Your Vote Counts but do Rural Votes Count?

The "Your Vote Counts" campaign--backed by HSUS among others--is currently collecting signatures to place a constitutional amendment on the November 2012 ballot that would change the required vote to amend a law to 3/4 votes. This means that out of 197 legislators it would take only 9 to overturn a proposed amendment--a near impossible voting standard. This is another way that HSUS is swinging their pocket book around to buy laws for their own radical pursuits.

Back in 2010, Prop B was passed by a slim margin of 3.2 percent. After the law was passed it was amended to make it a workable law because in its original form it was unrealistic. Now, HSUS is trying yet again to manipulate Missouri voters and gain more control to buy laws and inevitably buy you and their tactics are very sneaky.

Their campaign slogan is "Respect the Will of the People." However, if we take a look at the map from the 2010 Prop B results it begs the question:

Did Missouri respect the will of the people or the will of the money?

Prop B failed in every county except the cities of St. Louis and Kansas City, where HSUS campaigned the heaviest and spent the most money. The amendment made the law workable and realistic, that is not what HSUS wanted. They wanted to shut down dog breeding in Missouri and attack animal agriculture next.

If you recall, the term "pet" was redefined in the original Prop B proposal to a vague description of pretty much any domesticated animal that lives close to the home. This is one thing that the Prop B amendment changed and for good reason. However, other changes were made to make it workable. The point is, Prop B was a "bought law" and since Missouri legislatures actual did listen to Missouri voters (look at the map!) it really ticked off HSUS.

Your vote does count and the amendment of Prop B proves that; however, Pacelle and his posse want their money to count more than your vote. If you want to keep your rights then don't fall victim to the HSUS trap. Don't sign any petition that supports the "Your Vote Counts" initiative!

Stand Up For Farmers Rally!

Missouri Farmers Care is hosting Stand Up For Farmers Rally.

If you support agriculture come show your support tomorrow.

What:
Stand Up For Farmers Rally! Help us urge Governor Nixon to do that right thing for Missouri's farmers and economy by signing SB 113.

When:
Wednesday, April 20th, at 5:00 PM…Show Up Early To Get A Good Spot

Where:
South Lawn of Missouri Capitol Building, Jefferson City

Shuttle Buses:
For those who do not wish to park down town, buses will be running from the Commuter Parking Lot at the Jefferson City Airport just North of the Missouri River Bridge and from the lot of Missouri Farm Bureau starting at 4:00.

We need as many people there as possible.

The HSUS will be there at 4:30 rallying against changes to Prop B.

SPEAK UP! BE HEARD!

Prop B: Will Nixon sign and help farmers and breeders?

As many Missourians have read/seen/heard in the news, the legislature passed a measure to weaken, reform, and ultimately improve Prop B which was passed in November. Now, before I get into the meat of this I would like to point out that out of 114 counties plus one independent city in the state of Missouri only 13--I repeat 13--voted "Yes" on what is deceivingly known as the Puppy Mill Cruelty Act.

Now, the big tiff Prop B supporters have (besides the fact that their little bill is being amended) is that the voters pasted the bill by a majority vote and to amend this bill is going against the democratic, majority rules voting etiquette. Okay, so answer me this: If majority rules and the vast majority of the state voted "NO" doesn't that count for anything? According to Prop B supporters it means nothing that all the rural counties, filled with rural people that are the actual stewards of the land, the actual caretakers of animals, the ones truly affected by Prop B have a lesser vote than the city dwellers because after all, the guy living twelve stories up in a loft apartment surrounding by concrete, smog, and a half dozen $800 (a piece) pugs knows more about animal husbandry than any of us poor dumb rural farmers, ranchers, and breeders...Right? Guess again Chauncey, we've got this. If majority really ruled, Prop B would have never passed. You can find several sites explaining Prop B plus my recap of Prop B by clicking HERE.

As I was saying, the Senate passed this measure 20-14, the House passed it 85-71, now it is up to our Governor. If Governor Jay Nixon should put his John Hancock on Bill SB113 it will modify definitions to prevent agriculture from being targeted, it removes the "50 breeding dogs" rule, changes the name to Canine Cruelty Prevention Act, and this bill creates funds for the Department of Agriculture for Operation Bark Alert. I really don't see why the Prop B supporters are fussing. This bill actually makes Prop B better and creates funds to enforce it where the originally proposal creators apparently didn't think that far ahead...Oh, yeah, Prop B was created by HSUS, they never think that far ahead. They just want to get their foot in the door so they can rid America of animal agriculture and force us all to be vegans. Does that make me sound spiteful or bitter? Well, maybe I am...but just a little.

I've heard so many comments concerning Prop B and I am blown away by the stereotypes people still hold against rural people. I've been called a hick, country bumpkin, animal abuser, inbred hillbilly, accused of bestiality in less sophisticated terminology, and the list goes on but every one of these comments came from urban people that have never met me. How do I know they were urban dwellers? I googled them, of course. I also read their profiles or visited their blogs when listed. It's amazing the misconceptions out there and that people still think we are a bunch of backwoods hicks with straw hats, no teeth, and we have inappropriate relations with our siblings. I don't know about all you farmers and ranchers but that's not where I come from. I happen to have all my teeth...Oh, and I've never had inappropriate relations with any of my siblings. I though I should add that last bit for clarification.

My point is that the backwoods, mule and buggy, poor ignorant farmer stigma is alive and well and we should do something about it. I am guilty too, I won't lie, I tend to think all city folks are crazy, immoral, backward thinking, selfish jerks that live in a realm all their own and have no concept of reality especially when it comes to something other than their own vanity or materialism. The difference is...I'm right, city folks really are like that.




Wait...hold on to your hate mail...that was a joke. Come on, you chuckled just a little. Seriously, while I do hold certain stereotypes concerning city folks I realize that I must keep an open mind.

The real point is we farmers, ranchers, and breeders need to advocate our lifestyle and livelihood for the 98% of Americans that don't live on a farm, ranch, or rural area. We need to Agvocate and tell our story so more unnecessary bills aren't made and people begin to understand not only where their food, shelter, and clothing come from but what it takes to make all the great things Americans take for grated.

Let's just hope that Governor Nixon does right by us poor simpletons and signs that bill. If you would like to contact Governor Nixon just click on this link.

Election Day Results--Prop B Decision

After staying up late watching the polls my finger nails are now worn down to nubs and my nerves are shot. I watched the polls as they slowly rolled in, anxiously watching what Prop B would do.

I check my computer and the "No" votes are winning by a landslide. It updates and the "Yes" votes start creeping closer. It updates again and again and again...we're neck and neck. Watching, waiting, hoping, praying I bite and chew my nails until the taste of blood forces me to remove my hand from my mouth. Impatiently, I watch as the little white counties turn green, one by one, signifying they have finished counting.

The vote runs neck and neck. A few more yes votes then a few more no votes, then yes, then no. It stays split down the middle while I sit, raking my hands through my hair because I'm out of nails to chew.

Then, as yet another update hits Prop B is at a dead tie, 50/50 split right down the middle with only one county left...the waiting is torture. My nerves have been on a roller coaster ride ever since the polls closed. Weeks of campaigning, blogging, emailing, calling, talking to friends and family explaining the issue, I just want the final word on it...whatever that may be. However, the updates have slowed to a near stop.

On a lighter note, the "Should Prop B pass?" poll ended with 55 votes. Not bad for my first blog poll. The results are promising. "Yes" got 9 votes, "No" received 12 votes, "Hell NO" dominated with 32 votes, and 2 voters were undecided. It is safe to say "No" won by a landslide, too bad that doesn't count for anything.

Another update just hit, St. Charles county is in...Prop B "yes" votes just jumped up by half a percent. It looks like we may lose this battle after all. Now, only 3 percent of the state remains. St. Louis County, St. Louis City, and Bollinger only have half their numbers in; Ray County has nothing. STL is all for Prop B, so we know there will be no help there, Bollinger is against Prop B. No one know were Ray County stands, the

vote is so close that one county could make the difference. Finally, with the votes being too close to call, I shut it down and go to bed.

Early this morning I wake and flip on the tube. Coincidentally, the first thing that I hear on the news is Prop B passes by 60,000 votes. I hang my head and kick myself for not campaigning earlier, for not educating enough people, for not agvocating sooner. There is a light at the end of this tunnel. We got Jay Houghton in office and I trust him to do everything possible to keep this bill from hurting Missouri.

There is a lesson to be learned in all this. Our stories, that of farmers and breeders, need to be told. We have always trusted people to use common sense. Too many of us thought people would never believe the lies spread about farmers and breeders but we were wrong. Radical groups have been out there besmirching our industry and we trusted the people to see through the lies; however, we forgot it is our duty to educate those detached from this line of work. Only 2 percent of Americans farm, we took our knowledge for granted.

Farmers, breeders tell your stories. People have lost touch with their roots and it is our duty to remind them. Let the people know that the cruelty that happens and the abuse plastered on YouTube is not the norm. Let the people know that we care about our animals and the environment. Let the people know what you do for a living. If you think your story is not worth telling...think again. We all have a story worth telling; so get out there and tell it, people will listen.

Recap Prop B

My fellow Missourians, lend me your eyes...

Tomorrow is November 2 and you all know what that means, Election Day! Polls will open and it is your patriotic duty to get out there and vote. Now, before you hit the polls, check out the "Sample Ballot" tab at the upper left corner of this blog. This will redirect you to the Vote Missouri website where you can view a sample ballot for your district. This will also give you a chance to do some last minute research.

So, lets recap on one of the big issues on the ballot, Prop B.

1) Local veterinarian, Dr. Hudson, gave 10 reasons to vote NO on Prop B. He also suggested that everyone check out the Missouri Veterinary Medical Association's website. The MVMA is only one of many groups against Prop B.

2) Prop B redefines "pet" to "any domesticated animal normally maintained in or near the household of the owner thereof." The language of the proposition is also dangerously vague. When you consider the redefined term, the vague language, and HSUS's track record for going after animal agriculture, Prop B is Bad for Missouri.

3) We learned more on "The Puppy Mill Bill" when we took a look at some scary HSUS statistics. For example, they give less than 1% of the donations to shelters and $31 million of the donations go toward salaries. Is this the type of organization you want in Missouri?

Don't be fooled by the HSUS lies. Learn the truth about Prop B by researching it. Look at the Missouri Farm Bureau's website, TheAllianceforTruth.com, and Missourifac.com to find out more. When local veterinarians and local animal groups are against this bill, something must be wrong with it. These are people that have devoted their lives to animals. Why would they oppose it if it truly helped animals?

No one wants to see animals abused. As breeders, farmers, and pet owners we all want to see Missouri animals safe, healthy, and loved; however, HSUS is using this against us. They call it the "Puppy Cruelty Prevention Act" because who would vote against that. That is the first deception. Look at the facts, look at the track record. HSUS finds the low hanging fruit and destroys it then, like a disease, leeches into the rest of the tree. In California it was the egg industry, in Florida it was the pork industry, now, in Missouri it is the dog industry. They come in claiming to help but their real goal is to abolish domestic animal ownership and create a meat free society.

This is not a socialistic society but if we keep voting for more government it will quickly turn that way. Vote NO on Prop B to keep government and the HSUS out of our daily lives. Don't be fooled by their lies. Prop B is unconstitutional and is only the first stepping-stone for HSUS to take away our animals and our agriculture. Stop them before they can get their claws into Missouri.

Vote NO on Prop B Tomorrow!

10 Reasons to Vote NO on Prop B

I stopped by Veterinary Clinic, Inc. in Mexico, MO the other day to ask why a local vet would have a

"Vote NO on Prop B" sign in their front yard.

Turns out, Don Hudson, DVM didn't have a single reason to oppose Prop B...

He has a list. 



Veterinary Clinic, Inc. Mexico, MO
Don Hudson, DVM
Jeanine Utterback, DVM



PROP B

1. Everyone should visit the Missouri Veterinary Medical Association website.

2. All Licensed kennels are under very strict inspections by state and federal investigators. These inspections are unannounced.

3. HSUS never documents the source of their videos with animals in cages when asking for donations (Hoarders, unlicensed kennels, etc.)

4. Prop B demands solid flooring (concrete) which is very stressful over long term. They are cold, damp, and filthy for non housebroken animals. Many breeders use tenderfoot or fiber glass flooring to keep animals dry, warm, and waste drains into trays underneath the racks.

5. Licensed kennels are inspected by a veterinarian once a year and state and federal inspections twice a year. A written form outlines vaccinations, nutrition, deworming, etc. This must be followed with attending veterinarian and owner.

6. The idea of having only 50 dogs is ridiculous. Who came up with that number? Why not 49 or 51?

7. Many people feel that Prop B opponents are paranoid about this being only the beginning of attacking other aspects of animal production. They have every reason to be paranoid. Just investigate what happened in California, Ohio, Florida, and Arizona. Many supporters actually believe this only affects kennels; however HSUS has a very toxic track record.

8. The very wording of Prop B is misleading and should never have been allowed.

9. The amount of money coming from out of state is disgusting. This alone should make everyone suspicious. Why should out of state people tell us in Missouri what we should do? We don’t try to regulate the number of cars owned by someone in California, or the number of houses a realtor can sell. The latest numbers I have seen were October 23, 2010. At that time, 2.6 million dollars has been donated for Prop B. Of the 2.6 million, 2.37 million came from out of state of which 1.32 million came from HSUS!! In state donations for Prop B amounted to about 8.8%! Follow the money! At the same time, the Missouri Federation of Animal Owners had $44,700.00 to oppose Prop B.

10. If this passes, there will be a tremendous amount of collateral damage, which the proponents will either deny or won’t care. Prop B is wrong financially and ethically because of how misleading HSUS has been, and in the way it does business.

 

This list is from a well-known, respected, and reputable Missouri veterinarian.

Enough said.

 

Vote NO on Prop B.

 



"Pet" Redefined in Prop B--Why?

We're pets!? Since when?

According to dictionary.com pet is defined as followed:

pet--noun, adjective, verb, pet·ted, pet·ting.
–noun
1. any domesticated or tamed animal that is kept as a companion and cared for affectionately.

Note: "...kept as a companion and cared for affectionately."

According to Prop B:
(9) ”Pet” means any domesticated animal normally maintained in or near the household of the owner thereof.

Why would HSUS and ASPCA (the two major groups pushing this onto the ballot) feel the need to alter the definition of the word "Pet"? Note too, why would they omit the section of the definition they claim to care most about? Why would they omit the "companion" and "cared for affectionately" part? Why would they change the meaning of "Pet" to such a vague definition?

Why? I'll tell you why, lines 3 and 4.

3. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, any person having custody or ownership of more than ten female covered dogs for the purpose of breeding those animals and selling any offspring for use as a pet shall provide each covered dog:
 
(1) Sufficient food and clean water; The way this proposition defines clean water means that we would be in violation because the water and the feed get mixed in the bottom of the feeder pan and farmers that use a lake, pond, or stream to water their cows would be in violation too. 


(2) Necessary veterinary care; Again we would be in violation. Prop B states that a licenced vet must administer meds, treat the sick, and euthanize the lame; however, we work with licenced vets but we, the farmers, administer the meds, treat the sick, and euthanize the lame. We are trained to do these things by licenced vets and certified but certification is not a medical licence. Imagine how much it would cost for a vet or team of vets to come and do these things daily. We'd go out of business and so would every other farmer, not to mention there aren't enough vets to go around. 

(3) Sufficient housing, including protection from the elements; Some cows have barns, some don't. Therefore, those farmers, whether they have a barn or not, are in violation because of the temperature limitations and many barns are open at one end which would violate the "protection from the elements." According to this definition a roof is not enough. The temperature limitations would also kill our piglets because they must be kept warmer than 85 degrees. Furthermore, waste must be removed daily. We have a deep pit for hog waste--which isn't waste at all, it is a priceless commodity called manure--and it would have to be cleaned daily while the hogs are outside. Not possible. 

(4) Sufficient space to turn and stretch freely, lie down, and fully extend his or her limbs; This would increase the amount of space every farm animal across the board would need; forcing farmers to buy more land or use valuable crop land as pasture ground. 

(5) Regular exercise; and This would require farmers to have an outside area twice as large as the inside area!? Not realistic.

(6) Adequate rest between breeding cycles. Again, Prop B's standards are unrealistic. Farmers could only breed their livestock twice in an 18 month period. That alone would kill animal ag and destroy the nation's economy. 

4. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, no person may have custody of more than fifty covered dogs for the purpose of breeding those animals and selling any offspring for use as a pet. Here's a doozy. Farmers would only be allowed to breed 50 sows, 50 cows, only 50 chickens could lay eggs, etc. Again, this would mean death to animal ag. But, then again, isn't that what HSUS wants.
 
I know, I know. Before you go typing hate mail and claiming I'm an idiot because Prop B is clearly meant for dogs only and has nothing to do with farm animals, consider this. If, according to Prop B, a pet is in fact a "domesticated animal normally maintained in or near the household of the owner" that would mean that cows grazing in a pasture a few yards from their owners' house are "pets," the pigs that live behind my in-law's house only yards away are "pets," sheep, goats, chickens that live in a pasture on the same property which the owner resides are all "pets."
 
By redefining "pet" and creating an incredibly vague description, which in a court of law can be interpreted in the manner I have just described, it creates what is called in the legal profession a "loophole." By creating this "loophole" HSUS has also created an "in." All they would need to do if Prop B passes is file an amendment to change the breed of animal and good bye animal ag, good bye farmers, good bye meat, and hello imported expensive food and the socialist way of life, where big government rules and the little man drools (because he's so hungry).
 

Vote NO on Prop B.

Because this is not a pet.  



Volunteers Needed

I received another email. No, I'm not going to make a habit of sharing my emails but this one is important.


A phone bank has been set up at the Mo Cattlemen’s in Columbia to make phone calls to voters to oppose Prop B. The phone bank will accommodate at least 20 callers and will operate from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm daily through Saturday, noon to 9:00 pm on Sunday and from 9:00 am until noon on Monday. Automatic dialing and a short script are there so now all we need are people. To sign up and help defeat Prop B, contact Jeff Windett at 573-499-9162 or jeff@mocattle.com to coordinate schedules.

I am also getting more information sent to me about setting this up using my home computer. If you have a high-speed connection (not dial up) you can set up your own at-home phone bank. If you'd like more info on doing this at home email me (j.windmann@yahoo.com), as soon as I receive the info I will forward it on to you.

We need your help getting the word out about Prop B.
Please help in anyway you can, November is just around the corner.

Vote NO on Prop B.



Other sites of interest to learn more about Prop B:

Proposition B not the right answer to problem--published in the Missourian

KnowledgeisPower2011--YouTube channel

Using Your Brain to Think Through Prop B--24th State Blog

Law makers want to expose "truth" of Prop B--Brownfield Ag News

Also see the links to the right and my past Prop B blogs for more information. Thank you for your support.

Update:

I wanted to let you know a similar phone bank is also available at Missouri Farm Bureau home office in Jefferson City if that is a closer option– as a fellow producer, we all need to be aware that Proposition B is a critical issue we need to ensure is defeated. MOFB has a call center area set up With a computer program installed to generate the telephone numbers and dial until a live body answers. Callers will have a script to follow so no one will have to “wing it.” Phones will be available beginning at 9:00 a.m. this week. Evening hours are possible if people are available to make calls. Leslie Holloway is the primary contact in the home office and she can be reached at lholloway@mofb.com or 573-893-1410. Jill Fansler can also be contacted; her email is jfansler@mofb.com, or 573-893-1410.



Missouri Cares--Vote NO on Prop B

I would like to share an email I received last week. It caught me by surprise and I thoroughly appreciated it. This email shows the level of dedication Missouri's legitimate pet businesses have and how serious they are about their job. One of the major issues we are having right now with Prop B is that radical groups are trying to paint every puppy breeder as being a "puppy mill." This is the same as labeling our family farm a "factory farm," which just isn't the case. Just because we're big doesn't make us bad, same goes for puppy breeders. Furthermore, people like Tonya, who buy puppies from legitimate breeders, are being chastised as well.

Hi,


My Name is Tonya Thoenen and I own and operate a small pet store outside of Mexico MO. Puppy Love Haven has been in business for 28 years . I love my job providing quality puppies to mid Missouri and providing children with their first pet (best friend) or an elderly person finding companionship after they have lost their loved one. This is better than being Santa Clause! I know in my heart they went home with a good healthy dog that will love them unconditionally.

I purchase puppies from several licensed kennels in Mo. and have first hand knowledge that this is their livelihood also. We don’t do this as a hobby. Its in our blood. The dog breeders I know are passionate about what they do. This is a blessing from God to love what you do. I know for a fact that you will not find one livestock farmer or row cropper or dog breeder that hates their job.

Thank you for coming to the 4 H meeting and all of your well written blogs. I forwarded your site to my Mo. inspector to read. I know she will like it and appreciate it. It took me awhile to figure out how to thank you, I'm over 40 and don't have any children to show me how to respond to a blog. (smile)

So in closing. Thank you for your support, thank your for your information. I had no idea how much I rely on pork products. Where would we be without our pork?

God Bless and have a great day.

Thanks, Tonya Thoenen
Puppy Love Haven
573-581-6433

Missouri has been labeled "the puppy mill capital" by HSUS and ASPCA. These same radical groups have pushed Prop B onto Missouri's ballot claiming it will end puppy mills, claiming it will stop puppy cruelty. But, I'd like to know how? Prop B does nothing to enforce the laws, it does nothing to improve the laws, it basically does nothing but put HSUS's foot in the door to legislate animal businesses out of Missouri.


Thank you Tonya for caring. Thank you to all the legitimate and responsible puppy breeders that provide healthy pets to loving homes. Please help keep these people in business and don't let misleading ads by radical groups stop us from having pets. We don't need more government to protect animals, we need help enforcing the laws that we already have. If HSUS and ASPCA really cared they would have spent the millions they have wasted on this campaign on actually helping animals. They push the ballot but don't pay the bill. Prop B won't help Missouri.
 

Vote NO on Prop B. 

Prop B Debate Continues

The Prop B debate continues and will until November 2, where you, as an American citizen, have the right to voice your opinion by voting.  You have constitutional rights and options but if Prop B passes it will be yet another stepping-stone toward more government control in our every day lives. Little by little our rights as citizens are being eaten away by more and more government control.

Prop B limits dog breeders, despite the level of care they have given their dogs in the past, to a specific number of breeding females and dictates how many times those females can be bred. This would, by law, limit breeders to how much they are allowed to earn per year making it impossible to earn a living and stay in business. Would you stand for the government dictating how much you are allowed to earn and controlling your business? That fact alone goes against our constitutional rights. Missouri already has laws in place that protect these animals. Furthermore, Prop B lowers the standards of care required while increasing punishments for such non-offenses as a piece of food in a water dish or a single scratch on a painted surface. How many of you have had your pet eat some kibble then take a drink and oops, there is some food in the water. Should you too be charged with a Class C misdemeanor crime? Do you have all the cobwebs out of the corners of your ceiling? If not, according to Prop B, that is another misdemeanor charge. Prop B also makes it nearly impossible for puppies to survive given the new "environmental" requirements.

By lowering care standards, imposing severe income limits, and making non-offenses into misdemeanor crimes Prop B would close most of Missouri's properly operated, inspected, licensed and reputable facilities, while doing NOTHING to increase state resources to close unlawful kennels. In other words, the breeders that are following the rules and filling out the paperwork are being punished while the unregulated and unlicensed facilities remain just under the radar and in business. Even the Missouri Veterinary Medical Association calls Prop B "unfair and misguided." The MVMA goes on to state, "We don't need more laws and more governmental limitations on those that follow the rules...the answer lies in adequate funding for inspections and better enforcement of unlicensed facilities."

Coincidentally, HSUS and certain "favored" organizations are exempt from this law if it should pass. Even HSUS, who is responsible for pushing Prop B on the ballot, wants nothing to do with this law. Shouldn't that be a red flag unto itself? Get the facts before you vote! Don't put thousands of Missourians out of work and out of business. Vote NO on Prop B.



See my video on YouTube

Vote NO on Prop B

For more information visit:

http://www.thealliancefortruth.com/

http://www.mofb.org/

http://www.missourifac.com/

Vote NO on Prop B

I heard a frightening statistic today. Currently, voters are sitting at a 70/30 mix on Prop B. That is 70 percent wish it to pass and only 30 percent wish it to fail. I am one of those 30 percent; in case the title of this blog wasn't obvious enough. That tells me that an overwhelming amount of people do not understand the consequences of Prop B, also known as "The Puppy Mill Bill." This bill is playing on peoples emotions while conveniently clouding over the facts.

Click to enlarge.

This proposition states it is for "domestic animals," livestock are domestic animals. The language is vague enough that if passed, all it would take is one little amendment to change "dogs" to "livestock" and good-bye animal ag in Missouri. This bill, if passed, will put licenced, legitimate breeders and farmers out of business and only leave unlicensed and substandard breeders that stay just under the radar in business. Tell me, how does that help animals? This proposition, if passed, will lessen the required care for animals compared to the current law and regulations. Tell me, how does that help animals? This proposition, if passed, will eventually put tens of thousands of people out of work and out of business; not to mention, the prices at the grocery store will sky rocket just as they are doing in California right now because of a similar proposition.

Prop B limits how many animals dog breeders can have which would limit their income. Is that fair or right? Is that even American? Would you stand for someone telling you that you are only allowed to earn $10,000 a year by law? Because if Prop B passes that is what will happen to legitimate dog breeders. Not all dog breeders are "puppy mills." This is a derogatory slang term that is in the same category as "factory farms." The term is used to conjure the mistreated animals you see on TV but those few that mistreat their animals are not the norm. In fact, we, as farmers and breeders, want those places to be put out of business. We want those people to suffer to the fullest extent of the law. We own large confinement barns that are classified as CAFOs but we do not run them like an assembly line. Nor do we mistreat our pigs like HSUS and other radical groups would lead you to believe. We are not a "factory farm," we are a family owned hog farm.

Those 70 percent of you that wish Prop B to pass, have you read it and compared it to the current law? If you haven't you should. Please, do your research before you step up to the voting box. Please, look at the facts instead of letting HSUS use your emotions against us all. Animals are already protected by state laws. Prop B is not about protecting puppies, it is about putting animal ag and breeders out of business.

For those of you that think that we should all be vegans and abolish animal ag, remember this is a free country. No one is forcing you to eat meat so do not force us to not eat meat. Also remember that over 500 products are made from pork alone. From plastics to make-up. Stay tuned for my Porky Products post on Tues., which is about pork byproducts and re-think where you stand on animal ag.

Prop B is only a stepping-stone toward a meat free society. Do the following quotes sound like something that would come from a person who loves and cares for animals?

“We have no problem with the extinction of domestic animals.”-Wayne Pacelle, President, HSUS

“In fact, I don’t want to see another dog or cat born.”-Wayne Pacelle, President, HSUS

“Our goal is to get sport hunting in the same category as cock fighting and dog fighting. We are going to use the ballot box and the democratic process to stop all hunting in the United States.”-Wayne Pacelle, President, HSUS

If you love your pets, if you love to eat meat, if you hunt, or if you want to keep your constitutional rights

Vote NO on Prop B.

http://www.thealliancefortruth.com/

http://www.missourifac.com/

http://www.mofb.org/  

(click on "Animal Care Toolkit")



Prop B Meeting

Last night my husband and I pulled into a full parking lot in front of Mexico's 4-H building. We were greeted by Mr. Middleton (he and his wife are Missouri dog breeders) who graciously held the door for us. Through the wide white door and off to the large room on the right we found rows of people tentatively listening to Cathy Griesbauer, President of Professional Pet Association, discuss the truth behind Proposition B. PPA President Griesbauer gave frightening HSUS statistics; for example, less than half a penny is spent on hands-on care and HSUS does not help or participate in any spay and neuter program. Yet they're suppose to be helping animals. Another interesting aspect to Prop B is the fact that current regulations on dog breeder are actually more strict and Prop B reduces the level of care for the animals. What Prop B is actually doing is creating it harder to have an animal-based business in Missouri.

One of the key points made is here in one of Cathy Griesbeaur's slides.

The next speaker to take the stage was Chris Chinn from the Farm Bureau. She explained how Prop B is a stepping stone for radical groups to change animal agriculture like they did in California. One of the major goals of HSUS is to create a meat free society and to give animals the same rights as people. Prop B is only step one of this initiative. Another key point made during her speech was that we as farmers need to tell our story. Radical groups are busy telling our story for us but it is the wrong story. We need to "put a face on agriculture" and make our voices heard. 

After Chinn's presentation the floor was opened to questions and comments. One of the audience members who presented his view on Prop B was Senator Bill Stouffer. Another political figure present was state representative candidate Linda Witte. This meeting was a success however it's not over. Another meeting will be held Tues. at Coach's Pizza in Mexico and we need every ones help to spread the word about Prop B's lies.

Prop B doesn't help animals, it hurts the economy, hurts local and legitimate businesses, and it is the first step to reducing if not removing your rights as an American citizen.

Vote NO on Prop B

http://www.thealliancefortruth.com/

More on "The Puppy Mill Bill"

Here are some scary statistics concerning the Humane Society of the United States:

• HSUS is a national factory-fundraising nonprofit organization preying on the public's emotional attachment to pets; yet, gives less than 1% of their millions to local animal shelters.

• $31 million of the public's contributions to HSUS goes for salaries and over $20 million is spent on litigation, lobbying, campaigns and legislation, even though HSUS is registered as a charitable organization--This information is from the Center for Consumer Freedom's analysis of the latest IRS paperwork filed by HSUS for 2008.

• HSUS collected over $86 million in contributions in 2008 and in that same year spent $24 million on fundraising. In other words, 28 cents of every dollar contributed is used to raise more money.

• HSUS is a radical group trying to abolish animal agriculture, sport hunting, and the ownership of pets. They are wanting to take away our rights not to mention the thousands of jobs created by agriculture, hunting, and pet breeding.

Bottom line, HSUS has already infiltrated Florida, Arizona, Oregon, Colorado, California, Maine, Michigan, and Ohio with their radical animal rights agenda. Do you want them in Missouri too?

I know I want to maintain my right to own my beautiful and beloved pure breed English Shepherd, Mina, that I bought from a breeder.


I want to keep my right to own and operate any business that I see fit on my own property because this is America. Better and braver men and women have died for the freedom we enjoy and I'm not about to let HSUS take those rights away from me all because they feel that "The life of an ant and that of my child should be granted equal consideration."
Not in my town, Bub!

Vote NO on Prop B!

Don't forget to mark your calender for the Prop B meeting. A speaker from the MO Farm Bureau will be there to answer questions and give the details on this issue.

Prop B Meeting

Thursday--October 7 @ 7 p.m.

4-H Center

21509 Hwy D

Mexico, MO

For questions call 573-581-0971 or 573-581-6433

For more information, visit:

http://www.humanewatch.org/

http://www.missourifac.com/

http://www.mofb.org/

(click on "Animal Care Toolkit")

Where's the Family Dog?

Who doesn't love a cute, innocent, big eyed puppy? What jerk would vote against a bill that would save these adorable creatures from a life of abuse? That is what HSUS wants you to think but "The Puppy Mill Bill" is a LIE!

If Prop B goes through the family dog won't be with the family anymore. If HSUS gets their way we won't have pets...or rights. Proposition B or better known as "The Puppy Mill Bill" is going to be on the ballot this November. So, what is Prop B?

Prop B has been pushed on the ballot by the Humane Society of the United States (not to be confused with your local animal shelter). This bill was designed to eliminate all dog breeding in Missouri. It will allow authorities to charge licensed breeders with a misdemeanor crime of "cruelty" if they have a cobweb in their kennel, a piece of food in a water bowl, a scratch on a painted surface, and this is only the tip of the iceberg.

Think I'm exaggerating? Read the fine print.

Prop B even reduces current regulations from 2 feedings per day to 1 feeding per day. These regulations pushed on us by the HSUS have already successfully shut down legitimate pork businesses in Florida, the egg industry in California, and now they are coming after Missouri. HSUS is shutting down legitimate businesses across this "free" country during a time when unemployment is skyrocketing. This radical group isn't for the greater good, they are for their own radical, selfish, illogical and irrational agenda that only hurts us all--including animals--and takes away our God given rights.

HSUS is a radial animal rights group, NOT an animal welfare group--BIG difference. Animal rights means they want animals to have the same rights as people do, i.e., you are charged for murder if you shoot a deer or charged with involuntary man(animal)slaughter for running over a squirrel. Just a tad on the radical side? I think so but if you're not convinced let's look at some quotes straight from the horses mouth--so to speak.

Wayne Pacelle, President of HSUS, Associated Press interview:

"If we could shut down all sport hunting in a moment, we would."

Another quote from Wayne Pacelle:

"I don't ever want to see another dog or cat born"

John Goodwin, HSUS grassroots coordinator, statement made on AR-Views:

"My goal is the abolition of all animal agriculture."

Michael W. Fox, HSUS senior scholar, Associated Press interview:

"The life of an ant and that of my child should be granted equal consideration."

Vote NO on Prop B on Nov. 2

To learn more about Prop B visit TheAllianceforTruth.com and join us at a town meeting in Mexico, MO

Prop B Meeting

Time & Date:

Thursday--October 7 @ 7 p.m.

Meeting Location:

4-H Building

21509 Hwy D

Mexico, MO

Speaker:

Missouri Farm Bureau

Questions:

573-581-0971 or 573-581-6433