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/zb/bgrd/backgroundfile-53831.pdf"><u>Councillor Berardinetti's submission containing report from Dr. S. Cork and Dr. D. Abraham
</u></a></li>
</ul>
<p>Members of the public gave deputations regarding several important issues:</p>
<ul>
<li><p>How is it that City Council could use Dr. Cork's report to say that due diligence has been met. The Toronto Zoo veterinarians are the ones who should be making that decision.</p></li>
<li><p>That Dr. Cork's report may not be independent. The letter by Dean Cribb (page 2) refers to the report as the "2012 PAWS report" and two attachments ("Cover Letter to Zoocheck" and "PAWS Zoocheck UCVM Release Authorization") are missing from the submission. When Dr. Cork was asked to supply information that was partially missing from her report and that she must have available since she is the author of the report, she said to contact Zoocheck.</p>
</li>
<li><p>That the submission to City Council contained three pages entitled "Notes on the Report" (pages 3-4) and "DISCUSSION POINTS" (page 5) that appear to not be from Dr. Cork. The authorship of those pages is in question.</p></li>
<li><p>That the City Council merely advised the Toronto Zoo Board and was not directing them when City Council made its decision on 27-Dec-2012.</p></li>
<li><p>Whether Dr. Cork contacted the Toronto Zoo senior veterinarians in preparing her report, and whether the Toronto Zoo senior veterinarians have reviewed Dr. Cork's report and have comments on it.</p></li>
<li><p>That Dr. Dale Smith said during <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Rx-u7J9LEg"><u>her deputation</u></a> at Executive Committee (5-Nov-2012), "The shipment of elephants without any evidence of tuberculosis to a location where animals have died with active disease, and where a strong possibility exists of there being additional infected animals, is an unethical decision."</p></li>
<li><p>That the Toronto Zoo senior veterinarians are being put into an ethical dilemma if they are asked by the Toronto Zoo Board to move the elephants considering that they have concluded that <a href="http://save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/11/city-council-to-consider-elephant.html"><u>PAWS is not a suitable facility</u></a>. The Toronto Zoo senior veterinarians must uphold their professional responsibility.</p></li>
<li><p>That the Toronto Zoo senior veterinarians are responsible for the animals at the Toronto Zoo and thus they could not abstain from any decision, and that they could lose their veterinarian licenses.</p></li>
<li><p>Whether the Toronto Zoo's senior veterinarians should resign.</p></li>
<li><p>That the company <i>Active Environments</i> may not be an ethically suitable company to be brought in to crate train the elephants. There may be a connection to <a href="http://savejapandolphins.org/"><u>dolphin drive hunting in Taiji, Japan</u></a>.</p></li>
</ul>
<p>With regards to Dr. Cork's independence, Councillor Lindsay Luby commented that when her office contacted Dr. Cork to confirm independence, Dr. Cork referred to Zoocheck rather than directly answering the question herself.</p>
<p>Councillor Lindsay Luby stated that Dr. Cork's report was handed out at the Toronto City Council meeting and that the Councillors did not have a chance to read it beforehand.</p>
<p>Councillor De Baeremaeker suggested that if a professional is asked to do something by their employer that they feel is unethical then they should resign as a matter of principle. And he suggested that advice should be given to the zoo staff, that they should be encouraged to resign.</p>
<p>Prof. Ian Duncan stated that if the Toronto Zoo veterinarians were to resign, any replacement veterinarian would make the same ethical decision. Councillor De Baeremaeker replied that he and CEO John Tracogna had met with several veterinarians in the prior week and that those veterinarians said they would be comfortable transporting the elephants to PAWS.</p>
<p>Sabrina Fiorellino, one of the Toronto Zoo Board members, recommended that the Toronto Zoo veterinarians contact their governing body, the <a href="http://www.cvo.org/"><u>College of Veterinarians of Ontario (CVO)</u></a>.</p>
<p>In the end, the Toronto Zoo Board made the following decisions:</p>
<ol>
<li><p>Requested the Chief Executive Officer to provide a report to the Board of Management on <i>Active Environments</i>' qualifications and competence to work with Toronto Zoo staff on elephants.</p></li>
<li><p>Requested that if air transportation is used to move the elephants, a pressurized plane with sound and temperature control be used and that each elephant be placed in a suitably sized crate, prior to transportation, thereby meeting the <a href="http://www.iata.org/"><u>International Animal Transportation</u></a> standards, to the satisfaction of the Chief Executive Officer of the Toronto Zoo.</p></li>
<li><p>Thanked Toronto Zoo staff for their work in support of the Zoo.</p></li>
<li><p>Requested Toronto Zoo staff to not consider resigning over this issue.</p></li>
</ol>
<p>See: <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20130622002444/http://www.torontosun.com/2012/12/18/toronto-elephants-on-track-for-april-departure"><u>Toronto elephants on track for April departure</u></a>, Toronto Sun (18-Dec-2012)</p>
save3elephantshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09617166812577324443noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193864198623269750.post-32153179028825883462012-12-14T22:02:00.000-05:002012-12-29T21:54:35.928-05:00Truth For Toronto Zoo Elephants - We Will Continue to Fight For You<p>Video: "Truth For Toronto Zoo Elephants - We Will Continue to Fight For You"</p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/s9CcFiY43Ss?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<p>Description:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Animal rights ideologies should not supersede true animal welfare. When your cause and the need to define one's self becomes greater than, more important than the health and well being of animal then it is time to re-evaluate the motives of the spiritual leaders of your agendas. Science facts and logic have proven that there is a tuberculosis risk if the Toronto Zoo elephants are transferred to PAWS Sanctuary. No matter how much you want to support the sanctuary or how much you are against the institution of zoos at no point should your emotions or personal opinions override the logical truth. The sanctuary is not safe for ANY ELEPHANT AT THIS TIME.You have no right to force our elephants to be deliberately and irresponsibly exposed to this deadly disease. "Fare Thee Well" copyright The Rankin Family. I do not own the copyright to this song nor am I using it for profit. Its beautiful classic Canadian music for three beautiful Canadian elephants whose lives we cherish and value enough to fight for.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Transcript:</p>
<ul>
<li>0:00: The Truth About Toronto Zoo Elephants</li>
<li>0:01: Refuting Propaganda 2.0</li>
<li>0:03: There is overwhelming evidence that PAWS elephant sanctuary has had TUBERCULOSIS TRANSMISSION on site. * Lab Reports, * Necropsy Reports, * Tissue Culture Reports</li>
<li>0:08: These elephants have been USED * EXPLOITED As a trophy and a victory For the animal rights movement. The cause has superseded The true welfare of Iringa Toka and Thika</li>
<li>0:13: City councillors colluded with Anti zoo organizations and engaged In a public relations campaign of lies about the Toronto Zoo</li>
<li>0:18: This transfer is UNETHICAL. Disease prevention protocols FAILED at the sanctuary. The Toronto Zoo Elephants will be at risk of contracting TUBERCULOSIS.</li>
<li>0:24: this transfer is an UNETHICAL ABUSE OF POLITICAL POWER. It is about who has the most money. Celebrityitis. USING OUR ELEPHANTS AS POSTER CHILDREN for the animal rights movement.</li>
<li>0:30: Thika, Iringa and Toka we are sorry</li>
<li>0:35: Sorry that animal rights ideologies and political egos have become more important than your lives</li>
<li>0:40: You have become a cause, poster children for the self proclaimed morally superior animal rights movement</li>
<li>0:45: A pawn for political egos and arrogance and personal gain</li>
<li>0:50: Animal liberation at any cost? At the expense of your lives?</li>
<li>0:55: Toronto City Councillors have denied the truth</li>
<li>1:06: Councillors have chosen their personal extremist dogma, political gain and lies over truth</li>
<li>1:11: Councillors conspired with animal rights organizations to malign our zoo staff, to publicly disparage our zoo</li>
<li>1:16: 6 elephants have died @PAWS in less than 5 years</li>
<li>1:21: 2 deaths claimed as arthritis, Sabu and Rebecca. USDA documents proved they were tuberculosis positive upon necropsy.</li>
<li>1:26: And now your lives will be at risk for tuberculosis</li>
<li>1:31: TUBERCULOSIS KILLS ELEPHANTS</li>
<li>1:36: It is a slow and painful death...</li>
<li>1:41: It systemically eats away at lungs, joints and lymph nodes</li>
<li>1:46: It requires hundreds of pills orally and rectally inserted every day, it causes painful side effects. It is a lifelong disease.</li>
<li>1:51: PAWS has an unknown strain of tuberculosis. It has no match in the GLOBAL DATABASES!</li>
<li>1:56: It killed Rebecca. She gave it to Annie.</li>
<li>2:01: What disease prevention protocols are these?</li>
<li>2:06: Self proclaimed to be the best in the world</li>
<li>2:11: Why wasn't Annie kept safe from this disease?</li>
<li>2:16: The African herd @PAWS lived with the Asians...</li>
<li>2:21: ... for 5 years! With Rebecca who had been treated for tuberculosis in 2002 and then died TB+ in 2011</li>
<li>2:26: There is risk of TB exposure in the African herd @ PAWS</li>
<li>2:31: Toronto Council ignores these facts, ignores the USDA Reports. They choose paid advocacy over truth.</li>
<li>2:36: Sentencing our elephants to death by TUBERCULOSIS</li>
<li>2:41, Annie @PAWS was reactive to statpak tests in 2011</li>
<li>2:46: She still converted to active tuberculosis one year later. She didn't respond to treatments... WHY?</li>
<li>2:51: Council said our elephants would choose this risk...</li>
<li>2:56: If they could speak for themselves, really? Would you choose this risk for yourself? Your loved ones or pets?</li>
<li>3:01: All the proof about TB@PAWS was evidenced by Toronto CITIZENS. Our motive? Justice for Iringa, Toka and Thika.</li>
<li>3:06: PAWS and Zoocheck Canada denied tuberculosis @PAWS</li>
<li>3:11: Denied it for months and months. They knew about their tuberculosis crisis For over a year before they signed a deal with the Toronto Zoo!</li>
<li>3:16: Councillors outright lied to the media, denied tuberculosis</li>
<li>3:21: We are sorry for their egos and arrogance...</li>
<li>3:26: Emails accessed via Freedom of Information prove these councillors colluded with Zoocheck Canada...</li>
<li>3:31: To use the media to attack and blame zoo staff for the delay of this transfer. Zoocheck told them what to say and they said it!</li>
<li>3:36: City Councillors took advantage of public ignorance, what you have not been told. Used our elephants as pawns in their political games.</li>
<li>3:41: Tuberculosis can take a healthy animal like this...</li>
<li>3:46: And turn it into this.</li>
<li>3:58: The National Elephant Centre is a safer alternative</li>
<li>4:04: Say no to tuberculosis. Save the Toronto Zoo elephants</li>
<li>4:08: [TUBERCULOSIS IS NOT FREEDOM] We fought for you, we will continue to fight for truth</li>
<li>4:13: Iringa, Toka and Thika, your roots may be in Africa but your hearts will always be in Canada. We will fight for you.</li>
<li>4:18: [If there is a better solution... find it. - Albert Einstein] Anti-zoo ideologies should not supersede true animal welfare</li>
<li>4:23: [Don't believe the lies]</li>
</ul>
<p>Other "Truth For Toronto Zoo Elephants" videos:</p>
<ul><li><a href="http://save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/12/truth-for-toronto-zoo-elephants-save.html"><u>Truth for Toronto Zoo Elephants - Save Toronto Zoo Elephants</u></a></li></ul>
<p>To learn more about the issue, and how you can help, see the <a href="http://save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/07/about.html"><u>About page</u></a>.</p>
save3elephantshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09617166812577324443noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193864198623269750.post-38598512276858565022012-12-13T07:22:00.000-05:002012-12-13T10:29:19.948-05:00Elephant Transfer Due Diligence Review (20-Nov-2012)<p>The following documents were submitted to Toronto City Council meeting 27-Nov-2012 as part of <a href="http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewAgendaItemHistory.do?item=2012.EX24.30"><u>Item EX24.30 Elephant Transfer Status Update</u></a>:</p>
<ul><li>
<P><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52360.pdf"><U>Elephant Transfer Due Diligence Review (20-Nov-2012)</U></A>, with 3 attachments:</P>
<OL>
<LI><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52363.pdf"><U>Due Diligence Review</U></A>, with 6 sub-attachments:
<OL TYPE="a">
<LI><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52364.pdf"><U>PAWS Aerial Site</U></A></LI>
<LI><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52366.pdf"><U>USDA Reports for “Rebecca” and “Sabu” and PAWS' other elephants</U></A></LI>
<LI><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52367.pdf"><U>Letter from Dr. Michele Miller, DVM, PhD, Veterinary Advisory to the AZA Elephant Advisory Group</U></A></LI>
<LI><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52368.pdf"><U>Letter from Dr. Ramiro Isaza, DVM, MS, MPH, DACZM, Associate Professor of Zoological Medicine, University of Florida</U></A></LI>
<LI><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52369.pdf"><U>Letter from Dr. Ian Duncan, Professor Emeritus, Emeritus Chair in Animal Welfare, University of Guelph</U></A></LI>
<LI><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52370.pdf"><U>Letter from Dr. Dale Smith, DVM, DVSc, Professor, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph</U></A></LI>
</OL></LI>
<LI><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52361.pdf"><U>Letter from Mr. John Lehnhardt, Executive Director, The National Elephant Center</U></A></LI>
<LI><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52362.pdf"><U>Letter from Mayor Susan Adams, Fellsmere, Florida</U></A></LI>
</OL>
</li></ul>
<p>For a summary of the Toronto City Council meeting, see:<br><a href="http://save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/12/elephants-at-toronto-city-council-27.html"><u>Elephants at Toronto City Council, 27-Nov-2012</u></a></p>
<p>See also: <a href="http://save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/12/councillor-vows-to-fight-transfer-of.html"><u>Councillor Vows to Fight Transfer of Toronto Zoo Elephants</u></a>.</p>
save3elephantshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09617166812577324443noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193864198623269750.post-63988277523992723742012-12-06T05:34:00.000-05:002012-12-06T14:42:56.934-05:00Councillor Vows to Fight Transfer of Toronto Zoo Elephants<p>On 28-Nov-2012, one day after Toronto City Council voted 32-8 to send the three Toronto Zoo elephants to the PAWS facility in California, Councillor Lindsay Luby announced her continuing support of the Toronto Zoo elephants. The following excerpt appeared in the <a href="http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/councillor-vows-to-fight-transfer-of-toronto-zoos-african-elephants/article5787528/"><u>Globe and Mail (28-Nov-2012)</u></a>:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>A Toronto city councillor is vowing to do everything she can to stop the transfer of three aging African elephants from the Toronto Zoo to a California sanctuary, fearing their safety could be jeopardized and the zoo could lose standing with a national organization.</p>
<p>“It’s never over till it’s over,” councillor Gloria Lindsay Luby told The Globe and Mail Wednesday. “My heart and soul is in this and I believe in doing the right thing for our animals.”</p>
<p>... The vote came after both the CEO of the Toronto Zoo, John Tracogna, and its top veterinarian presented evidence to council that sending the elephants to the sanctuary would put them at risk of being exposed to tuberculosis.</p>
<p>... On Wednesday, Ms. Lindsay Luby was critical of many of her fellow councillors. “I’m not an expert, nor is anyone on council,” she said. “When you don’t know the details, it’s easy to make a decision.”</p>
</blockquote>
<p>At the Toronto City Council meeting on 27-Nov-2012, Toronto Zoo's CEO John Tracogna and senior veterinarian Dr. Graham Crawshaw had stated their concerns, including tuberculosis (TB) and bio-security issues at PAWS.</p>
<p>The <a href="http://save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/11/city-council-to-consider-elephant.html"><u>Toronto Zoo's Due Diligence Review report</u></a> indicated that the PAWS facility was not suitable for the three Toronto Zoo elephants and that the <a href="http://www.nationalelephantcenter.org/"><u>TNEC facility in Florida</u></a> should be considered.</p>
<p>Despite the professional advice of the Toronto Zoo professionals, Toronto City Council decided 32-8 to send the three Toronto Zoo elephants to the PAWS facility.</p>
<p>See: <a href="http://save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/12/elephants-at-toronto-city-council-27.html"><u>Elephants at Toronto City Council, 27-Nov-2012</u></a></p>
save3elephantshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09617166812577324443noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193864198623269750.post-57947369940767282852012-12-06T04:48:00.000-05:002012-12-18T01:10:22.306-05:00Elephants at Toronto City Council, 27-Nov-2012<p>On 27-Nov-2012, Toronto City Council discussed the Toronto Zoo elephants again -- item <a href="http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewAgendaItemHistory.do?item=2012.EX24.30"><u>EX24.30 Elephant Transfer Status Update</u></a>.</p>
<p>The discussion can be viewed on Rogers TV: <a href="http://www.rogerstv.com/page.aspx?lid=237&rid=16&sid=1030&gid=104591"><u>Toronto City Council, 27-Nov-2012</u></a>. The discussion of EX24.30 starts at time marker 487:10, about 73% into the video, about where the letter "l" is in the title "Council".</p>
<p>The Toronto Zoo's CEO John Tracogna and senior veterinarian Dr. Graham Crawshaw were present and answered questions from the Councillors. The Zoo presented its concerns and stated that it had concluded that the PAWS facility was not suitable. The documents that had been submitted as part of EX24.30 were:</p>
<blockquote>
<P><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52360.pdf"><U>Elephant Transfer Due Diligence Review (20-Nov-2012)</U></A>, with 3 attachments:</P>
<OL>
<LI><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52363.pdf"><U>Due Diligence Review</U></A>, with 6 sub-attachments:
<OL TYPE="a">
<LI><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52364.pdf"><U>PAWS Aerial Site</U></A></LI>
<LI><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52366.pdf"><U>USDA Reports for “Rebecca” and “Sabu” and PAWS' other elephants</U></A></LI>
<LI><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52367.pdf"><U>Letter from Dr. Michele Miller, DVM, PhD, Veterinary Advisory to the AZA Elephant Advisory Group</U></A></LI>
<LI><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52368.pdf"><U>Letter from Dr. Ramiro Isaza, DVM, MS, MPH, DACZM, Associate Professor of Zoological Medicine, University of Florida</U></A></LI>
<LI><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52369.pdf"><U>Letter from Dr. Ian Duncan, Professor Emeritus, Emeritus Chair in Animal Welfare, University of Guelph</U></A></LI>
<LI><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52370.pdf"><U>Letter from Dr. Dale Smith, DVM, DVSc, Professor, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph</U></A></LI>
</OL></LI>
<LI><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52361.pdf"><U>Letter from Mr. John Lehnhardt, Executive Director, The National Elephant Center</U></A></LI>
<LI><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52362.pdf"><U>Letter from Mayor Susan Adams, Fellsmere, Florida</U></A></LI>
</OL>
</blockquote>
<p>Several Councillors were practically verbally attacking the Toronto Zoo staff. While several Councillors stood and spoke in defence of the Toronto Zoo staff and urged Councillors to "do the right thing", including Councillors Ainslie, Grimes, Holyday, Lindsay Luby and Shiner.<p>
<p>In the end, City Council went against the professional advice of the Toronto Zoo professionals and decided by 32-8 to send the Toronto Zoo elephants to PAWS by 31-Dec-2012 or as soon as possible. City Council adopted the following motions:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>1. City Council reaffirm its previous decision (<a href="http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewAgendaItemHistory.do?item=2011.MM13.9"><u>MM13.9</u></a>; October 24-25, 2011) to transfer the Toronto Zoo elephants (Toka, Thika and Iringa) to the Performing Welfare Society (PAWS) sanctuary (in San Andreas, California) on or before December 31, 2012 or as soon as possible and all funding for the move will be paid by PAWS.</p>
<p>2. City Council, having reviewed the due diligence process undertaken by the Toronto Zoo, accept the independent infectious disease report provided by Dr. Susan Cork that PAWS is a safe facility and meets the requirements of the due diligence process.</p>
<p>3. City Council advise the Board of Management of the Toronto Zoo that it considers the due diligence process to be complete and that the three elephants be made available for transport under the coordination of Active Environments including the responsibility for the transportation plan and to be paid for by PAWS.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Even though the Toronto Zoo professionals had concluded in their report that the PAWS facility has a tuberculosis (TB) and bio-security issue, the City Council accepted the disease report provided by Dr. Susan Cork of the University of Calgary. See Dr. Cork's report: <a href="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/comm/communicationfile-33606.pdf"><u>part 1</u></a>, <a href="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/comm/communicationfile-33635.pdf"><u>part 2</u></a>.</p>
<p>City Council saying that due diligence is complete and that everything is fine does not make it fine. There is still an elephant at PAWS with active and infectious tuberculosis, there are still African elephants at PAWS that shared a barn with that elephant, there is still no plan for safe and humane transport to PAWS, and the crate for Toka still does not fit her. Does this sound fine to you? Moving the Toronto Zoo elephants to PAWS is not in the best interest of the elephants. The Toronto Zoo professionals have said to not do it.</p>
<p>In addition to the elephant issue, Councillor De Baeremaeker who is on the Board of Management of the Toronto Zoo moved a motion related to <a href="http://www.aza.org/"><u>AZA</u></a> and <a href="http://www.caza.ca/"><u>CAZA</u></a> accreditation. City Council adopted the following motion:</p>
<blockquote><p>4. City Council request the Chief Executive Officer, Toronto Zoo to apply for admission to the Canadian Association of Zoos (CAZA) and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) once both of these organizations demonstrate that their standards of care meet or exceed the standards of care adopted by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) and both CAZA and AZA enforce their own guidelines, to the satisfaction of the Toronto Zoo Board.</p></blockquote>
<p>AZA had already revoked <a href="http://www.torontozoo.com/pdfs/Accreditation%20Press%20Release%2020120418.pdf"><u>Toronto Zoo's AZA accreditation</u></a>. And <a href="http://youtu.be/mFj0L5JumVE"><u>CAZA had already suspended Toronto Zoo's CAZA accreditation</u></a>, meaning that it was not yet revoked but would be revoked if governance issues were not resolved. Now that City Council voted to move the elephants against the recommendations of the Zoo, there is little doubt that CAZA will revoke its accreditation too. With the above motion and the fact that Councillors Cho and De Baeremaeker have been re-appointed to the Toronto Zoo Board, it may be a very long time, if ever, when the Toronto Zoo regains AZA and CAZA accreditation. Lack of both accreditations will hamper the Zoo's participation in the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Species_Survival_Plan"><u>Species Survival Plan</u></a> (SSP) conservation efforts. Even if City Council passed this motion as a political statement against AZA and CAZA, City Council may not have fully appreciated the long term consequences of the motion as it would affect the survival of species.</p>
<p>City Council also adopted the following motion regarding the City of Edmonton's Asian elephant Lucy:</p>
<blockquote><p>5. City Council encourage the City of Edmonton to take immediate action to move its lone, 37-year old Asian elephant Lucy to a warmer climate (as the City of Toronto has decided to do for Iringa, Toka and Thika) and that the City of Edmonton invite independent veterinarians to assist in assessing Lucy's condition and treat her, if necessary, so that she can be sent to one of the two elephant sanctuaries in the United States as soon as possible.</p></blockquote>
<p>The following day, Edmonton Mayor Stephen Mandel issued a reply. The following excerpt is from <a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/story/2012/11/28/edmonton-toronto-lucy-elephant.html"><u>Edmonton mayor blasts Toronto over elephant advice</u></a>:</p>
<blockquote><p>"It's none of their business what we do in the city of Edmonton," he said. "I don't butt into Toronto's business. I don't appreciate it at all." Mandel said it's "disrespectful" for another city to pass a resolution about what Edmonton should or shouldn't do.</p></blockquote>
<p>Zoocheck Canada, PAWS's representative in Canada, had unsuccessfully tried earlier to get Lucy moved out of the Edmonton Valley Zoo. The above motion moved by Councillor De Baeremaeker is clearly in support of Zoocheck Canada's efforts. Zoocheck Canada's Campaigns Director was in the audience at the City Council meeting and could be seeing advising Councillors Berardinetti, Cho, De Baeremaeker at various times during the discussions.</p>
<p>Just before the motions were voted on, Councillor Peruzza stood and gave a blatantly anti-zoo speech. He questioned the existence of all zoos. His speech clearly demonstrated that he is either unaware or unappreciative of the Toronto Zoo's <a href="http://www.torontozoo.ca/conservation/conservationInitiatives.asp"><u>Conservation Initiatives</u></a> and its <a href="http://www.torontozoo.ca/conservation/ResearchandVeterinaryPrograms.asp"><u>Research & Veterinary Programs</u></a>. The Toronto Zoo is far more than a "tourist attraction". See: "<a href="http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/globe-to/inside-torontos-hidden-zoo/article2234337/"><u>Inside Toronto's hidden zoo</u></a>".</p>
<p>Not only was November 27th a sad day for the future of Toka, Thika and Iringa, it was a sad day for the Toronto Zoo and for zoos everywhere.</p>
<p>From what happened at City Council, one thing is absolutely clear. The Toronto Zoo must move to an independent governance model separate from Toronto City Council. The Toronto Zoo must be operated by a Zoological Society that listens to and appreciates the advice of the Toronto Zoo professionals. See: <a href="http://save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/09/the-future-of-toronto-zoo-governance.html"><u>The Future of Toronto Zoo Governance</u></a>.</p>
<p>See also: <a href="http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewPublishedReport.do?function=getCouncilMinutesReport&meetingId=5668"><u>Minutes of Toronto City Council meeting, 27-Nov-2012</u></a>.</p>
<p><font color="red">UPDATE:</font> <a href="http://save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/12/councillor-vows-to-fight-transfer-of.html"><u>Councillor Vows to Fight Transfer of Toronto Zoo Elephants</u></a>.</p>
save3elephantshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09617166812577324443noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193864198623269750.post-50558087573397009732012-11-26T17:47:00.000-05:002012-12-07T18:46:14.009-05:00City of Toronto's Executive Committee Meeting, 5-Nov-2012<p>The following videos are of selected portions of the City of Toronto's <a href="http://www.save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/11/city-of-toronto-executive-committee.html"><u>Executive Committee Meeting (5-Nov-2012)</u></a>, regarding Item <a href="http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewAgendaItemHistory.do?item=2012.EX24.30"><u>EX24.30 Elephant Transfer Status Update</u></a>.</p>
<p>To auto-play all videos in order, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mFj0L5JumVE&list=PLN32qxCaAcicfcXhfO3Qd2AqpnXYSqKLL&feature=plpp_play_all"><u>view playlist</u></a>. Or click a video below to play that particular video.</p>
<p>Selected Deputations:</p>
<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/mFj0L5JumVE?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br><br>
<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/dByYSH9zqM8?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br><br>
<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/hGYkzSzHr48?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br><br>
<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/TVvft1-tUuo?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br><br>
<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/6fGhN2b6xIs?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br><br>
<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/5YShTfrYsMM?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br><br>
<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/9BKVUoFSCDM?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br><br>
<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/8Rx-u7J9LEg?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br><br>
<p>Councillors' Questions to Staff:</p>
<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/dVCj1lGHW0A?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br><br>
<p>Councillors' Speeches and Motions:</p>
<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/z7NnfQtlLbc?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<p>See also:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/11/city-of-toronto-executive-committee.html"><u>City of Toronto Executive Committee Votes to Let Zoo Staff Decide Where Elephants Should Go</u></a></li>
<li><a href="http://save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/11/city-council-to-consider-elephant.html"><u>City Council to Consider Elephant Transfer Again</u></a></li>
</ul>
save3elephantshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09617166812577324443noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193864198623269750.post-20846157891506964732012-11-25T19:41:00.000-05:002012-11-25T20:04:56.944-05:00Wildlife Biologist Sybelle Foxcroft Endorses Toronto Zoo's Decision to Stop Elephant Transfer<p>Famed activist and wildlife biologist <a href="http://www.facebook.com/sybelle.foxcroft"><u>Sybelle Foxcroft</u></a> endorses the Toronto Zoo in their concerns about bio-security and tuberculosis (TB) issues at PAWS.</p>
<p>Ms. Foxcroft was provided with all the supporting scientific evidence and background research on the matter of the Toronto Zoo elephants. After reviewing a mountain of information, she graciously offered her support in a <a href="http://word.office.live.com/wv/WordView.aspx?FBsrc=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fdownload%2Ffile_preview.php%3Fid%3D451423078251955%26metadata&access_token=592316676%3AAVLMYo8zAI0F4Wr_RfokkpvAYEF0_1vZOA2cq4SR-F_3iA&title=Toronto+Zoo+doc.docx"><u>letter</u></a> which has been forwarded to Toronto City Council et al.</p>
<p>In her letter, she writes ...</p>
<blockquote><p>I have had the opportunity to revue all scientific documentation relating to the transfer of Iringa, Thika and Toka, and I agree, without doubt, that Toronto Zoo has solid ground, backed by science, to stop the transfer of their three female African Elephants.</p></blockquote>
<p>Further in her letter, she writes ...</p>
<blockquote><p>I personally find that Toronto Zoo is acting in a most highly professional manner and abiding by all disease prevention protocols, along with doing everything in their power to ensure the safety of their precious elephants.</p>
<p>It would be an utter tragedy if these elephants were transferred from Toronto Zoo when the crystal clear scientific facts have not been investigated, viewed or given the opportunity to be presented.</p></blockquote>
<p>In conclusion, she writes ...</p>
<blockquote><p>These three elephants are currently safe from disease thanks to the years of dedication and professionalism of the Toronto Zoo. Let’s keep it that way and employ all professionalism, and separate that from emotionally charged opinions. </p></blockquote>
<p>For the complete text of her letter, see: <a href="http://word.office.live.com/wv/WordView.aspx?FBsrc=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fdownload%2Ffile_preview.php%3Fid%3D451423078251955%26metadata&access_token=592316676%3AAVLMYo8zAI0F4Wr_RfokkpvAYEF0_1vZOA2cq4SR-F_3iA&title=Toronto+Zoo+doc.docx"><u>Letter from Sybelle Foxcroft</u></a>.</p>
<p>Thanks to Sybelle not only for this letter but for her dedication and commitment to animal welfare worldwide. A rational science based voice fighting for animals in crisis.</p>
<p>See also: <a href="http://www.cee4life.org/"><u>www.cee4life.org</u></a></p>
save3elephantshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09617166812577324443noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193864198623269750.post-8928692064777530242012-11-23T20:26:00.000-05:002012-11-23T20:26:29.837-05:00City Council to Consider Elephant Transfer Again<p>The Elephant Transfer issue will be discussed by Toronto City Council at the next <a href="http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/decisionBodyProfile.do?function=doPrepare&meetingId=5668#Meeting-2012.CC28"><u>City Council meeting on November 27th-28th, 2012</u></a>.</p>
<p>Toronto Zoo's CEO John Tracogna submitted "<a href="http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewAgendaItemHistory.do?item=2012.EX24.30"><u>Elephant Transfer Due Diligence Review (20-Nov-2012)</u></a>" documents as part of agenda item <a href="http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewAgendaItemHistory.do?item=2012.EX24.30"><u>EX24.30 Elephant Transfer Status Update</u></a>.</p>
<p>The summary of the <a href="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52360.pdf"><u>review</u></a> is:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>As requested by the Executive Committee, this report provides the results of the Toronto Zoo's Due Diligence Review of the Performing Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) facility, in relation to the transfer of the Zoo's three African elephants, Toka, Thika and Iringa. Based on the Due Diligence Review, and in the opinion of the Toronto Zoo Senior Veterinarian, the Toronto Zoo CEO concludes that <b>PAWS is not a suitable facility for the three elephants</b>, due to the presence of tuberculosis in the PAWS elephant collection, lack of access to PAWS' current health records, and issues concerning biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of disease at PAWS. Additionally, there is no workable transportation plan currently in place from PAWS, for the safe and humane transport of the elephants.</p>
<p>As requested by the Executive Committee, Toronto Zoo has looked at some options for the relocation of the elephants. <b>Toronto Zoo has made inquiries with <a href="http://www.thenationalelephantcenter.org/"><u>the National Elephant Centre (TNEC)</u></a>, a new facility opening in Florida in early spring 2013.</b> TNEC has offered to house the three Toronto Zoo elephants as per the attached letter. Given the choice between a facility with a potential disease risk and one without, the Toronto Zoo would choose the disease free location. Zoo staff will undertake a full review of TNEC and any other potential options and report to the Toronto Zoo Board of Management on a recommended future home for the three elephants.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>The documents that the Toronto Zoo's CEO submitted are:</p>
<blockquote>
<P><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52360.pdf"><U>Elephant Transfer Due Diligence Review (20-Nov-2012)</U></A>, with 3 attachments:</P>
<OL>
<LI><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52363.pdf"><U>Due Diligence Review</U></A>, with 6 sub-attachments:
<OL TYPE="a">
<LI><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52364.pdf"><U>PAWS Aerial Site</U></A></LI>
<LI><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52366.pdf"><U>USDA Reports for “Rebecca” and “Sabu” and PAWS' other elephants</U></A></LI>
<LI><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52367.pdf"><U>Letter from Dr. Michele Miller, DVM, PhD, Veterinary Advisory to the AZA Elephant Advisory Group</U></A></LI>
<LI><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52368.pdf"><U>Letter from Dr. Ramiro Isaza, DVM, MS, MPH, DACZM, Associate Professor of Zoological Medicine, University of Florida</U></A></LI>
<LI><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52369.pdf"><U>Letter from Dr. Ian Duncan, Professor Emeritus, Emeritus Chair in Animal Welfare, University of Guelph</U></A></LI>
<LI><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52370.pdf"><U>Letter from Dr. Dale Smith, DVM, DVSc, Professor, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph</U></A></LI>
</OL></LI>
<LI><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52361.pdf"><U>Letter from Mr. John Lehnhardt, Executive Director, The National Elephant Center</U></A></LI>
<LI><A HREF="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-52362.pdf"><U>Letter from Mayor Susan Adams, Fellsmere, Florida</U></A></LI>
</OL>
</blockquote>
<p>The following excerpts appeared in the media:</p>
<p><b><a href="http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/article/1291383--california-sanctuary-not-suitable-for-toronto-s-elephants-zoo-s-ceo-says"><u>Toronto Star (22-Nov-2012)</u></a>:</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>California sanctuary ‘not suitable’ for Toronto’s elephants, zoo’s CEO says</b></p>
<p>The California sanctuary slated as the next home for the Toronto Zoo’s three remaining elephants “isn’t suitable” because it has a problem with tuberculosis, says the zoo’s CEO in a report set to go before city council next week.<p>
</blockquote>
<p><b><a href="http://www.torontosun.com/2012/11/22/toronto-zoo-says-california-sanctuary-unsafe-for-its-elephants"><u>Toronto Sun (22-Nov-2012)</u></a>:</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>Toronto Zoo says California sanctuary unsafe for its elephants</b></p>
<p>“There are several significant concerns that lead the Toronto Zoo to conclude PAWS (Performing Animal Welfare Society) is not an acceptable facility for the Toronto Zoo’s elephants,” a due diligence review, conducted by zoo staff and going before city council next week, says.</p>
</blockquote>save3elephantshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09617166812577324443noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193864198623269750.post-91086388596284814932012-11-08T16:04:00.000-05:002012-12-07T18:43:10.761-05:00City of Toronto Executive Committee Votes to Let Zoo Staff Decide Where Elephants Should Go<p>The City of Toronto’s <a href="http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/decisionBodyProfile.do?function=doPrepare&meetingId=5592#Meeting-2012.EX24"><u>Executive Committee met on Monday, November 5th, 2012</u></a>. On the agenda was item “<a href="http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewAgendaItemHistory.do?item=2012.EX24.30"><u>EX24.30 Elephant Transfer Status Update</u></a>” to discuss the Toronto Zoo elephants. <a href="http://www.save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/11/city-of-torontos-executive-committee.html"><u>Over 20 speakers gave deputations</u></a>. Following deputations, Councillors asked questions to the Toronto Zoo’s CEO John Tracogna. They also asked questions to senior veterinarian Dr. Graham
Crawshaw who spoke about the major issues identified in the <a href="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/ex/bgrd/backgroundfile-51354.pdf"><u>Elephant Transfer Status</u></a>. The following newspaper excerpts summarize the meeting.</p>
<p><b><a href="http://www.torontosun.com/2012/11/06/toronto-zoos-elephants-final-home-up-in-the-air-again"><u>Toronto Sun (6-Nov-2012)</u></a>:</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p>... A majority of Councillors on the committee, Ford included, approved a motion from Councillor David Shiner ordering the three elephants be moved “as soon as possible” to a facility zoo staff “determine is the best location.”</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b><a href="http://www.citytv.com/toronto/citynews/news/local/article/234717--executive-committee-votes-to-let-zoo-staff-decide-where-elephants-should-go"><u>CityTV (5-Nov-2012)</u></a>:</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p>The committee also requested that the CEO of the Zoo report directly to Council setting out the results of the due diligence review conducted [of] the Performing Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) facility. They also asked the CEO attend City Council meetings to answer questions on that review.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><b><a href="http://www.sunnewsnetwork.ca/sunnews/canada/archives/2012/11/20121106-101007.html"><u>Sun News Network (6-Nov-2012)</u></a>:</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p>"(The elephants) should go to the place that our experts think is best," [Councillor Shiner] said. "The last thing we are, are experts about where these animals should go." Zoo staff will be reporting to council directly on the result of the due diligence review of PAWS and answer any questions for Councillors.</p>
<p>Deputy mayor Doug Holyday said council shouldn't have voted to send the elephants to California in the first place. "I couldn't believe what happened that night, that so many people were stampeded in the wrong direction," he said. ...</p>
<p>"There is overwhelming evidence that there is active (tuberculosis) infection at the PAWS sanctuary," [Ian Duncan, Professor Emeritus], said. "In my opinion, it is completely unethical to send animals that are known to be free from TB to a facility where that infection is known to exist." "I'm an expert in animal welfare and tuberculosis reduces welfare," Duncan added.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>See the official minutes of the <a href="http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/decisionBodyProfile.do?function=doPrepare&meetingId=5592#Meeting-2012.EX24"><u>Executive Committee meeting of Monday, November 5th, 2012</u></a>.</p>
<p>Videos: <a href="http://www.save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/11/city-of-torontos-executive-committee.html"><u>Deputations at Executive Committee (5-Nov-2012)</u></a></p>save3elephantshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09617166812577324443noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193864198623269750.post-78957533383968806322012-10-19T18:32:00.000-04:002012-10-20T15:18:31.801-04:00Council Could Make a New Elephant Decision in Next MonthThe following are excerpts from Toronto Star. The excerpts are with regards to <a href="http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewAgendaItemHistory.do?item=2011.MM13.9"><u>Toronto City Council's 24-Oct-2011 decision to send the elephants to PAWS</u></a>.<br><br>
<b><a href="http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/cityhallpolitics/article/1273423--council-could-make-a-new-elephant-decision-in-next-month"><u>Toronto Star (18-Oct-2012)</u></a>:</b><br>
<b>Council Could Make a New Elephant Decision in Next Month</b>
<blockquote>
When Toronto City Council meets in two weeks, more than a year will have passed since the 31-4 vote to send the Toronto Zoo’s three elephants to a sanctuary in California. That means the controversial decision could be reversed with only a simple majority vote, not a two-thirds supermajority. ...<br><br>
In September, the zoo’s senior veterinarian, Graham Crawshaw, told reporters he is concerned about active cases of tuberculosis at the California sanctuary, known as the Performing Animal Welfare Society, or PAWS. The zoo, Crawshaw said, was continuing its “due diligence” probe of PAWS. ...<br><br>
The zoo board voted at its September meeting to send a <a href="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/zb/bgrd/backgroundfile-50563.pdf"><u>report on the status of the transfer</u></a> to Mayor Rob Ford’s executive committee meeting and then on to council. Councillors may prefer to wait until the report is brought forward in November before they undertake any new vote.
</blockquote>
See also: <a href="http://www.save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/09/toronto-zoo-releases-documents-about.html"><u>Toronto Zoo Releases Documents About Elephant Issues</u></a><br>
See also: <a href="http://www.save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/09/city-council-to-be-asked-to-cancel.html"><u>City Council to be Asked to Cancel Elephant Move to PAWS</u></a><br>
See also: <a href="http://www.save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/09/zoos-senior-vet-speaks-to-cbc-metro.html"><u>Zoo's Senior Vet Speaks to CBC Metro Morning about Tuberculosis at PAWS</u></a>save3elephantshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09617166812577324443noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193864198623269750.post-55920874417088965222012-10-09T13:58:00.004-04:002012-10-09T13:58:37.794-04:00Executive Committee to Receive Elephant Transfer Status ReportAt the 25-Sep-2012 meeting of the Board of Management of the Toronto Zoo, the zoo's CEO John Tracogna and the zoo's senior veterinarian Dr. Graham Crawshaw presented the <a href="http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/zb/bgrd/backgroundfile-50563.pdf"><u>Elephant Transfer Status report</u></a> in which four major issues were identified: 1. Permits, 2. Final Transportation Plan, 3. Crates and Training, and 4. Medical and Health Records.<br><br>
Prior to the presentation, <a href="http://save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/09/public-gave-input-at-toronto-zoo-board.html"><u>the public gave input</u></a>.<br><br>
After lengthy discussion, the Zoo Board passed a motion "That the Board direct the Chief Executive Officer to forward the (September 25, 2012) memorandum on the elephant transfer status to the Executive Committee, for <a href="http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/decisionBodyProfile.do?function=doPrepare&meetingId=5591#Meeting-2012.EX23"><u>its meeting on October 9, 2012</u></a>, and thereon to City Council for consideration." See: <a href="http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewPublishedReport.do?function=getMinutesReport&meetingId=5829"><u>2012-09-25 Minutes - Board of Management of the Toronto Zoo</u></a>.<br><br>
However, the agenda of the <a href="http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/decisionBodyProfile.do?function=doPrepare&meetingId=5592#Meeting-2012.EX23"><u>9-Oct-2012 Executive Committee meeting</u></a> does not have an item regarding the report. So, it may be at the 5-Nov-2012 meeting when the report is considered.<br><br>
See also: <a href="http://save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/09/city-council-to-be-asked-to-cancel.html"><u>City Council to be Asked to Cancel Elephant Move to PAWS</u></a><br>
See also: <a href="http://save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/09/toronto-zoo-releases-documents-about.html"><u>Toronto Zoo Releases Documents About Elephant Issues</u></a>save3elephantshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09617166812577324443noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193864198623269750.post-91331986760186394122012-09-26T13:20:00.001-04:002019-11-07T17:59:01.995-05:00Zoo's Senior Vet Speaks to CBC Metro Morning about TuberculosisOn 26-Sep-2012, Dr. Graham Crawshaw, senior veterinarian at the Toronto Zoo, spoke with Piya Chattopadhyay on CBC Metro Morning regarding tuberculosis at PAWS.<br><br>
To hear the audio interview: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BPw5Diziqmv_L-0nb4dIdPDY73G9wh2Q/view?usp=sharing"><u>click here</u></a>.<br>
To hear the audio interview: <a href="http://www.cbc.ca/video/news/audioplayer.html?clipid=2283800129"><u>click here</u></a> (cbc.ca).<br><br>
The Globe and Mail also reported:
<blockquote>
Dr. Crawshaw said he is not satisfied PAWS has sufficient quarantine measures in place to protect the Toronto animals. “Based on what I know, I cannot recommend it,” he said about the planned move. -- source: <a href="http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/transfer-of-three-toronto-zoo-elephants-to-california-headed-back-to-council-for-debate/article4566648/
"><u>Globe and Mail (25-Sep-2012)</u></a>
</blockquote>
See also: <a href="http://www.save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/09/toronto-zoo-releases-documents-about.html"><u>Toronto Zoo Releases Documents About Elephant Issues</u></a><br>
See also: <a href="http://www.save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/09/tuberculosis-is-deal-breaker.html"><u>Tuberculosis is a Deal-Breaker</u></a>save3elephantshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09617166812577324443noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193864198623269750.post-68575599584382949932012-09-26T13:08:00.001-04:002012-10-27T20:31:45.590-04:00Toronto Zoo Releases Documents About Elephant Issues<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151879145451677" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUPo6h__As-OUKknOSmTUa8VzVQPtTgNxwBR85LsIwnaY4cUr3VI54us4qzSUUCcXm7BjgYv8cVXGUaQx4WQnQrNYV9UT1YqlfVxn94TmizHo_XUOqrq4BxKdnbugHvmcQA3g52wJXTCI/s200/100_8080.JPG" /></a></div>
<br><br>At a press conference held on 25-Sep-2012 at the Toronto Zoo, the Toronto Zoo released a press package titled "Several Outstanding Items Remain Including Major Health Concerns Regarding the Transfer of the Toronto Zoo Elephants".<br clear="all">
CEO John Tracogna and senior veterinarian Dr. Graham Crawshaw identified four major issues:<br>
<ol>
<li>Permits</li>
<li>Final Transportation Plan</li>
<li>Crates and Training</li>
<li>Medical and Health Records</li>
</ol>
View the <a href="http://cnw.ca/rLHQV"><u>Toronto Zoo's press release</u></a> for full details about each of these four major issues.<br><br>
Included in the press package were several supporting documents from 3rd-parties.<br><br>
See: <a href="http://www.savetheelephants.ca/pdf/120925-toronto-zoo-press-package.pdf"><u>Toronto Zoo press package, 25-Sep-2012</u></a> (includes supporting documents)<br>
See: <a href="http://cnw.ca/rLHQV"><u>Toronto Zoo press release, 25-Sep-2012</u></a> (on Canada Newswire)<br><br>
See also: <a href="http://www.save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/09/zoos-senior-vet-speaks-to-cbc-metro.html"><u>Zoo's Senior Vet Speaks to CBC Metro Morning about Tuberculosis</u></a>save3elephantshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09617166812577324443noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193864198623269750.post-90767809699310220222012-09-26T12:55:00.000-04:002012-09-26T12:55:50.401-04:00Public Gave Input at Toronto Zoo Board MeetingAt the meeting of the Board of Management of the Toronto Zoo on 25-Sep-2012, the residents of Toronto were given the opportunity to make deputations. Four speakers were scheduled; however, only Lisa Selby and Peter Cusimano made presentations.<br><br>
Lisa Selby from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/352417048117934/"><u>Zoos Matter</u></a> spoke about medical issues, and Peter Cusimano spoke on the issue of due diligence.<br><br>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.savetheelephants.ca/pdf/120925-speakers.pdf"><u>Speakers list</u></a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.savetheelephants.ca/pdf/120925-submission-cusimano.pdf"><u>Submission by Peter Cusimano</u></a></li>
</ul>save3elephantshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09617166812577324443noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193864198623269750.post-7776570683243094322012-09-26T12:03:00.000-04:002012-10-19T18:23:52.816-04:00City Council to be Asked to Cancel Elephant Move to PAWS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151879130761677" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBfnSJdpYNpkX06l_EK_zfsW1NuShRJOk8S0Nh7VI37rM5FnsP8kAQu2_ZeBHptRNdZ2zn0QF_qV4k-PSugAD76PCiBbyxP7G1PyyG0ms_xTsyI0tfQNNMqoiHkkVLy_PtdM7-YzYygPw/s200/100_8077.JPG" /></a></div>
The following is an excerpt from Newstalk 1010:<br><br>
Next month, when the [Toronto Zoo] board updates the [City Council] executive committee on the status of the move, councillor Giorgio Mammoliti says he will introduce a motion asking council to cancel the move to PAWS altogether.
-- source: <a href="http://www.newstalk1010.com/News/localnews/blogentry.aspx?BlogEntryID=10442624"><u>Newstalk 1010</u></a>
<br clear="all">
See also: <a href="http://www.save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/09/toronto-zoo-releases-documents-about.html"><u>Toronto Zoo Releases Documents About Elephant Issues</u></a>save3elephantshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09617166812577324443noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193864198623269750.post-82053563759531079922012-09-24T21:17:00.000-04:002012-10-27T23:44:31.460-04:00Time to Terminate Agreement with PAWSThe time has come for the Toronto Zoo to terminate its <a href="http://www.facebook.com/download/200117803454074/Zoo.PAWS%20Contract.pdf"><u>agreement</u></a> with PAWS. Questions arising from the due diligence process cannot indefinitely remain unsatisfactorily answered.<br><br>
The <a href="http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/article/1261689--toronto-zoo-elephants-still-here-almost-a-year-after-council-ordered-their-departure"><u>Toronto Star is reporting today</u></a> that "over the past several months, the zoo has accused Zoocheck/PAWS of failing to hand over all the medical records it is seeking. A major concern has been reports of tuberculosis at the U.S. facility."<br><br>
There are also reports that the Zoo has not signed off on a <a href="http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/toronto-zoos-elephants-set-for-late-summer-move-to-california/article4352939/"><u>transportation plan</u></a>. The plan calls for flying these three elderly elephant for several hours in a cargo plane's cargo bay which is only partially pressurized. It is recommended that the humans wear oxygen masks. Is it safe and humane to fly three elderly elephants in a partially pressurized cargo bay where it is recommended that humans wear oxygen masks?<br><br>
If the due diligence process cannot be satisfied within a reasonable time then the proper thing to do is for the Toronto Zoo to exercise its legal right to end the agreement to send the elephants to PAWS.<br><br>
Section 17 of the agreement states:
<blockquote>17. If, as a result of its due diligence review of ARK 2000 and PAWS, the CEO is not satisfied that ARK 2000 and/or PAWS are suitable or financially viable to care for the Elephants, the CEO shall report to the Board and to Toronto City Council of this decision and the reasons therefor. If the CEO's decision is affirmed by the Board and Toronto City Council, the Board may terminate this Agreement upon written notice to PAWS in which event this Agreement shall be null and void and neither party shall have recourse against the other party.</blockquote>
The Toronto Star in its <a href="http://www.thestar.com/opinion/editorials/article/1248863--toronto-zoo-sale-remains-worth-exploring"><u>editorial</u></a> on 29-Aug-2012 stated, "City council made a Jumbo mistake last year when it voted to send three elephants to an unaccredited sanctuary rather than an accredited zoo. In doing so, politicians rejected a decision by the zoo’s board and advice from the zoo’s own experts."<br><br>
It is time to do the right thing and terminate the agreement and look at alternatives.<br><br>
See also: <a href="http://www.save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/09/tuberculosis-is-deal-breaker.html"><u>Tuberculosis is a Deal-Breaker</u></a>.<br>
See also: <a href="http://www.save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/09/toronto-zoo-releases-documents-about.html"><u>Toronto Zoo Releases Documents About Elephant Issues</u></a><br>
Update: <a href="http://save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/10/council-could-make-new-elephant.html"><u>Council Could Make a New Elephant Decision in Next Month</u></a>save3elephantshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09617166812577324443noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193864198623269750.post-18227148584251225362012-09-24T15:24:00.000-04:002012-09-24T22:37:20.701-04:00Tuberculosis is a Deal-BreakerAre City councillors listening to the USDA and Toronto Zoo professionals?<br>
The following excerpts are from the Toronto Star:<br><br>
<b>Toronto Star (24-Sep-2012):</b>
<blockquote>
The U.S. Department of Agriculture also found that two other elephants that died at PAWS within the past two years also tested positive for [tuberculosis] TB, according to necropsy reports. -- source: <a href="http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/article/1261689--toronto-zoo-elephants-still-here-almost-a-year-after-council-ordered-their-departure"><u>Toronto Star (24-Sep-2012)</u></a>
</blockquote>
<b>Toronto Star (19-Jun-2012):</b>
<blockquote>
Like Rebecca, Sabu, an Asian male, also had mycobacterium tuberculosis in his lung tissue. <b>USDA spokesperson David Sacks said Tuesday the agency considers that to mean positive and “infectious’’ cases of [tuberculosis] TB</b>. -- source: <a href="http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/article/1213953--toronto-zoo-elephants-move-south-delayed-yet-again"><u>Toronto Star (19-Jun-2012)</u></a>
</blockquote>
<b>Toronto Star (14-Jun-2012):</b>
<blockquote>City councillors who support sending the Toronto Zoo's African elephants to the PAWS sanctuary in California insist the three should go despite <b>a lab test this week showing that an elephant at the [PAWS] U.S. facility tested positive for [tuberculosis] TB</b>. -- source: <a href="http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/article/1213953--toronto-zoo-elephants-move-south-delayed-yet-again"><u>Toronto Star (14-Jun-2012)</u></a>
</blockquote>
<b>Document links:</b><br>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B5WlBT7uQTbwd2JsX0FpdWhTNjQ/edit"><u>California State Health documents</u></a></li>
<li><a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B5WlBT7uQTbwYVc2Ym5kRzVGb2c/edit"><u>PAWS photos</u></a></li>
<li><a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B5WlBT7uQTbwVUtIV3JkRXhYQ2s/edit"><u>PAWS elephant history</u></a></li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
-- source: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/groups/352417048117934/doc/469654259727545/"><u>Zoos Matter</u></a></blockquote>save3elephantshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09617166812577324443noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193864198623269750.post-8038417798345858142012-09-05T22:02:00.000-04:002019-11-06T19:15:09.377-05:00The Future of Toronto Zoo GovernanceHighlights of the Toronto Zoo Board meeting on September 5, 2012:
<p><b>Video - CTV news coverage:</b></p>
<blockquote>
<font color="red">(UPDATE: Video no longer available.)<br/>Click image to play video. News item starts at time marker 3:30.</font><br><br>
<a href="http://toronto.ctvnews.ca/video?clipId=754435&playlistId=1.943998&binId=1.815892" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="178" width="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkWgwPpmGj0ThLf7X97sRPdGWGuaFZmr1a0e76wQs5v3Kf9QM_3IWrF6XLr23Kh9H65iTde46GIl_JRLQUwMqtuWNxi3jv6MhulfY50ybAs1fj67gPm7j5Y_e1FcBVQtBDfbdv3HW6yqo/s320/120905+zoo+board+meeting.png"></a>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Official Report:</b></p>
<blockquote>
Click report cover image to view official report:<br>
<a href="https://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/zb/bgrd/backgroundfile-49834.pdf"><u>The Future of Toronto Zoo Governance</u></a><br><bR>
<a href="https://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2012/zb/bgrd/backgroundfile-49834.pdf" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="199" width="156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYVH92anh4WhHkYxb4JEq1PwDjthAtLElL3VlcgdaSZugmHy2WpBb9SxdzgR-CqBNThax3qyGGt2eqQiqEtlUuRoE8p9oQOrWPLUpZA0WbArvVPZ5N-WJXlQeFcyWL-Kwb9FKDFFpXlyU/s320/120905+report.png"></a>
</blockquote>
<p><b>Decision Document:</b></p>
<blockquote>
For the offical record of what the Board of Management of the Toronto Zoo decided at the meeting, see:
<ul>
<li><a href="http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewPublishedReport.do?function=getMinutesReport&meetingId=6705"><u>Minutes</u></a></li>
<li><a href="http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewPublishedReport.do?function=getDecisionDocumentReport&meetingId=6705"><u>Decision Document</u></a></li>
<li><a href="http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewAgendaItemHistory.do?item=2012.ZB15.1"><u>Agenda Item History</u></a></li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<p><b><cite>The Globe and Mail - Shakeup distances zoo from city council</cite>:</b></p>
<blockquote>“We have to take the politics out of this board,” said Toronto Councillor Mark Grimes, describing the involvement of city council in the decision to move the three elephants as a “fiasco.”<br><br>
-- source: <a href="http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/shakeup-distances-zoo-from-city-council/article4522178/"><u>The Globe and Mail, 5-Sep-2012</u></a>
</blockquote>
<p><b><cite>Toronto Star - Toronto Zoo board members seek to end city funding</cite>:</b></p>
<blockquote>
If approved by the city, the plan will create an oversight body called the Toronto Zoological Society headed by a 24-member board which will include leaders from the corporate world and the community, but no city councilors.<br><br>
-- source: <a href="https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/article/1251953--toronto-zoo-board-members-seek-to-end-city-funding"><u>Toronto Star, 5-Sep-2012</u></a>
</blockquote>
<p><b><cite>Scarborough Mirror - Toronto Zoo’s board of directors calls for change to facility’s governance</cite>:</b></p>
<blockquote>
Toronto Council forced the zoo to accept transfer of its elephants to a non-accredited California sanctuary after the board decided on sending the animals to another zoo. Dr. Cal Bricker, chairperson of the zoo board’s governance committee, said the episode was a perfect example of people using the board “as a political forum” and creating “a large distraction from doing what we have to do” to improve the zoo and draw in more partnerships and donations. “It’s unclear who runs the zoo” at present...<br><br>
-- source: <a href="https://www.toronto.com/news-story/1309930-toronto-zoo-s-board-of-directors-calls-for-change-to-facility-s-governance/"><u>Scarborough Mirror, 7-Sep-2012</u></a>
</blockquote>
<p><b><cite>Toronto Star - Zoo must go back to future</cite>:</b></p>
<blockquote>
"The model that the current zoo board proposes is very similar to the one upon which the zoo was founded in the early 1970s. I was the first membership secretary for the Metropolitan Toronto Zoological Society, a non-profit organization that operated the Metro Toronto Zoo (as it was then called) ..." -- Catherine Brydon.<br><br>
-- source: <a href="https://www.thestar.com/opinion/letters_to_the_editors/2012/09/10/zoo_must_go_back_to_future.html"><u>Toronto Star, 10-Sep-2012</u></a>
</blockquote>
save3elephantshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09617166812577324443noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193864198623269750.post-82734129247546230332012-08-30T21:43:00.000-04:002012-10-18T10:18:33.553-04:00"City Council Made a Jumbo Mistake" - Toronto StarThe following are excerpts from Toronto Star editorials. The excerpts are with regards to <a href="http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewAgendaItemHistory.do?item=2011.MM13.9"><u>Toronto City Council's 24-Oct-2011 decision to send the elephants to PAWS</u></a>.<br><br>
<b><cite>Toronto Zoo sale remains worth exploring:</cite></b>
<blockquote>
... The other big concern — that council continue to weigh in on animal treatment decisions better left to professionals — is far less defensible. <b>City council made a Jumbo mistake last year when it <a href="http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewAgendaItemHistory.do?item=2011.MM13.9"><u>voted to send three elephants to an unaccredited sanctuary</u></a> rather than an accredited zoo. In doing so, politicians rejected a decision by the zoo’s board and advice from the zoo’s own experts. That ill-judged move came at the urging of animal rights activists. As a result, the <a href="http://www.thestar.com/news/article/1163518--toronto-zoo-loses-accreditation-over-plan-to-ship-elephants-to-sanctuary"><u>Toronto Zoo was stripped of a prized accreditation</u></a> issued by the organization that sets standards for most major North American zoos.</b><br><br>
When the decision is made whether or not to privatize, maintaining council’s right to meddle shouldn’t be the deciding factor.<br><br>
-- source: <a href="http://www.thestar.com/opinion/editorials/article/1248863--toronto-zoo-sale-remains-worth-exploring"><u>Toronto Star</u></a> (29-Aug-2012)
</blockquote><br>
<b><cite>The Toronto Zoo’s departing elephants have squashed its accreditation. Thanks, Bob Barker.:</cite></b>
<blockquote>
<b>Toronto City Council made an elephantine mistake last fall and the zoo is suffering the consequences.</b> An international organization [<a href="http://www.aza.org/"><u>AZA</u></a>] setting standards for most major North American zoos has stripped the Toronto Zoo of a prized accreditation. And it’s because councillors rejected the advice of the zoo’s expert staff last October [2011] and opted to send three elephants to an unaccredited sanctuary.<br><br>
... Now the zoo has lost an accreditation it had since 1977. [Councillor] Berardinetti has condemned the AZA for attempting to tell Toronto “what to do with our elephants.” But that’s the organization’s job. Since in its view it is unacceptable to send elephants to an unaccredited facility, the AZA’s action should come as no surprise.<br><br>
-- source: <a href="http://www.thestar.com/opinion/editorials/article/1165620--the-toronto-zoo-s-departing-elephants-have-squashed-its-accreditation-thanks-bob-barker"><u>Toronto Star</u></a> (20-Apr-2012)
</blockquote><br>
You too can speak out about the elephant decision by signing the <a href="http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/save3elephants/"><u>petition</u></a>.<br><br>
Related post: <a href="http://save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/07/about.html"><u>About</u></a> (an overview of all the issues)<br>
Related post: <a href="http://save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/09/the-future-of-toronto-zoo-governance.html"><u>The Future of Toronto Zoo Governance</u></a> (proposed new governance model)<br>
Related post: <a href="http://www.save3elephants.blogspot.ca/2012/08/speaking-out-about-elephant-decision.html"><u>Speaking Out About the Elephant Decision</u></a>save3elephantshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09617166812577324443noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193864198623269750.post-67528275635957785372012-08-22T16:05:00.000-04:002012-09-18T17:08:57.090-04:00Speaking Out About the Elephant DecisionThe following are excerpts from the Toronto Star and from the Brantford Expositor with quotations from Vernon Presley (Toronto Zoo elephant keeper), Peter Evans (former Toronto zoo board member) and Wayne Jackson (former Toronto Zoo elephant keeper). These excerpts are with regards to <a href="http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewAgendaItemHistory.do?item=2011.MM13.9"><u>Toronto City Council's 24-Oct-2011 decision to send the elephants to PAWS</u></a>.<br><br>
<b>Toronto Star - Zoo keepers fuming over vote sending elephants to sanctuary (26-Oct-2011):</b>
<blockquote>... “No offence to any city (councillors) that made the decision, but they’re quite honestly not qualified to make a decision on what’s best for these elephants,’’ an angry Vernon Presley, one of seven elephant keepers at the [Toronto] zoo, told the Star.<br><br>
... Peter Evans, a former [Toronto] zoo board member for 12 years, called council’s decision a “slap in the face’’ to the current board and zoo staff. “The arrogance and lack of respect shown and the disregard for the process, is appalling,’’ Evans said.<br><br>
-- source: <a href="http://www.thestar.com/news/article/1076240--zoo-keepers-fuming-over-vote-sending-elephants-to-sanctuary"><u>Toronto Star</u></a> (26-Oct-2011)</blockquote><br>
<b>Brantford Expositor - The elephant man weighs in on zoo episode (24-Dec-2011):</b><br><br>
Wayne Jackson, former zookeeper at the Toronto Zoo, has worked with more than 100 elephants at several zoos around the world.
<blockquote>... "When it comes to such things as zoo animals, it should be the professionals at that particular institution that makes the decision on a particular animal, not someone who really knows nothing about the species or particular animal," said [Wayne] Jackson in his <a href="http://circusnospin.blogspot.ca/2011/11/from-wayne-jackson.html"><u>correspondence on [9-Nov-2011 to Mayor Ford]</u></a>.<br><br>
-- source: <a href="http://www.brantfordexpositor.ca/2011/12/24/the-elephant-man-weighs-in-on-zoo-episode"><u>Brantford Expositor</u></a> (24-Dec-2011)</blockquote><br>
<b>Global News - Elephant Keeper Speaks Out (Nov-2011)</b>
<blockquote><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TZqK_smd-i4"><u>Elephant Keeper Speaks Out</u></a> (video);<br>Vernon Presley, and Councillor and Vice-Chair Paul Ainslie.<br><br>
-- source: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TZqK_smd-i4"><u>Global News</u></a> (Nov-2011)
</blockquote><br>
You too can speak out about the elephant decision by signing the <a href="http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/save3elephants/"><u>petition</u></a>.save3elephantshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09617166812577324443noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193864198623269750.post-87911598602964566282012-08-17T15:18:00.000-04:002012-08-19T19:01:43.934-04:00Zoo's elephant move 'futile:' Lindsay LubyThe following are excerpts from The Globe and Mail and from Toronto Sun with quotations from Toronto City Councillor and Toronto Zoo Board member Gloria Lindsay Luby regarding the Toronto Zoo elephants:<br><br>
<b>Losing elephants could cost zoo its accreditation (18-Nov-2011)</b>
<blockquote>... the elephant decision [i.e.: <a href="http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewAgendaItemHistory.do?item=2011.MM13.9"><u>Toronto City Council's 24-Oct-2011 decision to send the elephants to PAWS</u></a>] rankled a few veteran zoo board members. “I was thoroughly disgusted,” said Councillor Gloria Lindsay Luby. “This motion usurped the board’s decision-making process. If you’re going to keep doing that, what’s the point of a zoo board? It’s sneaky, it’s unprecedented and not worthy of council.”<br><br>
-- <a href="http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/losing-elephants-could-cost-zoo-its-accreditation/article555101/"><u>The Globe and Mail, 18-Nov-2011</u></a></blockquote>
<b>Toronto elephants get more support (26-Apr-2012)</b>
<blockquote>
Board member, Councillor Gloria Lindsay Luby, said sending the elephants to PAWS “was the wrong decision” and “now, I just have to be certain we’re not sending them into something they’re going to get sick in and will shorten their life-span” since “because they’re not an accredited institution, they don’t really have any accountability.”<br><br>
-- <a href="http://www.torontosun.com/2012/04/26/zookeepers-fighting-elephant-walk"><u>Toronto Sun, 26-Apr-2012</u></a>
</blockquote>
<b>Zoo's elephant move 'futile:' Lindsay Luby (2-May-2012)</b>
<blockquote>
“This whole exercise we are going through has cost us time and money, staff time, the board’s time,” Lindsay Luby said Wednesday. “We’re not saving any money by sending them, I think that has been pretty clear so what are we getting out of it? Nothing, we’re losing three elephants.”<br><br>
Lindsay Luby said the actual cost of providing food and lodging for the elephants at the Toronto Zoo is quite small and there will be no saving in staff costs once the elephants are gone because those that care for the pachyderms will be redeployed elsewhere in the zoo.<br><br>
...
Lindsay Luby called the entire elephant affair an “exercise in futility for all concerned.”<br><br>
...
“It’s not a matter of Councillor Berardinetti being happy … it’s a matter of the vets being happy, they are the people with the expertise,” she said.</br><br>
-- <a href="http://www.torontosun.com/2012/05/02/zoos-elephant-move-futile-lindsay-luby"><u>Toronto Sun, 2-May-2012</u></a>
</blockquote>
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