Whereas, Every autumn the harvest season reminds us that Michigan gives its citizens and visitors an amazing cornucopia of agricultural products to eat and drink, and beautiful flowers and trees to plant; and,

Whereas, Michigan’s Great Lakes, its many inland lakes and rivers, its varied climate and soil, and its two beautiful peninsulas, create a unique environment for producing more than 200 commercial crops; and,

Whereas, Michigan’s agriculture industry contributes $60.1 billion annually to Michigan’s economy and by selecting Michigan food we keep our food dollars circulating in our local communities, add value to Michigan’s family farms, improve the quality of life of our citizens in b rural, urban and suburban areas, and preserve our farmland and rich agricultural heritage; and,

Whereas, Survey results show that Michigan consumers prefer to purchase Michigan grown and processed products, and the Select Michigan program helps consumers identify Michigan products at the retail level; and,

Whereas, Our Select Michigan products give children and adults a taste of fresh, healthy produce grown right here in Michigan and create the excitement of trips to farm markets and stores which may include cider mills, excursions to pumpkin patches, u-pick apple orchards, and shopping for food and plants; and,

Whereas, Select Michigan Week is a great time to enjoy and celebrate the sights, smells, and flavors of Michigan farms and produce; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim the week of September 10, 2006, as Select Michigan Week.