Lauren and Amanda came to San Antonio for Mother’s Day weekend. Since she won’t be back for Father’s Day, Lauren brought my Father’s Day gift with her. A jar of Michigan cherry ice cream topping from Traverse City, the “Cherry Capital of the World.” Michigan is the nation’s largest producer of cherries. Yum!
Old Man Winter has not been kind to the residents of Michigan this year. However, these hearty souls are being rewarded with the gift of spring. As much as I enjoy the San Antonio winters I must admit, I
do miss spring and fall. Lauren told me the tulips were just starting to bloom.
A person from Michigan is called a Michigander. Residents of the Upper Peninsula are sometimes referred to as “Yoopers” (a phonetic pronunciation of “U.P.ers”). They sometimes refer to those from the Lower Peninsula as “trolls” because they live below the bridge (see Three Billy Goats Gruff).
Michigan is perhaps best known for Motown/soul music. For example The Supremes, The Temptations, The Four Tops, The Spinners, Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, and Martha and the Vandellas
Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Aretha Franklin, and Al Green were from Michigan.
But Michigan music goes far beyond Motown. Here are a few examples: Tommy James and the Shondells, Grand Funk Railroad, Madonna, Bob Seger, and Alice Cooper.
“Dancing in the Street” is a song written by Marvin Gaye, William “Mickey” Stevenson, and Ivy Jo Hunter. It first became popular in 1964 when recorded by Martha and the Vandellas whose version reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and peaked at No. 4 in the UK Singles Chart. Consequently, it is one of Motown’s signature songs and is the group’s premier signature song.
Beautiful family.
Brad, thanks for the awesome shout out to my home state, Michigan!
Mike Tinnon
San Antonio, TX, USA
Interesting info! Beautiful pic of the family!!!! Miss you guys.
Brad, loved the song, the tulips and my favorite fruit cherries. Most of all, I loved the picture of your lovely family.
Brad, loved the Marvin Gaye tune. He was such a great songwriter; so many fabulous hits that have lasted through the years. Great pic of your family, too, although you in A beard was a surprise! Grace
Thanks Brad, music from my era. Growing up in Columbus, Ohio and living in Chicago we spent many wonderful vacations in Michigan. I’m partial to everything in Michigan except for the University of Michigan. Every time “The Ohio State University” plays Michigan I have to fly my OSU flag because old habits are hard to break. It was great seeing the family. Hugs to Linda, Judy
Wow, that’s a lot of musicians/groups from one state! Enjoy the cherry topping!
Happy early Father’s Day. First pic I’ve seen of your whole family. The beard looks outstanding!
What a great family picture! Loved the song, it brings back great memories of good times…when I was young.