Gamecock breeders expect up to 10,000 at rally

<br>(Muskogee-AP) -- Gamecock breeders in Oklahoma say they expect up to 10,000 cockfighting supporters at a Capitol rally in February. <br><br>They're hoping a major rally at the start of the legislative

Tuesday, November 25th 2003, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

(Muskogee-AP) -- Gamecock breeders in Oklahoma say they expect up to 10,000 cockfighting supporters at a Capitol rally in February.

They're hoping a major rally at the start of the legislative session will encourage lawmakers to vote in favor of measures that would help the sport.

The rally is planned for 11 AM on February 4th, during the first week of the 2004 legislative session.

Senate Bill 835 would reduce cockfighting penalties from a felony to a misdemeanor.

Cockfighting supporter Senator Frank Shurden of Henryetta says the bill will be voted on in the first few weeks of the session.

Another Senate bill could suspend the ban on cockfighting state voters approved last year. In its place could be a county-by-county option.