Whereas, Although Johnson is universally known for his illustrious 13-year career in the National Basketball Association, he has redefined himself as a businessman who focuses his efforts on revitalizing neglected communities, and providing quality entertainment and services; and,

Whereas, An avid believer in philanthropy, Johnson continually finds time to lend his support to worthy causes, specifically to encourage leaders and businesses to invest in neglected neighborhoods and as a United Nations Messenger of Peace, Johnson speaks to youth about drugs, violence and other social issues of vital importance; and,

Whereas, As a Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) Vice President and Event Chair for the annual Magic Johnson Sports Star Award Dinner & Auction, Johnson has helped MDA raise in excess of $1.5 million to support the Association’s projects of research, diagnosis, and community service programs for the Los Angeles area; he has also worked with the Make a Wish Foundation, the United Negro College Fund, the Starlight Foundation, the American Heart Association, the Urban League and he is currently on the Board of Trustees for the American Cancer Society Foundation; and,

Whereas, Johnson has several personal investments outside of his company, most notably, in April, 1998, Johnson partnered with Janet Jackson and Jheryl Busby to acquire majority interest in Founders National Bank in South Central and East Los Angeles, forming JJB Partnership; the investment signifies their commitment to continuing Founder’s legacy as the only African American owned and operated commercial bank in California; and,

Whereas, The recipient of several awards and honors, Johnson was recently named “Entrepreneur of the Year” by the Crenshaw Chamber of Commerce, honored with the Summit 2000 Ronald H. Brown Award for Leadership, the 1998 Boston College Excellence in Community Leadership Award, the 1998 PRAME President’s Award, named one of the 100 Most Powerful People in Los Angeles, and named the 1998 United Nations Day Co-Chair; and,

Whereas, Johnson is remembered locally in the Lansing, Michigan, area for capturing a state high school championship for Everett High in 1977 and a NCAA title while at Michigan State University in 1979, and during this time at Everett, Johnson earned his nickname, “Magic,” from Michigan sportswriter Fred Stabley, Jr.; and,

Whereas, Born and raised in Lansing, Michigan, Johnson currently resides in Beverly Hills, California, and is most fondly known as a loving husband to Cookie and as a devoted father to Elisa, Earvin Johnson III, and Andre; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim May 15, 2003, as Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Jr., Day in Michigan, in honor of his exemplary career and life accomplishments.