There were 200+ who turned out for the August 8th Lockhart NAIS “Town Hall” meeting.  At least one Austin TV station showed up for the NAIS Town Hall meeting and several newspaper reporters from surrounding counties. 

Coordinators Judith McGeary, Executive Directory for the Farm and Ranch Freedom Alliance and Lockhart resident, Pam Cantwell, Equine Touch Practitioner and Barrel Racer lined up a terrific speaker line up.
Guest speakers were: Texas State Rep. Patrick Rose (D-Blanco, Caldwell & Hays Counties) - Brad McClellan, Campaign Manager for Carole Keeton Strayhorn, Independent Candidate for Governor of Texas - Chuck Kiker, President of R-CALF/USA, the Ranchers-Cattlemen Action Legal Fund, United Stockgrowers of America - Judith McGeary, Executive Director of the Farm and Ranch Freedom Alliance - Hank Gilbert, Democratic candidate for Texas Agriculture Commissioner – XXXX, Campaign Manager for Kinky Friedman, Independent candidate for Governor of Texas - Chris Bell, Democratic Candidate for Governor of Texas, and Fred Head, Democratic Candidate for Texas State Comptroller.

There were horse, cattle, goat and sheep owners in attendance who brought their concerns and questions about NAIS.  The speakers covered how the USDA's proposed National Animal ID System plan affects everyone and our rural lifestyle whether it’s rodeo, raise cattle, horses, goats, chickens or just a backyard pet. How will this affect "all" consumers and taxpayers? Microchipping/tracking your horses and livestock questions answered. Who is backing this plan and why. Bring your concerns and take home the answers.

Please try to attend a town hall meeting near you or organize one in your hometown! We must educate the public on this issue and get more media involved!! For information on organizing a meeting or attending one that is already planned go to www.farmandranchfreedom.org or call toll free: 1-866-687-6452