SAN CLEMENTE - The turkey pardoned by President Bush in the annual Thanksgiving ritual thanked the President from his retirement compound in San Clemente and denied rumors of a "secret deal" with Bush.
"The turkey and the President never even discussed a pardon, much less cut a deal for one," said the turkey's long-time friend, Bebe Rebozo.
Aides to President Bush explained that Bush had simply become "overwhelmed" with Thanksgiving, and decided it was in the national interest to pardon the turkey so that the President could get on with the important business of the war on terrorism.
The turkey said he plans to spend his time writing his memoirs and acting as an elder statesman on foreign affairs and poultry issues.
