AR-News: (USA) NYC restaurant serves LOBSTERS to be eaten ALIVE -- THIS IS THE LAST STRAW!!!!!

[molly]

PLEASE DISTRIBUTE THIS INFO FAR AND WIDE

We have learned that at least several New York restaurants are engaging in a
horrible practice of serving what is called "Whole Live Lobster Sashimi".

The lobster is brought out live, split down the inside middle, and eaten
alive.  The lobster takes about 20 minutes to die, curling up his claws and
suffering severe pain as he is eaten.

This is a practice in Japan and some other Asian countries (the
justification for it at these US restaurants), but is now illegal in some
countries, such as Australia, where lobsters are protected under animals
rights legislation.

Scientists have proven that fish and crustaceans ALL FEEL PAIN.  In fact,
lobsters have very complex nervous system, and unfortunately do NOT have an
autonomous nervous system that would at least allow them to go into shock.
http://www.lobsterlib.com/fascinating.html#hurts

Please call this restaurant and their corporate headquarters to demand that
they CEASE THIS CRUEL PRACTICE.

I am not sure which other restaurants engage in this, but Sushi Samba is the
one I know about. http://www.sushisamba.com/top.html

I spoke with the Day manager, Evelyn Solorzano, as well as Leah, the
assistant to owner Shimon Bokovza.  Both claimed it was a decision of the
Executive chef (who "reside" at the 245 Park Ave) but I am *sure* the owner
has the clout to stop this.

THANKS FOR YOUR HELP!!!

INFO:
Name of Restaurant:  Sushi Samba
Address: 245 Park Ave. South, cross street is 46th, New York, 10003 (plus
other branches in NY and US)
Phone:  212-475-9377
Manager, day time Evelyn Solorzano
Executive Chef (since they keep saying this is his decision):  Hero
Corporate Phone:  212-604-0600, extension 4942 (goes to Leah, assistant to
owner)
Owner:  Shimon Bokovza
Corporate address:  37th W. 17th St., Suite 7E
New York, New York, 10011