66th Annual Governor’s Turkey Pardoning
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Thanksgiving is just two weeks away, and keeping up with tradition Governor Bentley had the tough decision on deciding the fate of some guests.
 These two gobbled away,in hopes of getting the governor to pardon them for Thanksgiving. The turkey pardoning is an ongoing tradition between the Governor’s office and the Bates Turkey Farm since 1949.
The event started to get people in the spirit of the holiday… Including the Governor… Who says he has a lot to be thankful for.
“Honestly I’m thankful that god has given me the opportunity that he has to serve this great state. It’s an honor that I get to do everyday and, I believe he’s put me here for a reason and I’m thankful for that. That’s why I’m always going to do my best.” Says Governor Bentley
Two of Mr. Bates children carried the Thanksgiving tradition on for their father. This is their second thanksgiving since his passing. His daughter says if her dad was here he would say one simple phrase.
“That he’s glad he’s an American. I know that’s what he’d say.”
If you want to see the pardoned birds, they’ll be at the farmers market on the corner of Federal Drive and Coliseum Boulevard.
