April 12, 2004

Encouraging Michiganians of all ages to take a closer look at what it means to live in Michigan, Governor Jennifer Granholm today declared May 15-21 as Michigan Week 2004.  Under this year’s theme, “Great Lakes, Great Traditions: This is YOUR Michigan!,” the governor said the 2004 celebration – also the 50th anniversary of Michigan Week – is a perfect fit for the state’s efforts to ensure an unparalleled quality of life in this state. She also pointed out that it’s an excellent way for residents to embrace and cultivate their own communities’ unique flavor and appeal.
 
“Michigan Week was an innovative idea in 1954 but it has an even greater importance in today’s busy, competitive world,” said Governor Granholm.  “Our state is home to some of the most inviting, cool communities anywhere in the world; it’s important to send that message loud and clear to anyone seeking the ideal place to raise a family, start a business or take a vacation.

“We can start by spreading that message in our state, then passing it on to the rest of the country.  Putting Michigan’s best face forward makes good economic sense for us all.”

Governor Granholm is this year’s Michigan Week honorary chair.  Dr. William Anderson, director of the Michigan Department of History, Arts and Libraries (HAL) – the lead state agency coordinating Michigan Week efforts – will serve as chair.
 
“The Michigan Week spark has certainly caught fire in some communities which continue to make the most of this weeklong tribute to all things Michigan,” said HAL’s Dr. Anderson.  “As cities and villages throughout the state work to reinvent themselves, Michigan Week offers a wonderful framework on which to make that happen.”

Governor Granholm Declares Michigan Week May 15-21, 2004
This year’s Michigan Week renews a tradition that had wavered in recent years, the designation of “theme days” that allow for more targeted planning of events and activities.  In Governor Granholm’s Michigan Week proclamation, the following days were designated:

Saturday: Main Street Day

Sunday: Arts & Culture Day

Monday: Government Leadership Day

Tuesday: Volunteer Day

Wednesday: Resources & Recreation Day

Thursday: Heritage Day

Friday: Business & Technology Day

Michigan Week was created in 1954 by the late Don C. Weeks, who was director of the Michigan Department of Economic Development, as a means to promote the state’s many resources and accomplishments.  The statewide festival is held each May and features parades, historical reflections, recognition of volunteer efforts and educational and recreational opportunities.

Director Anderson said an easy way for residents to spotlight their communities is to nominate someone for a Michigan Week community-achievement or volunteer-leadership award.  The entry deadline is Friday, April 23.  Award criteria and nomination forms, the governor’s proclamation, downloadable logos and posters, celebration ideas, event listings and more are available at the Michigan Week Web site, www.michigan.gov/michiganweek.