March 16 - Lisa's Musings (on eating meat) and Every Day Life

Excuse me if I don't listen to our governor when she advocates "Michigan Meatout Day."

She chose nice timing for her proclamation, too.

In case you weren't aware, it's National Agriculture Week and March 20 is actually National Agricultural Day.

So, let's see, perhaps she doesn't realize that by encouraging Michigan residents not to eat meat, that she's hurting the state's livestock and dairy farmers?

Like this state's businesses and farmers need any more open-handed smacks across the face?

Or maybe she thinks that meat miraculously arrives in packages at the supermarket like milk.

Perhaps she needs a personal invitation to Project RED so she can learn about the state's agriculture like the third graders across the county.

Understandably, Michigan's Farm Bureau is pissed, and they are calling it "unconscionable and an insensitive slap in the face to Michigan’s livestock and dairy farmers, not to mention Michigan’s meat-eating residents."

I agree.

And, since when is it up to the governor to tell us what they should and shouldn’t eat?

Eating more vegetables, fruits and whole grains -- I'm all about that.

But, condemning meat like junk food? Even food guru Michael Pollan would dispute that.

In fact, I like my cow and pig in many forms.

National Agriculture Day, according to Michigan Farm Bureau, "is a coveted and historic occasion to recognize and celebrate all sectors of our nation’s agriculture industry."

Perhaps our governor needs to be reminded that ag is a $71.3 billion industry in Michigan. And, that's no small potatoes -- especially in a state that's hurting in so many sectors.

So my suggestion?

Break out the grill Saturday -- it's supposed to be a lovely day -- snub your nose at the governor of this fine state and cook some burgers, steaks or lamb chops.

And add some Michigan grown vegetables and fruit and you'll be all set.

Just Do It -- in honor of our local farmers.