WORTHINGTON -- This year's King Turkey Day buttons and coupon books may now be purchased at the Worthington Area Chamber of Commerce and area businesses.
The 2012 slogan for the 73rd annual festival, scheduled for Sept. 14-15, is "For Those About To Flock," a word play on a rock song title.
Nate Einck, a graphic designer who grew up in Worthington and now resides in Pipestone, created the button's design this year, which features a turkey playing guitar. He said the idea came to him after learning that '80s cover band, Hairball, would perform at the celebration.
Einck was told that the original sketch he sent to the Turkey Day board was too "evil looking."
"I went back and tweaked it to make it friendlier," Einck said. He also adjusted the turkey's size to fit with the slogan.
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Ashley Goettig, administrative assistant for the Chamber, said there are about 2,025 buttons available this year.
While Einck does not get financial compensation for his design, he is rewarded in other ways.
"I enjoy Turkey Day, and it's a way for me to get involved in all the action," Einck said.
Leftover buttons and other King Turkey Day memorabilia are now being sold downtown at Paycheck's Treasure Chest, named after Worthington's famous racing turkey. Goettig said aside from the coupon books, people like to purchase the buttons for tradition, noting that many people get the same button number each year.
Goettig said the Chamber is also selling event T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts and sweatshirts. All proceeds go to support the festival.
To allow for additional space, some King Turkey Days festivities will take place at the Nobles County Fairgrounds this year, while others remain at the traditional downtown location.
More information may be found at the event website, kingturkeyday.net.
Daily Globe Reporter Kayla Strayer may be reached at 376-7322.
