Senator Brown's statement is as follows:
Today the Senate approved Senate Resolution No.88, declaring August as Michigan International Speedway Month. The resolution recognizes MIS as one of the premier speedways in the country and applauds the significant role it plays in the local and state economy.
August is one of the busiest months at MIS, as it hosts some of the world's most popular racing. With the Firestone Indy 400, the Carfax 250, and the 3M Performance 400 all this month, August is truly Michigan International Speedway Month in Michigan. We are proud, Mr.President, that this first-class organization calls our state home.
The resolution details the $400 million annual economic impact of the track, which has seating for 132,000 fans on its 1,400 acre site in the Irish Hills. The two annual NASCAR NEXTEL Cup races hosted by MIS are the biggest single-day sporting events in our state, attracting fans from 13 countries and all 50 states.
The document that we approved, the resolution, also recognizes MIS' extensive charitable work, which totals approximately $500,000 annually and includes the Spirit of America 800, the state's largest single-day blood drive. MIS is a driving force for entertainment and also for Michigan's economy. We applaud, Mr.President, their significant contributions to our state.
Mr.President, all are welcome to co-sponsor the resolution on the resolution calendar at your desks.