The animal rights group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals is trying a new approach today in attempting to get kids to stop eating meat. Past PETA campaigns were blunt, confrontational efforts, such as handing out stickers featuring kids who suffered all sorts of maladies allegedly related to eating meat. PETA spokesman Dan Shannon says they’re trying a new approach by introducing “Kernel Korn,” a seven foot tall corncob mascot.The Kernel extols the virtues of eating vegetables. Shannon says in the aftermath of September 11th, PETA wants to get away from its shocking message to something that’s friendlier. He says they hope to get kids talking about the meatless lifestyle. Shannon says the mascot will be in Cedar Rapids today.