'Supporting the good Lord' draws overflow crowds

Bill Bumpas   (OneNewsNow.com) Thursday, August 02, 2012

People across the nation packed Chick-fil-A restaurants on Wednesday in support of the fast-food chain and its owner for standing for biblical values. One patron described it as "a massive silent protest."

News reports spoke of long lines and traffic jams at numerous Chick-fil-A outlets yesterday. CNN quotes a Barboursville, West Virginia, customer who said "the scene at Chick-fil-A seemed like a massive silent protest." It was no different at the restaurant in Searcy, 50 miles northeast of Little Rock, Arkansas.

"I'm here to support the owner of this business for his Christian beliefs," explained one customer standing in line. Asked if she was okay with waiting for a much longer time than usual for her order, she replied: "That's not bothering me at all."
Company president Dan Cathy drew criticism for an interview two weeks ago in which he publicly stated his support for traditional marriage between one man and one woman. Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, in reaction to the harsh rhetoric from pro-homosexual groups nationwide, responded by calling for a "Chick-Fil-A Appreciation Day" on August 1. (See pictures below from several Chick-fil-A restaurants) This man came from out of town to the Chick-fil-A outlet in Searcy. "[I came] to support 'em because they support God -- and so I want to support them for supporting the good Lord," he told OneNewsNow. Manager Todd Howe couldn't believe the crowds. "It's amazing ... I mean, [they've been] wrapped around since we opened this morning at 6:00. It's just packed in there ...." He commented on the patient demeanor of the throng. "Some people's orders were 30 minutes behind and they're not mad at us or anything," he shared. "They're just showing us lots of love and support -- and we just appreciate it." The Chick-fil-A operator in Tupelo, Mississippi, told television station WTVAthat from a business standpoint, Wednesday looked to be the biggest sales day for his store since it opened.

About the business success of the day, Fox News reports on a statement provided by the company: "We are very grateful and humbled by the incredible turnout of loyal Chick-fil-A customers on August 1 at Chick-fil-A restaurants around the country. We congratulate local Chick-fil-A owner/operators and their team members for striving to serve each and every customer with genuine hospitality. While we don't release exact sales numbers, we can confirm reports that it was a record-setting day."

Huckabee says one demographic was probably not too thrilled about Wednesday's turnout. "I don't think the chickens were too happy about the day," he tells Fox News. "They really gave their lives in mass numbers."

What's the most likely long-term impact

the Chick-fil-A controversy will have on people?