Barack Obama took on the annual tradition of pardoning the National Thanksgiving Turkey on Wednesday evening accompanied by his two daughters Sasha and Malia. This year, Barack pardoned two lucky birds, saying he wanted to offer them a second chance. "They say life is all about second chances, and this November I couldn't agree more with that sentiment," a smiling Barack said making a reference to his re-election this month. "The American people have spoken, and these birds are moving forward!"
This year's turkeys, named Cobbler and Gobbler by Elementary school students in Rockingham County, Virginia - the native area of the turkeys - were selected by the American people, who cast their votes for the national Thanksgiving turkey on the White House Facebook page. "The only cobbler anyone's eating this Thanksgiving will come with a side of ice cream," the president joked in the Rose Garden at the White House, referencing the baked fruit dessert that originated in the early British American colonies, which is still popular today.Following the pardoning, the turkeys were taken to George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens, where they will be on display for visitors during Christmas at Mount Vernon. They'll stay on the property after the holidays.
Later that evening, Barack handed out food to the needy at the Capitol Area Food Bank. Joined by wife Michelle Obama and his two girls, the family spent an hour distributing supplies to disadvantaged families.A White House aide said that the bags contained carrots, apples, and season-appropriate sweet potatoes, including one that elicited an exclamation from Mr Obama about how large it was.
Other celebrities also celebrated Thanksgiving Eve by volunteering their time and helping the less fortunate. Kirk Douglas was spotted with actress Malin Akerman attending the Los Angeles Mission Thanksgiving Dinner. The 95-year-old actor was also accompanied by his wife Anne and other stars including Neil Patrick Harris and Disney star Bella Thorne, 15.In New York City, rapper 50 Cent helped give out meals for hungry New Yorkers and victims of Hurricane Sandy at the Our Table Is Yours event at Cipriani Restaurant in downtown Manhattan. "I'm able to provide meals for victims of Sandy or other people in New York City that don't actually have food," 50 Told MTV News.