PETA Says President Negligent in Failing to Order USDA to Confiscate Crippled and Beaten Elephants From Circuses 

For Immediate Release:
October 16, 2012

Contact:
David Perle 202-483-7382 

Hempstead, N.Y. -- Brandishing a sign that reads, "Mr. President: Tell USDA to Confiscate Beaten Circus Elephants," PETA's enraged "pachyderm"—who, although often mistaken for a Republican, doesn't belong to either party—will join PETA members in Hempstead today as President Barack Obama prepares to deliver a speech. The group is calling on the president to step in and order the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to do its duty and confiscate elephants used in circuses who are trained, disciplined, and punished with bullhooks (heavy weapons resembling fireplace pokers with a sharp steel hook at the end) in violation of the federal Animal Welfare Act (AWA).

When:   Tuesday, October 16, 3 p.m.

Where:  Hofstra University, David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex (east side of Hofstra Northern Boulevard between Hofstra Boulevard and Colonial Drive), Hempstead

Last year, PETA's complaints against Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus—"the cruelest show on Earth"—resulted in the biggest fine in circus history, $270,000. Cole Bros. Circus also recently paid a fine to settle numerous violations of the AWA.

"The government has taken an important step by fining these cruel circuses, but now it must confiscate the lame, overworked, and beaten elephants," says PETA Foundation Director of Captive Animal Law Enforcement Delcianna Winders. "PETA is calling on the president to urge the USDA to take action—and on parents to keep their children away from the circus."

PETA's elephant will appear at President Obama's events across the country.

Please note that PETA is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to stopping the abuse of animals and promoting healthy vegan eating. We take no position in support of or opposition to any political party or candidate for public office.

For more information and to view photos and video footage of Ringling trainers abusing elephants, please visit PETA's website RinglingBeatsAnimals.com.

'Chicken-Steak' Sandwich, Mock-Steak Sandwich, and Seitan Brisket Help Lincoln Financial Field Deliciously Sack Cholesterol and Cruelty

For Immediate Release:
October 16, 2012

Contact:
Shakira Croce 202-483-7382

Philadelphia -- What happens when rough-and-tumble football meets healthy and humane vegetarian food? Just ask Pro Bowl running back Arian Foster, who recently went vegan and has helped lead the Texans to the top of the AFC South. You can also find the answer when you visit the concession stands at any Philadelphia Eagles home game, which is why PETA has named Lincoln Financial Field number one in its survey of the top five vegetarian-friendly NFL stadiums in the country for the third straight year.

"As the Eagles battle for the top spot in the always-tough NFC East, Philly fans can take pride in the fact that Lincoln Financial Field tops PETA's list of vegetarian-friendly stadiums for the third year in a row, thanks to its awesome, ever-growing array of meat-free options, which include a "chicken-steak" sandwich, falafel, and seitan brisket," says PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman.

Visitors to the concession stands can choose from mock-steak and "chicken-steak" sandwiches, seitan brisket, veggie dogs and burgers, and veggie wraps. Fans in the premium areas can also enjoy spicy falafel, veggie hoagies, and pita chips with hummus.

Rounding out the top five are the New England Patriots' Gillette Stadium (second place), Oakland Raiders' O.Co Coliseum (third place), the Atlanta Falcons' Georgia Dome (fourth place), and the Detroit Lions' Ford Field (fifth place). Receiving honorable mention are the Kansas City Chiefs' Arrowhead Stadium, the St. Louis Rams' Edward Jones Dome, the San Francisco 49ers' Candlestick Park, and MetLife Stadium, home of the New York Jets and the New York Giants.

For more information, please visit PETA's blog.

Black-Bean Burger and Veggie Hot Dog Help Gillette Stadium Deliciously Sack Cholesterol and Cruelty

For Immediate Release:
October 16, 2012

Contact:
Kaitlynn Kelly 202-483-7382

Foxborough, Mass. -- What happens when rough-and-tumble football meets healthy and humane vegetarian food? Just ask Pro Bowl running back Arian Foster, who recently went vegan and has helped lead the Texans to the top of the AFC South. And you can find the answer when you visit the concession stands at any New England Patriots home game, which is why PETA has named Gillette Stadium number two in its survey of the top five vegetarian-friendly NFL stadiums in the country.

"Pats fans have more mouthwatering vegetarian options than Tom Brady has offensive weapons," says New England native, lifelong Pats fan, and PETA Associate Director Chris Holbein. "Gillette Stadium moved up from number four on PETA's list of vegetarian-friendly stadiums, thanks to its black-bean burger, grilled portobello mushroom burger, and grilled veggie flatbread wrap. Meanwhile, fans continue to devour the stadium's standby favorites—veggie dogs and veggie burgers."

The meat-free options at Gillette Stadium are nearly as satisfying as a sack of the opposing quarterback on third and long. Fans in general seating can choose from veggie dogs and burgers, black-bean burritos, grilled veggie wraps, and fresh-fruit plates. Fans in the premium areas can also enjoy a field-greens salad with herbed tofu, cranberries, and nuts.

Taking first place for the third straight year is Lincoln Financial Field, home of the Philadelphia Eagles. Its specialties include mock-steak sandwiches and faux-chicken sandwiches, seitan brisket, spicy falafel, hummus and pita chips, and grilled vegetable hoagies. Rounding out the top five are the Oakland Raiders' O.co Coliseum (third place), the Atlanta Falcons' Georgia Dome (fourth place), and the Detroit Lions' Ford Field (fifth place). Receiving honorable mention are the Kansas City Chiefs' Arrowhead Stadium, the St. Louis Rams' Edward Jones Dome, the San Francisco 49ers' Candlestick Park, and MetLife Stadium, home of the New York Jets and the New York Giants.

For more information, please visit PETA's blog.

PETA 'Pachyderm' to Hand Out Activity Books Following Exposé of Ringling's Violent Treatment of Baby Elephants

For Immediate Release:
October 16, 2012

Contact:
David Perle 202-483-7382 

Cleveland, Ohio -- An "elephant" with a bloody bandage wrapped around a head wound will greet students as they arrive at Waverly Elementary School and others as they leave Scranton Elementary School tomorrow. The elephant will hand out activity booklets and explain to kids and their parents that elephants used by Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus—which will open in Cleveland tomorrow night—are jabbed with spiked metal bullhooks and beaten to make them perform tricks that are difficult, confusing, and sometimes painful.

Morning:      8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 17, at Waverly Elementary School, 1810 W. 54^th St. (at the intersection of W. 54^th Street and Bridge Avenue), Cleveland

Afternoon:  2 p.m. on Wednesday, October 17, at Scranton Elementary School, 1991 Barber Ave. (at the intersection of Barber Avenue and Scranton Road), Cleveland

"If children knew how animals suffer behind the scenes, their smiles would quickly turn to frowns," says PETA Foundation Director of Captive Animal Law Enforcement Delcianna Winders.

PETA will share compelling photos with parents, which were taken inside Ringling's training center and expose how baby elephants used by Ringling are stretched out, slammed to the ground, gouged with steel-tipped bullhooks, and shocked with electric prods. These abusive sessions go on for several hours a day in order to force the baby elephants to learn to perform circus tricks out of fear of punishment.

Late last year, Ringling paid the largest fine in circus history—$270,000—for violations of the Animal Welfare Act.

For more information, please visit PETA's website RinglingBeatsAnimals.com. 

PETA Says President Negligent in Failing to Order USDA to Confiscate Crippled and Beaten Elephants From Circuses

For Immediate Release:
October 17, 2012

Contact:
David Perle 202-483-7382

Athens, Ohio -- Brandishing a sign that reads, "Mr. President: Tell USDA to Confiscate Beaten Circus Elephants," PETA's enraged "pachyderm"—who, although often mistaken for a Republican, doesn't belong to either party—will join PETA members in Athens on Wednesday as President Barack Obama prepares to deliver a speech. The group is calling on the president to step in and order the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to do its duty and confiscate elephants used in circuses who are trained, disciplined, and punished with bullhooks (heavy weapons resembling fireplace pokers with a sharp steel hook at the end) in violation of the federal Animal Welfare Act (AWA).

When:   Wednesday, October 17, 3 p.m.

Where:  Ohio University, at 1 University Terrace, Athens

Last year, PETA's complaints against Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus—"the cruelest show on Earth"—resulted in the biggest fine in circus history, $270,000. Cole Bros. Circus also recently paid a fine to settle numerous violations of the AWA.

"The government has taken an important step by fining these cruel circuses, but now it must confiscate the lame, overworked, and beaten elephants," says PETA Foundation Director of Captive Animal Law Enforcement Delcianna Winders. "PETA is calling on the president to urge the USDA to take action—and on parents to keep their children away from the circus."

PETA's elephant will appear at President Obama's events across the country.

Please note that PETA is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to stopping the abuse of animals and promoting healthy vegan eating. We take no position in support of or opposition to any political party or candidate for public office.

For more information and to view photos and video footage of Ringling trainers abusing elephants, please visit PETA's website RinglingBeatsAnimals.com.

Evidence Provided by PETA of Physical and Psychological Threats to Two Elephants Leads to Government Action

For Immediate Release:
October 17, 2012

Contact:
David Perle 202-483-7382

Panama City, Fla. -- After PETA filed two complaints with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) regarding the physical safety and psychological well-being of two elephants with Cole Bros. Circus, the circus has agreed to pay a $15,000 penalty to the USDA to settle formal charges against the circus, which is scheduled to perform in Panama City from October 25 to 28. The charges came after PETA pointed out that two elephants, Tina and Jewel, were hundreds of pounds underweight and had been deprived of adequate veterinary care, including for a protruding spine. They were also sent to an unlicensed exhibitor with a long history of violating the Animal Welfare Act (AWA). The more than 10 charges that Cole Bros. settled with the USDA include failure to provide the elephants with adequate veterinary care and failure to hire personnel capable of caring for them.

In 2009, the USDA felt that the case was so serious that the agency confiscated Jewel and also removed Tina. However, Cole Bros. continues to use other elephants in old-fashioned circus acts, and PETA sent the USDA alarming video footage taken at Cole Bros. Circus in Lanesboro, Mass., on June 17, 2011, that shows a handler who repeatedly struck an elephant using a bullhook (a rod with a solid, steel-pointed end that resembles a fireplace poker), including forcefully hitting the animal twice in the face. Also in June of last year, the USDA cited an elephant exhibitor with Cole Bros. for multiple violations of the AWA, including the use of "excessive force while tugging at" an elephant by digging a bullhook into her flesh. Elephant trainer Tim Frisco, who was caught on camera viciously beating terrified elephants and shocking them with electric prods, just joined Cole Bros.

"The USDA's action against Cole Bros. should put all animal circuses on notice that, sooner or later, they must pay for animal abuse," says PETA Foundation Director of Captive Animal Law Enforcement Delcianna Winders. "Since children love animals, the last place that parents and grandparents should take them to is the circus."

The USDA's original complaint—filed after the USDA was contacted by PETA as well as by In Defense of Animals—and the settlement agreement are available upon request. For more information, please visit PETA.org.

A list of the violations named in the charges follows.

The violations of the Animal Welfare Act for which Cole Bros. Circus was ordered to pay a $15,000 penalty include the following:

Elephants

• Failure to provide adequate veterinary care to two underweight elephants, including one with a prominent spine and sunken body image
• Failure to have records for vet exams and tuberculosis tests
• Failure to handle an elephant in a way that minimizes the risk of harm to the public and the elephant
• Failure to employ personnel capable of caring for elephants
• Failure to house elephants at a facility that could provide for their needs
• Failure to follow recommendations of an elephant specialist
• Failure to store medications properly
• Transporting elephants to another person who was not equipped to care for them against the recommendation of an elephant specialist
• Inadequate enclosures
• Handlers who lacked training and knowledge and weren't regularly on site   

Tigers

• Employing a handler who lacked training, knowledge, and experience
• Selling tigers without a dealer license

Group Will Give Students a Feel for Intensive Confinement That May Have Them Going Vegan

For Immediate Release:
October 17, 2012

Contact:
Shakira Croce 202-483-7382 

Pittsburgh -- Most students at the University of Pittsburgh have probably never been to a factory farm, so peta2—PETA's youth division—is bringing factory farms to them. As part of a national college tour, the group will set up a 20-foot-by-30-foot inflatable tent, inside of which students can confine themselves to sow gestation crates—which are so small that pregnant pigs can't even turn around or take two steps—and watch "Glass Walls," a video exposé of the meat industry narrated by PETA pal Paul McCartney, who famously said, "If slaughterhouses had glass walls, everyone would be vegetarian." Students will also receive samples of vegan foods and free vegetarian/vegan starter kits with recipes and tips for helping the Earth, animals, and their own arteries by going meat- and dairy-free.

When:   Thursday, October 18–Friday, October 19, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Where:  Bigelow Lawn, outside the William Pitt Union, University of Pittsburgh

"College is the time to consider new ideas, and peta2's factory-farm display gives students an idea of how much suffering goes into a chicken nugget or a beef burger," says peta2 Associate Director Marta Holmberg. "Once students see what cows, chickens, and other animals go through on factory farms, in transit, and in slaughterhouses, they'll want to load up their cafeteria trays with humane vegan selections."

Pigs, chickens, fish, and cows feel pain and fear just as intensely as do the animals who share our homes with us, yet they are abused in ways that would be illegal if dogs and cats were the victims. Chickens and turkeys have their throats cut while they're still conscious, piglets are castrated and have their tails cut off without being given any painkillers, and calves raised for their milk have their horns burned out of their skulls. On the decks of fishing boats, fish suffocate or are cut open while they're still alive.

For more information, please visit peta2.com.

Pro-Vegan Demonstration Mimics Meat Packages

For Immediate Release:
October 17, 2012

Contact:
Sophia Charchuk 202-483-7382

Cincinnati -- Covered with clear plastic and lying nearly naked on large trays in front of signs that read, "Meat Is Murder," PETA members will mimic meat packages on Thursday in Cincinnati. Other PETA members will distribute DVDs narrated by Paul McCartney, which feature real slaughterhouse video footage, and leaflets to passersby. The activists aim to demonstrate that all animals—not just humans—are made of flesh, blood, and bone; that animals have the same senses and range of emotions that humans do; and that when you eat meat, you are eating a corpse. The packages will contain oversized price stickers that warn, "Billions of Animals Are Abused and Violently Killed Because You Eat Meat. Get Help! Visit PETA.org."

When:   Thursday, October 18, 12 noon

Where:  Tri State Beef Company, 2124 Baymiller St. (at the corner of Baymiller and Clearwater streets), Cincinnati

Chickens, fish, cows, and pigs feel pain and fear just as intensely as the animals who share our homes with us do, yet they are abused in ways that would be illegal if dogs and cats were the victims. On today's factory farms, chickens and turkeys have their throats cut while they're still conscious, piglets are castrated and have their tails cut off without being given any painkillers, and cows are hung upside down and are often skinned while they're still able to feel pain. On the decks of fishing boats, fish suffocate or are cut open while they're still alive.

Heart disease, diabetes, strokes, and cancer have been conclusively linked to the consumption of meat and other animal-derived products—all risks that can be reduced through lifestyle changes, such as adopting a low-fat vegan diet.

"We are challenging people to really think about what 'meat' is," says PETA campaigner Matt Bruce. "When you eat flesh, you're eating the corpse of an abused animal who did not want to die. We're encouraging kind consumers to give vegan meals a try."

For more information, please visit PETA.org.

Black-Bean Burger and Vegan Chocolate Fondue Help O.co Coliseum Deliciously Sack Cholesterol and Cruelty

For Immediate Release:
October 17, 2012

Contact:
Sophia Charchuk 202-483-7382

Oakland, Calif. -- What happens when rough-and-tumble football meets healthy and humane vegetarian food? Just ask Pro Bowl running back Arian Foster, who recently went vegan and has helped lead the Texans to the top of the AFC South. Or you can find the answer when you visit the concession stands at any Oakland Raiders home game, which is why PETA has named O.co Coliseum number three in its survey of the top five vegetarian-friendly NFL stadiums in the country.

"Rookie head coach Dennis Allen may be experiencing some growing pains in Oakland, but Raider Nation has cause for celebration: O.co Coliseum made PETA's list of the top five vegetarian-friendly stadiums for the fifth year in a row," says PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman. "With a veggie dog, black-bean burger, and veggie burrito leading the charge, fans of the Silver and Black can turn their health around by enjoying delicious, protein-packed vegetarian meals."

The meat-free options at O.co Coliseum are nearly as satisfying as a sack of the opposing quarterback on third and long. Visitors to the concession stands can choose from veggie dogs and burgers, veggie burritos and burrito bowls, and colorful fruit salads. Fans in the premium areas can also enjoy chipotle black-bean burgers, veggie fajitas, grilled portobello sandwiches, hummus platters, grilled vegetables, baked potatoes, fresh salads, and the incomparable vegan chocolate fondue.

Candlestick Park received an honorable mention for having a good selection of meat-free meals and snacks, including a veggie frankfurter and a vegetarian burrito.

Taking first place for the third straight year is Lincoln Financial Field, home of the Philadelphia Eagles. Its specialties include mock-steak sandwiches and faux-chicken sandwiches, seitan brisket, spicy falafel, hummus and pita chips, and grilled vegetable hoagies. Rounding out the top five are the New England Patriots' Gillette Stadium (second place), the Atlanta Falcons' Georgia Dome (fourth place), and the Detroit Lions' Ford Field (fifth place). Also receiving honorable mention are the Kansas City Chiefs' Arrowhead Stadium, the St. Louis Rams' Edward Jones Dome, and MetLife Stadium, home of the New York Jets and the New York Giants.

For more information, please visit PETA's blog.

PETA Says President Negligent in Failing to Order USDA to Confiscate Crippled and Beaten Elephants From Circuses

For Immediate Release:
October 17, 2012

Contact:
Sophia Charchuk 202-483-7382

Manchester, N.H. -- Brandishing a sign that reads, "Mr. President: Tell USDA to Confiscate Beaten Circus Elephants," PETA's enraged "pachyderm"—who, although often mistaken for a Republican, doesn't belong to either party—will protest in Manchester on Thursday as President Barack Obama prepares to deliver a speech. The group is calling on the president to step in and order the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to do its duty and confiscate elephants used in circuses who are trained, disciplined, and punished with bullhooks (heavy weapons resembling fireplace pokers with a sharp steel hook at the end) in violation of the federal Animal Welfare Act (AWA).

When:   Thursday, October 18, 8 a.m.

Where:  Veteran's Memorial Park, 889 Elm St., Manchester

Last year, PETA's complaints against Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus—"the cruelest show on Earth"—resulted in the biggest fine in circus history, $270,000. Cole Bros. Circus also recently paid a fine to settle numerous violations of the AWA.

"The government has taken an important step by fining these cruel circuses, but now it must confiscate the lame, overworked, and beaten elephants," says PETA Foundation Director of Captive Animal Law Enforcement Delcianna Winders. "PETA is calling on the president to urge the USDA to take action—and on parents to keep their children away from the circus."

PETA's elephant will appear at President Obama's events across the country.

Please note that PETA is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to stopping the abuse of animals and promoting healthy vegan eating. We take no position in support of or opposition to any political party or candidate for public office.

For more information and to view photos and video footage of Ringling trainers abusing elephants, please visit PETA's website RinglingBeatsAnimals.com.

Prolonged Suffering of Injured Animals Is in Apparent Violation of State Law, Says Group

For Immediate Release:
October 17, 2012

Contact:
David Perle 202-483-7382

Seattle -- This morning, PETA sent a letter to Chief John Batiste of the Washington State Patrol urging him to open a criminal investigation into the deaths of at least 20 cows and the suffering of others after a cattle transport container fell from a truck being hauled for J & H Express on Interstate 90 in Seattle on Saturday. The animals were piled atop each other, covered with feces, and apparently deprived of veterinary care for up to six hours while crews righted the container and hauled the animals to Sunnyside, Wash.

In its letter, PETA points out that Washington law states that whoever recklessly or with criminal negligence inflicts unnecessary suffering or pain upon an animal or fails to provide an animal he or she owns with necessary medical attention commits the offense of cruelty to animals in the second degree. PETA also notes a state animal transport law that may have been violated. In addition, the J & H Express driver was cited for traveling too fast and failing to secure his load.

"The terror and pain that these animals experienced as the container slid along the highway on its side and in the hours after the crash are difficult to imagine," says PETA Senior Vice President of Cruelty Investigations Daphna Nachminovitch. "Laws are in place to protect animals from this type of cruelty and negligence, and PETA is calling on the Washington State Patrol to hold everyone responsible for the suffering accountable."

Photographs from the incident show the filthy conditions that the cattle were forced to endure inside the container.

For more information, please visit PETA's blog. 

PETA's letter to Chief John Batiste of the Washington State Patrol follows.

October 17, 2012

Chief John R. Batiste
Washington State Patrol

Dear Chief Batiste,

I hope this letter finds you doing well. This communication serves as a request for the Washington State Patrol (WSP) to investigate and, as appropriate, bring cruelty-to-animals and unsafe-animal-transport charges against the person(s) responsible for the deaths and prolonged suffering of up to 70 cattle following the October 6, 2012, crash of a transport container on Interstate 90 in Seattle.

The container unhinged and slid 200 yards along the road when driver Nikolay Ivanovich Karavayev, 52, of Bellingham, Wash., rounded a curve while driving for J & H Express, Inc. Video of the gruesome scene shows struggling survivors kicking their limbs and hooves, which were stuck in the container's grated sides, and the animals were apparently denied emergency veterinary care. WSP responders' photographs show cattle piled atop one another and covered with feces. About three hours passed before the cattle—who had already endured many hours of transport from Hawaii—were driven three additional hours to Sunnyside, Wash. At least 20 of the cattle were evidently dead upon arrival. Karavayev was cited for traveling too fast and failing to secure his load. WSP personnel found that he "failed to lock down all four corners" of the container given that two of its locking pins "had no damage or marking on them."

RCWA §16.52.207 provides that whoever recklessly or with criminal negligence inflicts unnecessary suffering upon an animal or fails to provide an animal he or she owns with necessary medical attention, and the animal suffers unnecessary or unjustifiable physical pain as a result, commits the offense of animal cruelty in the second degree. RCWA §16.52.080 provides that any person who willfully causes animals to be transported in a manner that jeopardizes their safety or that of the public is guilty of a misdemeanor.

None of the conduct described above illustrates the accepted husbandry practices used in the commercial raising or slaughtering of livestock that RCWA §16.52.185 protects from prosecution as cruel. For example, the American Meat Institute Foundation requires that slaughterhouses have emergency plans in place for animals involved in accidents, including unloading at alternate locations. Similarly, the Washington Dairy Products Commission requires that cattle be handled, moved, and transported in a manner that avoids unnecessary pain or distress. I hope you agree that this incident merits criminal investigation. Thank you for your time and consideration. 

Sincerely,

Dan Paden
Senior Research Associate
Cruelty Investigations Department

Scheme Would Mean an Agonizing Death for Countless Birds and Do Nothing to Control the Pigeon Population, Warns Group

For Immediate Release:
October 18, 2012

Contact:
David Perle 202-483-7382

Hannibal, Mo. -- This morning, PETA sent an urgent letter to Hannibal Mayor Roy Hark, City Manager Jeff LaGarce, and the Hannibal City Council urging them to cancel the ill-conceived plan to have an exterminator poison pigeons on a massive scale by putting the poison Avitrol in bait stations on the rooftops of several city buildings. In its letter, PETA points out that Avitrol causes intense pain, convulsions, and an agonizing death as birds topple off buildings or crash to the ground in mid-flight. PETA also explains that as long as conditions remain attractive to pigeons and food is available to them, more birds will simply move in to fill the void left by those who are killed—often resulting in an increase in the pigeon population.

"If Hannibal officials have decided that poisoning is the best way to control the pigeon population, they simply haven't done their homework," says PETA Senior Vice President of Cruelty Investigations Daphna Nachminovitch. "It's unconscionable that the city would subject birds to agony and its own citizens to the spectacle of having to watch birds convulse in the streets when humane, proven, and cost-effective measures are readily available."

PETA also points out that the reported $4,280 total cost of the plan to city taxpayers would be better spent on proven, nonlethal methods of bird control—including a citywide ban on feeding wildlife.

For more information, please visit PETA.org. 

PETA's letter to Hannibal Mayor Roy Hark follows:

October 18, 2012

To:       The Honorable Mayor Roy Hark, City of Hannibal
    City Manager Jeff LaGarce, City of Hannibal
    Hannibal City Council

From:    Kristin Simon, Senior Cruelty Caseworker, PETA

Re:       Bird poison

PETA is an international animal protection organization with more than 3 million members and supporters globally. Our headquarters has received complaints from area residents who are concerned because the City of Hannibal plans to use poison to kill unwanted birds. Respectfully, the use of avicides (bird poisons) is extremely cruel. They attack and impair the nervous system, causing disorientation, erratic flight, tremors, and convulsions before an agonizing death. Pest-control companies often misleadingly describe Avitrol (a commonly used avicide) as a "harmless flock-dispersing agent," while in fact, it is a notorious poison that causes immeasurable suffering. Furthermore, Hannibal residents will be horrified to witness convulsing, dying birds falling from the sky and nearby rooftops if poison is set out.

Please know that removing or killing birds will only backfire. A spike in the food supply results, and this prompts accelerated breeding among survivors and newcomers. You will see increased populations. The key is to make areas unattractive or inaccessible and to target food sources. We suggest the following tried and true methods:

• Install anti-roosting products (e.g., bird spikes, slides, and coils) available from BirdBarrier.com. This company provides free consultations and does the installation.
• Install statues of natural predators (e.g., owls, hawks, etc.) and sonic devices to further deter pigeons from roosting. Mylar streamers, flags, and balloons also work to keep birds away. Rotate and/or relocate these devices regularly to prevent birds from becoming used to them. These can be found in garden centers at home-improvement stores.
• Implement a wildlife feeding prohibition, keep trash and garbage tightly contained, and remove or cover artificial sources of standing water.

We stand ready to advise further regarding widely employed methods that are successful at keeping birds away permanently. May we hear from you soon?

On behalf of our thousands of members and supporters in Missouri, thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Kristin Simon
Senior Cruelty Caseworker
Cruelty Investigations Department

Upscale Management Company Shows a Big Heart for Small Animals

For Immediate Release:
October 18, 2012

Contact:
David Perle 202-483-7382

Boston -- Boston-based Millennium Partners Sports Club Management LLC is getting an award for a practice that has nothing to do with treadmills or "six-pack abs." That's because after learning from PETA about the cruelty of using sticky glue traps to kill mice, Millennium—which is known for its upscale office and hotel developments as well as its luxury sports clubs—has banned the devices from its locations in Boston, Miami, New York City, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C. For rejecting the cruel pest-control method, Millennium will receive a Compassionate Company Award from PETA and a big box of vegan chocolates shaped like mice.

"It's wonderful to see one of the most prestigious sports-club companies in the country take the suffering of the smallest and most vulnerable animals into consideration," says PETA Senior Vice President Daphna Nachminovitch. "Thanks to Millennium's decision to ban glue traps, mice, birds, and other small animals will be spared a terrifying and painful end."

Glue traps are pieces of plastic or cardboard coated with a strong adhesive. After getting caught in the traps, panicked animals struggle to escape—often breaking their bones and ripping the flesh, fur, or feathers off their bodies in the process. Some animals chew off their own limbs in an attempt to free themselves, and others get their noses, mouths, or beaks stuck in the glue. The more the animals struggle, the more they stick to the traps, only to die from exhaustion, injury, shock, dehydration, asphyxiation, or blood loss. Glue traps are also ineffective and fail to address the source of the problem—more mice simply move in to take the place of the animals who have been killed.

Millennium Partners joins a growing list of major companies that have pledged not to use glue traps after hearing from PETA, including a majority of the nation's top banks and other financial institutions.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.

Vegetarian Sloppy Joe and Veggie Burger Help the Georgia Dome Deliciously Sack Cholesterol and Cruelty

For Immediate Release:
October 18, 2012

Contact:
Shakira Croce 202-483-7382

Atlanta -- What happens when rough-and-tumble football meets healthy and humane vegetarian food? Just ask Pro Bowl running back Arian Foster, who recently went vegan and has helped lead the Texans to the top of the AFC South. You can also find the answer when you visit the concession stands at any Atlanta Falcons home game, which is why PETA has named the Georgia Dome number four in its survey of the top five vegetarian-friendly NFL stadiums in the country.

"Matty Ice is playing like an MVP, and the MVP of the Georgia Dome's concession stands may be the mock-meat sloppy joe, made with peppers, onions, molasses, and brown-sugar barbecue sauce. Also available and fresh off the burner (no Michael Turner pun intended) are veggie dogs and veggie burgers, possibly the best duo since Roddy White and Julio Jones," says PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman. "You don't have to pose in a PETA ad like Tony Gonzalez did to enjoy these options."

Visitors to the concession stands can choose from the vegetarian sloppy joe, veggie dogs and burgers, PB&J, veggie cups with hummus, and fruit cups. Fans in the suite areas can also enjoy summer vegetable and tofu flatbread with chipotle Vegenaise; guacamole, white bean hummus, and spicy salsa served with pita and tortillas; and salad with fried green tomatoes, green beans, and herbed-champagne dressing. 

Taking first place for the third straight year is Lincoln Financial Field, home of the Philadelphia Eagles. Its specialties include mock-steak sandwiches, faux-chicken sandwiches, seitan brisket, spicy falafel, hummus and pita chips, and grilled vegetable hoagies. Rounding out the top five are the New England Patriots' Gillette Stadium (second place), Oakland Raiders' O.co Coliseum (third place), and the Detroit Lions' Ford Field (fifth place). Receiving honorable mention are the Kansas City Chiefs' Arrowhead Stadium, the St. Louis Rams' Edward Jones Dome, the San Francisco 49ers' Candlestick Park, and MetLife Stadium, home of the New York Jets and the New York Giants.

For more information, please visit PETA's blog.

PETA Says President Has Failed to Order USDA to Confiscate Crippled and Beaten Elephants From Circuses

For Immediate Release:
October 18, 2012

Contact:
David Perle 202-483-7382

Washington -- Brandishing a sign that reads, "Mr. President: Tell the USDA to Confiscate Beaten Circus Elephants," PETA's enraged "elephant"—who, although often mistaken for a Republican, doesn't belong to either party—has been dogging President Barack Obama at his public events and will continue to follow him to events around the country. PETA is calling on the president to step in and order the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to do its duty and confiscate elephants used in circuses who are trained, disciplined, and punished with bullhooks (heavy weapons resembling fireplace pokers with a sharp steel hook at the end) in violation of the federal Animal Welfare Act (AWA).

So far, PETA's elephant has followed the president to Miami; Denver; Cleveland; Madison, Wis.; Hempstead, N.Y.; and Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Keene, Calif., among other cities.

Last year, PETA's complaints against Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus—"the cruelest show on Earth"—resulted in the biggest fine in circus history, $270,000. Cole Bros. Circus also recently paid a fine to settle numerous violations of the AWA.

"The government has taken an important step by fining these cruel circuses, but now it must confiscate the lame, overworked, and beaten elephants," says PETA Foundation Director of Captive Animal Law Enforcement Delcianna Winders. "PETA is calling on the president to urge the USDA to take action—and on parents to keep their children away from the circus."

Please note that PETA is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to stopping the abuse of animals and promoting healthy vegan eating. We take no position in support of or opposition to any political party or candidate for public office.

Photos and video footage PETA's campaign are available. For more information, please visit PETA.org.

Vegan Sloppy Joes and Veggie Burger Help Ford Field Deliciously Sack Cholesterol and Cruelty

For Immediate Release:
October 18, 2012

Contact:
Sophia Charchuk 202-483-7382

Detroit -- What happens when rough-and-tumble football meets healthy and humane vegetarian food? Just ask Pro Bowl running back Arian Foster, who recently went vegan and has helped lead the Texans to the top of the AFC South. Or you can find the answer when you visit the concession stands at any Detroit Lions home game, which is why PETA has named Ford Field number five in its survey of the top five vegetarian-friendly NFL stadiums in the country.

"The Lions may be struggling in the standings, but Ford Field has climbed in our rankings of the best meat-free fare," says PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman. "Outstanding dishes, such as vegan sloppy Joes, hummus with vegetables, and fruit cups with chili lime salt dominate the concession stands here, the same way that Megatron dominates on the field."

The meat-free options at Ford Field are nearly as satisfying as a sack of the opposing quarterback on third and long. Visitors to the concession stands can also choose from veggie burgers, veggie chopped salads, and vegan energy bars.

Taking first place for the third straight year is Lincoln Financial Field, home of the Philadelphia Eagles. Its specialties include mock-steak sandwiches, faux-chicken sandwiches, seitan brisket, spicy falafel, hummus and pita chips, and grilled vegetable hoagies. Rounding out the top five are the New England Patriots' Gillette Stadium (second place), the Oakland Raiders' O.co Coliseum (third place), and the Atlanta Falcons' Georgia Dome (fourth place). Receiving honorable mention are the Kansas City Chiefs' Arrowhead Stadium, the St. Louis Rams' Edward Jones Dome, the San Francisco 49ers' Candlestick Park, and MetLife Stadium, home of the New York Jets and the New York Giants.

For more information, please visit PETA's blog.

Protesters Will Draw Attention to Ringling's Violent Treatment of Baby Elephants

For Immediate Release:
October 18, 2012

Contact:
David Perle 202-483-7382 

Champaign, Il. -- An "injured elephant" will lead PETA protesters on Friday as Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus prepares for its opening show in Champaign. The protesters will display signs that read, "This Is Ringling Baby-Elephant Training," alongside banners emblazoned with compelling photos taken inside Ringling's training center. The photos expose how baby elephants used by Ringling are stretched out, slammed to the ground, gouged with steel-tipped bullhooks, and shocked with electric prods. These abusive sessions go on for several hours a day in order to force the baby elephants to learn to perform circus tricks out of fear of punishment. Actor Alec Baldwin recently narrated a video exposé that focuses on how circuses abuse elephants.

When:    Friday, October 19, 12 noon

Where:  Assembly Hall at the University of Illinois, at the intersection of First Street and Kirby Avenue, Champaign

"Champaign residents would run screaming from the big top if they knew how baby elephants are violently forced to perform difficult, confusing, and sometimes painful tricks," says PETA Foundation Director of Captive Animal Law Enforcement Delcianna Winders. "Since children love animals, the last place that parents and grandparents should take them to is the circus."

Late last year, Ringling Bros. paid the largest fine in circus history—$270,000—for violations of the Animal Welfare Act (AWA). In addition, the U.S. Department of Agriculture recently opened a formal investigation into Ringling for further violations of the AWA.

For more information, please visit PETA's website RinglingBeatsAnimals.com. 

Group Will Give Students a Feel for Intensive Confinement That May Have Them Going Vegan

For Immediate Release:
October 19. 2012

Contact:
Shakira Croce 202-483-7382  

Columbia, S.C. -- Most students at the University of South Carolina have probably never been to a factory farm, so peta2—PETA's youth division—is bringing factory farms to them. As part of a national college tour, the group will set up a 20-foot-by-30-foot inflatable tent, inside of which students can confine themselves to sow gestation crates—which are so small that pregnant pigs can't even turn around or take two steps—and watch "Glass Walls," a video exposé of the meat industry narrated by PETA pal Paul McCartney, who famously said, "If slaughterhouses had glass walls, everyone would be vegetarian." Students will also receive samples of vegan foods and free vegetarian/vegan starter kits with recipes and tips for helping the Earth, animals, and their own arteries by going meat- and dairy-free.

When:   Monday, October 22, 10 a.m.–2 p.m 

Where:  Outside Russell House, University of South Carolina campus, Columbia

"College is the time to consider new ideas, and peta2's factory-farm display gives students an idea of how much suffering goes into a chicken nugget or a beef burger," says peta2 Associate Director Marta Holmberg. "Once students see what cows, chickens, and other animals go through on factory farms, in transit, and in slaughterhouses, they'll want to load up their cafeteria trays with humane vegan selections."

Pigs, chickens, fish, and cows feel pain and fear just as intensely as do the animals who share our homes with us, yet they are abused in ways that would be illegal if dogs and cats were the victims. Chickens and turkeys have their throats cut while they're still conscious, piglets are castrated and have their tails cut off without being given any painkillers, and calves raised for their milk have their horns burned out of their skulls. On the decks of fishing boats, fish suffocate or are cut open while they're still alive.

For more information, please visit peta2.com.

Evidence Provided by PETA of Physical and Psychological Threats to Two Elephants Leads to Government Action

For Immediate Release:
October 19, 2012

Contact:
David Perle 202-483-7382

Valdosta, Ga. -- After PETA filed two complaints with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) regarding the physical safety and psychological well-being of two elephants with Cole Bros. Circus, the circus has agreed to pay a $15,000 penalty to the USDA to settle formal charges against the circus, which is scheduled to perform in Valdosta on October 29 and 30. The charges came after PETA pointed out that two elephants, Tina and Jewel, were hundreds of pounds underweight and had been deprived of adequate veterinary care, including for a protruding spine. They were also sent to an unlicensed exhibitor with a long history of violating the Animal Welfare Act (AWA). The more than 10 charges that Cole Bros. settled with the USDA include failure to provide the elephants with adequate veterinary care and failure to hire personnel capable of caring for them.

In 2009, the USDA felt that the case was so serious that the agency confiscated Jewel and also removed Tina. However, Cole Bros. continues to use other elephants in old-fashioned circus acts, and PETA sent the USDA alarming video footage taken at Cole Bros. Circus in Lanesboro, Mass., on June 17, 2011, that shows a handler who repeatedly struck an elephant using a bullhook (a rod with a solid, steel-pointed end that resembles a fireplace poker), including forcefully hitting the animal twice in the face. Also in June of last year, the USDA cited an elephant exhibitor with Cole Bros. for multiple violations of the AWA, including the use of "excessive force while tugging at" an elephant by digging a bullhook into her flesh. Elephant trainer Tim Frisco, who was caught on camera viciously beating terrified elephants and shocking them with electric prods, just joined Cole Bros.

"The USDA's action against Cole Bros. should put all animal circuses on notice that, sooner or later, they must pay for animal abuse," says PETA Foundation Director of Captive Animal Law Enforcement Delcianna Winders. "Since children love animals, the last place that parents and grandparents should take them to is the circus."

For more information, please visit PETA.org.

A list of the violations named in the charges follows.

The violations of the Animal Welfare Act for which Cole Bros. Circus was ordered to pay a $15,000 penalty include the following:

Elephants

• Failure to provide adequate veterinary care to two underweight elephants, including one with a prominent spine and sunken body image
• Failure to have records for vet exams and tuberculosis tests
• Failure to handle an elephant in a way that minimizes the risk of harm to the public and the elephant
• Failure to employ personnel capable of caring for elephants
• Failure to house elephants at a facility that could provide for their needs
• Failure to follow recommendations of an elephant specialist
• Failure to store medications properly
• Transporting elephants to another person who was not equipped to care for them against the recommendation of an elephant specialist
• Inadequate enclosures
• Handlers who lacked training and knowledge and weren't regularly on site   

Tigers

• Employing a handler who lacked training, knowledge, and experience
• Selling tigers without a dealer license

Bird Trapped in Fishing Line and Dangling by One Wing High Above the Ground Brought to Safety and Released Back Into the Wild

For Immediate Release:
October 19, 2012

Contact:
Kaitlynn Kelly 202-483-7382 

Palmer, Mass. — After police arrived at the scene of a long-eared owl who was dangling upside down by one wing from a power line between two trees—45 feet in the air—they, in turn, called National Grid. Line worker David Bombard, who responded to the call, used his bucket truck to reach the owl. After seeing that the animal was ensnared in fishing line, Bombard placed a net under the bird and cut the line. The owl—who was promptly named Bumby after Bombard—was taken to an animal hospital, where the remainder of the fishing line was removed. Unharmed after what must have been a harrowing ordeal, Bumby was later released back into the wild.

For going above and beyond the call of duty to rescue a terrified owl, who now has a new lease on life, Bombard will receive PETA's Compassionate Action Award.

"With his kind and determined effort to rescue an owl, David Bombard has reminded Palmer residents that all animals are deserving of their kindness," says PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman. "His actions will inspire others to come to the aid of animals in need."

Although this story had a happy ending, PETA reminds residents that fishing is devastating not only to fish, who endure agonizing deaths when impaled by metal hooks, but also nearby wildlife, who can become ensnared in and strangle to death on carelessly discarded fishing line and other equipment.

Bombard will receive a framed certificate, a letter of appreciation, and a box of vegan chocolates from PETA.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.