Governor Declares January Snow Sports Month

Granholm Encourages Residents To Take Part In Snow Sports

POSTED: 12:40 pm EST December 17, 2009

UPDATED: 2:58 pm EST December 17, 2009

CLARKSTON, Mich. -- Gov. Jennifer Granholm is encouraging Michigan residents to learn a snow sport.

Highlighting the importance of winter recreational activities, the governor declared January as “Discover Michigan Snow Sports Month.”

The proclamation states in part, “Whereas, during the month of January, Michigan residents and visitors are encouraged to learn a new snow sport and take advantage of the sports that only a Michigan winter can provide.”

To make it easy and affordable to try skiing or snowboarding, the Michigan Snowsports Industries Association is offering a program called “Discover Michigan Snowsports," which includes a beginner lesson, ski or snowboard rental equipment and a beginner-area ski lift pass or cross-country trail pass.

Twenty-five ski facilities are offering the package, which is honored from Jan. 4 through Jan. 31, 2010.

Prices are $20 for cross-country Skiing; $30 for downhill skiing; and $40 for snowboarding.

The program is open to everyone 7 years and older.

The lesson normally covers basic maneuvering on skis or snowboards, including stopping, turning, riding the lifts, and getting up from a fall.

To sign up, interested beginners must have a Discover Michigan Skiing Value Voucher.

They are available at participating Michigan McDonald’s restaurants and MSIA retail ski stores while quantities last.

A printable voucher is also available online at www.goskimichigan.com.

The voucher lists all ski facilities offering the program. Participants choose the place they wish to visit and then must call to pre-register. Program times differ from ski area to ski area.

Participating ski areas include: