Turkeys gobble up word of pardon

WASHINGTON, Nov. 18 (UPI) -- Two Minnesota turkeys are strutting tall these days -- talk on the farm is they're going to be pardoned next week by President Obama.

Obama will pardon the national Thanksgiving turkey and the alternate Wednesday in a ceremony in the Rose Garden, the White House said in a release.

Besides celebrating the 64th anniversary of the National Thanksgiving Turkey presentation, Obama will reflect on the traditions of Thanksgiving and wish families a warm, safe and healthy holiday, the White House said.

The 2011 National Thanksgiving Turkey and its alternate were raised on AgForte farm in Willmar, Minn.

After the pardoning, the turkeys will be taken to George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens and will be on display during "Christmas at Mount Vernon" through Jan. 6, the White House said. After the holidays, the National Thanksgiving Turkey and its alternate will live in a custom-made enclosure at Mount Vernon's livestock facility.