Whereas , The aviation industry is vital to the state of Michigan, and in 2007, it provided more than 2 billion in annual income to state residents and 7.6 billion dollars demand for goods and services statewide with 235 public airports, 17,500 licensed pilots, and 7,000 Michigan registered aircraft; and,

Whereas , Aviation has a major impact on virtually every sector of our economy, including health and medical, agriculture, manufacturing, and travel and tourism; and,

Whereas , The Michigan Department of Transportation's Bureau of Aeronautics and Freight Services has a long history of serving the needs of pilots, airports, and their customers by adhering to its mission statement to "develop and preserve a safe, high quality statewide air transportation system"; and,

Whereas , Local airports mean good business for a community; for every dollar spent on airport improvements, $6.70 is generated in off-airport economic gains; and,

Whereas , The Michigan Aviation Association will celebrate the economic importance of Michigan airports to the community, state, and nation during a six airport tour during the weekend of September 12-14, 2008, including Hastings City/Barry County Airport (9D9), Caro, Tuscola Area Airport (CFS), Sparta, Paul C. Miller Airport (8D4), Oceans County Airport (C04), Evart Municipal Airport (9C8), and the Berrien Springs, Andrews University Airpark (C20); and,

Resolved , That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim the week of September 12, 2008, as Michigan Aviation Week.