Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

Wisconsin Senate Bill SJR98

Introduced

1/19/24

Refer

1/19/24

Failed

4/15/24

Caption

Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the American Birkebeiner and proclaiming February 19 to 25, 2024, as American Birkebeiner Week in Wisconsin.

Impact

The American Birkebeiner is not only a celebration of sports and fitness but also serves as a major tourist attraction. The event showcases Wisconsin's scenic landscape and provides a platform for community engagement through volunteerism, with around 2,500 volunteers supporting the week-long festivities. Furthermore, the ski foundation behind the event has significantly contributed to the promotion of cross-country skiing and encourages a healthy lifestyle across all ages. The resolution emphasizes the socio-economic benefits generated from the influx of visitors to the area, enhancing local businesses and the economy.

Summary

SJR98 is a Senate Joint Resolution celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the American Birkebeiner cross-country ski race, which has evolved from its inception in 1973 into the largest event of its kind in North America. This resolution aims to proclaim the week of February 19 to 25, 2024, as American Birkebeiner Week in Wisconsin, recognizing its significance to the community and the state. The resolution acknowledges the event's growth to attract over 15,000 competitors and about 35,000 spectators annually, as well as its contributions to local economies, particularly in Sawyer and Bayfield Counties.

Contention

While the resolution is primarily celebratory, discussions around it may touch on broader themes such as the importance of state support for local events and how they contribute to community identity and heritage. Stakeholders may advocate for increased investment in winter sports and tourism infrastructure as a means to further bolster the economic impact of such events as the American Birkebeiner. However, there could be differing opinions on how best to manage and promote these festivities, especially considering environmental sustainability and local resource utilization.