Friday, November 16, 2007
Governor Pardons Poultry
Governor to Host Annual Turkey Pardon
DES MOINES – Governor Chet Culver will pardon a turkey on Monday, November 19th, officially beginning the Thanksgiving Holiday Season.
“Thanksgiving is a time for family and friends,” said the Governor. “I wish all Iowans, and especially our brave men and women serving overseas, a safe and happy Thanksgiving.”
An annual tradition for nearly 20 years, the Governor will pardon a turkey donated by the Iowa Turkey Federation and the Iowa Turkey Marketing Council. Governor Culver will be joined by First Lady Mari Culver, as well as their children Clare and John.
“It’s been a pretty good year so far,” continued Governor Culver. “First, we fought to save Christmas from the presidential primary calendar, then we fought to save Halloween from the tax man, and now I am happy to continue this holiday tradition by saving Thanksgiving for one lucky Iowa turkey.”