It is with great pride that I wish you the very best during State of Michigan Employee Appreciation Week, May 2-6, 2005. I can't begin to thank you enough for all that you do all year 'round for the citizens of Michigan.

I know these can feel like tough times in which to be a public servant, especially with the state's shrinking budget and trying to do more with much less; but know that your sacrifices have not gone unnoticed. I am indeed blessed to serve alongside such dedicated employees.

During State of Michigan Employee Appreciation Week, I will host three receptions at which I will have the opportunity to express my thanks in person. I invite you to join me at one of the following locations, with the appropriate approval of your supervisor, of course:

Governor's State of Michigan Employee Appreciation Week Receptions
May 2: 8:30 a.m.-10:00 a.m. - Secondary Complex, General Office Building,
Conference Room A
May 3: 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. - Lansing Capitol Complex, Capitol Building,
Ceremonial Office, 2nd Floor, East Wing
May 5: 9:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. - Detroit Cadillac Place, Main Floor, East Showroom

I wish I could visit every location in Michigan where state employees are at work. Please know that in no way does my inability to be at each workplace diminish my respect for the job that you do.

As a small token of appreciation, the Michigan State Parks system is offering state employees free admission to Michigan State Parks during the week of May 2-8, 2005. Just show your State of Michigan ID badge on these special dates and enjoy your outing at any one of the nearly 100 Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas.

Last year, you may remember that I had asked the Office of the State Employer and the Department of Civil Service to develop a resource directory to help state employees, families, and parents become aware of all the benefits and services available to them through the State of Michigan. I am pleased to announce that this resource is now a reality and can be accessed at www.michigan.gov/miparentresources.

The MI Parent Resources directory includes sections on paid and unpaid leave-time usage, alternative work schedule options, health insurance enrollment, beneficiary changes, fitness, nutrition, parenting, adoption, paying for college, and much, much more. I encourage you to check it out.

Thank you, again, for your dedicated service to the citizens of Michigan, and my very best wishes to you during this special week. There is great nobility in public service - in fact, I believe there are few callings more profound than that of serving the people.

Warm regards,

Jennifer M. Granholm

Governor