LANSING, August 16, 2006 – It’s not quite back to school time, but this year’s Woodward Dream Cruise will feature a very unique “school bus”.

One of the three Michigan Lottery SMART buses, which have been running regular routes in Macomb, Oakland and Wayne Counties this summer, will be cruising with the classic cars to spread the Lottery’s beneficiary message. 

“The question I am most frequently asked is ?Where does the Lottery money go?'” Lottery Commissioner Gary Peters said.  “All of our profits – 100 percent – go to the state School Aid Fund to support K-12 education in Michigan.  The ?moving billboard’ campaign is an eye-catching way to help reinforce that message.”

The three buses carry the message “Over $12 Billion to Schools” on one side, “100 Percent of Lottery Profits to Schools” on the other side, and “You Play.  Schools Win.” on the back.  The commuter buses have been emblazoned with a graphic to change their appearance to that of traditional yellow school buses.

“Most people have no idea how much money the Lottery has contributed to schools since it began in 1972,” Peters said. “At over $12 billion, clearly, the Lottery plays a significant role in helping to finance public education in Michigan.”

The Lottery’s contribution to the School Aid Fund does not go to any specific district, school, or purpose, Peters said. It is part of the total revenue that is allocated on a per pupil basis each year by the Legislature.  In fiscal year 2005, the Lottery’s contribution to the School Aid Fund was $667.6 million, which represented about 5 percent of the state’s total expenditure on public education.

The Dream Cruise, which draws thousands of fans, is a great opportunity to share the beneficiary message.

Additionally, traveling regular routes throughout three counties, the message has been visible to over 1.8 commuters daily.  The buses will run through the end of August.

For additional information, please visit the Lottery’s Web site at https://www.michiganlottery.com/.

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