Dear I am very disappointed to learn that the [name of sponsor] is hosting Roberts Brothers Circus. Many progressive communities have banned animal acts altogether within their city limits. Roberts Brothers Circus has failed to meet minimal federal standards for the care of animals used in exhibition as established in the Animal Welfare Act (AWA). The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has cited Roberts Bros. Circus for failure to provide an exercise plan for animals, sufficient veterinary care, safe enclosures, and adequate shelter. In addition, Roberts Bros. Circus keeps one solitary elephant. Considering that elephants are very social herd animals who experience stress when they are deprived of the companionship of other elephants, this essentially equates to a lifetime of solitary confinement for her. In the wild, a female elephant would remain with her mother and the herd for her entire life. Citations by USDA Inspectors include: May 15, 2000: The USDA cited Roberts Bros. for failure to provide adequate veterinary care to a 15-year-old pygmy goat exhibiting stiffness in her back legs. March 23, 2000: Roberts Bros. was cited a fourth time for failure to maintain the structural strength of the elephant transport trailer. The inspector noted that the floor was rusty and thin. July 13, 1999: Roberts Bros. was cited a third time for failure to maintain the structural strength of the elephant transport trailer. The inspector noted that the walls were rusted. June 21, 1999: Roberts Bros. was cited a second time for failure to maintain the structural strength of the elephant transport trailer. May 8, 1998: Roberts Bros. was cited for failure to maintain the structural strength of the elephant transport trailer. The inspector noted that a wall was damaged. The USDA inspector advised the circus to prevent a dog from continually barking at the elephant and not to allow the elephant to hold a sledgehammer during periods of public contact. March 23, 1998: A USDA inspection cited the circus for not having an exercise plan for the animals. September 14, 1993: The USDA cited Roberts Bros. for insufficient veterinary care. The animals' hooves were in need of trimming. January 1993: The USDA cited Roberts Bros. for failing to have a perimeter fence for animals, posing safety risks to the animals and the general public. They also cited the circus for barbed wire protruding into the goat and sheep pen, which put the animals at risk of injuring themselves. December 1991: The USDA cited Roberts Bros. for failing to have a program of veterinary care and to provide shelter for the animals. February 1990: The USDA cited Roberts Bros. for failure to provide shelter from the elements. Please, for the sake of the animals and the safety of the public, implement a formal policy against the use of animal acts as promotions and schedule only cruelty-free events. Thank you for your consideration in this matter.  Sincerely,   [Your Name] [Address - optional]