Animal Lovers Blow Whistle on Sale of Cruelly Produced Fatty Liver After Statewide Ban

For Immediate Release:
November 28, 2012

Contact:
Kaitlynn Kelly 202-483-7382

Hermosa Beach, Calif. -- When California's ban on foie gras sales went into effect on July 1, Hot's Kitchen in Hermosa Beach tried to pull one over on law enforcement, changing the name of its "Foie Gras Burger" to "THE Burger" and keeping it on the menu, advertising that "THE Burger" comes with "a complimentary side of foie gras." PETA reported the restaurant's activities to the Hermosa Beach Police Department, but local authorities have had a lot on their plate and have yet to make their move. Now, PETA has filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles County Superior Court against Hot's Kitchen alleging that the restaurant is violating both the foie gras sales ban and California's Unfair Competition Law, which prohibits businesses from engaging in unlawful business practices.

"No restaurant can act outside the law by illegally selling the diseased livers of abused birds, and PETA will help make sure that this one doesn't," says general counsel to PETA Jeff Kerr. "Serving a 'complimentary side of foie gras' is as cruel as it is unlawful."

Foie gras, French for "fat liver," is made from the grossly enlarged livers of ducks and geese. Pipes are shoved down the birds' throats, and up to 4 pounds of grain and fat are pumped into their stomachs two or three times a day. The birds' livers become diseased and swell to up to 10 times their normal size. The pipes puncture many birds' throats, causing some animals to bleed to death. Investigations at major foie gras farms in the U.S. as well as at many farms across Europe have revealed sick, dying, and dead animals.

Fifteen countries have banned foie gras production, including Australia, Germany, Israel, and the U.K. It has been denounced by His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI, His Royal Highness Prince Charles, and many grocers, including Giant Eagle, Harris Teeter, Target, and Whole Foods.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.

Community Should Fear for Its Safety, Say Experts

For Immediate Release:
November 28, 2012

Contact:
David Perle 202-483-7382

Dallas, Texas -- Today, PETA sent an urgent plea to Dallas County District Attorney Craig Watkins calling on him to vigorously prosecute Alexander Good of Grapevine. Good faces charges stemming from an August 2011 incident, in which he allegedly fatally beat his then-girlfriend's Chihuahua–Jack Russell terrier mix, Jack. The woman reportedly testified that Jack started showing fear of Good over time before the incident, which left Jack lying limp under a bed and breathing heavily before dying of his internal injuries. News sources state that Good has given three separate explanations for Jack's severe injuries. Good's trial resumes in court tomorrow, November 29.

"The viciousness of abusing an animal must notgo unpunished," says PETA Director Martin Mersereau. "Area residents have reason to be concerned. According to leading mental-health professionals and law-enforcement agencies, perpetrators of violent acts against animals are often repeat offenders who pose a serious threat to all animals, including humans."

PETA is asking that the defendant, if convicted, be sentenced to a period of incarceration, prohibited from owning or harboring animals, and ordered to undergo a thorough psychological evaluation, followed by mandatory counseling.

For more information, please visit PETA's website HelpingAnimals.com. To view PETA's anti-violence public service announcement featuring Inglourious Basterds star and Hosteldirector Eli Roth, please visit http://www.petatv.com/tvpopup/Prefs.asp?video=eli_roth_violence_link_psa_peta.

PETA's letter to Dallas County District Attorney Craig Watkins follows.

November 28, 2012

The Honorable Craig Watkins
Dallas County District Attorney's Office
Frank Crowley Courts Building
133 N. Riverfront Blvd., LB 19
Dallas, TX 75207

Dear Mr. Watkins:

PETA is an international animal protection organization with more than 3 million members and supporters globally. This letter concerns a case of cruelty to animals that your office is handling involving Alexander Good, 27, of Grapevine. According to news sources, Good faces felony charges stemming from an August 2011 incident during which he allegedly killed his then-girlfriend's Chihuahua-mix dog, Jack. Reportedly, after Good was left alone with the animal, Jack was found lying injured and unresponsive under the bed; the dog later died from his injuries. Good has apparently given multiple stories for the dog's condition, and we understand that there is some indication that the dog was subject to systemic abuse at Good's hands. The defendant is scheduled to appear in court on these charges tomorrow.

As you likely know, mental-health professionals and top law-enforcement officials consider animal abuse to be a red flag. The American Psychiatric Association identifies cruelty to animals as one of the diagnostic criteria for conduct disorders, and the FBI uses reports of animal abuse in analyzing the threat potential of suspected and known criminals. The link between animal abuse and interpersonal violence is undeniable, and the safety of the community may depend upon a vigorous prosecution of this case.

On behalf of our thousands of members and supporters in Texas, we respectfully ask that, if convicted and in addition to serving a period of incarceration, Good be required to undergo a thorough psychological evaluation followed by mandatory counseling at his own expense. Because repeat crimes are the rule rather than the exception among animal abusers, we ask that, if convicted, Good be prohibited from owning animals (a common provision in such cases) for as long as possible.

Thank you for your consideration and for the difficult work that you do.

Sincerely,

Kristin Simon
Senior Cruelty Caseworker
Cruelty Investigations Department

As Shopping Season Starts, TV Star Declares, 'I'd Rather Go Naked Than Wear Fur'

For Immediate Release:
November 28, 2012

Contact:
Wendy Wegner 202-483-7382

New York -- Wendy Williams greeted holiday shoppers on Wednesday with a sexy appeal to cross fur off their lists as she unveiled her "Rather Go Naked Than Wear Fur" ad in Times Square to launch PETA's national winter campaign. The campaign, available here, includes two versions of Williams' ad, in which she is covered by nothing but long, flowing hair.

"We should all try to be comfortable in our own skin and let the animals keep theirs," says Williams, who once wore real mink and fox but had a change of heart after learning how animals are electrocuted, beaten, and even skinned alive for their fur. 

In addition to her ad, Williams will encourage her viewers to donate their fur coats to PETA so that they can be given to the homeless. PETA is working with shelters in Williams' home state of New Jersey on their coat drives this winter, which have seen greater demand as the numbers of the needy and displaced have increased after Hurricane Sandy.

Williams joins a growing list of stars—including Eva Mendes, Christy Turlington, and Taraji P. Henson—who have renounced fur and then volunteered to appear in PETA's iconic naked campaign.

A broadcast-quality, behind-the-scenes video from Williams' photo shoot can be downloaded here. For more information and to view the ads, please visit PETA.org.

PETA Members to Converge on Detroit to Expose Cruel Industry

For Immediate Release:
November 29, 2012

Contact:
Sophia Charchuk 202-483-7382

Detroit -- Accompanied by an activist dressed as a half-plucked goose and holding signs that read, "Plucked Alive," with graphic imagery, PETA supporters will congregate in Detroit on Friday. The battered bird's point? That shoppers who would never think of buying fur often purchase jackets, gloves, pillows, or comforters filled with down because they aren't aware of the hideous suffering of birds who are often repeatedly—and painfully—plucked alive for down.

When:   Friday, November 30, 11 a.m.

Where:  Northeast corner of Monroe Street and Woodward Avenue, Detroit

"PETA wants shoppers to know that buying down products is every bit as cruel as purchasing fur, exotic skins, leather, or wool," says PETA Associate Director of Campaigns Lindsay Rajt. "The rule of thumb is easy to remember: If a product came from an animal, the chances that abuse and suffering were involved are roughly 100 percent."

To obtain down, the feathers are often ripped out of restrained, frightened, screaming birds. Warm, animal-friendly bedding and winter clothing are available everywhere. PETA encourages shoppers to check labels for synthetic down, down alternative, polyester fill, or high-tech fabrics such as PrimaLoft® and Thinsulate™—soft, washable, down-like fibers. In most cases, these alternatives are superior to down, which loses much of its insulating properties when it gets wet.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.

Faux-Chicken Sandwich That Will Fool Even Meat-Eaters and Rich Dairy-Free Shakes Make Strong Hearts a Top Contender

For Immediate Release:
November 29, 2012

Contact:
Shakira Croce 202-483-7382

Syracuse, N.Y. -- The vegan food revolution has taken hold in every corner of America, and nowhere is that trend more evident (and delicious!) than at Syracuse's all-vegan Strong Hearts Cafe. That's why Strong Hearts is in the running for a Libby Award in the category of Best Vegan Local Restaurant from peta2, PETA's youth division. Now in their seventh year, the 2012 Libby Awards ("Libby" for "liberation," as in animal liberation) include 22 categories.

"More and more young people are insisting that the music they listen to, the clothes they wear, and, especially, the food they eat reflect their strong feelings in favor of animal rights," says PETA Youth Marketing Manager Emily Rodriguez. "All our nominees are winners because they're meeting the demands of compassionate kids and helping animals at the same time."

Strong Hearts is also "strong" when it comes to the environment. The restaurant—which is in the process of expanding—uses no plastic or polystyrene foam, and all its waste is composted. It also sources local produce whenever possible and serves organic and fair-trade coffee. The extensive menu includes breakfast, fresh salads, every sandwich that you can think of, hearty soups, and lots of desserts, including thick dairy-free shakes. peta2's favorites include the chickpea-salad sandwich, PB&J French toast, and a "chicken" sandwich that would put a smile on the face of the most die-hard meat-eater. Also, don't miss out on pizza night, Friday from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. According to the owners, the place can get mobbed during those hours, so they suggest that you call in your order ahead of time.

Voting ends on December 17. Winners will be chosen by peta2 based on several factors, including vote count, and will be announced on December 19. See the full contest details here.

For more information and to cast your vote, please visit peta2.com or click here.

Melt-in-Your-Mouth Vegan Pastries, Savory Quiche, Dairy-Free Ice Cream Make Back To Eden a Top Contender

For Immediate Release:
November 29, 2012

Contact:
Shakira Croce 202-483-7382

Portland, Ore. -- The vegan food revolution has taken hold in every corner of America, and nowhere is that trend more evident (and delicious!) than at Portland's all-vegan, all–gluten-freeBack To Eden Bakery. That's why Back To Eden is in the running for a Libby Award in the category of Best Vegan Bakery from peta2, PETA's youth division. Now in their seventh year, the 2012 Libby Awards ("Libby" for "liberation," as in animal liberation) include 22 categories.

"More and more young people are insisting that the music they listen to, the clothes they wear, and, especially, the food they eat reflect their strong feelings in favor of animal rights," says PETA Youth Marketing Manager Emily Rodriguez. "All our nominees are winners because they're meeting the demands of compassionate kids and helping animals at the same time."

Back To Eden sources local and organic whenever possible. Among the bakery's many delights, peta2's favorites include the chocolate nut truffle, the coconut "cream" pie, and the rich and smooth dairy-free raw cheesecake. For breakfast, you can't go wrong with the muffins or coffee cake. Lunch specialties include a hearty quiche or cashew tart. Back To Eden even makes its own shakes, sundaes (in nearly a dozen varieties), and soft serve with more than 20 toppings and sauces to choose from.

Voting ends on December 17. Winners will be chosen by peta2 based on several factors, including vote count, and will be announced on December 19. See the full contest details here.

For more information and to cast your vote, please visit peta2.com or click here.

Texas Couple Indicted; First Case in U.S. History Dealing With Gruesome Sexual Animal Mutilations and Killings

For Immediate Release:
November 29, 2012

Contact:
David Perle 202-483-7382

Houston -- Just three months after PETA's Emergency Response Team—along with valuable assistance from the Animal Beta Project—uncovered and shut down a major international "crush" video cell operating out of Houston, the suspects have been indicted by a federal grand jury for creating and distributing the videos. Both 51-year-old Brent Justice and 22-year-old Ashley Nicole Richards are now in federal custody. This is the first time that a "crush" case has resulted in federal charges in the United States because of the difficulty of tracing sex crimes on the Internet.

"These historic charges send a stern warning to anyone who mutilates and kills animals for sexual gratification," says PETA Senior Vice President Daphna Nachminovitch. "PETA is grateful to Houston and federal authorities and to the citizen who first alerted us to these atrocious videos. We hope this case inspires everyone to immediately report animal abuse whenever it occurs."

After PETA was tipped off by a concerned citizen in August and alerted the authorities, it took only 48 hours before Justice and Richards were arrested. PETA had obtained dozens of the fetish videos, in which Richards tortures and kills animals—including a puppy, kittens, a rabbit, mice, a pigeon, fish, lobsters, crabs, and more—with high heels, a meat cleaver, knives, screwdrivers, pliers, and other devices. "Crush" videos—which depict women stomping animals to death to satisfy the twisted sexual fetishes of those who watch them—violate a federal law that prohibits the production, sale, and marketing of such videos, rightly labeled "obscene" by lawmakers.

Richards reportedly admitted to killing countless animals—up to two per day—over the years. Richards and Justice were both charged in August with violations of Texas' anti-cruelty statute stemming from videos made in 2010, one of which depicts Richards binding and gagging a kitten with masking tape and then stomping and crushing the animal, putting her high-heeled shoe through the kitten's eye. A second video shows Richards killing a pit bull puppy by using a meat cleaver to hack off his leg and tail and a knife to slash his neck and cut into his leg. Justice faces a charge under the same state statute for filming Richards as she killed the puppy with a knife.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.

Group Also Urges City Never Again to Host an Animal Circus After Camel Escapes Into City Streets, Endangering Herself and the Public

For Immediate Release:
November 29, 2012 

Contact:
David Perle 202-483-7382  

Glendale, Calif. --Today, PETA dispatched an urgent letter to Glendale Mayor Frank Quintero and other city officials urging them to immediately revoke the permit allowing the Ramos Bros. Circus to perform in the city. The letter follows a November 23 incident, in which a camel used by the circus escaped and ran toward a busy intersection, causing traffic to screech to a halt and alarming children and other residents. In the letter, PETA points out that the city's circus permit ordinance bestows Glendale officials with the authority to revoke the circus's permit in response to this incident, which unlawfully jeopardized public safety. PETA also informs the mayor of the circus's abysmal history, including operating without a required federal license, and reports that the circus has forced animals to live in their own waste and has restrained animals so that they couldn't even stand up. PETA is urging the mayor to push for a law banning the use of all exotic animals for exhibitions in the city.

"Ramos Bros. Circus has repeatedly demonstrated its indifference to animal suffering and its contempt for the laws meant to protect those animals and the public," says PETA Foundation Director of Captive Animal Law Enforcement Delcianna Winders. "The potentially fatal escape of a camel should serve as the straw that breaks the back of the Ramos Bros.' welcome in Glendale."

In June, Ramos Bros. unlawfully displayed zebras in Corona, Calif., in violation of a city ordinance prohibiting the exhibition of wild or exotic animals, expressly including zebras. After PETA reported the violation, the city took immediate action to enforce the ordinance.

PETA has also submitted a formal complaint to the U.S. Department of Agriculture requesting an investigation into the camel-escape incident.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.

PETA's letter to Glendale Mayor Frank Quintero follows.

November 29, 2012

Frank Quintero, Mayor
Scott Ochoa, City Manager
Jess Duran, Director, Community Services & Parks
Parks, Recreation & Community Services Commission Members
Glendale City Hall
613 E. Broadway
Glendale, CA 91206

Re: Ramos Bros. Circus in Glendale, Calif.

Dear Mayor Quintero, Mr. Ochoa, Mr. Duran, and Commission Members:

I am writing on behalf of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) and its more than 3 million members and supporters—many of whom live in the Glendale area—regarding the Ramos Bros. Circus ("Ramos Bros."), which is currently performing in Glendale. As you are likely aware, last week a camel escaped from Ramos Bros. and galloped down Glendale Boulevard toward a busy intersection, causing a traffic jam and endangering both herself and the public. We strongly urge to the city to exercise its authority to immediately revoke Ramos Bros.' permit since the circus has clearly constituted "a nuisance," has disturbed "the peace of the persons in the vicinity," and has been "deleterious to the public peace … [and] welfare." See Glendale City Code § 5.48.070.

Ramos Bros. has demonstrated a persistent and flagrant disregard for applicable federal and local laws that pertain to animal welfare and public safety. In addition to this most recent incident of public endangerment, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently cited Ramos Bros. for operating without a required federal license. PETA has received numerous complaints from concerned members of the public that Ramos Bros. regularly abuses animals, including tying them up so tightly that they cannot stand, forcing them to live in urine- and feces-filled enclosures, and failing to provide them with water. Just this past June, Ramos Bros. unlawfully exhibited zebras in Corona, Calif., in clear violation of a city prohibition on the display of wild or exotic animals. When PETA notified Corona officials, they took immediate action and ordered Ramos Bros. to remove the prohibited animals from the city.

In accordance with the Glendale City Code, I strongly urge you to take proactive steps to protect public safety, peace, and welfare by immediately revoking Ramos Bros.' permit and prevent further endangerment to the lives of humans and animals by ensuring that this is the last time that Glendale hosts a circus that uses animals. May I please hear of your decision by the end of the day?

Very truly yours,

Carney Anne Chester, Esq.
Counsel
Captive Animal Law Enforcement

Vegan Bacon Potato Skins, Veggie Burger Make Imagine Vegan Cafe a Top Contender

For Immediate Release:
November 30, 2012

Contact:
David Perle 202-483-7382

Memphis, Tenn. -- The vegan food revolution has taken hold in every corner of America, and nowhere is that trend more evident (and delicious!) than at Memphis' Imagine Vegan Cafe. That's why Imagine is in the running for a Libby Award in the category of Best Vegan Local Restaurant from peta2, PETA's youth division. Now in their seventh year, the 2012 Libby Awards ("Libby" for "liberation," as in animal liberation) include 22 categories.

"More and more young people are insisting that the music they listen to, the clothes they wear, and, especially, the food they eat reflect their strong feelings in favor of animal rights," says PETA Youth Marketing Manager Emily Rodriguez. "All our nominees are winners because they're meeting the demands of compassionate kids and helping animals at the same time."

Everything on the menu at Imagine is carefully prepared using fine and fresh ingredients. peta2's favorites include the crispy and delicious vegan bacon potato skins, loaded vegan pizzas, creamy mac 'n' (dairy-free) cheese, the gluten-free Southern fried "chicken" nuggets served with homemade ranch dressing, and the hearty veggie burger—possibly the best in town. Enjoy good music with your meal? You've come to the right place: Imagine hosts its own in-house concerts.

Voting ends on December 17. Winners will be chosen by peta2 based on several factors, including vote count, and will be announced on December 19. See the full contest details here.

For more information and to cast your vote, please visit peta2.com or click here.

Artichoke Spinach Dip, Hearts of Palm 'Crab' Cake Make Great Sage Vegan Restaurant a Top Contender

For Immediate Release:
November 30, 2012

Contact:
David Perle 202-483-7382

Clarksville, Md. -- The vegan food revolution has taken hold in every corner of America, and nowhere is that trend more evident (and delicious!) than at Clarksville's organic, all-vegan Great Sage restaurant. That's why Great Sage is in the running for a Libby Award in the category of Best Vegan Local Restaurant from peta2, PETA's youth division. Now in their seventh year, the 2012 Libby Awards ("Libby" for "liberation," as in animal liberation) include 22 categories.

"More and more young people are insisting that the music they listen to, the clothes they wear, and, especially, the food they eat reflect their strong feelings in favor of animal rights," says PETA Youth Marketing Manager Emily Rodriguez. "All our nominees are winners because they're meeting the demands of compassionate kids and helping animals at the same time."

Great Sage, which opened in 2004, is owned by Jeff and Holly Kaufman and Jody Cutler, who also own a nearby organic market and a socially responsible gift and clothing boutique. The restaurant features natural and organic dishes that are bursting with flavor. peta2's favorites include the delicious hearts of palm vegan crab cake, creamy artichoke spinach dip with dairy-free Parmesan and toasted crostini, green-lentil and pumpkin burger, and raw zucchini pesto. But leave room for dessert. You won't want to miss the four-layer chocolate cake, Great Sage's trademark carrot cake, or the soy ice cream with house-made hot fudge.

Voting ends on December 17. Winners will be chosen by peta2 based on several factors, including vote count, and will be announced on December 19. See the full contest details here.

For more information and to cast your vote, please visit peta2.com or click here.

Eatery's Vegan Chili Cheese Dogs and Meat- and Dairy-Free BBQ Rib Sandwich and Meat-Free Hot Dogs Make Popular Spot a Top Contender

For Immediate Release:
November 30, 2012

Contact:
David Perle 202-483-7382

Salt Lake City -- The vegan food revolution has taken hold in every corner of America, and nowhere is that trend more evident (and delicious!) than at Salt Lake City's vegetarian and vegan food cart, City Dogs. That's why the eatery on wheels—which last year ranked in PETA's list of the top five veggie dogs available from restaurants and food carts across the country—is now in the running for a Libby Award in the category of Best Vegan Food Truck from peta2, PETA's youth division. Now in their seventh year, the 2012 Libby Awards ("Libby" for "liberation," as in animal liberation) include 22 categories.

"More and more young people are insisting that the music they listen to, the clothes they wear, and, especially, the food they eat reflect their strong feelings in favor of animal rights," says PETA Youth Marketing Manager Emily Rodriguez. "All our nominees are winners because they're meeting the demands of compassionate kids and helping animals at the same time."

Among City Dogs' many specialties, peta2's favorites include the Dee Dog, a mild East Coast variation on the chili cheese dog, slathered with cream cheese, and the City Dog, which is topped with jalapeños, tomatoes, and pickled asparagus. Also high on the list are the tempeh salad wrap, the barbecued "rib" sandwich, and the vegan potato salad.

Voting ends on December 17. Winners will be chosen by peta2 based on several factors, including vote count, and will be announced on December 19. See the full contest details here.

For more information and to cast your vote, please visit peta2.com or click here.

Melt-in-Your-Mouth Vegan Cinnamon Buns, Donuts, and Cupcakes Make Sweet Freedom a Top Contender

For Immediate Release:
November 30, 2012

Contact:
Sophia Charchuk 202-483-7382

Philadelphia -- The vegan food revolution has taken hold in every corner of America, and nowhere is that trend more evident (and delicious!) than at Philadelphia's all-vegan Sweet Freedom Bakery. That's why Sweet Freedom is in the running for a Libby Award in the category of Best Vegan Bakery from peta2, PETA's youth division. Now in their seventh year, the 2012 Libby Awards ("Libby" for "liberation," as in animal liberation) include 22 categories.

"More and more young people are insisting that the music they listen to, the clothes they wear, and, especially, the food they eat reflect their strong feelings in favor of animal rights," says PETA Youth Marketing Manager Emily Rodriguez. "All our nominees are winners because they're meeting the demands of compassionate kids and helping animals at the same time."

Sweet Freedom bakes throughout each day so that its sweet treats are as fresh as possible. Among the bakery's many delights, peta2's favorites include the carrot cupcakes and cinnamon buns, the orange-cranberry loaf with orange glaze, and the apple-cider donuts.

Voting ends on December 17. Winners will be chosen by peta2 based on several factors, including vote count, and will be announced on December 19. See the full contest details here.

For more information and to cast your vote, please visit peta2.com or click here.

Companies' Animal-Friendly Fashions and Cruelty-Free Cosmetics Make Them Top Contenders

For Immediate Release:
November 30, 2012

Contact:
Sophia Charchuk 202-483-7382

Los Angeles -- More and more Americans are demanding that their wardrobes be fur- and leather-free and that their personal-care products never be tested on animals, and U.S. cosmetics and clothing companies are rising to meet consumers' expectations. More than a dozen of these top cruelty-free companies have been named as finalists for the Libby Awards by peta2, PETA's youth division. Now in their seventh year, the 2012 Libby Awards ("Libby" for "liberation," as in animal liberation) include 22 categories.

Among these categories are Best Animal-Friendly Clothing Company, for which Forever 21's budget-friendly faux-leather jackets and wool-free sweaters snagged the company a nomination alongside SpiritHoods, with its wildly popular faux-fur, animal-inspired hats; Most Vegan-Friendly Shoe Store, with nominees including the all-vegan MooShoes and Alternative Outfitters; and Best Cruelty-Free Accessories, with bags, belts, and wallets appearing alongside POP Clip-In Faux Feathers, the animal-friendly, reusable, and long-lasting "feather" hair extensions.

Other categories include Best Cruelty-Free Hair Product, which features shampoos and styling creams from Pureology, LUSH, Sparklehearts, and It's a 10;Best Vegan Cosmetics Product, with finalists including e.l.f. Studio's varied and affordable 144-Piece Ultimate Eyeshadow Set; Best Vegan Bath and Body Product, where Sparklehearts' animal-inspired and peta2-supporting Dirt Free Hurt Free Gift Set makes an appearance; and, of course, Best Cruelty-Free Cosmetics Company, which pits e.l.f., Lime Crime, and Johnny Concert Glamour against Urban Decay's bright, color-rich, and always cruelty-free cosmetics.

"More and more young people are insisting that the music they listen to, the food they eat, and the clothes and makeup they wear reflect their strong feelings in favor of animal rights," says PETA Youth Marketing Manager Emily Rodriguez. "All our nominees are winners because they're meeting the demands of compassionate kids and helping animals at the same time."

Voting ends on December 17. Winners will be chosen by peta2 based on several factors, including vote count, and will be announced on December 19. See the full contest details here.

For more information and to cast your vote, please visit peta2.com or click here.

Two-Time Record Holder Stars in New Pro-Vegetarian Campaign

For Immediate Release:
November 30, 2012

Contact:
Kaitlynn Kelly 202-483-7382

Delhi -- Holding his new baby boy, 96-year-old Ramajit Raghav—who, on October 5, broke his own record as Guinness World Records' "World's Oldest New Dad"—stars in a brand-new ad campaign for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India. Shot by photographer Gaurav Sharma, the new ad shows Raghav and his son Ranjit next to the words "Vegetarians Still Got It at Age 96." PETA India plans to post the new campaign near fertility clinics around the world. Broadcast-quality video footage of Raghav's interview is available upon request.

"I have been a vegetarian all my life, and I credit my stamina and virility to my diet of vegetables and grains," says Raghav. "Being a vegetarian is the secret to my strength and good health."

What makes vegetarians so healthy? For starters, meat clogs arteries and slows blood flow to all the major organs—not just the heart. Vegetarians are, on average, fitter and trimmer than meat-eaters are. They're also less likely to be afflicted with heart disease, diabetes, and cancer—all of which are major health problems in the U.S. as well as in India. And since each vegetarian saves the lives of more than 100 animals a year, their consciences are lighter, too.

Raghav joins a growing list of athletes, actors, and other notable figures—includingShahid Kapoor, R Madhavan, Sonu Sood, Lara Dutta, Pankaj Advani, Anil Kumble, and many others—who have teamed up with PETA India to promote healthy, humane vegetarian meals.

For more information, please visit PETAIndia.com.

Restaurant Serves Abused Birds' Diseased Livers Despite California Ban 

For Immediate Release:
November 30, 2012

Contact:
Sophia Charchuk 202-483-7382

Hermosa Beach, Calif. -- Brandishing signs that read, "Stop Selling Foie Gras" and "Tortured Ducks and Geese," PETA members will converge on Hermosa Beach's Hot's Kitchen in a lunchtime protest on Friday against the restaurant's decision to continue serving foie gras despite the statewide ban on the vile product—a decision that led PETA to file a lawsuit against the restaurant.

When:   Friday, November 30, 12 noon

Where:  Outside Hot's Kitchen, 844 Hermosa Ave., Hermosa Beach

The protesters will also distribute leaflets to potential diners that explain how, in order to create foie gras, pipes are shoved down birds' throats and up to 4 pounds of grain and fat are pumped into their stomachs two or three times a day. The birds' livers become diseased and abnormally enlarged, and the pipes often puncture the birds' throats—frequently causing the animals to bleed to death.

"PETA wants to let Hot's Kitchen patrons know that the main ingredient in every bite of foie gras is animal abuse," says PETA Associate Director of Campaigns Lindsay Rajt. "The decision to sell the diseased livers of tortured animals against California law is just plain in bad taste."

For more information, please visit PETA.org.

Companies' Animal-Friendly Fashions Make Them Top Contenders

For Immediate Release:
November 30, 2012

Contact:
Sophia Charchuk 202-483-7382

Los Angeles -- More and more Americans are demanding that their wardrobes be fur- and leather-free and that their personal-care products never be tested on animals, and U.S. cosmetics and clothing companies are rising to meet consumers' expectations. More than a dozen of these top cruelty-free companies have been named as finalists for the Libby Awards by peta2, PETA's youth division. Now in their seventh year, the 2012 Libby Awards ("Libby" for "liberation," as in animal liberation) include 22 categories.

Categories include Best Animal-Friendly Clothing Company, for which Forever 21's budget-friendly faux-leather jackets and wool-free sweaters snagged the retailer a nomination, alongside SpiritHoods' wildly popular faux-fur, animal-inspired hats; Most Vegan-Friendly Shoe Store, with nominees including the all-vegan MooShoes and Alternative Outfitters; and Best Cruelty-Free Accessories, with bags, belts, and wallets appearing alongside POP Clip-In Faux Feathers, the animal-friendly, reusable, and long-lasting "feather" hair extensions.

"More and more young people are insisting that the music they listen to, the food they eat, and the clothes and makeup they wear reflect their strong feelings in favor of animal rights," says PETA Youth Marketing Manager Emily Rodriguez. "All our nominees are winners because they're meeting the demands of kind kids and helping animals at the same time."

Voting ends on December 17. Winners will be chosen by peta2 based on several factors, including vote count, and will be announced on December 19. See the full contest details here.

For more information and to cast your vote, please visit peta2.com or click here.

PETA Members Will Converge on Portland to Expose Cruel Industry

For Immediate Release:
December 3, 2012

Contact:
Kaitlynn Kelly 202-483-7382

Portland -- Accompanied by an activist dressed as a half-plucked goose and holding signs that read, "Plucked Alive," with graphic imagery, PETA supporters will congregate in downtown Portland on Tuesday. The battered bird's point? That shoppers who would never think of buying fur often purchase jackets, gloves, pillows, or comforters filled with down because they aren't aware of the hideous suffering of birds who are often repeatedly—and painfully—plucked alive for down.

When:   Tuesday, December 4, 12 noon

Where:  On the corner of S.W. Alder Street and S.W. Fifth Avenue, Portland

"PETA wants shoppers to know that buying down products is every bit as cruel as purchasing fur, exotic skins, leather, or wool," says PETA Associate Director of Campaigns Lindsay Rajt. "The rule of thumb is easy to remember: If a product came from an animal, the chances that abuse and suffering were involved are roughly 100 percent."

To obtain down, the feathers are often ripped out of restrained, frightened, screaming birds. Warm, animal-friendly bedding and winter clothing are available everywhere. PETA encourages shoppers to check labels for synthetic down, down alternative, polyester fill, or high-tech fabrics such as PrimaLoft® and Thinsulate™—soft, washable, down-like fibers. In most cases, these alternatives are superior to down, which loses much of its insulating properties when it gets wet.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.

Group Joins SPCA in Effort to Bring Animal Abuser to Justice

For Immediate Release:
December 3, 2012

Contact:
David Perle 202-483-7382

Buffalo, N.Y. -- A starving, severely emaciated pit bull puppy was spotted on November 28 lying on the pavement outside the Anderson Inner City Animal Hospital at Kensington and Fillmore avenues in 32-degree weather, so weak that she couldn't even raise her head. "If we [had gotten there] seconds later, she … probably would have been frozen to death," one Rural-Metro paramedic told news sources. Officials have yet to make any arrests in connection with the starvation and abandonment of the puppy. That's why PETA is offering up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for this crime.

"Buffalo residents have good reason to be concerned when an animal is starved and left to die," says PETA Director Martin Mersereau. "According to leading mental-health professionals, people who demonstrate such blatant disregard for life and desensitization to suffering can pose a serious risk to all animals—including humans—with whom they come into contact."

Anyone with information about this case is encouraged to contact Jeff Eyre, the director of Animal Cruelty Investigations for the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Serving Erie County at 716-629-3525.

For more information, please visit PETA.org. To view PETA's anti-violence public service announcement featuring Inglourious Basterds star and Hostel director Eli Roth, please visit http://www.petatv.com/tvpopup/Prefs.asp?video=eli_roth_violence_link_psa_peta.

Every Year, Billions in Federal Funding Are Wasted on Cruel, Irrelevant Experiments on Animals, Says Group

For Immediate Release:
December 3, 2012

Contact:
Tasgola Bruner 202-483-7382

Washington -- With 7.8 percent in budget cuts on track to kick in for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) at the start of 2013 as part of the Budget Control Act of 2011, PETA is urging Congress to take a more drastic measure—cut all funding for wasteful experiments on animals.

In a letter sent today to congressional leaders, PETA explains that nearly half of NIH's current $30 billion annual research budget is awarded to researchers for projects that involve experiments on animals that are cruel, do nothing to advance human health, and contribute to the country's expanding deficit.

"NIH should be funding sophisticated research that will help humans rather than squandering billions of federal funds on cruel and irrelevant experiments, in which animals are mutilated, poisoned, sickened, starved, and electrocuted," says Kathy Guillermo, senior vice president of laboratory investigations at PETA, which has more than 3 million members and supporters. "We can save billions if we stop addicting monkeys to crack cocaine, cutting up rats' genitals in erectile dysfunction studies, and harming animals in any way."

PETA's letter cites several crude, cruel, and pointless experiments funded by NIH grants, including the following:

• Oregon Health & Science University rakes in more than $2 million a year for an ongoing project that includes examining whether the offspring of obese female monkeys are more frightened of Mr. Potato Head dolls than the babies of healthy mothers.
• Columbia University pockets $500,000 a year to addict female monkeys to crack cocaine in order to determine how their drug use is affected by their menstrual cycle.
• University of California–San Francisco rakes in $360,000 a year for erectile dysfunction experiments, in which rats have their penises cut apart.
• University of Wisconsin–Madison receives more than $330,000 a year for a project in which chicken eggs are injected with pure alcohol to see how the exposure affects baby chicks.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.

Members of the LFL's BC Angels Suit Up for Demonstration 

For Immediate Release:
December 3, 2012

Contact:
Sophia Charchuk 202-483-7382

Vancouver -- They're known for wearing only lingerie while playing full-contact football, but now the brave women from the Lingerie Football League's (LFL) BC Angels are teaming up with PETA in order to tackle cruelty. In a special PETA demonstration to be held on Tuesday—12 days before they face off against the Seattle Mist—two team members will appear in their uniforms and hold signs that read, "Tackle Cruelty: Bench Fur," to encourage all Vancouverites to leave fur off their holiday shopping lists. Previous stops on the LFL fur-free tour include Toronto and Seattle, and the Chicago Bliss ladies also posed for a racy anti-fur ad.

When:   Tuesday, December 4, 12 noon

Where:  Intersection of Granville and W. Georgia streets, Vancouver 

"Wearing fur is a personal foul," says PETA campaigner Emily Lavender. "With so many stylish, warm, and durable fabrics available today, there's no excuse for wearing anyone's skin."

Behind every piece of fur is an enormous amount of animal suffering. Animals who are killed for their fur are trapped, drowned, beaten, electrocuted, or even skinned alive. Other athletes who have teamed up with PETA to speak out against fur include Tony Gonzalez, Amar'e Stoudemire, Candace Parker, Chad Ochocinco, and Gilbert Arenas.

Many top fashion designers and retailers—includingCalvin Klein, Suzy Shier, Stella McCartney, Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, J.Crew, and Forever 21—are 100 percent fur-free.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.