BLUEFIELD- W.Va. (WVVA)-- The Mercer Mall was packed with Chick-Fil-A supporters Wednesday. They came out in droves for what is being called "Chick-fil-a Appreciation Day."
Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee urged people to go to the restaurant if they are also against same-sex marriage through a Facebook event he created. An anti-same-sex marriage stance was recently made public by Chick-Fil-A President, Dan Cathy.
"We are supporting him because he believes the way the Bible teaches," Joyce Faris told WVVA as she waited in line.
"They [Chick-fil-a] believe in God and the belief of a man and a woman for marriage," said Tommy Hylton after he purchased a meal.
Executives with Chick-Fil-A told WVVA it is important to note the company did not initiate the publicity in a statement: "Chick-Fil-A Appreciation Day was not created by Chick-Fil-A," said Steve Robinson, Executive Vice President of Marketing. "It is a creation fro from our fans. We appreciate all of our customers and are glad to serve them at any time. our goal is simple: to provide great food, genuine hospitality, and have a positive influence on all who come into contact with Chick-Fil-A."
Massive lines and hungry people could be seen throughout the day at the Mercer Mall.
"There must be 100, 150 people ahead of me but I'm going to stay here to get my chicken sandwich," said Faris. "I'll wait all evening if I have to."
Some even called in their order a day in advance, anticipating the crowd. "We thought it was going to be a busy day, because we heard a lot of people talking about coming to support," said Carolyn Smith as she picked up her order. "Yesterday when we called here they had a lot of orders that had been called in [already].
Regardless of the wait, people told WVVA the trip was worth it.
"I think he [Cathy] does good business," said Faris. "I just want him to know there are Christian people out there that support his views."
