p2: How did you become involved in the animal rights movement?

Tom: Stuffed animals and Boy Scouts made me sympathetic towards nature, but PETA opened my eyes to a new way of life. Coming from a small West Texas town where BBQ and steak are everyday eats, learning that there is another way to live was a big eye opener.

p2: How long have you been a vegetarian, and why did you become one?

Gini: I have led a vegetarian lifestyle for about 12 years now. I learned where my meat was coming from and was appalled at everything involved. I also had a couple of schoolmates who were vegetarian, so it was great to have the support of friends.

p2: Why do you refuse to use real fur in your clothing line?

Tom and Gini: EVL ONE Clothing Co. will never use fur or any other animal byproducts because it is inhumane. Animals are companions, not food. It’s humans’ responsibility to protect animals, not exploit them.

p2: What would you say to designers who do use real fur in their clothing lines?

Tom: Pick on someone your own size. You are profiting from suffering, and I will not stand for it. If you insist on fur as a style, use synthetic materials—they are cheaper and more durable.

p2: What is your favorite animal? Why?

Gini: I love all animals, but I have a special affinity for dogs and whales. Dogs really are man's best friend and whales are such majestic creatures.

p2: Do you have any advice for kids wanting to go vegetarian?

Tom: Yes. Think for yourself, and have confidence in your own morals and decisions. Stand up for what you believe is right, be your own person, and make a difference in this world—don’t eat meat, and do support PETA!

Gini: Keep up the good fight. A vegetarian diet positively impacts your own body, animals, the environment, and shows others around you that it is possible to lead a healthy, compassionate lifestyle. As Pythagoras once said, "As long as Man continues to be the ruthless destroyer of lower living beings, he will never know health or peace. For as long as men massacre animals, they will kill each other. Indeed, he who sows the seed of murder and pain cannot reap joy and love."