Governor Gretchen Whitmer this year continued the Thanksgiving tradition of pardoning a turkey.

This year, Governor Whitmer pardoned two turkey sisters. The winning names, Faygo and Vernors, and were selected through a bracket-style competition on social media. These names were selected from 1,500 entries in the yearly statewide contest and voted on by thousands of Michiganders all across the state. 

“We continue our tradition of pardoning a turkey,” said Whitmer. “But this year, we’re pardoning two turkey sisters, a reminder that the most important part of the holiday season is coming together with friends and family. This Thanksgiving, I hope everyone enjoys time with loved ones, finds a way to give back to the community, and cheers on our Lions.”