I couldn't believe it when it came across my desk but the story was from AP and on MSNBC.com about as reliable a source as you can get. The headlines read:
First off as a lady who was raised on a farm - this is a ridiculous idea and really not good for the livestock and defiantly not good for the agricultural economy. In all my years of farming I do not know one farmer who "free range" his livestock. I live in Iowa and we raised hogs for over 40 years. We had a furrowing house and then moved them to a hog house. Yes, when they got old enough could go out into a lot in good weather but guess what, they preferred the building. They mostly just went out to go make a nature call. The new confinements are designed to take care of that and are cleaner and climate controled. We raised chickens as well. In a chicken house. Protected them from the weather and predators. Made collecting their egg easier as well. Occasionally one would get out. Dang if we didn't find them dead usually in just a day or two. Like I have said over and over again, Animal Rights Activist are animal’s worst enemies and they sure don't give a dang about the economy or feeding your kids!
Secondly, PETA is the sworn enemy of the rodeo industry. If large corporations think they are more powerful that the silent majority we are all in trouble!
The question I was asked was simple "Should we boycott them?" I know there are local Hardee's that support local events so this becomes a hard question to answer. I was recently talking to a sponsor for a bull riding tour and literally his first question was, "Will this get me in trouble with animal rights groups?" When the majority is quiet the minority rules. It is that simple. I have asked you to support our sponsors with your dollars. I have stood behind Starbuck's because I knew the gossip was untrue. This appears to be true - AP rarely messes up and MSNBC.com doesn't usually print anything without verifying it. Guess it is true. Next is what do we do about it. (Oh boy, watch them come after Rodeo Attitude again!) I personally am going to boycott them! Guess that shoots getting Hardee's as a sponsor for Rodeo Attitude!
