This will be Governor Chet Culver’s last Thanksgiving at the Terrace Hill governor’s mansion before he leaves office in January. Culver said Wednesday it will be a small gathering with his family. Culver says they will have a quiet Thanksgiving and enjoy some family time with his wife Mari, daughter Claire and son John.

Culver told Radio Iowa’s Dar Danielson they’ll have the standard Thanksgiving fare at Terrace Hill, with possibly an exception. Culver says he “might throw a little sausage into the equation” as he says he likes to grill out. Culver made his comments at the state capitol after a ceremony where he pardoned two Iowa-grown turkeys.

Governor Culver also read his annual Thanksgiving message, which included a call for Iowans to help others. “We hope Iowans will join with us in our annual moment of reflection on the greatness of the state we all share,” Culver said, “And as we gather with our loved ones to celebrate our many blessings, we also encourage Iowans to remember those who are less fortunate. There are many ways to serve in your community: volunteer to serve a meal at a shelter; donate items to a food bank, or spend time with someone who would otherwise be alone on the holidays.”

Culver also encouraged Iowans to remember the men and women of the military during the holidays.