“Chris Farley” the turkey pardoned as part of Rapid City Thanksgiving tradition

RAPID CITY, SD (KOTA) – This turkey never lived under a riverbank bridge, but he’s actually been living on a local farm since hatching last spring.

The “Chris Farley” turkey was very vocal on Wednesday, November 26, letting everyone present know that he couldn’t wait for that pardon.

“I had to wake him up, he was still sleeping on his porch this morning when I went out to collect him to bring him here,” said Richard Burton, the turkey’s owner. “He hasn’t had breakfast yet.”

For the past several years, Rapid City has been condoning turkeys in the name of the holiday spirit, thanks to a partnership with HomeSlice Media.

Mayor Salamun had already saved the lives of two turkeys and was excited to save the life of another one.

“For someone, it’s an opportunity, it’s OK to have fun, it’s OK to smile,” Salamun said. “It’s also an opportunity to tell everyone a Happy Thanksgiving.”

Salamun addressed the crowd with references to comedian Chris Farley until Turkey was finally declared officially pardoned.

Burton was happy to see his turkey start the first day of the rest of his life.

“It was great,” Burton said. “I think he’ll enjoy it. He’s a nice quiet guy anyway.”

“Chris Farley” was very friendly with the turkey crowd, even going up a storm at times.

Now, “Farley” will go back to his farm house and enjoy what he calls “Holly Schneekes” for the rest of his healthy life.

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