He might be a Thanksgiving staple, but Thomas T. Turkey is hoping for a reprieve from being sliced up and served with a side of stuffing and cranberry sauce this holiday season.

The bird will catch a break this year when Santa saves him from being a culinary casualty by commuting his sentence during a pardoning event on Monday, November 21st. 

Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the elves will be in attendance to help Mayor William D. Tate officially begin the Christmas Capital of Texas 2011 festivities.

The event begins at 10:30 a.m. at the Town Square Gazebo.