We will soon observe State of Michigan Employee Appreciation Week - May 5-9, 2008 - and on behalf of the citizens of Michigan, thank you.  Thank you for choosing a career in public service, and thank you for your dedication and willingness to serve the people of the great state of Michigan. 

I am looking forward to speaking to you again this year about many of the important initiatives we are working on.  And just as soon as dates and times have been scheduled, I will let you know.  

In the meantime, I invite you to enjoy the following special events and great deals being offered especially to you by a variety of organizations and businesses throughout the state.  For details about these and other offers, visit www.michigan.gov/employees.  I encourage you to continue checking the Web site throughout the week and the year as special events and deals are added regularly.

Fashion Bug - Friends and Family Sale - Sunday, May 4, at all Michigan Fashion Bug stores.  Show your state ID (or your spouse's state ID) and get 50 percent off regular priced merchandise (some exclusions apply) and 30 percent off marked-down items.  Call your local store for store hours.

Free admission to Michigan state parks - May 5-11, 2008.  Visit the Web site above for additional details.

Tanger outlets at Howell and West Branch - Free Tanger outlets coupon book for state of Michigan employees - expires 6/15/08.  Visit the Web site above for additional details. 
 
The Blues on the Square concert series in downtown Lansing is offering special seating, stage mentions, and specials at local businesses (with state ID) during the Thursday, June 19 concert.  Visit the Web site above for additional details. 

Lansing Lugnuts - State Employees Day - Saturday, June 21, 7:05 p.m.  Visit the Web site above for additional details.

Berlin Raceway, Marne - State Employees Day - Saturday, June 21, 7:00 p.m.  Visit the Web site above for additional details.

West Michigan Whitecaps, Grand Rapids - State Employees Day - Sunday, June 29, 3:05 p.m.  Visit the Web site above for additional details.

Detroit Symphony Orchestra - Several discounted events.  Visit the Web site above for details.

Great Lakes Loons, Midland - State Employees Day - Sunday, July 27, 3:05 p.m.  Visit the Web site above for additional details.

U.P. State Fair, Escanaba - State Employee Appreciation Day - Tuesday, August 12.  Visit the Web site above for additional information.

Michigan State Fair, Detroit - State Employee Appreciation Day - Sunday, August 24.  Visit the Web site above for additional information.

Again, thank you for your dedicated service to the citizens of Michigan.  The sacrifices you have made and continue to make are deeply appreciated.  Please accept my very best wishes during this special week of recognition and appreciation. 

Warm regards,
Jennifer M. Granholm   
Governor