LANSING (WWJ) – Thanksgiving is quickly approaching and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is asking Michiganders to get in the holiday spirit.
Whitmer is planning to “pardon” a turkey ahead of Thanksgiving for the second year in a row, but is asking for help coming up with a name for the bird.
Last year in what she said she hoped would become a yearly holiday tradition, Whitmer pardoned a 16-week-old turkey appropriately named Mitch E. Gander.
The clever wordplay on our state’s demonym was chosen as the winner of a statewide naming contest last fall.
Whitmer announced Monday this year’s contest has now opened.
“My fellow Michiganders, Thanksgiving is just around the corner. I know we are looking forward to spending some time with family and friends, but I need your help,” Whitmer said in a press release. “Please submit name suggestions for the very special turkey that I will pardon soon. Everyone, especially young Michiganders, are encouraged to send in their names. I am so thankful for all of you.”
The winning name will be chosen on Nov. 20. The deadline for submissions is Friday, Nov. 17.
Name submissions can be entered here on the state’s website.