The Corning Leader, December 4, 2001

Watkins Glen-- A dozen Schuyler County restaurant owners have taken a stance against cruel animal-rearing practices by pledging not to serve veal in their establishments.

They are taking part in a national campaign called "Say No to Veal." The Farm Sanctuary, an advocate for animal rights, began asking local restaurants in the spring not to sell white veal.

"Veal is regarded as one of the cruelest forms of animal agriculture. It's a real mainstream concern. Even people who eat other kinds of meat don't eat veal because of the way they are raised," said Laura Carver, of the Farm Sanctuary.

To raise veal, calves are either chained or placed in crates to prevent them from moving around and developing muscles. The inactivity makes their meat tender.

Carver said there are three types of veal - red, bob, and white. Red, or free-range, veal is considered the most humane because it comes from calves that are grain-fed and permitted to graze.

Bob veal calves are taken from their mothers and slaughtered very young, often after only a few days.

White veal calves, which are the focus of the campaign, are fed all-liquid diets deficient in nutrients to make them anemic and turn their flesh pale.

"It's kind of a mixed bag as far as what people know. Some people are very familiar and some really have no idea. I thought restaurant owners would be more aware but a lot of them didn't know," Carver said.

Doug Thayer, co-owner and manager of the Wildflower Cafe on Franklin Street said he has not served veal in his restaurant for at least six years. Although this campaign did not influence his decision, he said that he agrees with its principles.

"I'd already made up my mind. I'm not a big fan of veal myself. I try to be sensitive to the local market and accommodate vegetarians and vegans," he said.