MONTGOMERY, Ala. - An important cast member will be missing as Gov. Robert Bentley participates in an Alabama tradition by sparing the life of a Thanksgiving turkey named Clyde.
South Alabama turkey grower Bill Bates died in August, and the ceremony planned for today in Montgomery will be the first held since his death.
The tradition dates back more than 60 years, and this year's bird will again come from the Bates Family Farm.
Bates first presented Alabama Gov. Jim Folsom with a large tom turkey 63 years ago to promote eating turkey, and each governor has carried on the practice ever since.
Bates died at age 89 three months ago, but Bentley and first lady Dianne Bentley will still hold the ceremony at the Governor's Mansion.