I live in Tappen BC with my wife of 45 years, Diane. We’re “retired” & operate Twin Heart Animal Sanctuary. I was a professional gunsmith (& had been for 20 years) when I went Vegan.
What lead you to veganism? How long ago?
My wife joined Peta & the magazine’s convinced us 22 years ago.
When you first went vegan how did you phase out your non-vegan food, clothing and other items?
We quit eating all animal products cold “turkey”. We stopped buying leather AND wool clothes shortly afterwards.
Do you make any exceptions for yourself or if you are married with kids – your family, when it comes to veganism?
Our sons ate Vegan at home. We left it up to them when they were away.
Do you believe we should show children the process of how animals are turned into meats?
Absolutely!
What does being vegan mean to you?
With the exception of biting insects, we leave them alone. We’d starve here if we only shopped at Vegan stores, they’re scarce. Other than giving out business cards & trying to engage people about how the animal agriculture industry abuses animals, no, I treat everyone alike.
Is it every vegan’s duty to become an activist?
No. Going Vegan is huge & is enough for most folks. It takes a special person to put up with the abuse we activists often face.
How compassionate or empathetic are you towards non-vegans?
I treat most folks alike, but if their diet is causing health issues, I’ll point that out to them.
Any recommended Vegan books?
Who has time for books?
Any recommended social sites, blogs or pages?
Check Facebook & Twitter for local Vegan groups.
Do you have a favorite movie or videos or your own media that you want to share?
Earthlings, Cowspiracy, Forks Over Knives are all good.
What’s your favorite Vegan restaurant?
Please share your favorite vegan recipe?
Not sure I can pin down a favorite, I like simple, like steamed butternut squash, with beets, carrots, green beans, peas, whatever is about.
Some encouraging words for new Vegans?
We have spared almost 1,000 animal lives in 22 years & caused thousands of gallons less water to be consumed growing our food.
What is the vegan scene like in your city?
We have a loose-knit, small Vegan group on Facebook and two or three small restaurants that can do Vegan.
What personal recommendations can you make for people to meet other vegans?
Join local Vegan groups on Facebook, Twitter, etc.
What does living cruelty-free mean to you? Does it extend to the way you as a vegan treats other humans too?
Being Vegan has dramatically changed my interactions with people. I tend to spend less time with non-Vegan friends & my hobbies have changed to more compassionate endeavors.
What is the toughest Vegan item to find that you need?
Footwear.
Tastemaker Supply – 100% Vegan Footwear – Pictured – Men’s – Taste Confidence
Talk about a time when you struggled with your Veganism?
Sorry, I have never struggled with the choice to be Vegan. I feel great about my lifestyle.
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