RAPID CITY, S.D. (KOTA) – This turkey never lived under a bridge down by a river, but he actually has been residing in a local farm since hatching last Spring.
“Chris Farley” the turkey was very vocal on Wednesday, Nov. 26, letting everyone in attendance know that he couldn’t wait for that pardon.
“I had to wake him up, he was still asleep on his roost this morning when I was out to collect him to bring him down here,” said the owner of the turkey, Richard Burton. “He hasn’t had breakfast yet.”
For the last several years, Rapid City, thanks to a partnership with HomeSlice Media, have been pardoning turkeys, all in the name of the holiday spirit.
Mayor Salamun has already spared the lives of two turkeys and was excited to spare another.
“It’s, for one, an opportunity to, it’s okay to have fun, it’s okay to smile,” said Salamun. “It’s also an opportunity to tell everybody Happy Thanksgiving.”
Salamun addressed the crowd with comedian Chris Farley references until finally declaring the turkey as officially pardoned.
Burton was happy to see his turkey begin the first day of the rest of his life.
“It was kind of cool,” said Burton. “I think he’ll enjoy it. He’s a good chill dude anyways.”
“Chris Farley” the turkey was very social with the crowd even gobbling up a storm at times.
Now, “Farley” will head back to his farm home and enjoy saying “Holy Schneickes” for the rest of his healthy life.
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