Fighting of cocks and other animals; Class 6 felony for any person to engage therein. (SB1190)

Introduced By

Sen. Roscoe Reynolds (D-Martinsville) with support from co-patron Sen. Edd Houck (D-Spotsylvania)

Progress

Introduced
Passed Committee
Passed House
Passed Senate
Signed by Governor
Became Law

Description

Fighting of cocks and other animals. Makes it a Class 6 felony for any person to engage in the fighting of cocks or other animals except dogs. Under the dogfighting statute, it is currently a Class 6 felony to engage in dogfighting. The bill also makes it a Class 6 felony to possess to train, transport, or sell any animal for the purpose of fighting. The penalty for attending a cock or other animal fight is increased from a Class 3 misdemeanor to a Class 1 misdemeanor. Read the Bill »

Outcome

Bill Has Failed

History

DateAction
01/10/2007Prefiled and ordered printed; offered 01/10/07 079183808
01/10/2007Referred to Committee on Agriculture, Conservation and Natural Resources
01/12/2007Impact statement from VCSC (SB1190)
01/29/2007Committee substitute printed 072582808-S1
01/30/2007Impact statement from VCSC (SB1190S1)
01/30/2007Constitutional reading dispensed (40-Y 0-N)
01/31/2007Passed by for the day
02/01/2007Read second time
02/01/2007Reading of substitute waived
02/01/2007Committee substitute agreed to 072582808-S1
02/01/2007Reading of amendment waived
02/01/2007Amendment by Senator Reynolds agreed to
02/01/2007Reading of amendments waived
02/01/2007Amendment #1 by Senator Hanger agreed to (20-Y 19-N)
02/01/2007VOTE: (20-Y 19-N) (see vote tally)
02/01/2007Amendment #2 by Senator Hanger agreed to
02/01/2007Motion to rerefer to committee rejected
02/01/2007Engrossed by Senate - committee substitute w/amendments SB1190ES1
02/01/2007Printed as engrossed 072582808-ES1
02/02/2007Read third time
02/02/2007Passed Senate (38-Y 2-N)
02/02/2007VOTE: (38-Y 2-N) (see vote tally)
02/02/2007Communicated to House
02/06/2007Placed on Calendar
02/06/2007Read first time
02/06/2007Referred to Committee for Courts of Justice
02/09/2007Assigned Courts sub: Criminal Law
02/19/2007Reported from Courts of Justice with substitute (21-Y 0-N) (see vote tally)
02/19/2007Referred to Committee on Appropriations
02/20/2007Committee substitute printed 077045808-H1
02/20/2007Left in Appropriations
02/21/2007Impact statement from VCSC (SB1190H1)

Comments

Shawn Becker writes:

I really hope this passes. Virginia is ranks up near the top of ladder as far as states with the laxes cockfighting laws. Right now it is perfectly legal to attend cockfights in Virginia, as long as gambling does not take place, and no admission fee is charged. Of course these laws are rarely enforced. Props to Roscoe for introducing this.

kevin vaughan writes:

the land of the free will soon be over.if this bill passes.

Waldo Jaquith writes:

If we cannot fight two chickens to the death for entertainment purposes, the terrorists have already won?

Cross Creek writes:

I served in combat 2 times for a free country, let’s keep it that way. Do not support SB1190, all Virginian's need to wake up and realize we are slowly loosing our constitutional rights as they were originally intended to be. This is the land of the free, write and call your Senators and Governor and let them know you do not support SB1190 it is unconstitutional.

Here is a list of those Senators who stood up for the people and not the Animal Rights Terrorists groups:

These Supported the harsh bill -----> YEAS--Hawkins, Ticer, Whipple, Reynolds, Puckett, Blevins, Deeds, Locke, McDougle--9.

These Stood up for the people of Virginia and thier rights----------------------> NAYS--Chichester, Hanger, Watkins, Cuccinelli, Obenshain--5.

ABSTENTIONS--0.

Gerbera writes:

I'm not quite sure how laws against cock fighting threaten our constitutional rights. If watching two birds try to kill each other is your idea of the pursuit of happiness, you may have some issues to address.

I'm also not quite sure of how people opposed to cock fighting are terrorists. Has the ALF started targeting cock fights?

Tim McNalley writes:

Let's see if you allow a person to kill a unborn child that is perfectly LEGAL! To let to game cocks do what comes natural will be a felony? I now my cocks want to fight way more than the deer want a bunch of hunters shooting at them with high powered rifles. Cocking has been a American tradition every since this country was founded. Has it ever hurt you? I was alway taught my rights end where your begin. I do my thing you do yours let's keep this what makes a FREE country GREAT! Peace, Tim

CCGF writes:

I've been around & raised gamefowl the biggest part of my life. I think its deprivation of our rights to pass this bill (SB1190). The sport of cockfighting has been around forever, I'm sure a lot of our men & women fighting in Iraq grew up on farms, raised & fought chickens as well. Wonder how they feel about these stupid bills thats trying to take the freedoms away as the bullets are flying over their heads. I served my country (U.S Army) in peacetime and would have gladly fought if necessary. Now, looks like my son and daughter might be fighting for what freedoms we have left. What is this world (especially this country) coming to ? We'll all be vegatarians before its over. We can't fight chickens, but we can let men fight it out in bloody battles in the octagon (UFC) or professional boxing (which by the way causes de-abilitating injuries & sometimes deaths. To much money to be made there for the "man" for the polititions to attack those "bloodsports". Lets start with banning professional boxing, Ultimate fighting first. A word to my representatives, pass SB1190 me, my family, and every friend I can muster will remember it when we VOTE. I do have one question: If this passes,what will the people that have raised gamefowl all their lives do with the animals they have in their possesion ? Will the government confiscate & dispose (kill) them ? Or what ? Thanks.

cathy vaughan writes:

Everyday our rights are been taking by people who don't have a clue what there doing.America's biggest icon's competed in cock fights.President's BENJAMIN FRANKLIN,GEORGE WASHINGTON,ALEXANDER HAMILTON,ABE LINCOLN,THOMAS JEFFERSON and VIRGINIA ICON STONEWALL JACKSON competed in cock fights.So some one like roscoe is trying to take more of our freedom away. By trying to tear down the very principles this country was founded own.So let's weigh it out GEORGE WASHINGTON ECT...OR roscoe you decide.

RB writes:

if you dont think you are next in line you are crazy!!! ride you're horse's and pat you're beloved dog on the head while you still can...
SB1190 is unconstitutional

Rickey Hampton writes:

Let's see if you allow a person to kill a unborn child that is perfectly LEGAL! To let to game cocks do what comes natural will be a felon

Waldo Jaquith writes:

Let's see if you allow a person to kill a unborn child that is perfectly LEGAL!

I'm impressed by your bold stance in support of the gentleman sport of fetus fighting. If we are not permitted to strap knives onto the ankles of our unborn twins and fight them to the death, then what right will they take away from us next?

Thomas Delong writes:

You need to say no to this outragous bill. For the person Gerbera, Do your home work. ART's, PETA, HSUS are all crooks, thiefs, and will be coming after you as a pet owner if this law and a few others that are targeted on us chicken people. Here is a few links to help you find the truth on these people that our own Government has labled Domestic Terriost. This is your so called wonderful animal rights groups you may think so much of. Find out the truth for yourself. Stop living a lie and Virgina needs to wake up a do your home work too before it is to late.

www.uplandbirddog.com

www.ussportsmen.org

www.animalscam.com

www.missourioutback.com

www.greyluvrsleague.com

www.animalpeoplenews.org

www.animalliberationfront.com
www.corntopia.com

www.dvmnews.com

www.activistcash.com

www.w4wc.org

www.deseretnews.com

www.worldtwitch.com

www.maineguides.org

www.avma.org

www.GameFowlNews.com

www.animalrights.net

www.consumerfreedom.com

www.azfarmersranchers.com

www.exoticpets.about.com

www.animalagalliance.org

www.jimbeersblogster.com

Ben J. Taylor writes:

SB1190 is another of our rights being taken away by the supporters of the Animal Rights Terrorist! Its two damn chickens. Go to any poultry house and then tell me who is crueler!! How about you big shots and your Marlin Fishing with that big boy fighting for his life for hours while you drink your martinis and beers. But Ill tell ya the HSUS is coming after you too not just those good folks who raise gamefowl. Its just a matter of time. When the hunters, fishermen and anyone else who has animals will be under attack and the fake scrutiny of the HSUS.

Jayp writes:

The public deserves to know the truth behind this legislation. Gamefowl breeders are respectful and hard working members of society. The true villans are those that sponsor these types of bills and wish for you not to be able to own a pet of any kind. Even more importantly they wish to destroy christianity. Don't believe me, then read what their hero says, -Peter Singer (Father of animal rights) in the book Animal Liberation, "Christianity is our foe. If animal rights is to succeed, we must destroy the Judeo-Christian Religious tradition."

Source-
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User:Salva31

TELL EM WHERE TO GO by encouraging your state representatives to VOTE NO !!!

Cross Creek writes:

Just because they poltted the bust in Martineville VA the day before the bill was to be voted on doesn't make the issue right. Why did they wait 7 months to make this bust if they knew illegal stuff was going on. Do you mean they allowed illegal activities to continue until 1 day before the bill was reviewed. I think the FBI should investigate into why this bust was made 1 day before the vote, simple answer a panned attack on the people to get this bill passed. STand up for your rights.

Bill forren writes:

Virginia residents have been fighting roosters for hundreds of years and it has never really been a major issue. Now you have multi million dollar special interest groups influencing the public and making an issue out of nothing. We do not fight cocks in public, nor do we promote the sport to the public. As long as you can kill an unborn child, go to Vegas and partake in gambling and prostitution, gamble at a race track, buy lottery tickets, then I should have the right to allow two roosters to that which is natural. Gamecocks are not forced to fight, or pumped full of drugs as the HSUS claims, they are a prime example of fine breeding and health. The HSUS has to maintain an agenda that keeps them in the media in order to generate donations. $$$$$$$ is the factor we are loosing our rights to, not morality. The Senators voting against our right to freedom will be reminded of there error if they pursue office in the future. The animal rights thugs they support will leave after this and be gone with their usual smirk and arrogance, to trample on another state using tax-exempt donations from the public to create laws the public will have to live by.

Jerry Golden writes:

Well, the same folks that are against hunting Mountain Lions in California are 100% behind banning cockfighting. I can see the obvious lack of logic & disregard for human freedoms in their thinking on both counts and the follow on if they succeed in banning Cockfighting. They have enough money to buy what the British couldn't force upon us. When they get control of all animal use your kids will pay a very high price. Don't be a party to taking someone else's freedom, if you do, your day will surely come.

LEE GATTS writes:

when man stops fighting man,then we can talk about stopping roosters from doing the same.man should set the example in life!

jeff ponder writes:

sb1190 is another hsus sponsered piece of garbage ,, please vote no on this bill and defend our country from the animal rights terroists ,, thank you JEFF PONDER

Playboy writes:

The anmal rights terrorists are behind this bill. Don't let them cram anything down your throats. They have taken farms from people to save the Blue Darter, forests have been taken beacuse of a spotted owl. If they succeed in passing this bill, your pets may be next. Do not allow them to dictate what you may do with YOUR property. Control of the people are what they are after. Do not bend to their wishes. Vote NO.

shane stricklin writes:

Until the goverment kills every person who was raised traditonally around this sport and every game bird that exists this sport will live on forever as it is already one of the oldest sports known to man. I strongly oppose this bill or any bill even close to this bill. LONG LIVE GAMEFOWL ,GAMEFOWL BREEDERS AND THE AGE OLD SPORT OF COCKFIGHTING .

tid writes:

here it is again another right gone down the drain if these people pass the law please say no

Chris W. writes:

It's a shame as what the world has come to today. We are getting our God given rights took away a little by little, the same rights that people have went into battle and have fought and died for. Why is this going on? Because one group has a deeper pocket to dig into than the others. Vote no for SB1190! Because before you know it, they will be after something that you care and have worked hard for!

Gil Clancy writes:

I don't really have a cock in this fight, but it certainly does seem like yet another example of urban elites thinking they know what's best for everybody, and predicated by an uninformed, visceral revulsion more than first-hand knowledge of the sport.

DESERTFOX writes:

WELL TO BEGIN WITH THIS IS ALL BULLS@@T THERE AGENDA ISNT FOR ANIMALS ITS TO CONTROL PEOPLE JUST LIKE COMMUNIST WELL VA DONT LET THIS HAPPEN TO UR STATE FIGHT BACK AND TAKE CONTROLL VOTE NO AND KICK THEM IDIOTS OUT OF UR STATE AND IF HUNTERS AND FISHERMEN AND COCKFIGHTERS AND GUN OWNERS WOULD BAN TOGETHER THEY WOULDNT HAVE A LEG TO STAND ON !!!!! VOTE NO !!!!!

Dwan Glidewell writes:

most of us cockfighters are hard working members of every community but if u people listen to hsus and other groups like them yall are going to believe we are all outlaws that just aint the case people you let them pass this bill and they arejust going to keep on till you cant even kill a rabbit or squirel for your supper this country is no longer free but cockfighting has been going on since this country was founded why we got to stop now we dont care what you animal groups do for fun so why do yall care what we do it is none of your d%%% buisness just leave us alone and please vote no thanks

Waldo Jaquith writes:

For those who don't know what's going on here, a half dozen cockfighting websites (FriendInSport.com, GameRooster.com, Pitfowl.com, etc.) today urged their members to post comments and vote here. Very few of these comments are coming from Virginia residents.

S Stanley writes:

It is our righta as americans to have choices,our fathers fought for this.Its simple if you dont enjoy something dont go!I myself as a veteran and a game fowl enthusiast also gave our country 4 years for our choices, you can have yours please let us have ours,Vote no on SB1190

Thurston Poltorak writes:

Just a matter of time before they come for your dog and cat.These people have a agenda.This will be the start of the ending for animal lovers.Fight these nuts while you still can.

Dennywh writes:

This Bill is unconstitutional. Can we not do with our own property as we see fit. I have bred and raised gamefowl for several years and sell them on occasion and have entered in poultry show, and I do test my fowl. Some folks call it fighting I call it Testing as it is a test of the Cocks breeding and ability, we breed these birds to maintain the genetics and GAMNESS and fighting abilities they NATURALLY POSSESS. In Order for us to maintain the Natural Instincts and abilities of the Birds we love so much we have to test them some win some lose but it tells us what we need to do in the breeding aspect of raising them ,Steel testing is a lot more humaneand Fairer way for them to do battle than their natural spurs as some birds would have long spurs and some short making it a unfair advantage to one or the other, steel in certain lenths makes a fairer and less stressful battle for the bird actually as the wounds from the heal way faster than wounds from a birds natural spur. They have even been a moral booster for our troops in wars such as the civil war showing Heart and Courage and fighting to the end in their battles and Have been owned by many of the upper class and many JUDGES Owned Gamecocks and Tested Them throughout History . The Gamecock is a important part of Americas History and should be considered endangered and not something to be eradicated. I am A working Taxpaying , Voting citizen of VA and think this is a travesty to try and take the rights of "Humans" indviduals in the name of ANIMAL Rights. The ARA"S are trying to undermine society By spreading all their proaganda bullcrap and Mistruths especially about Gamefowl in General. I can set you straight on several mistruths they have told and continue to tell that are bold faced lies concering GAMEFOWL. My Vote and several others in the family will be affected extremely by the passing of these Crappy laws, You will be turning myself and several others across Va into Felons overnight for trying to Keep Gamefowl What they Are GAMEFOWL, and Cause a substantial Loss for many thousands of Hard Working Americans you say you are trying to support. Say NO!!!

andy writes:

we dont need any new laws. we need to deal with the war an keeping the rights that we have now . our rights seem to be for sell to animal act groups.hunting an the right to a fire arm will soon be up for sale if we the people dont stand up an take stand for our freedom .when every one was trying to put a ban on the pit bull alot of city got it done. then the insurance companys had the right to turn you down just for the breed of dog you have.I know they can turn you down on other breeds just because of their size an they dont have to be a pit bull it can be a Black lab to get you turned down. my chicken are not for sale an my rights are not for sale. The GOVERMENT has spent more money on things that they should leave alone and spend more money on things like killers an child rapists. helping the homeles. making sure that our veterans are took care of.making new laws to make sure that the SOCIAL SECURITY is their for the working people of the usa an protecting the rights of the people of the free country instead taking more away. I am a hillbilly. I didnt ask to be born. I am asking to be free an do what my granded parents did with out be coming a crimnal.THAT SHOULD NOT BE TO HARD TO UNDERSTAND.

BONE writes:

VOTE NO !!!!it would be a shame to be considered a felon for owneing a chicken. last time i looked the only person i have to stand in judgment of would be the good LORD ALMIGHTY himself!!!! havent been struck by lightning yet for fighting a rooster!!! so who are you or anybody else for that matter to judge me for doing what i love!!! VOTE NO

Harry Landers writes:

Like many other Virginians, I've been involved in the sport of gerbil boxing for many years. My wife has been sewing the tiny boxing gloves for them and those little critters just love going at it for a few rounds. They wear protective headgear, so they don't get concussions. Nobody makes them fight, but they do love to go at it.

If they stop cockfighting, how do we know that they won't go after gerbil boxing next?

CockyMcPherson writes:

This is ridiculous. A boatload of white trash comes out from the encouragement of these websites. People have no lives! Waldo, I give it to you for tolerating this garbage on your site. Keep up the good work!

CockyMcPherson writes:

Bone:
owneing a chicken. who would do such a thing???? fighting cocks to the death is one thing, but to actually owne a chicken...pathetic human being who does that....

owneing a chicken....dear God!

Gil Clancy writes:

Thanks, Cocky. I rest my case.

OleJoeHiggins writes:

Dennywh-

I agree with you partner. I've been having my wife and her sister birth me boy after boy for the last 30 years, and I TEST them too. I make 'em fight each other around age 8 with full knives and sometimes firearms. I don't want no dadgum chillin of mine spreadin his seed if'ins he ain't strong enough to survive! Its a test of genetic strength just like'n my pappy did to muself. I'd hate for them to pass some law sayin I couldnt fight my chillins to see who was strongest and fit for breedin and farm work!
Humph!

JMU Duke writes:

Wow....hat's off to you Waldo, and thank you for inadvertently opening up this avenue to a night made for me. Ought should change the quote at the bottom of this page to "Corn whiskey is said to be the best of disinfectants."

Dana Wallace writes:

There seems to be a few nere do wells in any sport that give it a bad name, and the same is true with cock fighting. But the ARAs only key on the bad news when they give their accounts of cockers. Therefore America thinks we're dope dealing redneck, knife carring murderers. But that couldn't be farther from the truth. Most cockers are hard working family men and women, usually middle income, blue collar. But you'd be surprised at some of the nick names thrown around at the pits,Preacher, Doc, Judge, Trooper, I've heard those, and others that surprised me before cock fighting was outlawed in Va. I,m a small breeder, usually raising between 30 and 45 stags a year. Of those I'll show 10 or 15 myself, and sell 15 or 20 out of state. Those shipped out of state, are a big help too me financially. If the state played it's cards right, it could benifit from the cocking industry as well.
In order to keep my fowl and to be safe from felony or even misdomeanor charges, I'd be gladto pay a yearly breeders fee. There could be a pitters licenes, a door tax at the pit, a resturaunt tax in the pits, and any number of other taxex cockers would pay.
As far as this bill, it's an ARA sponsered attempt to take away even more of our dissapearing rights. VOTE NO.

Gerbera writes:

If we are not permitted to strap knives onto the ankles

I have to admit that I'm pretty ignorant. These people strap knives to the legs of the chickens when they fight? Wow.

These people must live in places so removed for civilization that watching chickens ram each other is entertainment. It's sad that they find it engaging enough to read about it on message boards.

CockyMcPherson writes:

You are right. Roscoe Reynolds is quite the urban elitist. Down with Roscoe and all those Yankee urban elitists from rural Virginia!!

They gon' take our guns next!!!!!! Then our cats and other critters!!! Then our wives!!!!

Chris writes:

Waldo Jaquith,
You meen the same way HSUS puts it out on myspace, or the way they hire calling banks to support bills in every state.

As for your comment:"Did you know that our men and women are serving in Iraq to protect our right to attach knives to the legs of chickens, fight them to the death, and gamble on the outcome?" No, There dying for our freedom. Just in case don't know what Freedom is, here you go: A free society contains individuals who are free to do what they do, whilst respecting the freedoms of others.

tonya demarino writes:

I have read the press releases and the propaganda the HSUS has used to support these bills and others like them introduced in previous years. Anybody reading the comments by the gamefowl breeders should now see that there is ANOTHER SIDE to this issue. I understand that money buys access to government officals, and access provides the special interests an opportunity to feed the legislators their version of reality. It is a shame that the people whom the goverment supposedly represents don't have equal access and they lose their rights based on a very rich and powerful special interest groups' OPINION. Gamefowl breeders may be rural people and members of minority groups without access to their lawmakers but we know that the lawmakers swore to uphold the U.S. Constitution when they took office. We also now that we have rights and guarantees that the US Constitution and years of case law have guaranteed us. If this law passes, you be assured that there will be one lawsuit after another challenging every aspect of this bill. And if a lawmaker votes for this bill, all I can ask is "WHY DO YOU HATE AMERICA?" because that this what this fight boils down to. Who does the Constitution and Bill of Rights pertain to? Special interests or The People???

Bill Forren writes:

waldo jaquith. You are ignorant. I know a lot of these people and yes, they are from Virginia, me included. Like most animal rights thugs, you speak with stupidity.

Gerbera writes:

waldo jaquith. You are ignorant.

This is funnier than all the other comments combined!

Google is your friend, Bill.

Waldo Jaquith writes:

Waldo Jaquith,
You meen the same way HSUS puts it out on myspace, or the way they hire calling banks to support bills in every state.

I have absolutely no idea of why you addressed this comment to me or, for that matter, what you're talking about. If you'd like to respond to my comments on my own blog, please do so there, not here. Not that my comments on my blog had anything to do with MySpace, banks, or humane societies.

Fletcher Reede writes:

I started to write how "they" will only be coming for your cat next if you strap knives to your cat and make it fight other cats, but then I started thinking how cool a knife-wielding cat would be. And then I started thinking how terrifying that would be. And now I can't think of anything else, except for how glad I am not to have a cat.

Bruce Kinsinger writes:

This bill is nothing more than Animal Rights Fodder!!It's good to know that our Virginia Legislators having nothing better to work on than chicken and dog crap!!..Vote'em Out!!!

Bill writes:

This is a communist plot to subvert America by outlawing cockfighting. The first hting the communists do when they take over is ban cockfighting. If this bill passes, the homosexuals, the jews and the communists win.

Steve writes:

What this fight boils down to is money. The tradition of cockfighting has long been sacrificed to greed. I went to one of these things here in VA, by invitation. When I saw the amount of money changing hands, it convinced me that this so-called sport is nothing but an illegal gambling operation and needs to be shut down. Tradition? BS! You want to keep your traditions? Then clean up your act. But don't try to claim it's your right to fight. As far as I'm concerned anyone who has this desire to watch cocks getting it on is nothing but a closet cuckold.

Sidonie writes:

Jayp, I followed your link to the source of the alleged Peter Singer quote about the need to destroy Christianity--ARE YOU FRICKING KIDDING ME? Your link led to a Wikipedia page belonging to someone who identifies himself thusly (and this is a quote): "Oh well. Anyway, I'm a 19 year old college student who enjoys intellectual activities such as reading, writing, and editing." Elsewhere on the page the Wikipedia author includes the following tidbits about himself: "This user has ADHD." If you want us to buy that quote from Peter Singer, could you PLEASE actually find it in one of Peter Singer's works and give us the citation? Otherwise, you just look like a gullible, hysterical idiot.

Gil Clancy writes:

I doubt Pete Singer goes to church every Sunday, but one would think a Princeton professor would have at least a rudimentary understanding of subject-verb agreement.

The quote's BS.

Waldo Jaquith writes:

I notice that all of these same commenters -- nearly to an individual -- recently posted on a similar site opposing a similar federal bill.

WINDANCER writes:

Just think,your child and a member of PETA or the Humane Societys dog or cat is drowning in a public pool.To them they are in a dilema on which one to SAVE.DO YOU have the same problem.Col. Sanders kills 600,000 chickens every two days,but i cant kill 30 a year.And if i make or train them to fight,WHY can't these nuts undo just 1,with all there tax exempt money,JUST 1 ?And remember,Hunting ,Fishing,Rodeo,and any other animal sport is next.These people who have no life except to invade others,don't put themselves out of business,they just change targets.

WINDANCER writes:

I'm Barbaric,but grown men can beat each other to death on my tv set (BOXING).Children can be put to death before birth (abortion).Cattle and pigs can be killed for human consumption,but i'm cruel.You can go die for your country in Iraq at 18,but the good people of the USA wont allow u to drink a beer.Remember good people ,this country was founded because of Taxation without Representation,if your only Freedom is driving to work and home,how FREE are you and what will be the next thing that causes us as a people to grow a backbone.Make NO mistake it's coming sooner than you'd like and i'm fed up and past ready to join!

Jayp writes:

Let the people and lawmakers decide...Maybe a link to Mr. Singer's Princeton University employers website will suffice!

http://www.princeton.edu/pr/news/99/c/0512.htm

The Canberra Times
Copyright 1999 The Federal Capital Press of Australia
May 11, 1999, Tuesday Edition

"Singer has given the animal world its own philosophy. He is Voltaire for the apes. And now, like Moses, he (and others such as the legal philosopher Ronald Dworkin) wants to give humans a new ethics of life and death by changing the Judeo-Christian commandments relating to life and death."

"Singer argues that under certain circumstances it is ethically proper to kill innocent humans and, what is worse in the eyes of his critics, that some animals are worthier of life than some humans who may lack the same capacity for experience or feeling or emotion. The parents of severely deformed children, for example, should have the right to allow their child to die if its prospects for a life of quality are limited..."

You may want to consider their philosophy and motives before pushing their agendas into LAW !!!!!

mr clean ocoee writes:

something is wrong when you can kill 200,00 chickens to eat but if you kill couple hundred fighting your a felon! chicken fighting has been around longer then any of us! we re coming to a point in this country when we dont even have a right to be alive its pathetic! i as i gamefowl person am tierd of being lumped in with dog fighter i dont condone dogs fighting in any form but lets face it a chicken is a chicken nothing else

johnny davis writes:

I hope everyone likes soybean hamburgers! with the passing of this bill thats what it will come
to.

Gerbera writes:

Look, the fact is that this bill is not about cattle or pigs or any other animal. It's about the underground business of cock fighting. As others have written, the conditions are horrible and there's illegal gambling going on. Perhaps your own "sport's" inability to organize and regulate itself has come to this: the government stepping in to force this garbage to stop.

I hope everyone likes soybean hamburgers! with the passing of this bill thats what it will come to.

Really? Awesome! People love the black bean ones so much that they're always sold out here.

Chris writes:

WOW fooboy:
"In July 2004, PETA revealed the results of an investigation into a KFC-supplying slaughterhouse in Moorefield, West Virginia, where workers were caught on video stomping on chickens, kicking them, and violently slamming them against floors and walls."

I wonder if they had a press release after 2 PETA employees Adria Hinkle and Andrew Cook were arrested in June 2005, for allegedly killing 31 adoptable animals and tossing their bodies into a trash dumpster.

Gil Clancy writes:

I don't know whose propaganda is worse, the cockfighters or the PETA Police. But at least the cockfighters just want to be left alone. The PETA Police want you to live by their rules and want to make it a CRIME not to.

concerned for VA writes:

Vote no to this ridiculous bill, these ara radical vegeteraians only want to abolish all animal testing, ownership and possession. We eat meat down her not tofu food! Hope all of you are educated enough to see the big picture here. I don't think any of you have been driving to the grocery store and noticed a cock fight going on? Why can't we keep some of our freedoms instead of selling them to these ara folks? They are the ones that are not from VA my friends....... Hey woo boy why don't you explain in depth how these 2 peta employees killed all these innocent animals while you guys had us believing that you were helping them? Go to this site and see for yourself www.petakillsanimals.com God, forgive these people they know not what they are do!

brassback1 writes:

This needs tobe stopped befor they take other rights away from us.I've been around roosters for 26 years and any rooster even a meat rooster will fight.You need to vote no on this bill.

Micheal Stevers writes:

I would hope that this law will not be passed. Cockfighting has been in my family for the 50 years or better and as a child my father taught me this sport and tradition. It is a natural part of a rooster to want to fight and this is no worse than people who are allowed to kill their unborn children. These roosters want to fight for life and so do the babies that are killed everyday. So my point is if you have the choice to either raise or kill your baby shouldn't I be able to choose what animals I own and what goes on with them. It is not like we take these animals and force them to fight. It runs in there blood as it does in mine. So if this law is passed you kill the memories of my father and tradition.

Peter Metrinko writes:

Remember that cockfighting involves putting razor sharp spurs on the animals' feet. This sport is Unchristian.

My grandfather sponsored a cockfight around 1920. The place was rightfully raided by police because, at least in Pennsylvania (in the tough coal mining area) it was considered reprehensible then. The local priest tracked down all the participants (a light snow had fallen and it was easy to see who had fled the pit by where their tracks took them) and demanded penance.

Waldo Jaquith writes:

I don't know whose propaganda is worse, the cockfighters or the PETA Police.

The cockfighters at least speak for themselves. The series of pro-PETA comments consisted of unattributed material pasted directly from PETA's site, in violation of copyright, and were consequently erased.

M. Sotelo writes:

I dont see the reason this bill was brought up in the first place. As gamebreeders, we don't ask for federal money or stage a rally to get school kids to join, we do what we do with the sweat from my forehead. The day the government pays for my bird's food, water, or vitamins is the day they can do what every they want with them. I attend college full time and work full time, i keep a 3.0 GPA while working 40+ hrs. You may calls us ignorant but half of the breeders are doctors, lawyers, or engineers, they are people YOU look up to when your in trouble. A few days ago I saw a rally outside our local KFC, the people there were trying to persuade me not to buy chicken, come on now. Is this necessary? I felt like buying each one of them a bucket of chicken. I'd vote NO until the day that I die.

H. Earl Armstrong writes:

I'll wager that the penance demand went over like a pork chop dinner at a Jewish wedding reception, with the Non-Catholic participants Peter
Oh and by the way Peter animal stewardship (which like it or not includes cockfighting [see the parable of the talents]) is indeed a Christian calling. After all Peter God put Adam and Eve in Eden as Stewards.

Catzmaw writes:

I'd be more impressed with the fervent defenses of the cockfighters if it weren't for the fact that the reason this legislation is being proposed is because cockfighting and its attendant gambling and other vices (alcohol, gangster attendees, and other nuisances) are causing problems for the communities near the areas where the activities are taking place. Leaving aside their defense that they should be able to engage in cockfighting because their ancestors did it, what answer do these people have to gambling, gangs, illegal aliens, and other issues associated with cockfighting?

jeff ponder writes:

for one thing i,m not white trash ,, i have a degree and live very comfortable ,,i don,t own one gamecock ,,,i own a few hundred and proud of it ,,,the person who laughed at us for owning gamefowl what do you have to be so proud of ??????also for the gambling asspect ,ever heard of the lottery ???that,s the biggest rip off gambling there is ,,oh but it,s state regulated ,,ok for that but of crooks to screw you over ,,another thing most pit owners don,t want alcohol or trouble makers there ,,we as a fraternity usually dispose of these types fast ,, lies and rumors nothing more ,,and by the way ,,why is it the killing of dogs and cats at animal shelters doesn,t bother anyone ,,i guess they deserve to die ,,why not open no kill shelters and take care of these animals as god would have it isn,t that the christian way,,i will leave with this statement ,remember the greatest animal rights activist ,,it was adolph hilter ,,check into it ,,really frightening to see how these groups are like him ,,sincerely jeff ponder

DON CORONADO [TEXAS] writes:

We need to try to license cockfighting. Each cockfighter could obtain a license that for one year could and would allow the holder to own, show, and transport gamefowl without any harrassment. If the government could see a positive return from cockfighting, like say a few million or a billion dollars a year; we could have our sport. Look at the things in the past that were illegal at one time and now are through licenseing are legal. Driving,hunting, liquor, gambling, etc etc.. Just to name a few. Lets introduce a bill that does this; instead of loosing money in the government, lets make a little. What is legalizing cockfighting compared to a drunk driving death, a drive by shooting, or some good man dying in the boxong ring. Think about it. It's not all that bad; fighting chickens.

Chuck Sixtoes writes:

Oh my god!

Not that cockfighting is so bad, but some of the comments on here are just priceless and stupid and make VA look horrible

And the guy who says he isn't white trash and has a degree? Learn to use commas and correct punctuation!!

H. Earl Armstrong writes:

Gambling, gangs, illegal aliens, and other issues associated with cockfighting ?Geeezzz Catzmaw? Why not just ask for the meaning of LIFE and EVERYTHING?

Gambling (or betting) is any behavior involving risking money or valuables (making a wager or placing a stake) on the outcome of a game, contest, or other event in which the outcome of that activity depends partially or totally upon chance or upon one's ability to do something.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gambling
And one may add is in all likelihood the second oldest form of entertainment known to mankind
gangs : A group of people organized for a common purpose or objective ie the U.S. Army would loosely qualify as a “gang”.

Illegal aliens: Illegal immigration is the act of moving to or settling in another country or region, temporarily or permanently, in violation of the law or without documents permitting an immigrant to settle in that country. ...
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Illegal_aliens
Pretty simple really. Quit hiring them and they’ll quit coming.

BTW Catzmaw for the meaning of life and everything… See :The Hitch Hikers Guido to the Galaxy

Chris writes:

I think that the Peta Freaks dont have a clue what they are talking about. They keep bringing up drugs,alcohol,gangsters, etc. They need to open there eyes because those things are going on in every town in the U.S. every day and furthermore I have never seen that kind of activity at any pit ive ever been to. If these Peta freaks want to see cruel and unusual punishment let one of them step foot onto my farm.

Thompson writes:

This whole debate is the result of ignorance. I say ignorance because those that hate gamefowl, have never owned not one single bird, or every been around a gamecock. Yet they think they know what is in the their best interest. All they know is what they've seen or heard others tell them. They have never taken the time to learn the facts. Gamecocks love to fight, that is a fact beleive it or not. If you asked the rooster himself whether he would rather die fighting against his gladiator opponent or be put in a barrel and be gassed to death by the HSUS, which do you think he would choose?

dragonslayerrb3 writes:

look folks it really doesnt come down to simply being about cockfighting.this is a group such as peta pushing their will on a free country.these same people will not stop here.they are targeting the meat industry,hunting,fishing,horse racing,and any kind of pet ownership.i know you sit back and think well they will not take all these freedoms from us.but look around you my freinds you are loosing your freedoms inch by inch every day.think about what this country was founded on freedom do live as we see fit.our fore fathers fought and died to be free from england now we are letting big money groups decide what we can and cannot do with our property and thoughts even.i mean has a cockfight ever hurt you in any way?well just think about that because this is not the end of things to come.these people will not stop until they take away my freedom and yours.look at gun control it is sweeping the world now.and 50 years ago people would have thought they will never take away my right to keep and bear arms.guess what they are trying to.lets stand up for our rights and show these folks that we do not support them or anything they stand for.i live in the land of the free and i hope to keep it that way.

keith v writes:

you want realize it till its gone bit by bit our rights are been taking away.its time we put a stop to bills like 1190.lets get back to what this country was founded on.may the eyes of the ignorant be opened.

darin b writes:

IF a bill like this gets passed it will soon be an end Of OUR RIGHTS.this is just the beginning.GUARANTED HSUS PETA KILL MORE ANIMALS THAN ALL THE COCKFIGHTS IN VA.

Steve writes:

without that "Test" you risk the compound error of allowing inferior specimens to reproduce. This not only weakens the genetic pool overall, but also encourages a downward spiral in the general health, fitness and survivability of future generations within that family line.

What rubbish. We fought a major world war over just that sort of thinking. I have never heard so many excuses to justify a passion of greed. And that's what it is. You don't raise chickens because it's tradition and you want to perpetuate the breed. You raise them to make money, whether it's selling them illegally to be exported to other countries or directly through gambling thousands of dollars a day. And when they have made you money do you give them a respectful burial, hell no. They go out with the trash. And no, I'm not some PETA groupie. I know what I've seen and I grew up on a farm. I'm just as rednecked as you, but I know the difference between killing animals for food, and this so-called sport. So don't give me this righteous garbage that I see on this website. Take your little finger wave and stick it where it really belongs. Hssst Hssst. You clowns are going down.

Anthony Smith writes:

The passage of this bill would be a terrible injustice to the people of Virginia, it will show that the special interest groups rule the country and not the people. Why make good law abiding citizens felons? How many of you that oppose this bill have ever been to a cockfight? How many of you know an acutal cockfighter? If you do you probably realize these people aren't criminals, they aren't on drugs, you can't do that and fight chickens, it would take up too much time and money from their Gamefowl.

The Gamecocks are not forced to fight, they are just allowed too equally. Gamecocks are perhaps the most well taken care of, of any bird involved in animal agriculture. They are probably more pampered than Thouroughbred Horses. Cockfighting is not about money nor entertainment, it is about the care of the Gamecocks. It takes two years to raise a gamecock to fighting age, during those two years the owner becomes very attached to their gamecocks. Knowing their lives will could be over in 20 seconds is very difficult, however not allowing them to fight would be the greater crime, these birds were bred to fight, and if they are not allowed to they will become extinct. As soon as a gamecock is recovered by the HSUS, the first thing they do is Euthanize the bird, because the deam them "Unsocial", I suppose they don't care about what comes natrual to the Bird.

Thank you all,
God Bless

redneck coondog writes:

the gamecock only lost to the eagle by one to become our national symbol they must have been pretty important to our forefathers just leave us cockers alone and well be more than glad to leave yall alone

Ray Burgess writes:

I am 38 years old I am a born USA citizen. I am outraged at the possibility of being a felon in the near future. In my 38 years my criminal record is 2 speeding tickets I strongly urge you to vote NO on the bill SB1190. I ask you to ask yourself why this Bill is needed. Gambling, this happens every day and every week in the USA, but I never hear of this unless "Cockfighting" is mentioned. Drugs, Alcohol, Illegal immigrants, are found at every public gathering no matter what topic you choose. Inhumane, is an opinion on which who is an authority on? Someone who doesn’t raise birds or only wants to euthanize them? I guarantee you my fowl never go without water, food, and health aids. How many children in the USA can you say that about? Nor do I maim my fowl. I do however when it comes to testing let my fowl and only my fowl decide his own outcome for when he leaves human hands his fate is then left up to him. PETA, HSUS, Commercial Poultry Interprises, none of these give the fowl a choice in his fate!

Thank You
Ray Burgess

J Chappel writes:

Ford Motor losing billions Iran allows terrorists free borders,economic and environmental situations with global implacations,healthcare,education,welfare, social security reform,our highways and finally crime and out prison systems, those are issues that effect americans!! Cockfighting ladies and gentleman is brought to you by the good people at HSUS, a special interest group that couldn't handle the overflow of unwanted dog's and cat's so they have expanded,the euthanization of an entire species,a fowl that is beautiful, proud, well cared for, a warrior that deserves the right to decide his fate and doesn't deserve being forced into a chamber and gassed like a starved, unwanted dog or cat,,,,,SB1190 distroys a national heritege,,,,SB930 enables the state to employ humane inspectors to look in every hen house, barn loft, stables and pens to make sure you're taking proper care of your animals!! Virginia and America, it's time to say no to government control and regulations, call your representative and vote "NO" to SB930 and SB1190 your constitutional rights demand it!!

micheal writes:

peta,hsus and all the rest of those ARA groups are terroist.just read anthony smiths post.it looks identical to something i have wrote.I will start it like this this. God made gamefowl when you mix them to a regular fowl they are not game anymore.People can choose to be atheist,catholic,jewish christian or whatever but the hell with my rights.I am baptist I believe in God and Jesus Christ.I believe strongly God made these birds. you cant make my GAMEfowl fight they choose to.These birds have the best health of all chickens.There genetic makeup is remarkable.People can lie but Here is the truth anytime their is a gamefowl cockfight it is extremely hard to look away.In the years I have raised gamefowl and listened to some of the idiotic things that have been said by some of the ARA people.I never realized how stupid people can be.They are against putting animals in cages because it is "unnatural".saying gameroosters cant fight seems a bit unnatural to me.now animals have more rights than people if you get caught killing a sick puppy that will die anyways.it is a harsher punishment than killing a human.how did this nonsense happen.put a stop to this.In a cockfight most of the time the winner is set up in a breeding pen after words and is kept for many years still with the best care and all he has to do is breed hens all day.wow how creul is that.lol I have 11 year old roosters in my pens.most all layers,broilers,longtailed,or showbirds dont make it close to that age.broilers do "extremely"well if they make it to 1 year of age.that is usually a bird that was just a pet that fell on his back and died.trust me it happens.the common broiler lives 6 weeks.still a peeping chick.here is a good thing to back up what i say.this is found in a book called the "bible"genesis verse 21.So God created Great sea creatures and "every"living thing that moves,with which the waters abounded,according to their kind,and "every"winged bird according to its kind.And God saw that it was GOOD.Gamefowl is a KIND of bird.and god saw it was good.God bless all.

C&S Stevens..from VA writes:

We are hard working VA residents who pay taxes like everyone else. We both have an education and work in professional environment. WE STRONGLY OPPOSE THIS BILL. This bill turns generally law abiding citizens into criminals. If this bill passes what's next our right to hunt or fish or even own a pet or any kind of live stock?!

CCGF writes:

I keep asking myself what will happen if / when this bill (SB1190) is passed into law. What will happen to the Gamefowl owners that have 150+ roosters ? Will the government confiscate and assume care (same quality they are presently receiving)? Or will they "KILL" them ? We / they can say "euthanize", but it means "KILL". I'd rather let these animals decide their own fates naturally one on one.
I spent 3yrs. in the military and have worked the same job for the past 19yrs, I've never sold, bought or used drugs. I love every aspect of the Gamefowl. I really hate to see this bill pass, due to my job (Va. Dept. of Corrections) I won't be able to take the chance on becoming a felon.

Cross Creek writes:

Very good Post CCGF, I am in the same boat. I have served 4 years in the military, fought in 2 wars, worked in a Prison for 15 years and now because I have raised fowl all my life I stand the chance of being a Felon as well. It will be a sad day when this type of bill ever gets passed. And you know if this is what the state of Virginia and the United States is comming to I think I would rather take my chance and go to prison fighting for my rights. There has to be another avenue our goverment can take in the best interests of the people.

MD ROBINSON writes:

I oppose sb 1190 for several reasons...One-have you ever attended a fight ? If not how can you have an opinion one way or another...2-I have attended a few derbies, had a great time..Not my cup of tea but should they become felons ???? 3- I served our country to fight for our freedoms and rights, that we keep losing every minute.In closing...I can't for the life of me get this picture out of my head.....They're are 3 people in prison...1 Is a rapist, 1 is a murderer, and 1 a chicken fighter...........Somethings wrong...I know some do not agree with chicken fighting, but can you honestly in your hearts..Say they should be felons ???????????

CCGF writes:

Thanks Cross Creek. There are lots of good post here and some not so good. We have to take the good with the bad, thats why we are living in a free country. The bottom line is this. If you haven't contacted your representatives then get busy. The one right they haven't taken away yet is our right to VOTE. If we don't vote them in they can't introduce / push these stupid laws.

Still wondering whats going to happen to all those birds all over the state when & if the bill passes ? Does any of the "do gooders" have any ideas? Guess they'll be the ones out in the cold busting frozen watering cups & feeding all the confiscated animals a couple times a day. It takes a lot of devotion "do gooders", please take care of my birds.

H. Earl Armstrong writes:

To Steve.
First Steve it’s red necked not rednecked. You may be one, I don’t know and have no way of telling, except that a red neck should know that a farm is a business that sells produce, be it animal or vegetable, to make a profit. If it doesn’t, it isn’t a farm for long. Being raised on a farm as you say, you should know that.
Fought a major world war over poultry husbandry? DANG! I must have played hooky the day they covered that war… If you’re intent is to make a comparison between the breeding, care and stewardship of poultry, Hitler, the NAZI’s and the “Arian Super Race”, then yes, you do sound like another PeTA wing nut.

Gerbera writes:

Plenty of people have admitted to not being from here and Waldo gave us the link to Cross Creek's call to arms on a cock fighting message board.

If we isolated the comments from Virginians on this page, I wonder what we'd be left with.

P. Burgess writes:

I have read a lot of post on this sight for and against. I just have one question? I have the FREEDOM of CHOICE in America, I choose to buy a lottery ticket and gamble or not. I choose what I eat (meat or Vegetables) I choose whether to have a baby and give life or thanks to our nation put that life to death. Do any Animals have the right of choice? Do they decide whether or not to be eaten or live, to be raced in a derby and possibly get hurt and ultimately be put to Death (Euthanized).

When this country can say no child is abused and no one goes hungry and everyone has the choice to work and not have our jobs sent over seas, then maybe you can figure out what rights animals have. Until then we have more pressing problems in this country than whether or not to make a person a felon over his passion or hobby.

Genesis 1: 26 And God said let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.

Ray Burgess writes:

Mr Gerbera ,have you also thought about segregating the animal rights group members to a Virginia only status, I then wonder what you would come out with?

Thomas writes:

This Gerbera person needs to wake up and see the light. It is very clear this person is on board with those Groups of people passing these crazy bills in America that our own Government has Labeld as Domestic Terriost. ( HSUS, PETA, ALF, ARA etc) This list goes on. This goes to show us that this person is a Domestic Terriost also. As you can see, This person is even causing trouble on a pole LOL. Here are the websites again so you can read the truth about your groups incase you didn't catch it.
www.uplandbirddog.com

www.ussportsmen.org

www.animalscam.com

www.missourioutback.com

www.greyluvrsleague.com

www.animalpeoplenews.org

www.animalliberationfront.com
www.corntopia.com

www.dvmnews.com

www.activistcash.com

www.w4wc.org

www.deseretnews.com

www.worldtwitch.com

www.maineguides.org

www.avma.org

www.GameFowlNews.com

www.animalrights.net

www.consumerfreedom.com

www.azfarmersranchers.com

www.exoticpets.about.com

www.animalagalliance.org

www.jimbeersblogster.com

CCGF writes:

A famous person once said," As long as the Almighty has permitted intelligent men created in his own likeness to fight in public and kill each other while the world looks on approvingly its not for me to deprive the chickens of the same priviledge" - Abraham Lincoln

www.youtube.com/watch?j2rOjz5sO5w
www.youtube.com/watch?v=IG8k4xe7Xsa

Keith writes:

Hey Pacelle where are your 10 million members and your 20,000 per congressional district? I know were they are, your imagination they don’t exist. You and your organization is a nothing more than a propaganda machine. You get your millions by fooling the board members of charitable trust. If you had the numbers you claim you would dominate this poll. You should change your name to Goebbels. He was Hitler’s propaganda minister. Did you learn from the Nazis? http://www.historylearningsite.co.uk/propaganda_in_nazi_germany.htm

http://www.nraila.org/issues/articles/read.aspx?ID=156

Dave writes:

The number of pro-chicken fighting idiots on this board is astonishing. Let's hope and pray they aren't breeding.

HILLBILLY writes:

I am a HILLBILLY. I don't live in VA. I raise game chickens. I an dam glad to be a HILLBILLY. I have it tattooed a cross my back in bold letters colored in RED/WHITE / BLUE. These colors don't run. the same colors on our flag that so many people gave their life for. The school children cant salute it in their schools. we can not place the ten commandments on our schools walls with out defending some one. We can not pray in our schools it defends some one. I say if cock fighting defends you. Then you are in the wrong place . I do not judge no one. THEY WILL BE JUDGE BY THEIR MAKER AN NOT YOU OR I. I take my hat off to those that don't let these colors run an enjoy your game fowl . We as a country have lost the respect to respect other folks way of life. Its to easy to make a man a criminal an to for get the folks that paid the price for freedom.If this was not true. Then put the flag back were folks can salute it starting with the school not only at sport a events an let the school pray as one in each class room
GOD PLESS YOU
HILLBILLY

J Chappell writes:

The message here isn't about cockfighting or humane treatment of animals, HSUS doesn't care about animals, every american realises this fact, it's about your mama and your papa, your grandma and grandpa, proud people that selected a country that was free, free to choose right from wrong as every american saw fit! It's about a bill of rights, that guarantee's each and every american that a special interest can't force their lifestyle onto other citizens against their will!
Virginia and America i ask you, would you like the government to feed and cloth your families?, provide all your needs? house and cloth you? How about the government just coming by to make sure all your farm animals meet's their proper specifications? I think every American would have to say no!!! SB1190 and SB930 isn't about cockfighting, it's about a special interest's that are against all animal sports, all hunting, fishing and the great American heritege our forefathers left to enjoy!! Any politician that could vote for SB1190 or SB930 is against everything and anything John Wayne,Bear Bryant,Clint Eastwood, Billy Graham, George Washington or Abraham Lincoln ever stood for!!! No to SB1190 or SB930 or any further animal legislation!!!

Waldo Jaquith writes:

The number of pro-chicken fighting idiots on this board is astonishing. Let's hope and pray they aren't breeding.

Please, let's keep the level of discourse a little higher than this.

Modern Time Farms , writes:

i have read all of the comments on this site,i have heard the good country folk,that speak the truth,and have not begged for a god given rite,a rite to live their life freely,with their property.and under the bill of rights,they should have that rite. but than i see and read that ,their are some that show their ignorence,and you know who i am talking about,you look down and cast judgement on the simple country people,you know the ones that make it so you can go to the grocery,and buy milk,bread,butter,and ect. if you were so high and mighty,and you had god behind you,the first thing, it is against gods law that you pass judgement,on your fellow man,and futher more,you have demons that you need to address,and it not be the chicken man,and i will say to you sir's that you are cowards,you come to my farm,pass judgement ON me ,you sat behind your key board,and talk a big stick,HE,HE,HE, THESE COLORS DO NOT RUN,COME SEE ME

Shawn B writes:

BONE writes:
"VOTE NO !!!!it would be a shame to be considered a felon for owneing a chicken. last time i looked the only person i have to stand in judgment of would be the good LORD ALMIGHTY himself!!!! haven't been struck by lightning yet for fighting a rooster!!! so who are you or anybody else for that matter to judge me for doing what i love!!! VOTE NO"

Hey Bone, I encourage you to own as many chickens as you want, because I see no mention in this bill about it being a felony to OWN chickens. Although unnaturally breeding, mutilating, and forcing these birds to fight to their extraordinarily painful death, well, that's kind of what were trying to get rid of.
_________________________________________________
jeff ponder writes:
"sb1190 is another hsus sponsered piece of garbage ,, please vote no on this bill and defend our country from the animal rights terroists" thank you JEFF PONDER

Jeff my friend, the definition of a terrorist is "the UNLAWFUL use or threatened use of FORCE or VIOLENCE by a person or an organized group against people or property with the intention of intimidating or coercing societies or governments, often for ideological or political reasons."

When I last checked, those of us who want to see an end put to cockfighting were neither using, FORCE, VIOLENCE nor UNLAWFUL means to achieve our goal, but rather legal acts of legislation.
_______________________________________________
LEE GATTS writes:
"when man stops fighting man,then we can talk about stopping roosters from doing the same.man should set the example in life!"

I agree Lee, it's sad that men continue to fight one other. However, when I last checked, there were no other animal species out there forcing humans to participate in death-matches. Its simply our own foolish will.
_________________________________________________
Tim McNalley writes:
"Let's see if you allow a person to kill a unborn child that is perfectly LEGAL! To let to game cocks do what comes natural will be a felony? I now my cocks want to fight way more than the deer want a bunch of hunters shooting at them with high powered rifles."

Tim, it is about as natural for cocks to want to fight each other as it is for you to use proper grammar. I agree that cocks will fight each other IF PLACED TWO FEET APART FROM ONE ANOTHER as they are in cockfights. However, for the most part, if given the opportunity, roosters will avoid other roosters. They only fight if they have to.
_________________________________________________
micheal writes:
"I am baptist I believe in God and Jesus Christ.I believe strongly God made these birds. you cant make my GAMEfowl fight they choose to.These birds have the best health of all chickens.There genetic makeup is remarkable.People can lie but Here is the truth anytime their is a gamefowl cockfight it is extremely hard to look away.In the years I have raised gamefowl and listened to some of the idiotic things that have been said by some of the ARA people.I never realized how stupid people can be.They are against putting animals in cages because it is "unnatural".saying gameroosters cant fight seems a bit unnatural to me.now animals have more rights than people."

Michael, I challenge you to show me some proof that animals have more rights than people. The sad fact is, animals are exploited, tortured, and demonized purely for human entertainment and satisfaction. To me, cockfighting is one of the most prime examples.
_________________________________________________
redneck coondog writes:
"the gamecock only lost to the eagle by one to become our national symbol they must have been pretty important to our forefathers just leave us cockers alone and well be more than glad to leave yall alone."

Dear redneck coondog and fellow cockers,
Did you know that many of our forefathers also believed it was their god-given right to own slaves? Do you still believe that is true?
_________________________________________________
Anthony Smith writes:
"The Gamecocks are not forced to fight, they are just allowed too equally. Gamecocks are perhaps the most well taken care of, of any bird involved in animal agriculture."

#1: Raising chickens to fight in death-matches is not agriculture.

#2: Saying that gamecocks are the most well taken care of birds is not saying much.
_________________________________________________
HILLBILLY writes:
"I am a HILLBILLY. I don't live in VA. I raise game chickens. I an dam glad to be a HILLBILLY. I have it tattooed a cross my back in bold letters colored in RED/WHITE / BLUE. These colors don't run. the same colors on our flag that so many people gave their life for. The school children cant salute it in their schools. we can not place the ten commandments on our schools walls with out defending some one. We can not pray in our schools it defends some one. I say if cock fighting defends you. Then you are in the wrong place . I do not judge no one. THEY WILL BE JUDGE BY THEIR MAKER AN NOT YOU OR I. I take my hat off to those that don't let these colors run an enjoy your game fowl . We as a country have lost the respect to respect other folks way of life. Its to easy to make a man a criminal an to for get the folks that paid the price for freedom.If this was not true. Then put the flag back were folks can salute it starting with the school not only at sport a events an let the school pray as one in each class room"
GOD PLESS YOUHILLBILLY

God PLESS you too Hillbilly, God PLESS you too!

Jayp writes:

Why do the animal rights activists "Kill the Confiscated Chickens" they fight so hard to protect? I was under the impression, they were nurturing or saving them but I was wrong. Maybe, any gun carrying, pet owning American should educate themselves about the "Conflict Industry" before their favorite hobby becomes big business. VOTE NO to the legislation.

http://www.furcommission.com/news/newsF03i.htm

P.S.: Hillbilly can't spell because he was working to put his sister through college. Just kiddin with ya, we all knew what you meant.

jeff ponder writes:

hey buddy fire bombing people,s property in the name of animal rights is terrorism plain and simple ,,,anyway the FBI has yall listed as terrorist,s also .. if it smells like crap looks like crap must be crap,,anyway why don,t you bunnyhuggers explain why yall don,t believe in no kill shelters ,,,are yall not compassionate animal lovers??????

ron writes:

This is just another step in the Animal Rights Activists (whom I call Animal Rights Terrorists since the FBI said they were the biggest domestic threat facing America) agenda towards their goal of no animnal usage of any type. Its just that cockfighters are such easy targets. It is a blood sport like hunting or fishing, only in cockfighting, at least half the participating fowl survive, unlike hunting and fishing. Also when the cockfight is raided by HUMANE "rescuers" ZERO fowl walk away. They are immediately taken out to a portable gas chamber (actually a crudely converted 50 gallon metal drum, where about a dozen or so are stuffed in and PUT TO DEATH not "put to sleep" by smothering them with carbon monoxide from a car or truck exhaust. This is what happens when game fowl are "RESCUED" from doing what occurs naturally to them. It happened to about 340 fowl at Del Rio Tennessee last year. WILL SOMEONE PLEASE EXPLAIN THE BENEFIT and the "HUMANENESS" OF THAT TO ME?????? Utterly senseless. And don't believe the crap from the HSUS and PETA about them being so aggressive they can't be handled or used for anything else. A gamecock's aggressiveness, in the great majority of cases, is reserved only for other gamecocks. If they knew how to properly handle animals the fowl would respond in kind. My grandchildren can pet them with no fear of being hurt. The real agenda here is a small group of well heeled (no pun intended) power seeking fanatics exercising control over a minority group they want to force to live like themselves. So cockfighting may seem cruel to some. So what? Get over it. Get a life. The world is not perfect. Let's go help the kids in Darfur and not worry about chickens so much. Let's get our borders secured. Let's improve our education system. Let's improve the quality of healthcare in America. I don't try to force vegans to eat meat. Don't try to make me eat your crappy philosophy. Ron

randy writes:

GOD HELP US TO REMAIN A FREE NATION.VOTE NO ON BILL 1190.

Gerbera writes:

I don't think any of the people in favor of this bill who are posting comments here are members of those animal rights organizations. If those groups were aware of this page, there would be a surge of posts similar to the one the cockfighters have staged. Stop asking us why those groups do what they do. We're just Virginians interested in politics and your constant commenting on this bill brings us back.

I'm fully aware that PETA runs a shelter in Norfolk, VA where animals are killed. Happily, the shelter in my county is a no-kill shelter.

Anyway, the history of this bill updated yesterday, but no one commented. 40 votes "yay" and zero votes "nay". Next stop, I believe, is the house floor?

Chris writes:

Shawn B.:
I want you to read 1 B real good (B. Any person who possesses, owns, trains, or sells any animal for the purpose of fighting is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor.) The problem with this is if they see them on your yard, all they have to do is say you had intent to fight them and believe these groups will do that.

SENATE BILL NO. 1190
AMENDMENT IN THE NATURE OF A SUBSTITUTE
(Proposed by the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Conservation and Natural Resources
on January 29, 2007)
(Patron Prior to Substitute--Senator Reynolds)
A BILL to amend and reenact § 3.1-796.125 of the Code of Virginia, relating to the fighting of cocks and other animals; penalty.
Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:

1. That § 3.1-796.125 of the Code of Virginia is amended and reenacted as follows:

§ 3.1-796.125. Fighting cocks or other animals; attendance at fighting; penalty.

A. Any person engaging in the fighting of cocks or other animals, except dogs, for money, prize or anything of value, or betting or wagering money or anything of value on the result of such fight, shall be is guilty of a Class 3 misdemeanor 6 felony.

B. Any person who possesses, owns, trains, or sells any animal for the purpose of fighting is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor.

C. Attendance at the fighting of cocks or other animals, except dogs, where an admission fee is charged, directly or indirectly, shall constitute a Class 3 1 misdemeanor.

C. Attendance at an exhibition of the fighting of dogs shall constitute a Class 1 misdemeanor.

2. That the provisions of this act may result in a net increase in periods of imprisonment or commitment. Pursuant to § 30-19.1:4, the estimated amount of the necessary appropriation cannot be determined for periods of imprisonment in state adult correctional facilities and is $0 for periods of commitment to the custody of the Department of Juvenile Justice.

TALK TAXS writes:

VOTE NO ! PEOPLE WAKE UP .YOU KNOW AN I ALSO KNOW. EVERY ONE HAS SOME THING TO SAY EVEN ME.WHEN THIS BILL HR137 DOES NOT PASS SET BACK AN SEE HOW YOUR TAX DOLLARS WAS SPENT FOR CHICKENS THAT YOU CAN NOT EAT.THEN ON THE OTHER HAND THE BILL HR137 PASS ITS A LAW NOW. THEY JUST RAID A COCK FIGHT. THE PEOPLE THEY GOT WERE CHARGE WITH CLASS 3 MISDEMEANOR/6 FELONY .THEY WERE 30 PEOPLE . 20 OF 30 ARE WORKING MEN WITH FAMLYS.THE MEN GET PUT IN JAIL FOR 2 TO 3 YEARS. LETS SAY A 1 YEAR. THE WIFE NEEDS HELP WITH THE BILLS AN THE KIDS HEALTH INSURANCE. SHE GOES TO THE GOVERMENT OFFICE TO APPLY FOR FOOD STAMP AN MONEY IN THE MEAN TIME HE IS IN JAIL FOR THAT YEAR. HE WILL GET FED THREE TIMES A DAY ROOF OVER HIS HEAD .HE WILL HAVE TO PAY A FINE THAT THE STATE DONT MAKE NO MONEY OFF AT ALL ITS GOING TO BE HARD FOR HIM TO PAY HE LOST HIS JOB. LOOK AT THE COST TO KEEP A PERSON IN JAIL FOR THAT YEAR LET SAY $2000.00 THAT WOULD BE CHEAP.REMEMBER THIS IS 20 MEN ADD THAT UP $40.000.OO AN THIS IS NOT ADDING WHAT THE WIFES NEED HELP WITH LETS SAY SHE GOT $500.00 A MOUNTH .REMEMBER THIS IS 20 WIFES $10.000.00. THEN THE KIDS HAD A MEDICAL CARD. WITH MEDICAL PRICES SO HIGH FIGGER $1000.00 THAT WOULD BE CHEAP.REMEMBER 20 WIFES 20.000.00. WE STILL HAVE TEN MORE PEOPLE THAT IN THE LONG RUN WILL HAVE YOUR TAX DOLARS SPENT TO SAVE A CHICKEN .WHEN WE ALL KNOW THERE ARE A BETTER PLACE FOR IT TO GO LIKE SHCOOLS RETRAINING OUR VET WHEN THEY COME BACK...VOTE NO ON HR137 I AM ONE OF THE PEOPLE THAT WILL SPEND YOUR TAX DOLARS ... I SPENT TO MUCH TIME ON THIS WHEN YOU ALL PUT TO MUCH MONEY IN THE WRONG HANDS OF THE COUNTRY GOVERMENT.

H. Earl Armstrong writes:

Anthony Smith writes:
"The Gamecocks are not forced to fight, they are just allowed too equally. Gamecocks are perhaps the most well taken care of, of any bird involved in animal agriculture."
#1: Raising chickens to fight in death-matches is not agriculture.
#2: Saying that gamecocks are the most well taken care of birds is not saying much.
----------
agriculture Anthony Smith, is the science, art, or practice of cultivating the soil, producing crops, and raising livestock and in varying degrees the preparation and marketing of the resulting products. So yes Anthony Smith raising gamecocks is agriculture.
And being able to truthfully say and mean that gamecocks are the most well taken care of “birds” is indeed saying a great deal but not much for the commercial poultry industery.

Donna-Marie writes:

In order to make game foul stop fighting, you will have to make the species extinct. They will fight to the death as soon as they are old enough if they are not kept separate, the hens even fight. I also want to know what these breeders are to do with their chickens and roosters? I know what I plan to do with mine if this law does indeed pass, I will take them to my county court house and FREE them!!! Let the local government authorities and the general population see what this breed WILL do by nature. Let them catch them and kill them, hope that makes all these animal loving persons pleased with the laws they are trying to pass. I will also urge all of my fellow cockers to do the same. I am a paid member of the VaGBA. Proud to be a Virginian, proud to have served my country, proud parent and a God fearing, loving wife. (Vote No!)

CCGF writes:

Donna-Marie, I have been asking the same questions, what will happen to the fowl when this bill passes. You have to remember the hens as well, what will happen to them ? Another question; The humane society is very quick to show the undercover videos of cockfighting. Do they not video the "humane" destruction of the confiscated gamefowl ? Also, if gamefowl is confiscated will the owners be compensated for their cost ? Or be charged for the euthanization of their own fowl ? I don't know if turning them lose at the courthouse would be a good idea, but it would definitly be interesting. I can see all the judges and lawyers running out to place their bets and the last cockfight.

Jason writes:

So they want to make it a felony to own a rooster that may or may not fight--well then arrest all men as potential rapists and women as potential prostitutes.
All the crime in this country and the ARA terrorists are afraid of humans owning and using animals--hope our lawmakers can see the true colors of the Animal Rights Activists
Those that support the HSUS and Peta and other animal groups should do their homework before donating their money or supporting the bills the ARA get presented--for many good people fall for the ARA lies and are ripped off , so the ARE Terrorists can achieve their dark goals of trying to take away everyones freedoms.

Paul writes:

It is sad that something like this still takes place in our country. If this were people freely choosing to fight for money I would not care. Forcing animals to fight for your entertainment is just wrong.

GAMEKOK writes:

SAY NO TO SB 1190...LOOKS LIKE THE MONEY TRAIN OF PETA AND HSUS HAS REACHED OLE ROSCOE ??? SAY NO TO SB 1190....I DON'T KNOW THE LAW VERY WELL, BUT LET'S SAY I HAD DRANK 12 BEERS AND GOT BEHIND THE WHEEL OF A CAR, THE POLICE PULLS ME OVER, WILL I BE CHARGED WITH A FELONY ???? WE ALL KNOW THE ANSWER...SAY NO TO SB 1190...I TRUELY BELIEVE THAT THE PEOPLE IN VA WILL NOT LET THIS ONE GO....SAY NO TO SB 1190....THERE ARE MORE IMPORTANT THINGS GOING ON IN THIS COUNTRY THAN CHICKEN FIGHTING....SAY NO TO SB 1190, AND GO HAVE A JUICY STEAK OR SOME FRIED CHICKEN, WHILE IT'S STILL LEGAL....ALL YOU CATTLEMEN,HUNTERS,HORSEMEN AND FISHERMEN...DON'T LAUGH....YOUR NEXT....SAY NO TO SB 1190.....

Wiley writes:

Bill was changed today. The penalty for engaging in cockfighting is now a class 1 misdemeanor, not a felony.
Third reading and final Senate floor vote is scheduled for Friday.

billy w. ryals, jr. writes:

Vote "NO", as it will be impossible for authorities to accurately judge the intent of a poultry owner. Making felons out of anyone for OWNING POULTRY, is completely ridiculous and preposterous. Criminalizing and marginalizing patriotic, God-fearing U.S. citizens to further erode American rights for some left-wing Animal Rights terrorist group`s personal agendas is just wrong. In fact, THAT is what should be criminal:even proposing such a travesty of American justice!

P. Wade writes:

Why outlaw it, tax it, tax for door charges, tax the winnings, have a cop present incase of drug dealings, and have ppl register as a Game Fowl Breeder/Fighter, a $50 dollar a year register fee wouldn't be bad. THink about the economy how many feed stores will go under, how many people will go out of business. Think of all the money that will be going through the hotels, resturants, and stores in genral. This bill should not be passed.

Wiley writes:

The Senate approved it by a 38-2 vote, so it now heads to some House subcommittee.
Keep in mind that this is a watered-down bill, though, due to an amendment from Emmett Hanger on Thursday. It only prosecutes cockfighting as a class 1 misdemeanor and not as a felony.

Josh Hoffman writes:

I find it rather hilarious that the ones who speak out the loudest against sports like cockfighting are those who are the furthest removed from anything rural (other than their *organic* produce). this bill is not only unconstitutional, but it also is a shot in the foot to the rural economy. Just remember, its the hard work of farmers, ranchers, construction workers, and others who call themselves cockers that make it possible for you to sit in your plush urban live and criticize the world!

a friend of the tax payers writes:

TALK TAXS writes:

VOTE NO ! PEOPLE WAKE UP .YOU KNOW AN I ALSO KNOW. EVERY ONE HAS SOME THING TO SAY EVEN ME.WHEN THIS BILL HR137 DOES NOT PASS SET BACK AN SEE HOW YOUR TAX DOLLARS WAS SPENT FOR CHICKENS THAT YOU CAN NOT EAT.THEN ON THE OTHER HAND THE BILL HR137 PASS ITS A LAW NOW. THEY JUST RAID A COCK FIGHT. THE PEOPLE THEY GOT WERE CHARGE WITH CLASS 3 MISDEMEANOR/6 FELONY .THEY WERE 30 PEOPLE . 20 OF 30 ARE WORKING MEN WITH FAMLYS.THE MEN GET PUT IN JAIL FOR 2 TO 3 YEARS. LETS SAY A 1 YEAR. THE WIFE NEEDS HELP WITH THE BILLS AN THE KIDS HEALTH INSURANCE. SHE GOES TO THE GOVERMENT OFFICE TO APPLY FOR FOOD STAMP AN MONEY IN THE MEAN TIME HE IS IN JAIL FOR THAT YEAR. HE WILL GET FED THREE TIMES A DAY ROOF OVER HIS HEAD .HE WILL HAVE TO PAY A FINE THAT THE STATE DONT MAKE NO MONEY OFF AT ALL ITS GOING TO BE HARD FOR HIM TO PAY HE LOST HIS JOB. LOOK AT THE COST TO KEEP A PERSON IN JAIL FOR THAT YEAR LET SAY $2000.00 THAT WOULD BE CHEAP.REMEMBER THIS IS 20 MEN ADD THAT UP $40.000.OO AN THIS IS NOT ADDING WHAT THE WIFES NEED HELP WITH LETS SAY SHE GOT $500.00 A MOUNTH .REMEMBER THIS IS 20 WIFES $10.000.00. THEN THE KIDS HAD A MEDICAL CARD. WITH MEDICAL PRICES SO HIGH FIGGER $1000.00 THAT WOULD BE CHEAP.REMEMBER 20 WIFES 20.000.00. WE STILL HAVE TEN MORE PEOPLE THAT IN THE LONG RUN WILL HAVE YOUR TAX DOLARS SPENT TO SAVE A CHICKEN .WHEN WE ALL KNOW THERE ARE A BETTER PLACE FOR IT TO GO LIKE SHCOOLS RETRAINING OUR VET WHEN THEY COME BACK...VOTE NO ON HR137 I AM ONE OF THE PEOPLE THAT WILL SPEND YOUR TAX DOLARS ... I SPENT TO MUCH TIME ON THIS WHEN YOU ALL PUT TO MUCH MONEY IN THE WRONG HANDS OF THE COUNTRY GOVERMENT.....

the person that took the time to do the math has a point. were does some one have the right to take that much money to spare a chicken life.
when we have so much more going on at this time .
we all need to look were we are as a country.
we can spend tons of money to make a new law.
that will in pack feed stores.
that sells chicken feeds.
we need to let the people that have there chickens .
do what they do with them .
if this law does pass .
are you ready to spend tons of money an fell your jails up with hard working folk.
vote no on any bill that give the right to spend your tax dollars .vote no on hr137

H. Earl writes:

Gerbera writes:

Plenty of people have admitted to not being from here and Waldo gave us the link to Cross Creek's call to arms on a cock fighting message board.

If we isolated the comments from Virginians on this page, I wonder what we'd be left with.
------------

Why you'd be left with... Censorship

Waldo Jaquith writes:

I find it rather hilarious that the ones who speak out the loudest against sports like cockfighting are those who are the furthest removed from anything rural

How do you know that?

H. Earl writes:

Waldo Jaquith writes:

I find it rather hilarious that the ones who speak out the loudest against sports like cockfighting are those who are the furthest removed from anything rural

How do you know that?
----------
In your case Waldo it easy in the others it's not difficult at all.

Gerbera writes:

Why you'd be left with... Censorship

I was suggesting that those who actually live in our state are not posting all these rambling comments. I wasn't advocating any sort of restiction on posting comments.

those who are the furthest removed from anything rural

Define "furthest removed". I know a few of the people who have posted here and they're pretty removed from the hustle and bustle of metro DC and Richmond.

Anyway, the bill is making its way through just fine despite whatever the cockfighting "lobby" (for lack of a better word) is doing. Maybe the classification will be racheted up next time around...

Waldo Jaquith writes:

In your case Waldo it easy in the others it's not difficult at all.

Then you've assumed altogether wrongly; there's absolutely nothing urban about where I live. Neither you nor the original poster have the slightest idea of whether those opposed to this bill live in a rural or urban area. It's a foolish and inapplicable dichotomy in this matter, anyhow.

H. Earl writes:

With a population of 39,162 (2003 census) I'd hardly call Charlottesville “Rural” Waldo, but then in comparison to Richmond it may be a relative term.

Waldo Jaquith writes:

Again, you've assumed altogether wrongly. I do not live in Charlottesville.

Lori Geelen writes:

I can't believe this bill. I find it outrageous that an underage child can go across lines and seek an abortion withot parental consent and nothing be done about that. Now, these people are trying to make it a felony for someone that owns, transports, fights or is a spectator at a chicken fight. Come on people, if you do not value the most precious of all, human life, why are you so worried about a chicken?

I think there is much worse stuff out there that needs to be dealt with than worrying about some good ole country folk and their chickens!!!!!!

Gerbera writes:

There are nine bills listed when you hit "abortion" in the tag cloud on the main page. Compare that to one bill about cockfighting and it's clear that cockfighting isn't an overwhelming concern.

The influx of people posting here because of the call to action by Cross Creek of whomever it was is what's making this bill seems like a big deal.

CCGF writes:

We didn't need Cross Creek to call us to action, but way to go cross Creek.

dennywh writes:

The influx of people posting here because of the call to action by Cross Creek of whomever it was is what's making this bill seems like a big deal.

Considering this Site is Hosting a Poll as to folks opinion on this Bill which concerns several of Us Gamefowl Breeders in Va. I think We need to be here voiceing our opinions and comments, we do not need a call to arms to stand up and let our voice be heard as we are the ones whose Property you are trying to destroy by these BS laws. DO you folks wish to Make the Gamecock Extinct altogether, and all other domestic animals will follow as that is the agenda of the HSUS and PETA total Abolition of domestic Animals . We do not deserve a Felony for Giving our Fowl 365 day a year 24/7 Care . all the best feed and vitamins and supplements to make them the healthiest birds on earth, I feel if it is Legal in 2 States Such as New Mexico and Louisiana, then I should be able to travel my birds and compete in a legal State just the Same as I can Go to a legal state and Gamble on the Slots at the Casino's . The transporting law is Flat Wrong and this Bill is Wrong. We are just a few folks wanting to be left alone to enjoy the hobby we have and be able to admire the fine qualities we produce through the breeding of these fine Birds. Tell us how we force birds to fight that can fly up in a 30 ft tree . if these birds don't want to fight they will either quit or fly out of the pit, Which is what we call dunghill or cold blood They will literally leave the ring. Their is no forcing them . but the True Gamecock will never Submit to another Bird and Never has to be forced to fight. I have came home after a storm to find pens blown over and One of My birds loose the damage he inflicted on himself and the bird in another cage was devastating to both of them, I was not there to force them to fight for the Hours they fought, they did it all themselves. without any provacation. it is in their nature. I feel them living on a tie cord with 32 sq feet of area to roam and call in freerange hens is much better treatment than the Broiler fowl receive considering they live in a pen just big enough for them to stand in, and are stacked on top of one another. The droppings from the top pens fall through to the bottom pens and they are fed high protein feed and steroids for 6 weeks till they are slaughtered, Gamefowl are freeranged till around 6 or 7 months old then penned in no less than a 4x4 pen with fresh ground and roost till they are age to put on cord they are pampered till they are minimum of 2 years of age before they are even thought about being tested, and many excell in their abilities and are kept for many years as broodfowl Had one Mugg Cock that was 15 years old before he passed. We Take Pride in our Fowl and they Have Many other uses besides just fighting . YFIS Dennywh

Bill Forren writes:

First, to anyone who is against cockfighting, I challenge you to back your statements or beliefs with science and not philosophy. I have read above a statement saying that game roosters will avoid each other if given the chance, I will address that by saying this, stupidity. That is science HSUS and PETA style. Roosters are not forced to fight, they are not drugged, abused or tormented. Cockers are good people that want to be left alone. You can find more crime associated with animal rights than you ever will with cockfighting. Don't take my word for it, read the scientific studies that where completed on cockers and their families.

H. Earl writes:

Waldo Jaquith writes:
Again, you've assumed altogether wrongly. I do not live in Charlottesville.
-----
Now why would I assume any thing Waldo, when in your own words you say…
“About Me

I'm Waldo David Landers Jaquith (JAY-kwith). I live in Charlottesville, Virginia, where I work for Virginia Quarterly Review. I am a contributing editor to Campaigns and Elections Magazine. I graduated from Virginia Tech in May of 2005.”
------
That’s a dorkie picture by the way and one other thing that I find some what amusing…
Why would you think any one would brand you as a member of al Qaeda. Do you have a deep seated fervor to reach room temperature in a flash?

Waldo Jaquith writes:

Charlottesville is the closest metropolitan area to where I live -- it's where I "go to town." I don't live in any town, and the postal district in which I live would be meaningless to anybody other than those who reside here. Perhaps you live in an urban enough area that this concept is unfamiliar to you.

"al Qaeda"? "Dorkie"? You'd do well to modify your tone, H. You've gone well into the inappropriate side of things.

B.A. Hunter writes:

It was "the inappropriate side of things" that got this curmudgeon banned from most of the pro-cockfighting web sites. Even they have a problem with him.
Virginians should pass this law just to keep these creeps out of your state.

Jamie Massey writes:

Now you know another reason why cockfighting must be stomped out. It makes people stupid. In order to defend the indefensible, people start believing all kinds of nonsense, e.g. that people opposed to cockfighting are terrorists. They may feel terrorized, I suppose, because they've lost so many battles in the last ten years, but being opposed to strapping blades onto animals so people can get their jollies gambling on the outcome is about as mainstream as you can find. Cockfighting is on its way out. It's just a matter of time.

Shawn Becker writes:

Its very sad that this bill had to be watered down. However, I truely believe that in due time cockfighting (to include raising, selling, transporting, attending fights) will be classified as a felony, and all the scumbags who participate in this god-awful "sport" will behind bars where they belong.

Cross Creek writes:

Gerbera,

“The influx of people posting here because of the call to action by Cross Creek of whomever it was is what's making this bill seems like a big deal.”

You act as if I am a General of an Army or something. I simply made a public statement to my fellow cockers of Virginia to stand up and voice their opinion. The last time I checked this is one of our rights; unless some other group wants to try taking that away from us as well. I served my country twice in the time of war with the 1/75th Ranger Regiment and I feel I deserve to be heard, so do the rest of the good people of this free country we live in. So please for future reference remember my above statement because unlike some people’s way of thinking there are some very educated people that are involved in raising game fowl.

Cross Creek writes:

"Shawn Becker writes:

Its very sad that this bill had to be watered down. However, I truely believe that in due time cockfighting (to include raising, selling, transporting, attending fights) will be classified as a felony, and all the scumbags who participate in this god-awful "sport" will behind bars where they belong."

Your comments here reflect on the obvious person you are, I do not see the need to call good people "scumbags". So please do not start a bunch of name calling here, this site is to discuss current bills not to degrade good Americans.

Gerbera writes:

The last time I checked this is one of our rightsThe last time I checked, I didn't challenge that right. I simply pointed out to the person upset that this was being discussed that it's not the "hot topic" in Virginia that they thought it was.

this site is to discuss current bills not to degrade good Americans.

We agree on that! It seems those saying people opposed to cock fighting are terrorists don't agree. That label is downright offensive.

H. Earl writes:

Waldo Jaquith writes:

Charlottesville is the closest metropolitan area to where I live -- it's where I "go to town." I don't live in any town, and the postal district in which I live would be meaningless to anybody other than those who reside here. Perhaps you live in an urban enough area that this concept is unfamiliar to you.

"al Qaeda"? "Dorkie"? You'd do well to modify your tone, H. You've gone well into the inappropriate side of things.
----
Ok Waldo you don't like dorkie how about goffy? You gotta admit that (of that picture) only your mother would say "OH HOW Sweet!" but then shed have to wouldn't she... Bless there hearts they only see the best in us.... Okay I am only kidding here...
However you made the statement on your blogg a bout being named as an al Qaeda I only pointed out that I see no need for that.

H. Earl writes:

Jamie Massey writes:

Now you know another reason why cockfighting must be stomped out. It makes people stupid. In order to defend the indefensible, people start believing all kinds of nonsense, e.g. that people opposed to cockfighting are terrorists. They may feel terrorized, I suppose, because they've lost so many battles in the last ten years, but being opposed to strapping blades onto animals so people can get their jollies gambling on the outcome is about as mainstream as you can find. Cockfighting is on its way out. It's just a matter of time------------

Well hello Jamie! I see your fresh from the “Prego pig war” in Arizona..
Gestation creates in Arizona? Where were the pigs to put in them? Another needles not to mention useless law on the books

Let me introduce ypu good people to Jamie Massey accused child abuser and sometime simi pro animal rights addvocate

H. Earl writes:

B.A. Hunter writes:

It was "the inappropriate side of things" that got this curmudgeon banned from most of the pro-cockfighting web sites. Even they have a problem with him.
Virginians should pass this law just to keep these creeps out of your state.
--------
Thank you for those kind words Hunter...
If they had been paying heed instead of banning they wouldn't be in the position that they find themselve4s in today.

Jamie Massey writes:

I'm not sure what H. Earl is talking about. Child abuse is what I call taking your kids to a cockfight. Bringing a child into cockfighting is like putting a "Kick Me" sign on his back and sending him off to school. It was inevitable they would turn around the charge on me. Remember the school yard taunt, "I know you are. So what am I?" That's about their mentality.

As to the pregnant pigs. "Where are they?" Right now they're still locked up in two-foot wide crates where they can't turn around or lie down. 16,000 of them in Snowflake, Arizona.

Modern Time Farms , writes:

fellow cockers ,there are alot of you that keep up this good fight for freedom of their property,you speak truths,you defend your faith in the hobby that you most dearly love,i take my hat off to you,as you know there are several pro animal people on here,they call us names ,like scumbags and so on,you know if i were you,i would look upon them as being touched,they do not know how to treat another man,you know ,look at the bills that they try to cram down our throats,they say they are against harming chickens,well next time they eat some chicken mcnuggets,eat at kfc,or get them selfs some good ole hot wings,they will surely know how big of a hipicrit,that they realy are,raise your voice and say no to those,that have nothing else to do than mess in a mans life,and in a country that ,does not want them. when they want to sling words at you ,just ignore them,throw water on their fire and they will just leave,don't let them feed off of us.

Wayne S. from Virginia writes:

Game chickens have been in my family starting with my Grandfather. I have owned certain breeds for over 30 years myself. My birds are well taken care of, probably better than some children in this world today. (unfortunately) I have never committed a crime other than speeding. It is a shame the activist want to label me a criminal for owning a game chicken. I am a hard working family man who pays taxes and obeys the laws, I just happen to love raising gamefowl. This bill is about more than fighting cocks.
PLEASE VOTE NO TO BILL SB1190.

CCGF writes:

It seems that know one wants to answer my question. How does the Humane Society / Law Enforcement euthanize (kill) confiscated fowl ?
Does anybody know ? Let's euthanize SB1190 !

Waldo Jaquith writes:

H. Earl, your comment accusing a Richmond Sunlight user of pedophilia has been deleted. Any future comments that are out of bounds will likewise be erased.

topGun writes:

VOTE NO! ON SB1190. PEOPLE LETS GET TOGETHER AT THE POLLS AND VOTE THESE SUPPORTS OUT.

B.A. Hunter writes:

H. Earl writes: "Thank you for those kind words Hunter...
If they had been paying heed instead of banning they wouldn't be in the position that they find themselve4s in today."

Maybe they just got tired of the old religious crap you used to spew. None of them ever believed that God Himself was a cockfighter anyway.

Virginia would do well to rid themselves of these animal abusing losers once and for all. Let 'em spend a little time in the graybar hotel. Maybe then they'll get a clue.

Dave writes:

It is an immutable truth that
God Is A Cock Fighter!
Res Ipsa Loquitur
It's true Virginia would do well to rid them selves of the animal abusing losers.
I suggest they start with PeTA. And the HSUS

CCGF writes:

Thanks, but I don't care much for being called a animal abusing loser. And as for the "graybar hotel" you spoke of, I spent 12hrs a day for the last 18 years in one (Keen Mountain Correctional Center) And guess what I love every aspect of Gamefowl, from the egg to the pit. The point I'm trying to make is that, most of the cockfighters and breeders now days are productive everyday people, the people next door type of folks. I have seen more cursing, fighting, drinking, etc.... at local sporting events than I have at a cockfight. I still have to ask my same & still un-answered question. Would some of the Peta & Humane Society people, please tell me how they kill the confiscated chickens from a raided cockfight ? Has it been answered in this forum , if so I apologize.

B.A. Hunter writes:

"H.Earl"/"Dave" or even "Pops": the name change doesn't fool anyone. You're the same person.

CCFG: Cockfighting is a felony in my state so you'd certainly be considered an animal abuser there. That in itself makes you a loser. Being a corrections officer doesn't mean diddly if you're breaking the laws yourself. That would make you even a bigger loser. But then, you should have already known that.

B.A. Hunter writes:

Vote was 38-2 in the Senate. Looks good in the House side too.
Looks like your God's gonna get busted if he fights 'em in VA.

Waldo Jaquith writes:

I have deleted several posts that appeared today in which y'all sniped at one another, attacked one another personally, and otherwise engaged in a lot of backbiting. If y'all want to discuss the issue, or the bill, go for it. But this site won't play host to grudge-settling pissing matches between a bunch of cockfighters.

Brian D writes:

Game roosters are a part of American heritage.The passing of this bill is comunisum and a act of stupidity of organizations that are weak minded people who are nothing but a virus eating away at our freedom.If This bill passes we as Americans can know longer proclaim to be free.In closing I (Brian D)ask of Virginia do we want to be FREE.

Cross Creek writes:

Waldo Jaquith writes:

I have deleted several posts that appeared today in which y'all sniped at one another, attacked one another personally, and otherwise engaged in a lot of backbiting. If y'all want to discuss the issue, or the bill, go for it. But this site won't play host to grudge-settling pissing matches between a bunch of cockfighters.

Not just cockfighters and Game Fowl owners dude, but i agree this site is to debate the bill only.

David Gaines writes:

Looks to me as if most of the people commenting here haven't even read the bill.

Cockfighting is already illegal in Virginia, as are attending a cockfight or raising fowl for cockfighting. All this bill does is to raise the penalty for cockfighting from a class 1 misdemeanor to a class 6 felony. It will make the penalty for all the various forms of animal fighting equal, so that, for example, dogfighting will no longer be considered a worse crime than cockfighting. All of them will be class 6 felonies.

There's no point in talking about how cruel cockfighting is or how much gambling is encouraged by it, etc. etc. because virtually every state has banned cockfighting. Cockfighting is a dead issue in 48 of the 50 states, Virginia included. It's hard to believe that, in 2007, we're still debating the "merits" of cockfighting when the people of this country have already spoken rather loudly on the issue.

Do people who still think cockfighting is a good idea believe in any degree of humane treatment of animals, or is all legislation aimed at preventing any kind of animal cruelty an assault on basic liberties? Is the ASPCA a communist front organization?

I'm not quite sure how supporting this bill as written makes one an "animal rights terrorist" or how its passage will herald the second coming of communism (as someone actually implied up above). This bill isn't exactly awarding citizenship or property ownership rights to chickens.

No right is absolute, not even the right to free speech or the right to bear arms. All rights are restricted to one degree or another, even in the freest of societies. And this society has evolved over the years to the point where the most barbarously cruel behaviors, whether involving animals or not, are, by and large, no longer tolerated. And that is as it should be.

Thompson writes:

Nice job Waldo. It's apparent by your statement above that your are against cockfighters. Why don't you warn the other side as well. I for one do not appreciate your derogatory statements regarding gamefowl enthusiast. I'am sure this post will be deleted as well.

Waldo Jaquith writes:

It's apparent by your statement above that your are against cockfighters.

Yes, I'm against gambling on the deaths of roosters. I'm also against rapists and murderers. What do all of these acts have in common? They're illegal in the state of Virginia and in 47 other states.

Why don't you warn the other side as well.

Because a) they're not so stupid as to think that the rules don't apply to them and b) they're not engaging in the personal attacks that the cockfighters are. Y'all are sniping at one another, talking about who has been kicked out of what discussion board and how people keep switching aliases...blah blah blah. I don't care. Nobody cares. Take it somewhere else. We won't host it here.

B.A. Hunter writes:

All the arguments that you cockers use to try to justify your cruel treatment of animals are meaningless. Who cares whether they fight naturally or not? They don't tie those gaffs and knives on themselves. Like David says, it's already been defined as a crime in VA. The problem is y'all don't pay any attention to the laws and continue to do it anyway, so harsher penalties are needed to punish the lawbreakers. It's a crime in 48 states and parts of the other two also. Get a clue - the majority of Americans don't approve and want it ended. And soon it will be.

Thompson writes:

I see it's no use to argue with you guys, you have your thoughts and I have mine, but if you think fighting roosters in the U.S. will ever come to an end, I have some ocean front property in Arizona I would like to sell you.

B.A. Hunter writes:

So much for the cockfighters being common "law abiding citizens" huh?

There is no ocean front property in Arizona. Cockfighting is a crime.
You should have already known that.

H. Earl writes:

B.A. Hunter and Waldo point out that the voters in the several states, support by a wide margin a ban on cockfighting. But this is just the logical fallacy of argumentum ad populum, appeal to public opinion!". It doesn't matter how many people agree with them, that doesn't mean it's necessarily right." Last century, the majority of people in some states held that slavery, Jim Crow laws and Segregation were acceptable, but that didn't make it so!".

B.A. Hunter writes:

H.Earl says: "Last century, the majority of people in some states held that slavery, Jim Crow laws and Segregation were acceptable, but that didn't make it so!".

You're finally right H. Earl - and during the last century, the majority of people in some states thought cockfighting was acceptable. We're finally getting that changed. Soon it will be unacceptable in all states.

H. Earl writes:

Ah yes! Toss together liberal amounts of:

Argumentum ad numerum (argument or appeal to numbers).

Argumentum ad ignorantiam (argument to ignorance).

Argumentum ad logicam (argument to logic).

Argumentum ad nauseam (argument to the point of disgust; i.e., by repitition).

Argumentum ad populum (argument or appeal to the public).

Argumentum ad verecundiam (argument or appeal to authority).

Circulus in demonstrando (circular argument).

Cum hoc ergo propter hoc (with this, therefore because of this).

Dicto simpliciter (spoken simply, i.e., sweeping generalization).

And top it off with a little

Argumentum ad hominem (argument directed at the person).

Just to spice it up. And you have all of B.A.Hunters argument.

The “new law” is unneeded and unnecessary, simple as that.
However thank God for the First Amendment and the PeTA dog killers trial in North Carolina.

CCGF writes:

Euthanasia - (Greek, good death)- is the practiceof killing in painless or minimally paintful way for merciful reasons, usually to end suffering.
1.) It can be done with inhalant agents, noninhalant pharmacoloic agents "lethal injections", and physical methods. Pets are almost always euthanized via lethal injection, typically a very high dose of barbiturate anaesthetic. Unconsciousness,respiratory, and cardiac arrest follows rapidly, usually with in 30 seconds to several minutes.
2.) It can be done with a vacuum chamber: animal is put into a box; it is locked and sealed, and the air is withdrawn by a vacuum pump. No drugs are used to ease the process. This is generally regarded as a harder death than "being put to sleep" with a sedative or narcotic.This is the most often used by animal shelters with low placement rates: it is the fate of animals that nobody wants.

I have heard (and maybe someone can clarify) that roosters confiscated in raids, etc.... are placed in barrels sealed & vehicle exhaust is pumped in to kill the animals. Could this be true ? Regardless, everyone keeps saying how much we have evolved since the times when cockfighting was socially acceptable. Have we ?
My point is (before someone deletes this post)is:
Cockfighting is considered in-humane and barbaric by certain people. Yet, the same people consider euthanization of innocent animals humane and acceptable.
Have you hugged a tree today (random I know), but I feel better for asking.

H. Earl writes:

B.A. Hunter writes:
You're finally right H. Earl - and during the last century, the majority of people in some states thought cockfighting was acceptable. We're finally getting that changed. Soon it will be unacceptable in all states.

In order of apperance:

Argumentum ad hominem (argument directed at the person).

argumentum ad populum, appeal to public opinion!".

Argumentum ad numerum (argument or appeal to numbers).

Cum hoc ergo propter hoc (with this, therefore because of this).***********

SB1190 The “new law” is unneeded and unnecessary, simple as that. The present law already addresses all of the concerns as stated, ad nauseam by all participants. No one has as yet stated a valid reason to adopt SB1190.

B.A. Hunter writes:

The punishment for the current law is not enough to deter the cockfighters. For them a small fine is just considered the cost of doing business. That's why they run to states with weak laws. SB1190 should be adopted. The chance of going to prison and paying a heavy fine will make 'em think twice about it.

H. Earl writes:

***B.A. Hunter writes:

The punishment for the current law is not enough to deter the cockfighters. For them a small fine is just considered the cost of doing business. That's why they run to states with weak laws. SB1190 should be adopted. The chance of going to prison and paying a heavy fine will make 'em think twice about it.***

Argumentum ad logicam (argument to logic).

Cum hoc ergo propter hoc (with this, therefore because of this).

Argumentum ad populum (argument or appeal to the public).

As Stated SB1190 The “new law” is unneeded and unnecessary, simple as that. The present law already addresses all of the concerns as stated, ad nauseam by all participants. No one has as yet stated a valid reason to adopt SB1190.
and crossing State lines is addressed by Federal law BTW Federal law is a fine of $15,000 per bird per person, plus prison time...

H. Earl writes:

ARA1 why not give up you have no argument that is not addressed by current law, which works You never have. But you should have known that... I did LOL

john wilson writes:

john / sawman65
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN,
i am writing this in the hopes that you will defeat sb1190.my reasons are economical and this is also my heritage.my forefathers came soon after the mayflower with these birds and have raised them since. i have them by way of my grandad as he got them from his and i will pass them to my kids and grandkids.this is a tradition that i dont want to end with me.
the economical side of it is this if i cant ship and show these fine birds then i could no way afford to raise them. it is a costly investment to say the least.and i will not be the only one to suffer the feed store owners that i shop at will lose thousands if just me alone stops raising these great birds.and i know of at least 20 breederds in my aera alone.
the bottom line(there allways has to be one of those huh?)is this, i for one voted to change things within our goverment for the better and i dont see this as better and i am not alone in my opinion.i dont see why a small group that is pushing this bill be allowed to dictate for the masses just because they have high payed lobiests in your midsts.i was hoping that the way america voted was a wake up call for washington and goverment in general.america voted for a change and here we are having our rights being took away one pice at a time. sounds like what has been happening for years now.america has voted please dont lets us down thank you for your time

Bubberella writes:

Why yes...I remember back when they was cockfightin. Or I should say I heared about it whispered. Back then, though, like incest and granny's laudenum habit, polite people didn't speak of it in public.

David Smith writes:

I am from a State that the Humane Society got a Law Passed to Ban cockfighting, a Question was asked about what happened to confisticated Game Fowl,how they were Euthanized (killed)this is what happened in a Federal Court here in Okla.A Federal Judge had the U.S.D.A kill all the gamecocks on a cock fighting raid ,over 100 gamecocks were killed by useing a wire snare put over the heads of the gamecocks,while they were still in seperate pens,they were pulled through small openings between the slats of the doors because the U.S.D.A. did not know how to open the doors ,some of the gamecocks heads were pulled off in the process,those they managed to get out alive were put in plastic drums some 7or 8 at a time then gassed by a vehicle it took 10 to 15 minutes to kill the game fowl.The Humane Society states it is not obligated to care for any animal,the banning of gamefowl is just the begining of a faze for the Humane Society to take over America, in reality game fowl or any animal has nothing to do with the Humane Society or any of it's affiliates, AMERICA IS AT STAKE!.

(

CCGF writes:

And they call cockfighters "animal abusing losers" If I were a rooster I think I rather take my chances against another rooster (the odds would definitly be better) than a wire snare, plasic drum filled with carbon monoxide, or some do-gooder with a syringe full of barbiturate anaesthetic.

Bill Forren writes:

I say it like this, a gamerooster has a very respectable chance of living a long, healthy life in the hands of a cockfighter. On the other hand, the same rooster has no chance at life per the Humane Society of the United States. For all of you so called anti-cockfighters, these same fanatics (HSUS) are against you eating chicken and other meat and have already started a move against the poutry industry as well. The HSUS will eventually come after your family member that hunts, fishes and farms with animals with the same aggression as against us roosterfighters. We are small in number and easy prey, but they are coming after mainstream America.

David Smith writes:

I Might Also Add, That the defendants in this case,were all found guilty even though they were proven Innocent.

Adam Kiser writes:

Rooster fighting is no different then fox hunting or bird hunting. We are all in a club or organization. A felony is nothing to joke about and to make rooster fighting a felony will only hurt good, hard working tax payers. If you look at the votes you can see the peoples point of view. Anyone that reads this remember who has voted yes and next election lets vote them out. That shows they do not care about the way we, tax payers, feel and they abuse their power. If you do not like rooster fighting then stay away from it. I hate gay people but I live in a world full of them, so to keep the peace I just stay away from them. Same goes for those against rooster fighting. There are many things in this world we do not like, yet we haft to find a way around it and move on. A felony charge against fighting game fowl should not even be a choice. I live in Rosedale were there are fox hunter clubs that raise foxes so their members can get their dogs and hunt(kill) foxes, and there is no problem with that eather. They keep everything to club members only. Game fowl members belong to a club, we keep everything away from everone that is not a member to keep the peace and to not have any trouble. Also our clubs donate money on Thanksgiving, Christmas to help people in need. We also raise and donate money to families that have lost everything in a flood or house fire. Have you ever did anything that would help someone besides yourself. No matter how you feel about fighting game fowl, a felony charge should not even be a choice of punishment.

tony comer writes:

does any of these uneducated tree huggers stop to think? If it was'nt for the cock fighter the game cock would be extinct.It cost from $20 to $50 per pin to house one game cock. You can't put them together they will kill one another. Game roosters start to fight at 3 months of age they fight to death at 6 months.can the federal government pay $50,000 for just 1000 pens to preserve this species. thats just the pins for 1000 not the food,the vitamins,wormers delousing, and all of the othere care given to keep this species around. I thought the goal of the tree huggers was to preserve these fowl.If that is your goal leave the cock fighter alone.

rafael writes:

COCKFIGHTERS & GAMEFOWL BREEDERS TAKE VERY GOOD CARE OF THESE BIRDS THEY ARE GOOD PEOPLE THEY KEEP THIS BIRDS VERY HEALTHY YEAR AROUND THEY ARE NOT A PROBLEM FOR SOCIETY LIKE GANGS,DRUG DEALING,CHILD ABUSING.

sammy writes:

Ok so let make cockfighting illegal. What so the Humane society do with the cock they confisticate. Oh yeah they "humanely put them to sleep". There is so such thing as mercy killing. Killing is killing plain an simple. Let go the the hospital and pull the plug on all those that are in a coma or brain dead. This is mercy killing heh. Listen people we have many problems in society to worry about beside cockfighting. We all see people in the USA begging at a street light, in the cold. We all see people with mental problem being homeless and the big issue here is cockfighting. Please get a life.

Wiley writes:

A House committee took SB 1190 and amended it from making cockfighting a class 1 misdemeanor back to a felony again.
It passed out of committee and is headed for the full House now.

Cross Creek writes:

Are you sure about that information Wiley ?

KELLYJO writes:

I AGREE WITH SAMMY, WE TAKE EXCELLENT CARE OF OUR FOWL, HOW DARE SOMEONE SAY WERE WRONG IN WHAT WE DO THEN KILL THE CREATURE THEY SAY THERE DEFENDING. AND I THINK THAT IF COCKFIGHTING WERE MADE LEGAL IN ALL STATES THAT MY TAX DOLLARS MIGHT BE A LITTLE MORE WISELY SPENT, LIKE ON REAL CRIMINALS, YOU KNOW...MURDERERS AND CHILD MOLESTORS. IF I HAVE A SAY ON WHAT TO DO WITH MY TAX DOLLAR THIS IS WHAT ID ASK FOR.

COCKFIGHTING WOULD BOOST GAS FOOD AND HOTEL SALES AND WE WOULD GAIN JOBS EVERYWHERE, AFTERALL, THERE ROOSTERS, NOT CHILDREN OR PEOPLE WHO ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT BEINGS ON EARTH, I SAY IF THIS IS REALLY A FREE COUNTRY THEN EVERYONE SHOULD DO WHAT THEY WANT WITH WHAT THEY OWN, CHICKENS ARE PROPERTY NO PEOPLE. JMO

jeff clark writes:

for the people that are sponcering this bill, and the ones who get to vote on it..if all you have time to do is try and find things to take away our freedoms, THEN your not doing the job you were voted in to do...how many children have you protected from rapeist,drug dealers,pedophiles, etc.?..the numbers are way up there...when you start takeing the freedom of the people away from them, then we will be a communist union..

Wiley writes:

I was wrong, actually. It was amended in subcommittee and passed out, but won't be heard by the full committee until Friday.
I *think* I'm right on that one.

Wiley writes:

Oh yeah, and while the subcommittee did recommend that amendment, I think, it's up to the full committee whether to actually amend the bill or not.

matt writes:

I think they should leave us alone. we take extremely well care of our birds. when they get them they will destroy them. Let us continue to be free, this is the united states isnt it??

wayne writes:

Legislators want to turn the FBI into chicken cops.

There is no legislative concern, nor federal penalty for crossing state or international borders in order to participate in prostitution. None of our legislators are using the growing concern over the spread of dreaded diseases such as HIV/Aids as the basis for a severe felony law penalizing those who would cross the state line into Nevada to go to a legal brothel or cross an international border to visit a red light district.
There is no legislative concern, and no federal penalty for crossing state or international borders in order to participate in gambling enterprizes that would be illegal in one’s home state.
There is no legislative concern, and no federal penalty for crossing state or international borders in order to have an abortion, which in the case of an underaged girl without parental consent could be illegal in her home state. The termination of a human life, and in a very inhumane way, does not move our legislators into action.
Surprize of surprizes! The movement of a chicken, you know, the livestock normal people eat for Sunday dinner, has moved our legislators into action! The first order of business for our House of Representatives was to propose to make it a federal felony to cross interstate or international borders with a chicken used in competition against another fellow chicken! (H.R. 137) Not to be left behind, our distiguished Senate took it upon themselves to enter a similar bill! (S. 261)

The reason for such action from our legislators CAN NOT BE THE PUBLIC INTEREST, as there are infinitely more pressing public interest issues at hand: the war against terror, immigration reform, Social Security reform, just to name a few. This “CHICKEN” action from our legislators is a blatant instance of ELECTED OFFICIALS PUTTING THE DESIRES OF SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS ABOVE PUBLIC INTEREST.

Special interest groups such as the radical animal rights organizations, HSUS and PETA are the ONLY BENEFACTORS of this type of legislation. The chickens certainly would not benefit. When and if they are confiscated and placed into the hands of so called humane groups, they are routinely slaughtered without mercy. The public certainly would not benefit from this legislation, the plain fact is that interstate and/or international commerce in game fowl has not victimized you or anyone else. Then why do our legislators dance to the music played by these special interest groups?

Our legislators pander to radical animal rights organizations for at least two reasons:
They help FUND OUR LEGISLATORS’ CAMPAIGNS.
THEY PROMISE TO PROVIDE VOTES for those who support their causes and to take votes away from those who oppose them.

Legislators, it is time for you to put the honor back in your office, and say NO to this bad legislation. Protect the interests of farmers, livestock producers, and many others including the U.S. Post Office who would suffer if H.R 137 and S 261 were to become law. Put your priorities where they should be and quit being puppets to the highest bidder, which in this case are the same animal rights activists that are often considered to be the greatest threat to our homeland security

dennywh writes:

"It is not only vain, but wicked, in a legislator to frame laws
in opposition to the laws of nature, and to arm them with the
terrors of death. This is truly creating crimes in order to
punish them."

--- Thomas Jefferson, 1779

Read that last sentence , America turning its hardworking citizens into Felony Criminals overnight. Wake up America it will be your rights or your pets next. Dennywh

Shawn Becker writes:

The two phrases I see repeated over and over in this thread are:

1) "these cocks want to fight" and
2) "we take excellent care of our fowl"

1) THESE BIRDS DO NOT WANT TO FIGHT. You are forcing them to fight and giving them no other option, much the same way gladiators were forced to fight in ancient Rome. According to Paul Siegel, a Virginia Tech expert in fowl genetics and behavior, its rare for birds to fight to their death in a natural setting. “If there’s a way to escape,” Siegel said, “they’ll just get the heck out.” In cockfights, Siegel says, roosters continue fighting because they cannot escape.

2) Forcing birds to fight to their bloody death is not TAKING EXCELLENT CARE OF YOUR FOWL. Cramming your birds in a cage or tying ropes to their legs and leaving them in the same place for the majority of their lives is not TAKING EXCELLENT CARE OF YOUR FOWL. Slicing off a bird's spurs, plucking their feathers, and hacking off their wattles is not TAKING EXCELLENT CARE OF YOUR FOWL.

Of course cockfighting and everything wrong about this "sport" will continue to be justified with the same ridicilous notions such as "this is an American tradition" or "its part of our hertitage."

Get over it. What you are doing is wrong. Show some dignity and stop cockfighting. Its not too late!

ron writes:

shawn becker...hers another phrase for u...

so wat happen to the compiscated animals?????

wat animal right for mercy killing???

Chris writes:

Shawn Becker:
I can tell by your statements, that you have no knowledge at all about a gamecock. If you would like, I would be glad to demonstrate to you what two gamecocks do to each other when you put them together and we can leave them in the wide open, not encaged as you s o call it. If that is too harsh for you I suggest you research them for yourself on a legitimate site(not the HSUS). You may want to start with the study Clemson University sociology professor William C. Capel and Virginia Polytechnical University sociology professor Clifton Bryant cooperated on, what's known as "The Clemson Report." The study was a national mail survey of 1,000 randomly selected cockfighters, with more than 500 respondents. If that is not enough, let me know. I can point you in the right direction. I can't stand when a person makes an ignorant statement because he doesn't have the facts.

Shawn Becker writes:

Ron,
They can go to an animal sanctuary for recovery like the one mentioned in this article:

http://www.idausa.org/campaigns/sport/cock/article_060426.html

ron writes:

shawn becker

as a concerned taxpayer. why cant peta and hsus share the extra cost of running a animal shelter. u cant expect the government to allocate unlimited funds to every compiscated animals(not just roosters but any compiscated animals in general).

and my nex question.....has the government have any compensation available to any farmers who is gonna lose business over this new bill?

April writes:

I am an attorney and don't know of anything in the state of federal consititution protecting one's right to engage in cruelty to animals. To use the constitution as grounds for combating this legislation is quite a stretch. And to say that "it's been done for years and years" and that our foundin fathers did it doesn't add much to the discussion. Similar arguments were made against the abolition of slavery, dispite he fact that it was a morally indefensible system. I am saddened to see that people are so up in arms about an attempt to end some suffering and cruelty in this world.

Chris writes:

April:
Here we go with the slavery bit again. No comparison, PEOPLE DIDN"T WANT TO BE SLAVES, GAMECOCKS WANT TO FIGHT. See there’s a difference. Show me a gamecock that doesn't want to fight and he probably isn't a gamecock.

And as far as "I am an attorney and don't know of anything in the state of federal constitution protecting one's right to engage in cruelty to animals." We don't see it as animal cruelty. How can it be cruel if they fight naturally? Too much propaganda by the HSUS and the rest of the ARA has been spewed out way to long with not enough reaction. I'd be willing to let anyone see what 2 of them do when you simply put them close to each other.

Chris writes:

Mr. Ron:
This might answer some of your questions.

Probably because they are to busy trying to shove legislation down The AMERICAN PEOPLES THROATS! Are could it be because they are to busy trying to stop dove hunting in Michigan, bear hunting and pig farming in Florida, reptile ownership, the paws bill, pheasant hunting in Massachusetts, trying to stop hunting on national wildlife refuges, trying to ban trapping and all the other nonsense they are promoting.

Why do they want the government to foot the bill for this transportation act if it indeed does pass? Could it be to become an even richer, more powerful animal rights group than they already are and try to force more of their beliefs on the American People?

AMERICA WAKE UP!!

Diane writes:

Chris,
Could u tell anything about the bill for cockfighting and was it passed thru the house or not. I agree with u, I wish the so call knows it all's mind their own business. My husband owns gamefowl and you are so right. When they get loose they fight the other roosters until they are dead. What has happen to America. I don't think that we are the land of the free no more!

Chris S. writes:

1) THESE BIRDS DO NOT WANT TO FIGHT. You are forcing them to fight and giving them no other option, much the same way gladiators were forced to fight in ancient Rome. According to Paul Siegel, a Virginia Tech expert in fowl genetics and behavior, its rare for birds to fight to their death in a natural setting. “If there’s a way to escape,” Siegel said, “they’ll just get the heck out.” In cockfights, Siegel says, roosters continue fighting because they cannot escape.

2) Forcing birds to fight to their bloody death is not TAKING EXCELLENT CARE OF YOUR FOWL. Cramming your birds in a cage or tying ropes to their legs and leaving them in the same place for the majority of their lives is not TAKING EXCELLENT CARE OF YOUR FOWL. Slicing off a bird's spurs, plucking their feathers, and hacking off their wattles is not TAKING EXCELLENT CARE OF YOUR FOWL.

Just curious to what the natural setting would be for our game fowl in Virginia? Are we to turn our fowl loose in the forests and they live happy ever after? The gamefowl is not the same as most chickens you see running around together on t.v. such as the "Big Stock" which is not a fighting chicken it is a broiler. They can live, eat, and share the same ground as one another. This is not true for the Gamecock. I have owned both and know what each breed is capable of doing. The Gamefowl will fight each other if they are true gamefowl to the death no matter where they are. I have had gamefowl get loose and I have no fence to keep them in so the could have "escaped" anytime they wanted, and they have killed one another. And what does the winner do , he goes the the next rooster he can find. Remember now these other cocks are tied up or crammed in a cage as you put it. So now I am running a hospital to take care of these birds that are beat up because the cock decided to fight instead of getting the heck out of there. I have no fence so he could have hightailed it out of there easily.

These birds are not crammed into a cage. Most birds are to a pen by themselves unless they have a hen with them. Unlike these poultry houses where you see 5-6 birds in a pen that is crammed into a pen. Gamecockers usually use 4x4 pens as the "smallest pens" how big are the poultry houses pens? They look to be 1x1 pens. Tie cords are good to let your out on fresh grass and they keep them from getting to one another. Most game breeders rotate and move their fowl and they are not left in the same place all the time.
Slicing off a birds spurs is alot better than letting them get long and sharp and killing each other if they get loose. At least if there spurs are trimmed they do not do the kind of damage they would do if they had sharp spurs.
I don't know of anyone who "plucks a chickens feathers" unless he/she is about to eat the bird LOL that is funny. I have seen them trim the main tips of the tail if their streamers are dragging the ground and getting muddy.
Have you ever seen a gamecock's comb or wattle get frostbite. It turns black on the tips and I have seen it lead to other illness. It is no different to a chicken than someone who owns for example a boxer dog that clips their ears or docks their tails. It is for looks only. They do have poultry shows and auctions for gamefowl not just fights you know. And they are judged and awarded prizes for these events. Cutting off their combs, wattles, spurs etc. does not make a gamecock fight no more or less than he would if he had them on. It is not some sort of secret art to making them fight.

I'm also curious to how much this will affect the feed stores and other such related companies?

CCGF writes:

Shawn Becker:
I'd like to know how Paul Siegal "The Virginia Tech fowl expert" got to be an expert on gamefowl. Somebody put critters on this earth for us to use, so I think I'll eat me a big ole mess of fresh pork for breakfast (poor little piggy was slaughtered last week) and then eat me a big ole steak for dinner, maybe even stop by the local deli and grab me a order of chicken livers before heading out to the cockfights. If this law passes you might as well start passing laws against riding / racing horses, hunting, fishing, trapping, dog races, etc.... the list goes on and on. You animal rights people have a long hard road ahead of you. Oh, don't forget about that nice new pair of leather boots / shoes, jacket, pocket book / wallet you just bought, they came off the back of some poor little cridder that probably would have just as soon as kept its hide.

Shawn Becker writes:

CCGF,

Dr. Siegel is an professor in the Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences at Virginia Tech, so obviously his expertise in gamefowl was obtained through his research, which is readily available online, as well as through his education:

B.S.: University of Connecticut, 1953 M.S.,Ph.D.: Kansas State University, 1954, 1957).

Do you care to share your credentials?

Daniel J. writes:

Forcing an animal to fight is against everything God says in the bible. Eating an animal for food and nourishment is one thing, but to put a animal through this kind of torture only so you can be entertained and make a few bucks will ensure you a one-way ticket to the fiery pits of hell.

CCGF writes:

Shawn Becker:
I was just wondering if this man, in all his wisdom has ever been to a cockfight or gamefarm ? Or did he do all his research from behind his desk, or in a library ? I'm sure he is a pretty smart fellow (Most of the smart fellows I know have very little common sense) As for my credentials: I'm just a common man, high school grad. , spent several years in the military and have worked the same job for the last 18 years. Like I have said before in this forum, I do enjoy every aspect of gamefowl (from the egg to the pit), I'm not trying to convert anyone into becoming "cockfighters" or push my way of life or beliefs on anyone. I just don't appreciate when people try to push their's on me. I don't want to come over as a "hater" or "smarta$$", the only way I can compare whats happening with this bill is to compare it to the cutting of trees, riding / racing / using horses, hunting & fishing, dog races, etc.... Has anyone ever been to a cattle market and seen what cows go through on their way to our tables ? Or to a chicken or turkey farm ? If cockfighing is considered cruel then all the people sitting on their couches and in front of their computers needs to visit one of these places. Or even got to a local county fair and watch the draft horse pulls. There are a lot more bigger and more important battles out there to worry about than chicken fighting. How many people agree with me that there are a lot more socially acceptable things that are going on with animals that are a lot worse than chicken fighting, maybe list a few. I have to go to work.
Daniel J. :
I'm not a very religous person either. I didn't say anything about GOD in the post I think you are refering to. But, you can pray to your god for me if you'd like.

Adam Kiser writes:

Game hens and every other hen lay many eggs each year. Killing a few, only helps keep over population. We raise pigs too, and yes, we kill them . Shoot them in the head to be exact. I shoot deer, turkeys, rabbits, and squirrels. I also work hard, and don’t bother anyone. I have two kids a loving fiancé and a good home. There are over 1800 people in the 4 clubs, I am a member of, that fight chickens. They work hard, have families, and don’t cause any problems. You would not ever hear a word from us if you would leave us alone. There shouldn’t be any little kids around a chicken derby, that I can agree on, and the places I go you haft to be 16yrs old. We are not dope heads, nor troublemakers. I don’t know these people or like people to talk about handlers like there are inbreed retards. Last year Amanda (8yr old) was in a bad car wreck. We took up money for the family and most of us donated blood. People that run these pits are not outlaws. Most of them are hard working people that pay there taxes, and is at church on Sunday. Personally, I think you should drop the name-calling and leave our chickens and us alone. If I stopped fighting, are you going to raise my 500 chickens? You had better have plenty of land because you would not won’t them getting together. Their spurs are sharp so I wouldn’t duck down to feed them. I bet you wouldn’t spend the time each day tending to them like I do. The feed bill is outrageous but I take real good care of my chickens. If you stopped fighting chickens with as many as I’ve got there going to keep breeding and over populate. Then I couldn’t afford to feed them, as a result they would get poor-sick and die, if they don’t kill each other first. Fighting is there nature. We are not fighting stock chickens( if you even know what that is) or any of your four legged friends. These are game birds. Chicken fighting is not for everyone, just like deer hunting, fox, turkey, and pheasant hunting. Its all for game or club members and people that enjoy it. Do you even know how many eggs a hen can lay each year. Do your research before you try to make country folk felons for killing a few. I bet you could not raise them without killing a few. They will over populate fast in no time. Look at rats and roaches. I kill them, just like ants and spiders. Think of the bird flue.

Felony should not even be a choice of
punishment for chicken fighting
in any state .

Adam Kiser writes:

Look at this(HB1631: Feticide; penalty) the committee will let you kill a fetis but not a chicken. That shows you what kind of people we have in office.

Chicken fighting is not the same as rape,and murder. Why make us felons and put us in with them.

Adam Kiser writes:

Felony is not a joke

Vote no

Don't pass this bill

Chris S. writes:

When Dr. Siegel operates his own gamefowl farm for 25-30 yrs or more and raises his own fowl and can honestly come up with the same results, or conclusions about the gamefowl, then maybe I might listen to something he has to say. It's just odd to me that so many people who raise these gamefowl can come up with the same results or alot of simularities that have been in the gamefowl business for years are wrong about what they say is true or not true about gamefowl. And someone who has a degree, that it automatically makes them right on the subject. First hand experience goes along way with some people.

OhNoNotAgain writes:

I was just wondering if this man, in all his wisdom has ever been to a cockfight or gamefarm ? Or did he do all his research from behind his desk, or in a library ?

A visit to Google was in order before this comment. You clearly know nothing of Virginia Tech. They have

OhNoNotAgain writes:

Well, my post got cut off by a link.

Virginia Tech many facilities dedicated to a variety of animals, from poultry to swine to sheep. There are roughly a dozen departments dedicated to agriculture and livestock and the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences has over 3000 acres of land.

All the research being done there is hands on.

Chris S. writes:

Do they have gamefowl or just your common chicken? How many differnt types of gamefowl do they have? What are their breeds? Post a link if you can thanks.

Chris S. writes:

Never mind I found it (www.apsc.vt.edu). I'm still looking but I haven't found anything on the gamefowl as of yet. It just mentioned chicken (not specific). I did find this on Dr. Siegel though.

Scientist: Paul B. Siegel
Goals:
A senior faculty member in a commodity department at a comprehensive land-grant university should have a program with state, regional, national, and international visibility. My program is general rather than specific and dynamic rather than static. This approach is logical because the thrust of the program is problem oriented and involves both basic and mission-oriented research in poultry genetics and behavior. Graduate education and undergraduate independent studies are important aspects of this research effort.

Major Activities Underway:

Research involves the effects of selection on growth, reproduction, and behavior of chickens. Genotype by environment interactions are evaluated by physiological and immunological responses during various phases of the life cycle.

Progress (past 5 years):

Progress is difficult to ascertain because an academic position in this research area involves gradual accumulation of achievements rather than the spectacular. Evaluation of progress during the past five years may be made by a review of research publications provided in the faculty vitae.

Cooperative Work:

Because the research program is problem oriented, cooperation with other investigators is routine. These investigators are from within the department, other departments at Virginia Tech, as well as other universities and institutes nationally and internationally. Evidence for this cooperation is readily available from coauthorships in the research publications provided in the faculty vitae.

Chris S. writes:

Overview of the Department

The Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences is one of ten academic departments in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Virginia Tech that offers a B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. degree program of study.

The Department consists of 28 nationally and internationally recognized faculty in 9.0 FTE teaching, 9.0 FTE research and 11.0 FTE extension positions. Additionally, there are 40 dedicated support staff in the department including 15 farm technicians. 11 research technicians, 10 secretaries, one fiscal technician, one computer programmer, one information technologist, and one general farm manager.

The Department also maintains approximately 600 beef cattle, 1500 broilers, 1000 layers, 80 horses, 800 sheep, 800 hogs, and 1000 turkeys, for research and teaching purposes. The animals are maintained at six livestock and poultry centers on-campus and at the Kentland Research Farm 15 minutes from the University. A Live Stock Teaching Arena was built in 2004 to provide space for training and livestock exhibitions.

Department faculty, staff, and graduate students are housed on the second and third floors of Litton Reaves Hall on campus that was constructed in 1980. Twelve research laboratories are located on the second and third floors of Litton Reaves along with small animal research facilities in the basement. Many of the Department courses are taught in classrooms and laboratories located on the first and second floors of the Litton Reaves Building. Considerable research is also carried out at the Middleburg, Steeles Tavern, Glade Spring, and Tidewater Agriculture Research and Extension Centers throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia.

I believe I found the answer to my question about whether or not these are gamefowl or the common chicken. They are common.

H.Earl writes:

April should know that “animals” have been held by the courts to be “personal property” or chattels, and as such the use and manner of disposal is completely under the control of the owner. April should also reread the fourteenth amendment to the United States constitution.

H.Earl writes:

Suzanne T. Millman, Ph.D. would seem to disagree somewhat with Paul B. Siegel, quoting in part from her paper Animal Welfare Dilemma of Broiler Breeder Aggressiveness. She states: "A certain amount of aggression between chickens is normal and chickens from different genetic
strains or breeds do show different levels of aggression; for example commercial Broiler- Layer
types do show much less male to male aggression than game-type roosters, However male to
female and male to male aggression is much more pronounced in the broiler breeder roosters

H.Earl writes:

****Daniel J. writes:

Forcing an animal to fight is against everything God says in the bible. Eating an animal for food and nourishment is one thing, but to put a animal through this kind of torture only so you can be entertained and make a few bucks will ensure you a one-way ticket to the fiery pits of hell.****

Please provide chapter and verse for your misinterpretation and misrepresentation of scripture

C.Rouse writes:

It seems to me that this country we live in is vastly taking away our constitutional rights. Those of us who participate in cockfighting dont go around advertising it to the public therefore we are not infringing on anyone elses rights. If you dont want to attend a cockfight then dont but dont infringe your views on us who want to attend. A wise man told me that ( IF A PERSON WOULD TEND TO HIS OWN BUISNESS THEN HE WOULDNT HAVE TIME TO MEDLE IN ANYONE ELSES. } Its part of our rural heritage. If you want to stop some thing then why not concentrate on the real problems facing this state like Drugs, Rapists, and people who go around shooting people. VOTE NO ON 1190

Adam Kiser writes:

What does it mean by, Bill is Dead

Waldo Jaquith writes:

It means that the bill is, in fact, dead. The session ends in three days, and the Appropriations Committee doesn't have time to deal with all of the bills that have been shoved their way in the past few days, dumping ground that they are, including this one sent to them by Courts of Justice. So it's going to sit in Appropriations, where they may or may not decide to take it up next session. They could take it up again tomorrow, hypothetically, but odds are good that they won't.

H. Earl writes:

Dead is good.

Daniel J. writes:

C.Rouse writes:

"If you dont want to attend a cockfight then dont but dont infringe your views on us who want to attend."

OK, But how about you give the roosters that same right as well? They are living creatures that feel pain just as you do. Don't infringe YOUR views on an innocent animal.

Cross Creek writes:

I feel the right thing was done with this bill as the people of Virginia was heard loud and clear. But in closing one thing to remember is we live in the land of the free so if your for cock fighting or not for it, try to respect your neighbors and let them enjoy in life what makes them happy. Sometimes we all forget what our ancesters for many years have fought for......Freedom to do what we want.

H. Earl writes:

***Daniel J. writes:

C.Rouse writes:

"If you dont want to attend a cockfight then dont but dont infringe your views on us who want to attend."

OK, But how about you give the roosters that same right as well? They are living creatures that feel pain just as you do. Don't infringe YOUR views on an innocent animal.***

What makes you think they are?
I've never seen a rooster participate that didn't want to. Have you?

Daniel J. writes:

They don't have a choice. You have taken any options away from them. Either they fight, or they die. Pure and simple.

Daniel J. writes:

Cross Creek writes:

"I feel the right thing was done with this bill as the people of Virginia was heard loud and clear. But in closing one thing to remember is we live in the land of the free so if your for cock fighting or not for it, try to respect your neighbors and let them enjoy in life what makes them happy. Sometimes we all forget what our ancesters for many years have fought for......Freedom to do what we want."

I believe most people could care less what you do to yourself on your own time. However, including other living things in your activities is a completely different story.

H. Earl writes:

***Daniel J. writes:

They don't have a choice. You have taken any options away from them. Either they fight, or they die. Pure and simple***

Danel J.?
How do you like your Herring … Red? Your statement is of course that as well as a Non Sequitur which also Begs the question and at the same time an Anthropomorphic argumentum ad ignorantiam. Argument to ignorance. Returning to the questions before you Danel J

Please provide chapter and verse for your misinterpretation and misrepresentation of scripture and, What makes you think they are?
I've never seen a rooster participate that didn't want to. Have you?

Ron writes:

April: Congratulations on being an attorney! I am not one. However, Can you show me in any state or federal constitution exactly which clause GIVES the Government the power to protect the lives of animals???

danielle writes:

I believe that everyone has their own opinion, so they could argue about it for a long time. But, I don’t think anyone should have the right to force animals to kill each other just for money, yes there are a lot of chickens so we could spare some but I think cockfighting is wrong. I think that those who oppose this bill are being overly-dramatic by saying that the government is trying to take away there right to own a pet. When you are hurting that animal everyday then yes you should not be allowed to have that animal anymore. That is just common sense; nobody gave you the right to kill them in the first place so the government is not taking any right away. We do not live in the gladiator period anymore, where the spilling of blood was a normal and an everyday thing, we are now civilized and do not need to practice this out of date "sport".

Ron writes:

Danielle: I'm afraid you are buying into the old stale HSUS propaganda lines. NO one "forces" the animal to fight, it is their inbred instinct. They do it in barnyards or anywhere they meet another male of their species. Their natural weapons are more cruel than the artificial ones used in the arena. One cannot "force" a chicken to fight. If they don't want to they run away or if they are in an arena, they put their head in the corner away from the other fowl and the fight is over. The fowl are not "hurt" every day. The fowl are given the best vitamins, feed, medication for infections, vaccinated for diseases and live a minimum of two years receiving the best care possible. Contrast that with Col Sanders or Frank Perdue or Tyson chickens who get to live their eight weeks of life in a small wire cage. Gamefowl are treated like kings. Gladiators were people. They did not want to fight. Gamecocks are chickens, they want to fight. Do some investigation on your own, do not blindly buy into the HSUS/PETA propaganda.

Carrie Gillispie writes:

What a joke! Plain and simple this bill and the ignorant (look up the definition people) individuals that support it threaten to exterminate not only our heritage, but our freedom. These "advocates," lawyers and self proclaimed moralists don't have a clue what a gamecock IS or what it's innate core consists of! EDUCATE YOURSELVES!!! Do not allow yourselves to be forcefed information without QUESTIONING it!! If you don't you are even less intellegent than the animals that you are claiming to defend.