Matchbox Twenty Cancels Rodeo Appearance
Matchbox Twenty [ tickets ] cites potential animal abuse as the reason for pulling out of the band's July 18 appearance at Cheyenne Frontier Days in Wyoming, according to a statement from frontman Rob Thomas and his wife, Marisol,on the band's website. "After careful consideration, it was decided that participating in this event would directly contradict the mission statement of Sidewalk Angels Foundatation, our non profit organization," the statement reads. "The other members of Matchbox Twenty support this decision and while we understand that a great deal of effort went into the planning of this show, and apologize to any and all fans who purchased tickets to see us. We ask that they please understand that it would be impossible for us to put ourselves in the position of making money from what we believe to be the mistreatment of animals." There was no direct response from Cheyenne Frontier Days' representatives, although a blurb on the event website says Cheyenne Frontier Days does not tolerate, condone, or permit actions that abuse animals. "We recognize that animals, as well as humans, may be injured in these events," the statement read. "Any injured animal is accorded immediate veterinary medical attention and is isolated from further harm."Cheyenne Frontier Days, held annually since 1897, is claimed by its promoters to be the largest rodeo and western celebration in the world.
Damien Heck
