Romney's 'big bird' comment ruffles feathers

WOODSTOCK, Conn. (WTNH) -- It appears that Mitt Romney ruffled some feathers in one Connecticut community earlier this week when he mentioned 'Big Bird.'

Romney was attempting to show how he would save federal tax dollars if he's elected President, but he may have lost some votes in Woodstock.

"I'm going to stop the subsidy to PBS, I'm going to stop other things," Romney said, "I like PBS, I like Big Bird."

When Romney mentioned Big Bird during his debate with President Obama, he started something big.

The iconic character from the Sesame Street show on PBS has been the subject of almost as much social media as the debate itself, but it also struck a nerve in one small town.

In Woodstock, Big Bird is somewhat of a local hero because it is Big Bird's hometown.

And Big Bird's defenders are not just the kids that watch the TV show.

"Leave Big Bird out of Presidential politics," said Karen Donovan, of Woodstock.

"Always leave Big Bird alone, " said Peggy Murphy, of Woodstock, "he's a big part of our community and he's very active in the community, he's good to have."

"I think it's horrible what he said about Big Bird," Donovan said. "Big Bird is an important part of every child's education."

They're also talking about 78-year-old Caroll Spinney, the Woodstock resident who created and plays Big Bird on Sesame Street.

He lives in a gated estate on the north side of town.

"We'd like to know how Mr. Spinney feels about Mitt Romney talking about Big Bird on television the other night," said News 8's Mark Davis.

"Oh," a voice on the intercom said laughing, "well he's not here and I couldn't answer for him."

Sheri Sochor's gallery in nearby Putnam is the only place in North America authorized to exhibit and sell Spinney's original artwork, and sells it all over the world. She was able to contact Spinney who said he did not watch the debate and has "no comment."

Sochor didn't want to speak on camera Friday, but noted that Spinney also plays Oscar the Grouch, who, if he were at the debate, probably would have had something to say.

To view some of Spinney's artwork visit www.artsandframingputnam.com .