News Americas, WASHINGTON, D.C., Weds. Nov. 22, 2012: A ceasefire attained in the Middle East, President Obama today continued a centuries-old Thanksgiving tradition by pardoning the official White House Thanksgiving turkey in the White House Rose Garden. Cobbler the turkey, was pardoned by the President. Cobbler was selected via a “highly competitive online vote” but Gobbler was elected to be Cobbler’s alternate. “The American people have spoken and these birds are moving forward,” said the President.
Striking a more serious note, the president reflected on the holiday as a “chance to spend time with the people we care about and to give thanks for the blessings we enjoy,” as well as an opportunity to “remember those who are less fortunate.”
“This year that’s particularly true for our neighbors in the Northeast who have lost their homes, possessions ,and even their loved ones to Hurricane Sandy,” he said.
After issuing the official pardon, he encouraged his daughters to pet the 19-week old, 40-lb bird. Sasha, the younger, complied; giggling, Malia kept her distance.
Meanwhile, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and First Lady Mary Pat Christie kicked-off the Season of Service by distributing Thanksgiving Dinners in Toms River Wednesday.
Meanwhile, the 86th Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will begin on Thursday, November 22, 2012, at 9 a.m. The parade travels down Central Park West from 77th Street to Columbus Circle along Central Park South to 6th Avenue, down 6th Avenue to 34th Street and along 34th Street to Macy’s Herald Square (34th Street).
