By Nick Smith
Staff Writer
Posted: April 9, 2020 11:05 AM

Governor Gretchen Whitmer on Wednesday let the children of Michigan know that while her order has many residents staying home, she has deemed two special workers essential so that they could carry out their duties during the state's response to new coronavirus.

The message, in short, was: Easter Bunny and Tooth Fairy? Feel free to keep on trucking.

In a video posted Wednesday to Twitter, Ms. Whitmer sat in front of her fireplace holding Kevin Whitmer, the First Dog of Michigan, to deliver a message to the children of the state.

"We heard there were kids in Michigan who has a few concerns so I wanted to let you know that I spoke with the Easter Bunny and the Tooth Fairy to let them know that they are essential workers and they can keep doing their jobs, even though the rest of us are staying home," Ms. Whitmer said.

Leaders everywhere have heard a few concerns from children, so I wanted to be sure to address two important topics with our kids — the Easter Bunny and the Tooth Fairy. pic.twitter.com/nNgr7gO0hp

— Governor Gretchen Whitmer (@GovWhitmer) April 8, 2020

Ms. Whitmer added that it's all right because she informed the two gift and treat-givers, unable to be seen by children, on how to remain safe in the workplace, a reference to precautions given to the general public for facial protection, gloves and other measures.

The governor also said the two had told her to tell children that since they are having to stay at home for a period of time to mind their parents and do basic things like washing their hands and to stay safe.

She added there was a slight catch for children to watch for when looking under their pillows or when they check their baskets on Easter Sunday.

"They did let us know that there was an increase in demand for the goodies that they leave behind for you," Ms. Whitmer said. "So, they may need to make some substitutions for this year's treats."

There was no immediate word on what the possible substitutions could be. However, the odds are good that it likely will not be socks or a sweater, as can sometimes be the case on Christmas when Santa goes that route for some children.