Michigan Meatout Day? At first I thought this was a joke when I found a link to it on Facebook (from a Michigan State student comment on a page of someone I follow). But it’s right there on Governor Granholm’s website. And it’s for March 20 which is National Ag Day! I would urge everyone to let her know what you think about this idea. Hmm. I wonder who could be behind this? You can click on the image for a larger one.
I called the office and constituent line both at approximately 5:15pm eastern time but they had gone for the day. I thought it odd that the phone just rings. No answering machine or service I guess. Is that normal? I called the Washington, DC office and someone did answer who told me to call the constituents line. She said they must have gone for the day and to call them tomorrow which I will try to do.
Here’s what the Governor’s resolution says:
Michigan Meatout Day
Whereas, A wholesome diet of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains promotes good health and reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, and other chronic diseases, which take the lives of approximately 1.3 million Americans each year; and,
Whereas, The number of those who choose to live the lifestyle of a vegan or vegetarian has increased and so has the availability and selection of meat and dairy alternatives in mainstream grocery stores, restaurants, and catering operations; and,
Whereas, Reducing the consumption of meat or not eating meat at all can significantly decrease the exposure to infectious pathogens such as salmonella, E. coli, and campylobacter, which take the lives of several thousand Americans and sicken millions more each year; and,
Whereas, The benefits of a plant-based diet can consist of increased energy levels, lower food budget costs, and simplified food preparation and cleanup; and,
Whereas, It is encouraged that the residents of this state get into the habit of healthy living by consuming a diet that is rich with vegetables, fruit, and whole grains, and by staying active;
Now, Therefore, be it Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, governor of the state of Michigan, do hereby proclaim March 20, 2010, Michigan Meatout Day in Michigan. In observance of this day, I encourage the residents of this state to choose not to eat meat. Eating a healthy diet can be fun. Explore the different recipes that can be created by using fresh ingredients and by having a sense of adventure.
So she says, “I encourage the residents of this state to choose not to eat meat.” Is she vegan? What do Michigan’s farmers and ranchers think of this?