Whereas, Michigan's love affair with the Detroit Tigers began on April 25, 1901, when the team played its first official American League game at Bennett Park in Detroit; and,

Whereas, the State of Michigan is proud of the Detroit Tigers and all that they have accomplished over the years, including their stunning turnaround in the 2006 major league baseball season; and,

Whereas, on October 7, 2006, the Detroit Tigers won the American League Division Series against the New York Yankees; and,

Whereas, on October 14, 2006, the Detroit Tigers won the American League Pennant against the Oakland Athletics in a four-game sweep; and,

Whereas, the Detroit Tigers will now contend for their first World Series Championship title since 1984, capturing the eyes of the nation and carrying with them the pride of Michigan's citizens; and,

Whereas, the Detroit Tigers combined hope and hard work to rise from setting the American League record for losses three years ago to compete in the World Series, renewing our hope that underdogs can come out on top; and,

Whereas, the Detroit Tigers are not led by one hero but are a true team of star players, each with something to contribute and each able to deliver in the clutch; and,

Whereas, Jim Leyland returned to the Detroit Tigers in 2006 to accept his "dream job" as manager and guided our team to its best record since 1987; and,

Whereas, Dave Dombrowski, president and general manager, took the big risks and made the tough calls, not only assembling this year's winning team but building the foundation that will lead the Detroit Tigers to victory in coming years; and,

Whereas, the profound loyalty of team owner Mike Ilitch to both the Detroit Tigers and the city of Detroit has rekindled our Tiger spirit and has energized a downtown renaissance with each Tiger win; and,

Whereas, the Detroit Tigers' success has bred energy, vitality and enthusiasm in every Michigan community, restoring the legendary Tiger roar throughout our great state; and,

Whereas, the Old English ‘D' on the jersey represents much more than just a storied baseball franchise. It carries with it the hopes and dreams of all the faithful fans who through thick and thin have stuck by their team. It carries with it the spirit and pride felt not only in the city but throughout our Great State of Michigan and to the far reaches of the globe; and,

Now, Therefore be it Resolved, that I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim the week of October 21, 2006, as Detroit Tigers Week in the State of Michigan, and I join with the citizens of Michigan in supporting our team as they affirm their place on the professional sports map and in history.