Governor Pardons Turkey | Video

Jessica Roose | 11/19/2012

In three days, Americans will gather around the table to enjoy a Thanksgiving feast. In North Dakota, at least one turkey won`t end up in the oven. Governor Jack Dalrymple pardoned Grace the gobbler this morning in a tradition that dates back to the 1960s.

The North Dakota Turkey Federation gave turkeys to both the governor and the state ag commissioner to donate to the abused adult resource center and Ruth Meyers Hospitality house. Each shelter actually received nine of them.

"It is a great tradition for us to be able to talk about helping people who need help this time of year. And being grateful for what we have but also being mindful that there are people that have less than they need," Dalrymple said.

The 20-week old turkey will now spend the rest of her Thanksgiving stress-free on her owner`s farm.

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