Whereas, Snowmobiling is an exhilarating sport enjoyed by more than 10 million people throughout the United States and Canada; and,

Whereas, Michigan is a winter wonderland with over 5,700 miles of snowmobile trails that twist and turn through 18 million acres of forests, and is home to countless numbers of snowmobile enthusiasts of all ages; and,

Whereas, Representing a major component of Michigan’s winter tourism industry, snowmobiling contributes nearly $1 billion annually to our State’s economy; and,

Whereas, It is unfortunate, however, that each year people are injured or killed while snowmobiling, where 50 percent of all snowmobile fatalities are the result of intoxicated operators; and,

Whereas, Snowmobile Safety Week highlights the importance of operating snowmobiles responsibly to ensure that everyone will safely enjoy our State’s scenic beauty during their snowmobile travels this winter; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim the week of January 8, 2006, as Snowmobile Safety Week in Michigan.