Branstad Pardons 2 Turkeys as Part of Thanksgiving Tradition

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Gov. Terry Branstad has pardoned two turkeys as part of an annual Thanksgiving tradition in Iowa.

Branstad issued the special proclamation Monday outside Terrace Hill in Des Moines for two turkeys named Zoey and Spike.

Branstad noted during brief remarks that the birds had survived bird flu this year. The disease killed more than 1.1 million turkeys in the state. Branstad says he’s encouraged by producers going back to work.

The Des Moines Register reports http://dmreg.co/1Na16CF Branstad’s grandchildren were present during the pardon. They chased the birds through the snow.

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