Gov. Kay Ivey pardons two lucky turkeys for Thanksgiving
It’s an Alabama tradition that dates back 75 years, as the governor pardons two lucky turkeys just in time for them to avoid becoming someone’s Thanksgiving meal.
Gov. Kay Ivey had the honors Monday outside the Governor’s Mansion. She pardoned “Giblet” and “Puddin'” whose names were chosen by the public in a social media poll.
For years, the turkeys were always named “Clyde” and “Henrietta.” Last year, the two lucky birds got the names “Gobbles” and “Cranberry” as the tradition took on a new twist that is now in its second year.
The annual turkey pardoning began in 1949 with Gov. “Big Jim” Folsom and Bill Bates, who started the Bates Turkey Farm in Ft. Deposit, which supplies the turkeys. The farm turned 100 years old this year.
Other state agriculture leaders attend the event each year, and school groups provide entertainment. This year, Agriculture & Industries Commissioner Rick Pate, Johnny Adams of the Alabama Egg & Poultry Association and Becky Bates Sloane from Bates Turkey Farm were there.
Students from Montgomery Christian School and Riverchase Day School students performed.
