Dear Colleagues:

As Labor Day approaches, I think we are all asking ourselves, "where did the summer go?"  So before it gets away from us entirely, I want to take a moment to thank you again for your hard work, your continued service, and your ongoing commitment to the people of Michigan.

Because of the things you're doing on a daily basis at the state level, we in Michigan are able to make an impact on a global level.  What you do at your jobs every week - whether your job is to serve as a flag-person on a road construction crew, a clerical support person, a manager, or an information tech - directly impacts our standing at the local, state, national, and international levels. 

The 10 Japanese companies that recently announced their intention to expand their businesses here could have easily gone anywhere in the world - but they chose Michigan.  American Systems Technology, Inc., producer of advanced electronics systems for military ground vehicles chose Troy, Michigan over a competing site in Alabama.  These companies chose the Great Lakes State because of our skilled workforce, our leadership among the states in automotive technology, our commitment to investing in the future, and because of the various roles that you - State of Michigan employees - played to make things happen for them.

I know you are working long hours and sometimes doing the jobs of multiple staff people.  But in spite of these daily challenges, you have risen to the occasion of professionalism, excellence, teamwork, inclusion, and integrity.  I humbly thank you for the great work that you do - the work that gives Michigan the edge in this highly competitive global economy. 

This weekend, as I participate in my third annual Labor Day walk/run across the Mackinac Bridge as Michigan's governor, we will also celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT).  Imagine, 100 years of serving the transportation needs of the people of Michigan.  We salute MDOT and its dedicated employees, both present and past.  And we salute the skilled laborers who put their lives on the line to build one of the most recognized symbols of our great state - the Mackinac Bridge.

As I make my way across this engineering marvel with some 60,000 residents and visitors, it will be in honor of you - the men and women who labor so hard to make Michigan a great place to live, work, and play.  My very best wishes to you all for a great holiday weekend.

Sincerely yours,
     
Jennifer M. Granholm
Governor

P.S.  If you'd like to stay on top of what we are doing to grow our economy, I invite you to sign up for my weekly eNews; just click here:
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