Two turkey sisters, “Faygo” and “Vernors,” have been saved from the Thanksgiving table thanks to a pardon from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

Whitmer pardoned the pair Tuesday, Nov. 18, outside of the Capitol Building.

“Today we continue our tradition of pardoning a turkey,” Whitmer said. “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.”

The turkey names are a nod to Michigan’s pop history, with soft drink company Faygo being founded and headquartered in Detroit and Vernors ginger ale being created in Detroit.

The names were among 1,500 entries submitted by

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