Area Supporters Turn Out for 'Chick-fil-A Appreciation Day'

East Norriton and Audubon Chick-fil-As have been packed this afternoon and into this evening with franchises sporting lines out the door and cars backed up around the block just to get into the parking lot.

The crowds are apparently answering the call of Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee for today to be "Chick-fil-A Appreciation Day" in response to Chick-fil-A President Dan Cathy’s statement against same-sex marriage and reaffirmation the company’s stance on the traditional family unit.

According to Huffington Post, Huckabee, on his Facebook page said, "The goal is simple: Let's affirm a business that operates on Christian principles and whose executives are willing to take a stand for the Godly values we espouse by simply showing up and eating at Chick-fil-A on Wednesday, August 1."

On the flip side of the issue, protesters of Chick-fil-A’s stance on same-sex marriage have organized a National Same Sex Kiss Day at Chick-fil-A restaurants on Friday, August 3. Organizers are asking supporters to show up to a local Chick-fil-A and make out with someone of the same sex, take photos, and post them to the Chick-fil-A Facebook page.

Patch readers on both sides of the issue have been debating the merits of both Chick-fil-A President Dan Cathy’s support of "traditional marriage" and gay rights groups' call for a boycott on the restaurant.

Patch blogger dismissed the outrage over the issue as "So much to do about nothing."

"Anyone who knows anything about Chick-fil-A's corporate philosophy would not be surprised by their position," said Shortall in a comment on Patch. "Heck, they're even CLOSED on Sundays! The reaction should be very simple. Don't agree? Don't eat there. Let your feet do the talking. If you want to chase them away, it's the perfect solution!"

Patch user "" defended Chik-fil-A's right to their stance, but pointed out she will no longer support their business:

"I agree that Chik-fil-A can say and stand for anything they choose, I believe the protestors can do whatever kissing they want to do to. That is what freedom is about. You don't have to like it, but you have to allow it. Personally, I will never eat at a Chik-fil-A, but I won't be kissing there either. I don't care at all that they are religious - that is fine with me. Many other businesses are religious (like Marriot) and I patron them. I care that CFA gives money to organizations that fight against gay equal rights and gay marriage. I believe in equal rights for and equal marriage for all Americans. I believe CFA has the right to give money to whatever organization they want - but I will simply never patron there. My gay friends and gay equality is much much more important than a chicken sandwich."

The debate continues to build on local Patch sites. You can view the conversation and weigh in on the debate .