Beg your (turkey) pardon

President Obama pardons the national Thanksgiving turkey, a 19-week-old, 45-pound bird named Liberty.

President Harry Truman is often cited, incorrectly, as the first president to pardon a Thanksgiving turkey. (Just Google first president to pardon a turkey and see how many wiki Truman answers you get.)

Adding to the confusion, President Bill Clinton claimed on Nov. 26, 1997 at his pardoning ceremony: "President Truman was the first President to pardon a turkey."

But the Truman Library wrote in 2003: "The Library's staff has found no documents, speeches, newspaper clippings, photographs, or other contemporary records in our holdings which refer to Truman pardoning a turkey that he received as a gift in 1947, or at any other time during his Presidency."

In fact, "Truman sometimes indicated to reporters that the turkeys he received were destined for the family dinner table," the library wrote.

It appears that Abraham Lincoln, in a way, was the first to spare a turkey. But it wasn't a Thanksgiving turkey. It was a Christmas turkey his son had taken for a pet.

Clinton in that same speech: "[T]he tradition actually began 83 years earlier when President Lincoln received a turkey for Christmas holiday. His son, Tad, grew so attached to the turkey that he named him 'Jack,' and President Lincoln had no choice but to give Jack the full run of the White House." President George W. Bush made reference to the same story in his pardoning ceremony in 2001.

So which president was the first to actually pardon a Thanksgiving turkey?

It appears it was John F. Kennedy in 1963. An NBC News archive search found a Los Angeles Times article dated Nov. 20, 1963 with the headline, "Turkey gets presidential pardon."

And that turkey was a monster. The paper described it as a "55-pound broad white tom."  Despite a sign hanging around the bird's neck that read "Good eating, Mr. President," Kennedy took a look down at the "frightened, panting bird" and said, "We'll just let this one grow."

By the way, if you were a pardoned what would you do next? This year’s free birds are two 45-pounders from Minnesota named Liberty and Peace and they’re headed to Mount Vernon, Va., to delight tourists at a special Christmas program running at the historic home of George Washington. Once the holidays are over, they’ll live at Mount Vernon in a custom enclosure.

This post is adapted and updated from a 2009 piece by Domenico Montanaro.

Discuss this post

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Obama pardons turkey(s)

Aptly named; Newt & Hermie! ;o)

  • 25 votes
#1 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 10:59 AM EST

Hallelujah Thanksgiving is saved.

There was enough Turkey on display down at Constitution Hall last night to feed an Army of folks that normally wouldn’t have enough.

And Bull shirt Stuffing Lord have mercy should be around long after We’ve picked the carcass down to the bone.

And the good thing about it is you can stick a fork in it ‘cause it’s already done.

All’s we got to do is come up with is some Sweet and Mashed Tater’s and a little bit of good old Punkin Pie to go along with it. MMMM MMMMM that’s fine like frog hair spilt.

Seriously Folks if you have a little bit extra make sure you Share it with those that don’t. The Gift of a little bit of Your Self has the power to mean so much and goes so far in this Holiday Season. Like the Ripples from a Small Stone in a Pond how it comes back to You still has the Power to Amaze and Surprise even as Jaded as some of us have become.

Happy Thanksgiving All.

  • 26 votes
#1.1 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:05 AM EST

Happy Thanksgiving to friends and foes alike.

I am thankful for the professional and hard-working First Read moderators we have with Mark, Domenico, and Ali. Enjoy this Thanksgiving and Christmas as you will be burning the midnight oil throughout the coming year.

The Republican candidates debated homeland security and national security in last night's debate. It would be fair to say that 80% of the First Read amateur writers (unpaid writers) know more about national defense than this gaggle of candidate.

The Commander-in-Chief bar was so low it was lying on the ground and all seven candidates stumbled over the bar. It is noteworthy that the more they pander to their conservative base, the rest of the civilized world finds itself at greater risk for preemptive evasion, torture, and bullying diplomacy.

Then we have the silver-tongued Gingrich whose indiscretions far exceed all his fellow Republican candidates, yet attempting to present himself as one of the least flawed candidates. It looks as though the Tea Party will overlook all personal and political baggage to find someone who can beat Romney. The debates reveal how little this group of candidates know about the real world.

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving and I trust our President will enjoy some special time with his family. One thing he does not have to worry about is that group of candidates who are having their weekly debates while sharing with the rest of us their disdain for the 99% and their lack of common sense

  • 23 votes
#1.2 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:06 AM EST

This seems an appropriate place to drop one more Thanksgiving wish.

Best wishes to all of our First Read family, and to your friends and families ...

... have a safe, happy, blessed, and peaceful Thanksgiving.

Go Packers.

And let there be peace on earth. ♥

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LwSgjnycZ_Q

  • 17 votes
#1.3 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:13 AM EST

"It appears it was John F. Kennedy in 1963. An NBC News archive search found a Los Angeles Times article dated Nov. 20, 1963 with the headline, "Turkey gets presidential pardon."

Okay, am I the only one who got a chill reading that date?

On a hopefully brighter note, here are a few Thanksgiving thoughts from me:

I wish, to paraphrase our President, that we could disagree here without being so disagreeable all the time. But I'm thankful for all of you who do try.

I wish all Americans would realize that we're only truly "exceptional" when we work together, when we help our neighbors, when we reach out to strangers in need, and when we remember that we're the UNITED States of America. But I'm thankful for all the unsung heroes who don't need holidays to remind them to care about others.

I wish we would never lose another father, mother, son, or daughter to war. But I'm thankful to all those who are so willing to sacrifice their own hopes and dreams so the rest of us can enjoy ours.

I wish that some of you could see Barack Obama through my eyes for just one day. But I'm thankful for every day I've been able to call him PRESIDENT Obama.

I wish that American exceptionalism was better represented in the field of Republican presidential candidates this year than just Jon Huntsman, because I think my Republican friends - and indeed, all Americans - deserve a chance to choose between the best and brightest on both sides of the issues. But if I'm being completely honest here, I'm thankful that they're making President Obama's re-election seem easier every day!

I wish, seriously, that elections could still be based on an honest debate on the issues instead of on fundraising totals, trivial distractions, YouTube moments, catch-phrases, personal attacks, and those god-awful misleading, truth-bending, insulting tv ads that drag the entire process into the gutter. But I'm thankful we still live in a country where you're free to ignore all that and base your vote on your personal convictions and values, whatever those may be.

I wish I liked my job even a tenth as much as Mark and Domenico seem to love theirs. But I'm thankful for this forum where they invite us to share in their job every day. And hey, I'm especially thankful that my bosses are letting me take next week off, as busy as we currently are. After the year I've just struggled through, I totally deserve it!

I wish some of the posters here (and we all know who they are) would lighten up just once in a while and discover the joy of having a sense of humor and not taking everything so deadly seriously all the time. But I'm thankful for the Grimeys and Drive-bys and Forrest Grumps and Da Noids and Anna Mollys and Independent Rednecks who can bring a smile to even the gloomiest days, whether I agree with what they say or not.

I wish everyone here could get to know the LibsR Us/Dew Drop Inn gang
- not as a gang, or a clique of "cool kids", or a bunch of "delusional libbie moon-bats" - but as the warm-hearted, fun-loving, compassionate, smart, diverse group of people I've come to think of as the family I got to choose. And I'm really thankful that they chose me back.

And finally, I wish everyone here a very happy Thanksgiving. But I'm really, REALLY thankful you're not all coming for dinner
tomorrow!

  • 29 votes
#1.4 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:14 AM EST

Well you lost me at the Go Packers part Anna. Hopefully my Lions will help your Packers find the loss column tomorrow.

Happy Thanksgiving to all of my friends and foes here on First Read, yes even the RWNJs.

  • 13 votes
#1.5 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:18 AM EST

Thank you JoAnne. As always you say it better than I ever could.

  • 12 votes
#1.6 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:19 AM EST

Beautifully said, JoAnne -- many blessings to you and your family.

@ devie -- Sorry. To tell the truth, I'm secretly hoping the Packers will take a loss tomorrow, as well. But not so it benefits the Lions. May the best team always win. ;-)

  • 10 votes
#1.7 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:22 AM EST

Since one was from Minnesota, it had to be Michelle Bachman. The other one has to be Rick Perry as he truly is a bird brain. As for the subject of football, I wish to thank the Chicago Bears for beating my Chargers last Sunday. Another loss, another nail in the coffin of Norv Turner, a turkey I will not pardon.

  • 8 votes
#1.8 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:23 AM EST

It's like a breath of fresh air over here...

The immigration thread sure went to hell in a heartbeat! ;o(

Not even an 'American' holiday can bring out the best in them...

Let me add my 0.02 in wishing my First Read Family a glorious Thanksgiving!

I cherish each & every one of you!

I'm thankful for that fate-full day back in March of 2008, when I happened to stumble across a chat room known as First Read!

{{HUGS}}

PS: Devie - tomorrow you can count me in as a LIONS fan! ;o)

  • 20 votes
#1.9 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:28 AM EST

Thank you all for sharing beautiful Thanksgiving thoughts. I really can't add anything, except for hoping you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving! Love, Joy, and Peace to all!

  • 11 votes
#1.10 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:29 AM EST

Just popping in to wish all my friends (and foes) a very happy Thanksgiving! Hope you are all looking forward to celebrating with friends and family. This old farm is going to be busy again, awaiting the arrival of Round two of guests, friends and family. With all the extra animals everyone is bringing...going to be wild!

To our friends at First Read, thank YOU for your work, and tolerance in providing this place for us to talk politics, and make new friends.

To my very special group of friends...what can I say but I treasure all of you.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING....SEE YOU ON THE OTHER SIDE!

  • 15 votes
#1.11 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:31 AM EST

Joanne: that was truly lovely. A special Thanksgiving wish to you.

  • 9 votes
#1.12 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:33 AM EST

Uncle Redneck - Thanks, but I don't say anything better - just longer! As your opening post on the immigration thread proves, you get right to the heart of the issues better than just about anyone on here.

Anna Molly - Thanks for the beautiful link - as I dry a couple of teardrops off my keyboard, I'm also very thankful that I've had the chance to see so many of those places up close and personal in my lifetime. It's a beautiful country, and that's a beautiful arrangement of one of my favorite songs ever. Have a great holiday!

New Day - Did I mention how thankful I am that you finally "returned"? :)

  • 15 votes
#1.13 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:34 AM EST

Feisty:

PS: Devie - tomorrow you can count me in as a LIONS fan! ;o)

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I'll pardon you for this, Feisty.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving. ;-)

@ JoAnne -- you're very welcome. One of my favorite songs, too, since childhood. It reminds us of exactly what we should be thankful for.

  • 9 votes
#1.14 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:35 AM EST

May the best team always win. ;-)

Well, I would agree with you on the part about the best team winning but like I said I want the Lions.

  • 5 votes
#1.15 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:37 AM EST

My best wishes to all of you on Thanksgiving as well. It's been fun getting to know you, and I love the sense of humor so many of you have! Thanks to everyone for all the research you put into your posts. I wish I had the time to do as much, but I learn from yours.

  • 12 votes
#1.16 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:38 AM EST

JoAnne, you make it real hard to 'slowly back away from the keyboard'.

Wonderful post!

  • 12 votes
#1.17 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:39 AM EST

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I'll pardon you for this, Feisty.

LOL!!!

WHEW! ;o)

I hate to say it but, I think da Bear's are done for the season thanks to Cutler's broken thumb!

Personally, I think they should let him play, he threw 27 completions in the second half with his *boo-boo*!

  • 10 votes
#1.18 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:40 AM EST

Thanks Feisty, we are going to need it. I fear the Packers are going to crush the Lions in the same fashion your Bears did two weeks ago.

  • 4 votes
#1.19 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:41 AM EST

The turkey-pardoning seems silly and frivolous but I think something light-hearted out of Washington right now may very well be just what we need.

This long-suffering 49er fan is thrilled with the season so far and looking forward to tomorrow's test against Baltimore. Go west-coast Harbaugh!!

A quick Thanksgiving note. Mrs. SoCal provides personal chef services to a family whose name you would not recognize, but the product that made them upper "one per centers" you would know. Their long-standing Thanksgiving tradition is for the family to spend the day working at a soup kitchen. They then have their Thanksgiving on Friday. I often jump in as bartender. There can be upwards of 50 people at these gatherings, all solid one percent citizens. As relates to Thanksgiving I am always impressed by the level of volunteerism and charity these people are engaged in. Our present tax structure may not be fair, but many of the very rich engage in essential and genuine philanthropy. It seems in the present climate of demonizing the wealthy this gets overlooked. Just something to consider.

Happy Thanksgiving, all. There is so much to be thankful for.

  • 13 votes
#1.20 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:42 AM EST

JoAnne, beautifully said, and yes, I did get a chill reading that date.

Oh, shoot, when I heard the turkey names earlier on MSNBC I thought they said "Pete" so please excuse my mistake on the immigration survey thread. I did think it was an odd name to go with "Liberty".

No matter which President really was first to pardon a turkey, I enjoy the tradition. President Obama seems to enjoy it also.

  • 13 votes
#1.21 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:43 AM EST

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone! ; ) Many thanks to each one of you for making First Read an adventurous interesting place to visit always. Much thanks to the reporters and staff for making it possible. Blessings to you all.

Cheers to family, friends, great food and football!

  • 13 votes
#1.22 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:46 AM EST

Happy Thanksgiving everyone. Even all those misguided folks on the right that constantly keep us entertained here :=).

  • 9 votes
#1.23 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:53 AM EST

Thanksgiving my favorite holiday. The gathering of family and friends, the food, the football... Good times! Some of my best memories occur on Thanksgiving.

Again, I would like to wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving! I can taste the Turkey already! I hope yours is a great one!

  • 9 votes
#1.24 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:54 AM EST

Al, Visalia--good one, agree about Norv Turner, and from one Charger fan to another, Happy Thanksgiving. When I lived in San Diego, spent many a happy Sunday at the stadium watching Dan Fouts and the Bruise Brothers along with Big Ed White, Joiner, Jefferson, Chandler and Winslow.

  • 8 votes
#1.25 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 12:18 PM EST

Mark, So Cal, well said. Yes, there are many wealthy people who give generously of both time and money. Truth is most people, including the 1%, are not selfish nor do they begrudge taxpayer money to help those with less.

Fortunately, not every one is a Grover Norquist who, like the Grinch, would steal Christmas if he could make a buck off it and pay no taxes on the profits.

  • 9 votes
#1.26 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 12:55 PM EST

Have a Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!

  • 9 votes
#1.27 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 1:04 PM EST

SF, in another year we are totally going to have to 'do' the Chiefs/Steelers game; but this is not to be our year. Besides, you guys are going to literally have your way with us and it won't be entertaining, even for a minute.

JoAnne - Friends are TOTALLY the family you get to pick and it's mutual, babe, on how we all came to 'pick' each other!

I am just SO grateful for all of life's blessings and this board is definitely one of them! And we got to MEET Mark Murray this year! What a HOOT! and many of us got to watch the eventual World Champion Baseball team lose one at home. While also witnessing a Grand Slam. I mean really, that just doesn't happen EVERY day, right?

Go forth and read and celebrate life's many blessings and we'll see you back here bright eyed and bushy tailed on Monday!

PS. Grimey, if you check in - I ran the test course Sunday in 52 minutes. If you'd have seen me 8 weeks ago,...you'd be IMPRESSED for sure! Hope your training is going equally well. My run is at 9:00a tomorrow,...wish me luck!

  • 6 votes
#1.28 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 1:31 PM EST

Happy Thanksgiving to E1 here @ 1st Read from "Occupy SoggyBottom"!

  • 8 votes
#1.29 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 1:36 PM EST

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you on here and your families!

P.S. Lions fan of the Newsvine world unite! :p

  • 6 votes
#1.30 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 1:57 PM EST

Im going to the game, I will be the one eating liberal popcorn and wearing the " I luv me sum Obama Tee shirt ! Go Lions! Expect a crap load of Kevin Smith!

  • 2 votes
#1.31 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:04 PM EST

Happy Thanksgiving to you all and the FR staffers! I don't post much, because everyone says it sooner/better than I do, but this blog is a daily must-read. A day without Feisty, Jody, IR, California Tom, Anna Molly, Auntie Fascist, et al, is like a day without sunshine.

Thanks for being here!

  • 8 votes
#1.32 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:11 PM EST

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!!!!!

Be safe and enjoy the time with your families.

  • 7 votes
#1.33 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:12 PM EST

Thank you for the shout out Holly!

Wishing you a very Happy Turkey Day to you & yours!

You too TRR!

Hope all is well, haven't seen you around much lately!

  • 6 votes
#1.34 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:20 PM EST

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!!

Clara...well done. I am sure you are going to have no trouble tearing through the course tomorrow!!! :-) Good luck!!!!

And if we're doing shout outs for our football teams, GO RAVENS!!!!

  • 6 votes
#1.35 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:25 PM EST

Grimey, can't wait for the "Harbaugh" bowl. As an AFC fan, I am with you!

  • 3 votes
#1.36 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:33 PM EST

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone here at first read. Keep the young men and women serving in the military in your thoughts and prayers tomorrow.

  • 6 votes
#1.37 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:36 PM EST

Thanks Feisty....wishing you a happy turkey day to you & yours!

I'll start writing soon...been very busy at work.

Everything is going well & I just found out I'm going to be a grandma!!!!

My first grandchild. Can't wait.

  • 5 votes
#1.38 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:58 PM EST

I just found out I'm going to be a grandma!!!!

YAY!

What wonderful news!

Congrats to you & the lucky parents to be! ;o)

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone here at first read

You too Lisa!

  • 2 votes
#1.39 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 3:13 PM EST

Feisty-

Thank you....it brought tears to my eyes when my daughter told me the news.

The best news anyone could every receive!

Thanks again.

  • 3 votes
#1.40 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 3:18 PM EST

When is she due?

PS: I have sort of resigned myself to the fact I will never be a Grama!

Daughter is too caught up in her career (she teaches the visually impaired).

She did get a puppy for her birthday - does that count? ;o)

  • 3 votes
#1.41 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 3:24 PM EST

Due date is July 9th on my mothers birthday.....she'll just love having a great grandchild born on her birthday.

Yes a puppy counts! They can be just as loving and caring as anyone....but you never know she just might surprise you one of these days.

  • 5 votes
#1.42 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 3:30 PM EST

Feisty,I never thought my daughter would get married or have a family.But she is getting married St Patricks day weekend.

  • 5 votes
#1.43 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 4:11 PM EST

But she is getting married St Patricks day weekend.

How exciting!

Congrats to you as well lisa!

I guess I shouldn't give up hope yet!

Now, if only my daughter would shorten her list of requirements for a spouse... lol

  • 3 votes
#1.44 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 4:15 PM EST

Anything about turkeys has been ruined by that video of Sarah Palin with a redneck in the background purposefully wringing a turkey's neck while the camera was rolling.

  • 8 votes
#1.45 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 4:23 PM EST

[Anything about turkeys has been ruined by that video of Sarah Palin with a redneck in the background purposefully wringing a turkey's neck while the camera was rolling.]

I had trouble registering for the local "Turkey Trot" road race after seeing that...

  • 3 votes
#1.46 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 8:09 PM EST

Yes, thank you Feisty for giving never ending leftist bantor. Thank you for never gettting a clue. Thank you for keeping wig makers in China employed. I can only hope that when the last turkey is plucked that it is not you. That would be a slam to real turkeys, who actually taste good when prepared properly.

And to the rest of you, have a great Thanksgiving. Of course the politically correct will change the name of that in a few years like they did to Christmas.

BTW, for you vegans, turkey is food. Had some tofurkey once and it tasted like raw squid.

  • 5 votes
#1.48 - Thu Nov 24, 2011 1:25 AM EST
Reply

Slow news day! Turkeys, immigration, and GOP/TP Turkeys views on immigration.

  • 5 votes
Reply#2 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:00 AM EST

I'm truly thankful the wingnuts are engaging in another of their periodic spasms of xenophobia. Did you read the comments from the last couple of threads? Really, these people are shrinking their party to nothing but fat old white people. That is NOT a long term winning demographic.

  • 11 votes
#2.1 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:04 AM EST

Oops .. where are my manners today. Happy Thanksgiving to ALL!!

  • 4 votes
#2.2 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 12:59 PM EST

I see that one of Obama's and Blagojevich's fundraisers and good friend, Antoin "Tony" Rezko was sentenced Tuesday to 10.5 years in prison for pressuring businesses for millions of kickbacks..... hmmmm.... wasn't he also a roommate of Barry and Bill Ayers back in the good ole days? Didn't he stay at the White House too a couple years ago?........

Do we see another White House pardon for Tony? Probably, but it won't get the media attention the other turkeys got, lol

My grandmother told me a persons friends says a lot about you..... what does this say about Barrack Obama?

Happy Thanksgiving to all.... can't wait for next November!

  • 15 votes
#2.3 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 3:56 PM EST

You can put on a sweater for the chill- First Read, as usual, got it WRONG.

The first turkey officially pardoned was in 1989-by George Herbert Walker Bush

http://dc.about.com/od/thanksgiving/ss/TurkeyPardon.htm

Maybe they thought they'd make it up to Kennedy- mis attributing the first official pardon to him, after robbing him of his phrase, in order to attribute it to Obama.

Ah, what the heck- its not like facts matter around here.

  • 7 votes
#2.4 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 9:12 PM EST

no joe..... its not like facts matter around here

No kidding! lol

  • 5 votes
#2.5 - Thu Nov 24, 2011 12:29 AM EST

nisl

"I'm truly thankful the wingnuts are engaging in another of their periodic spasms of xenophobia. Did you read the comments from the last couple of threads? Really, these people are shrinking their party to nothing but fat old white people."

As opposed to fat old colored people?

    #2.6 - Thu Nov 24, 2011 1:29 AM EST

    Kelly, I found the Rezko story buried on the back pages of our liberal rag. They did throw in a line about Rezko's chummy relationship with Mr. Rezko!

    I have $20 that says Obama will pardon him in the last days of his presidency (next year), any takers? hello....

    • 8 votes
    #2.7 - Thu Nov 24, 2011 1:02 PM EST

    No Joe insists that First Read lies about a story. If fact they only reported what the Los Angeles Times article reported, "Turkey gets presidential pardon" dated Nov. 20, 1963 that Kennedy took a look down at the "frightened, panting bird" and said, "We'll just let this one grow." So no it was not an officialpardon but it was what the LA Times reported.

    How do you find fault with a story about what another report said?

    Here is how Wikipedia reports the story: President John F. Kennedy spontaneously spared a turkey on Nov. 19, 1963, just days before his assassination, but did not grant a "pardon." The bird was wearing a sign reading, "Good Eatin' Mr. President." Kennedy responded, "Let's just keep him."

    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Thanksgiving_Turkey_Presentation

    The stories are similar but not exactly the same so it would appear the First Read’s story was more accurate than you would like it to be.

    • 6 votes
    #2.8 - Thu Nov 24, 2011 1:09 PM EST

    oops, previous post (2.7) typo correction:

    Kelly, I found the Rezko story buried on the back pages of our liberal rag. They did throw in a line about Rezko's chummy relationship with Mr. Obama!

    That's what I get for posting and watching the Packers! Go Green Bay!

    And Happy Thanksgiving to everyone! Including the contentious libbies at this blog..... geez folks chill out a bit, eh?

    • 11 votes
    #2.9 - Thu Nov 24, 2011 1:17 PM EST

    That's ok mike, we'll let it slide only because it's Thanksgiving.... I'm not taking that sucker bet though, lol!

    • 5 votes
    #2.10 - Thu Nov 24, 2011 1:25 PM EST

    I'm glad everyone had a happy thanksgiving. Including the turkey Obama Pardoned.

    • 1 vote
    #2.11 - Sun Nov 27, 2011 9:20 AM EST
    Reply

    Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

    • 11 votes
    Reply#3 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:00 AM EST

    Yes and a Happy Thanksgiving to you too!

    • 8 votes
    #3.1 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:02 AM EST

    Happy, Happy Thanksgiving, nisl.

    • 6 votes
    #3.2 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:18 AM EST

    You, too, nisl!

    • 4 votes
    #3.3 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 12:58 PM EST

    The truth of the matter is, the turkey that is living in the W.H. already is one

    turkey too many. I am surprised Obama didn't donate the turkey to Rev. Wright

    or some of his Muslim brothers.

    • 5 votes
    #3.4 - Thu Nov 24, 2011 10:39 AM EST

    Rangewolf

    Correction; Obama is not a turkey, he's a democRAT.

    • 3 votes
    #3.5 - Thu Nov 24, 2011 10:57 AM EST
    Reply

    Will the GOTP Pardon Gingrich? After all he is going against the grain.

    • 6 votes
    Reply#4 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:01 AM EST

    devie

    Mr. Gingrich is the only candidate that has the knowledge, experience, ideas

    and plans ( including Obama ) to get us and our country out of the mess

    Obama has gotten us into.

    Mr. Newt Gingrich - President 2012

    Wishing You All Have A Safe and Happy Thanksgiving.

    • 1 vote
    #4.1 - Thu Nov 24, 2011 10:46 AM EST

    Newt Ginrich is a joke. No candidate is worthy of the seat but Ron Paul, the only one with the balls to stand up there and tell us the truth.

    • 1 vote
    #4.2 - Fri Nov 25, 2011 2:32 PM EST

    But Ron Paul doesn't have at least a dozen books and priced to own DVDs for sale!

    BTW any post with turkeys and republican candidates is just hilarious!

    • 2 votes
    #4.3 - Fri Nov 25, 2011 7:29 PM EST

    Don't you mean the mess GWB got us into Rangewolf? Obama is supposed to unravel a mess, it took the GOP 8 years, to create in 3? Why should Gingrich fix it? Todays GOP likes the economy being on the edge of a cliff.

    • 2 votes
    #4.4 - Sun Nov 27, 2011 9:17 AM EST
    Reply

    Oh! I thought the headline said "turkeys" and just naturally assumed it was the eight who were on stage last night.

    (What the heck's going on with the vine this morning? I just had to log in as though I had never posted before!)

    • 9 votes
    Reply#5 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:04 AM EST

    Is it true that white turkeys are pardoned at a greater rate than black turkeys?

    • 10 votes
    Reply#6 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:08 AM EST

    Only in the Republican Primaries, and that is mostly due to demographics.

    • 8 votes
    #6.1 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:14 AM EST

    Well just ask Cain. Looks like the GOP can look past Newt's foibles.

    • 6 votes
    #6.2 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:23 AM EST

    Since when did Turkeys start wearing a suit with a striped tie?

    • 7 votes
    #6.3 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:31 AM EST

    Only in the Republican Primaries, and that is mostly due to demographics.

    "Our black turkeys are better than their black turkeys." - Ann Coulter

    • 13 votes
    #6.4 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:38 AM EST

    "Our black turkeys are better than their black turkeys." - Ann Coulter

    LMAO! Good one Da Noid!

    • 7 votes
    #6.5 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:43 AM EST

    Happy Thanksgiving to all.

    • 6 votes
    #6.6 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:50 AM EST

    Oh Da Noid, so funny - no wonder you libbies get such laughs when you speak. Would you be upset if I said: Your black turkey couldn't find his butt with both wings?

    • 3 votes
    #6.7 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 12:17 PM EST

    Okay whinemaker it was meant in jest. Take it easy. I believe the joke was pointed at Ms. Coulter not the politicians.

    • 9 votes
    #6.8 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 12:27 PM EST

    winemaker. Go read or re-read post #1.4, paragraph 11, it's a wish that folks lighten up and find a sense of humor.

    • 7 votes
    #6.9 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 1:14 PM EST

    Me thinks a winemaker got the cork plugged in the wrong hole.

    • 5 votes
    #6.10 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:09 PM EST

    RedDevPS,

    Naw, the cork isn't plugged, just wanted to have a libbie moment - say an outragious statement like some of the site libbies do.

    Going to go out and collect Tommy, our free-range turkey who's out among the vines. Loves grazing for surviving grapes. Time to get him ready for tomorrow, the honored guest at our feast. To the stump, one whack and get him dressed for the cook.

    Have a happy Turkey day everyone! Unfortunately ole Tommy won't.

    • 1 vote
    #6.11 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 5:29 PM EST
    Reply

    I would like to wish everyone a happy Thanksgiving!

    • 9 votes
    Reply#7 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:28 AM EST

    You too, Tommy (numbers).

    • 5 votes
    #7.1 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:35 AM EST

    Right back at you, Happy Thanksgiving, Tommy!

    • 4 votes
    #7.2 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 1:01 PM EST
    Reply

    We Canadians will be grateful if you don't eat all the turkeys and save some for xmas. Enjoy your holiday.

    • 8 votes
    Reply#8 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:49 AM EST

    Fear not, there will be many sticking around until at least Super Tuesday in February 2012, and one waiting until next November, when he is defeated by President Obama. :D

    • 6 votes
    #8.1 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:54 AM EST

    Thanks! You should hop the border and come celebrate with us. If there is one thing America really does well, it is gluttony.

    • 6 votes
    #8.2 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:55 AM EST

    Are you thinking Newt? He is the only one that looks like he is self-basting.

    • 7 votes
    #8.3 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 11:59 AM EST

    ideologyspoilstheview. LOL, a self-basting Newt; Butterball no doubt.

    • 4 votes
    #8.4 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 1:17 PM EST

    Be happy to send you back alot of your darn Canadian Geese......tired of walking in their green slime everywhere I go......

    • 2 votes
    #8.5 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 3:04 PM EST

    Sue, when our geese cross the border we call them American Geese or snowbirds or some such name. Sorry about the slime but they will return the favor in the Spring.

    • 2 votes
    #8.6 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 3:15 PM EST

    Sue, thankfully turkeys cross the border plucked.

    • 2 votes
    #8.7 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 3:16 PM EST

    ...I've often wondered...are those Canada Geese here legally? Hmmmm...

    • 3 votes
    #8.8 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 8:15 PM EST
    Reply

    JoAnne---can't get on the thread above but what a beautiful post--thanks for sharing it.

    Thanks also to our First Read hosts for all their hard work and patience. I hope they all have wonderful celebrations tomorrow.

    And to my First Read friends----wishing you all the happiest of holidays, with friends and family. I am one of those folks who goes shopping on Black Friday at 6 AM so I will be doing my part for the economy!

    • 10 votes
    Reply#9 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 12:16 PM EST

    Steeler Fan -

    Thanks - and a belated Happy Birthday to you! Hope you get to celebrate it all over again when Mr. Steeler Fan gets home.

    I'll actually be stimulating NoJoe's economy on Friday as I make my annual Black Friday trip to Cape May for the day. No crowds, good shopping, all the old Victorian houses are decorated beautifully, and usually an awesome sunset out at Sunset Beach to end the day.

    Come on, NoJoe, sing along with me! :

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pnIihKX-1Sc

    • 4 votes
    #9.1 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 1:30 PM EST
    Reply

    Wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. I do feel sorry for the rest of you, though- My girlfriend makes the Best. Stuffing. Ever. And there will be no leftovers! Cheers!

    • 5 votes
    Reply#10 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 12:32 PM EST

    Bali Bob

    I'll take that challenge as my cornbread stuffing is AWESOME, if I DO say so myself,...and the trick to leftovers is to make WAY TOO MUCH to start with! Happy Thanksgiving to all!

    • 5 votes
    #10.1 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 1:08 PM EST

    I will take you all on with my stuffing. Make it the same way it has been handed down for 4 generations!!!

    • 2 votes
    #10.2 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:34 PM EST

    My stuffing is to die for. People come from all over the country to try it. Well maybe not all over the country, and maybe its not people, but my dogs tell me its to die for. Come to think of it, it kinda looks like dog food.

    Happy Thanksgiving!

    • 4 votes
    #10.3 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:56 PM EST

    Okay, I confess I have never made stuffing once in my sad little life. Not so much as a box of Stove Top. But I'm willing to be the judge for the taste test. Can we start with Ms. Clara's cornbread over there?

    • 2 votes
    #10.4 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 3:28 PM EST
    Reply

    "And that's the way it is"....this week. One odd thing I am thankful for is the never-ending stream of crazy, wild, outrageous and sometimes smart things politicians and the talking heads do and say because they provide plenty of material at which to poke fun and sometimes praise.

    I am thankful for family, friends here in Iowa, in my former home city of San Diego and also for the family of friends on FR, including those with whom I totally disagree and who disagree with me.

    Just as "Liberty" and "Peace" will live happy lives strolling the grounds at Mt. Vernon, may each and everyone of you experience joy, happiness and cherish the things most important--family and friends. While we may be blessed with more than many and less than some, it is worth remembering that it is a greater blessing to give than to receive. Happy Thanksgiving!!

    • 10 votes
    Reply#11 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 12:44 PM EST

    Jody---I am thankful for the hard work you put into your weekly wrap-up of the wackiness that is politics these days. As a political junkie I follow things pretty closely but you always come up with some things I've missed and enjoy reading about. I hope you & yours have a wonderful Thanksgiving celebration.

    • 8 votes
    #11.1 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 1:03 PM EST

    Amen, Jody! Amen! Happy Gluttony Day!

    • 3 votes
    #11.2 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 1:09 PM EST

    Thank you both, and enjoy the holiday.

    • 2 votes
    #11.3 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 1:20 PM EST
    Reply

    Happy Thanksgiving all, and don't forget to brine your turkeys overnight before cooking - they taste so much more succulent. Cook them upside down for the first 2 hours.

    • 5 votes
    Reply#12 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 1:03 PM EST

    Happy Thanksgiving to you, too. I've heard the upside down but never the brine tip but it makes sense.

    • 3 votes
    #12.1 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 1:24 PM EST

    NATIONAL TURKEY OF THE YEAR AWARDS

    DEMS-..ANTHONY WEINER

    GOPTP...SARAH PALIN

    I smell a soap opera.....THE HUNG AND THE USELESS !!!!!

    • 7 votes
    #12.2 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 1:25 PM EST

    Not Invented Here....... we've brined our turkey for the last 2 years and really enjoy the difference! But cooking it the first 2 hours upside down? How do you manage to turn a 24 lb turkey half way thru its cooking and keep the stuffing intact?

      #12.3 - Thu Nov 24, 2011 4:31 PM EST

      SteveH,

      I used stainless steel (small chain-link) chefs gloves. Grab it at both ends and just turn it over.

      If you don't have those, then grab a big piece of foil and cover what you can of the turkey, then use regular oven mitts.

        #12.4 - Sun Nov 27, 2011 10:40 AM EST
        Reply

        My favorite Thanksgiving political moment.....Sarah speaking to the teaparty while behind her they are shoving live turkey's into a turkey stripping machine and they are screaming and fighting for their lives...turkey parts everywhere !!! Oh the HUMANITY !!!!

        HAPPY THANKSGIVING ALL !!!!!

        • 6 votes
        Reply#13 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 1:30 PM EST

        Cowboy17 -

        Thanks for triggering a great WKRP memory!

        "As God is my witness.....I'd have sworn turkeys could fly....." :)

        • 3 votes
        #13.1 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 1:33 PM EST

        i know Les Nessman is smiling somewhere....

        • 4 votes
        #13.2 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 1:42 PM EST

        Musn't forget Herb and the "Big Guy" Mr. Carlson!

        • 2 votes
        #13.3 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:12 PM EST

        Where the heck is Bailey Quarters,she's gonna be bummed she missed this.....

        • 1 vote
        #13.4 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:26 PM EST

        Bailey is hanging out with Johnny and Venus.

        • 1 vote
        #13.5 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:38 PM EST

        Cowboy17,

        OMG, My all time favorite show of WKRP in Cincinnati !!!

        Less Nessman... LOL

        • 2 votes
        #13.6 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 4:59 PM EST
        Reply

        For many years my wife and I owned a restaurant,of course we would close on Thanksgiving so the employee's could be with their families. Well we had 32 employee's and a handful of them had no family in the area or any place to go. So I invited them all to come to the restaurant,even though it was closed,and we would all cook a huge dinner and have a blast.When we sold it last year,I got a card from an old customer and retired military man who's family was back east,so he joined us every year. His card read,When I had no family,you made me part of yours and I will be forever grateful !!! We lost him last year but he is always in our hearts this time of year forever more. FAMILY,thats what its all about...Happy T-day all... again !!!

        • 11 votes
        Reply#14 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 1:39 PM EST

        figured I'd add my own Happy Thanksgiving to all....

        I'm thankful to be an American in the greatest country of all (even though she's a little tattered and torn right now)

        I'm thankful to have God in my life and to have wonderful family and friends.

        I'm thankful to all the families who have troops serving in harms way, and I pray for their safe and expeditious return.

        I'm thankful my husband won't be deployed this year (or any other year ever again)

        I'm thankful to be back in my beloved Texas and never have to PCS again.

        I'm thankful to live so close to post so I can buy beer before noon on Sunday so I don't miss kick off ;)

        I'm thankful for football and my Dallas Cowboys ;)

        And last but not least I'm thankful to ALL of you for never having a dull moment around here.

        • 5 votes
        Reply#15 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 1:55 PM EST

        And last but not least I'm thankful to ALL of you for never having a dull moment around here.

        I'm thankful that you chose to participate in the FR forum!

        We need voices of reason from the right now more than ever!

        May you & yours have a very Happy Thanksgiving! ;o)

        • 6 votes
        #15.1 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:01 PM EST

        GO COWBOYS !!!! HAPPY T-DAY FITZ & GANG !!! OH,AND RED !!!

        • 3 votes
        #15.2 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:05 PM EST

        from the right Feisty?? *shudder* well I guess I am more right leaning then left but don't accuse me of being a Republican! lol

        Same to you cowboy! it'll be interesting at our house tomorrow with me being the cowboys fan and hubby being the dolphins fan lol watch for flying turkey! Well watch for flying brisket actually we've decided to not go traditional this year.

        Y'all have a great day tomorrow!

        • 2 votes
        #15.3 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:11 PM EST

        Fitz - GO Phins!!!!! ( I still miss Dan Marino)

        • 2 votes
        #15.4 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:14 PM EST

        PHINS PHANCY ????? I don't miss LEON LETT !!!!

        • 2 votes
        #15.5 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:16 PM EST

        fitz I think feisty just meant right of HER.....!!!! LOL

        • 3 votes
        #15.6 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:21 PM EST

        *shudder* well I guess I am more right leaning then left but don't accuse me of being a Republican! lol

        My bad!

        I think cowboy summed it up best! lol

        • 4 votes
        #15.7 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:24 PM EST

        I live in a very sad football area this year. My Gators are really bad, I live near Jacksonville (Jags suck), and truth be told, all Florida teams are bad this year. I have had more fun watching paint dry than watching my Florida teams.

        • 2 votes
        #15.8 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:25 PM EST

        Wonderful that folks still count blessings. I think that all the things that you chose are very appropriate. Wishing you God's blessings for a great Thanksgiving and wonderful Christmas Season-regardless of the football outbomes. It is such a breath of fresh air instead of listening to the whining about who is or isn't responsible for the fact that we don't all have the exact same number of jelly beans in the exact same colors. Have a super holiday with family and friends.

        • 3 votes
        #15.9 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 3:02 PM EST

        1SgtFitzswife:

        Thanksgiving..... 1974 I think?.....Cowboys vs. Redskins.....Staubach injured.....Cowboys down by like 20 points.....and off the bench comes Clint Longley to engineer one of the greatest comeback wins of all time. (Before later fading into total obscurity, of course.) Drew Pearson and Golden Richards. Walt Garrison. Cliff Harris and Charlie Waters. Randy White. Tom Landry, "the only coach the Cowboys have ever had". And me stuck living in "Iggles" country.....

        Anyway, enjoy your brisket!

        • 3 votes
        #15.10 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 3:40 PM EST
        Reply

        From my family in Florida, and the senior gang in Ohio, Happy Thanksgiving to EVERYONE on FR. Hugs to all!

        • 4 votes
        Reply#16 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:06 PM EST

        U 2 PHANCY and FAM....

        • 2 votes
        #16.1 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:09 PM EST
        Reply

        Oh darn, gotta have ham again, he done went and pardoned that foul turkey again! Any way have a good Thanksgiving, ya-all! {:-)}

        • 4 votes
        Reply#17 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:12 PM EST

        You too, Gary.

        • 1 vote
        #17.1 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:28 PM EST
        Reply

        Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!!

        Be safe and enjoy the time with your families!

        • 3 votes
        Reply#18 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:17 PM EST

        Why did the turkey cross the road?? Cuz that's where the GOP was meeting..HAAAAA. Happy T- day to my GOP friends too !!!... both of em'....just kiddin'....

        • 3 votes
        Reply#19 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:24 PM EST

        You have 2 GOP friends? Sure it isn't really 3 and you just forgot the 3rd? Have a pizza on me.

        • 4 votes
        #19.1 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:26 PM EST
        Reply

        It seems that the media and the government can spend more time researching the origins of pardoning a symbolic turkey at Thanksgiving than actually researching how to revive the American economy, so that people don't have to go to a food bank to have a turkey dinner.

        • 1 vote
        Reply#20 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 2:59 PM EST

        Happy Thanksgiving.

        • 2 votes
        Reply#21 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 3:18 PM EST

        Happy Thanksgiving.

        Same to you & yours!

        • 1 vote
        #21.1 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 3:26 PM EST
        Reply

        Ben Franklin suggested that the national bird be the turkey, but the idea never gained traction. Imagine. If Ben had his way, we would all be eating bald eagle for Thanksgiving.

        • 1 vote
        Reply#22 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 4:08 PM EST

        So Obama has already pardoned Tony Rezko, oh wait, it was real turkey.

        • 1 vote
        Reply#23 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 5:29 PM EST

        Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

        If there is one thing you can always be thankful for is.....things are not worse.

        Here's a link to a little levity. It doesn't seem like that reset worked. Oh well, Romney will have a chance beginning in 2013 to straighten it out.

        http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/russia/8909336/Russian-newsreader-Tatyana-Limanova-makes-insulting-gesture-at-Obama.html

          Reply#24 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 6:19 PM EST

          25 years ago we had Ronald Reagan, Johnny Cash and Bob Hope...now we have Obama, no cash and no hope.

            Reply#25 - Wed Nov 23, 2011 6:48 PM EST

            Clever. Very stupid, but clever.

            • 1 vote
            #25.1 - Fri Nov 25, 2011 1:30 PM EST

            And yet the top 1% has more cash than ever and hope the Republicans will help them keep it all.

            • 2 votes
            #25.2 - Fri Nov 25, 2011 1:37 PM EST
            Reply
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