2023 DTE Energy Foundation Cherry Royale Parade
Interactive Program

Airport Fire Truck 2022 Oshkosh Striker 1500. Cherry Capital Airport is the 3rd largest commercial service airport in the State of Michigan with 72 daily flights. The fire truck is an integral aid to meeting safety standards of the F.A.A. Cherry Capital Airport, Northern Michigans Favorite Way to Fly!

External Link: http://www.tvcairport.com

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Back by popular demand, The Rotary Club Lawn Chair Precision Drill Team. We are just like the Blue Angels only we are closer together!

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Save this spot.

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Cops BIKE AND CARS

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American LaFrance pumper purchased 1929 to provide fire cover for the newly constructed tall Park Place Hotel. State of the art vehicle at time. Wooden wheels, chain drive, six cylinder with three spark plugs per cylinder. Fought all major TC fires. Decommissioned 1953. Restored 1990’s.

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MMR provides 911 emergency service response to Traverse City and Grand Traverse county. We wish you all a safe and happy Cherry Festival!

External Link: http://www.mobilemedical.org

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2021 Spartan/Alexis
2000 gallons of water
Long Lakes main engine

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we will provide a float script closer to the parade date.

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Rob Sims enjoyed a successful career as an offensive linemen in the NFL, plying his trade with the Seattle Seahawks and Detroit Lions over the course of nine years in the league.
Prior to turning pro, Rob was an accomplished collegiate athlete: a three-year starter and National Champion for the Ohio State Buckeyes, he captained the team during his senior season at OSU.
Rob and his wife Natalie have long been recognized for their philanthropic contributions and service to local and national charities including the Detroit Police Athletic League, the Yatooma Foundation, the Children’s Center, and the V Foundation for Cancer Research.
As an ex-professional athlete turned entrepreneur, Rob has diligently pursued his passion for business. Locker Room Consulting provides a platform for Rob to share his expertise in the real estate industry while continuing his philanthropic endeavors and serving as a valued mentor to his peers.
When he’s not overseeing his business ventures or Locker Room Consulting, Rob is a backyard warrior – of the grilling variety. He uses his Big Green Egg to smoke, grill, and bake (as in pizza) a variety of mouthwatering foods for his friends and family. Equally skilled inside a standard kitchen, Rob has been known to impress his wife and kids with dishes like Red Velvet Waffles, stuffed pork chops and pasta dishes.

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The Official Marching Band of the National Cherry Festival.

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2023-2024 National Cherry Queen Carmen Beemer.

Carmen Beemer is the 2023-2024 National Cherry Queen
Carmen is the 21-year-old daughter of Gary Godley and Shanon Beemer of Wayland, Michigan. Carmen is a senior at Michigan State University studying Horticulture Science with a minor in Crop and Soil Sciences. During the school year, Carmen is a Student Research Assistant at MSU’s Potato Breeding and Genetics Program. She is the Public Relations executive board chair for the Agronomy Club, Block and Bridle’s Member Coordinator, as well as the head chair of planning and organizing MSU’s Spartan Showdown Lamb Show. Through these organizations, she has been cherry blessed with the great opportunity of competing in the Iowa Regional Crops Judging Contest and helping with the senior/junior high FFA Crops Contest. Carmen currently scouts a variety of fruit trees (cherries being her favorite) and vegetables throughout the Northwest side of Michigan, as she has taken the role of a Horticulture Crop Scout intern in Shelby. She is also a Michigan Grown, Michigan Great Ambassador for the Michigan Ag Council. She is beyond grateful to be able to advocate for the cherry industry already through this opportunity as well as over 300 additional Michigan grown commodities. Building trust between consumers and producers is something Carmen finds to be an important aspect of advocating for the industry. 
Her after-graduation plans are to become a Horticultural Crop Consultant. In the future, Carmen plans to ecstatically serve the cherry industry, while also helping farmers produce a plentiful crop for years to come! 

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External Link: http://cherryfestival.org

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Stacey Isles

External Link: https://www.thefestivalfoundation.org/p/about-us/the-festival-foundation-board

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Phil Rowley

This award recognizes an individual or couple for outstanding contributions to the Cherry Industry. This honor can be awarded to a grower, processor, marketer, educator, researcher or another professional that is connected to the industry. Nominations must include supportive evidence of leadership, contributions, background information and a letter of support. In addition, documentation criteria will include industry/professional organizational membership and affiliations.

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Up North Live ABC and 7&4. Northern Michigan’s source for Breaking News, Local Weather, Sports & Entertainment.

External Link: http://upnorthlive.com

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A sponsor of the cherry festival were our local employees are helping to keep our community safe. With all your fire safety needs.

External Link: http://Summitfire.com

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Traverse City City Commissioners

External Link: http://traversecitymi.gov

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The Petoskey Steel Drum Band has been entertaining audiences around the country since 1997. Frequently performing in Northern Michigan, Chicago, and New Orleans. This 35 piece ensemble celebrates the sounds of Caribbean Steel Drums by performing a variety of styles- from the Dave Matthews Band to Christmas Carols to Jimmy Buffet and more. The Steel Drum Band is part of the Award-winning Petoskey band program, which includes concert, marching and jazz bands, with almost 400 students participating grades 6-12. The Petoskey Steel Drum Band is under the direction of Duane Willson.

External Link: https://www.petoskeybands.org/steel-drums/

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“A former prosecutor and civil rights attorney, Dana Nessel was sworn in as Michigan's 54th Attorney General in 2019. Now in her second term, Attorney General Nessel is continuing her work as the People's Lawyer by defending consumers, prosecuting criminals, and pursuing justice for all of this state's residents. For more information on the Department of Attorney General's work, visit michigan.gov/AG”

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2023's President's Award Winner.
Welcome to the long lake elementary circus! Princess Sydney, Prince Nolan, and their first grade friends invite you all to enjoy the festivities! Plenty of concessions, refreshments, animal fun, and of course cherries await you on this festive float.

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The 2023 Miss Kalkaska Court representing the 86th annual National Trout Festival.

Miss Kalkaska- Jaycee Mitchell
Miss Kalkaska Teen- Emily Cannon
Pre-teen Clara Marsh
Little Miss- Evelynn Watrous
Tiny tot- Blakelee Burkam

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Traverse City Elks Lodge has been in the TC area for over 125 years. The Lodge has given over $7 million back to our community. They are the largest Lodge in the state of Michigan with 1400 members. Riding is the Exalted Ruler Cheryl Woodring and many officers and volunteers.

External Link: http://elkstc.com

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This is the 2023 Howard City Harvest Festival Queen and Court. Queen: Madalynn Laskey, Junior Miss Queen: Madalyn Ringler, Jr. Miss 1st Runner Up: Trinity Hurley, Princess: Mariah Russ. Join us in Howard City, MI on Saturday, September 16 for our Annual Harvest Festival!

External Link: https://www.howardcity.org/harvest-festival

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2023's Festival Award Winner.
Kingsley Elementary

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The Knights templar were originally founded in the year 1118 by 8 French knights. Some of our knights here today can trace their lineage back to those knights as well as to Charlemagne. Representing us today are Grand Master Larry, Judson, Grand Commander Daniel Stewart, Grand High Priest Don Mayville and Traverse City 41 Commander Mark Drake.

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911 restoration is northern Michigan's go to for all commercial and residential property emergencies such as water, smoke, fire, and mold damage restoration. 24/7 located in traverse city

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2023's Queen's Award Winner.
St Mary- Hannah

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Air station traverse city representing coast guard city!

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The pineapple is recognized as a traditional expression of “welcome” throughout the South and in areas along the Eastern Seaboard. Playa Bowls always wants you to feel welcome to chill out, eat healthy, and just enjoy life. Welcome to Pineappleland!

External Link: https://www.playabowls.com/

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Kingsley Jazz Prism is the premier HS jazz band in northern Michigan. The Kingsley bands consistently earn superior ratings at district at state festivals. The bands have a history of excellence spanning four decades.

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2023's Foundation Award Winner.
Buckley community school presents Princess payton tyson and prince Jacob hathcox. Theyre riding in the middle of their cereal themed float, that was able to come to life from their help and ideas. The kids had a great time creating their float.

Buckley Community Schools brings to life our theme Cereal from 2020. The 2020 theme would've brought to life your favorite breakfast cereals from Cheerios to Fruit Loops & even Cap'n Crunch.

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Here comes 910 Media Group. Their large media team includes 9&10 News, MyNorth Media, and Lake Effect Digital - combining broadcast, print, and digital story telling, to reach their Northern Michigan audience.

External Link: https://www.9and10news.com/news/

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This type of tractor was commonly used in local cherry orchards in the 1940's and 1950's.

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Welcome Munson Healthcare! As part of northern Michigan’s largest and leading healthcare system, we’re committed to keeping you healthy. Munson Healthcare is here for you.

External Link: http://Munsonhealthcare.org

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Copper Ridge Surgery Center's mission is to set the standard for excellence in outpatient surgical services throughout northern Michigan by exceeding expectations to ALL we serve.

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Hits 106 KHQ, Home of Ashley Z in the Morning.

External Link: http://www.106khq.com

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2023's Director's Award Winner.
Prince Alex and Princess Elsie were walking home from Willow Hill Elementary and stopped to play at Aston Park, between Willow and Hill Streets. Principal Mrs. Sides-McKay stopped by in her classic 1981 Delorean and offered them a ride home. When the car turned down Bay Street it was struck by lightning, supercharging the flux capacitor to 1.21 jiggawatts blasting them back to July 6th, 1974. They arrived finding themselves in the middle of the Junior Royal Parade, celebrating classic TV. In this blast from the past tribute, we take a trip to our living room where TV was enjoyed as a family. Alex and Elsie are joined by their fellow Falcons at their house in the cherry orchard, dressed as classic characters from their favorite shows. They have all gathered to enjoy some TV while snacking on cherries and sipping Boom Chugga Lugga Cherry Soda.

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Miss Elk Rapids - PORTIA BEEBE Miss Teen - MATTEA BALL Miss Pre-Teen - CLARE CANNON
Young Miss - AMELIA BRUCE Little Miss - BRYNLEE SEND
Portia and her court invite you to Harbor Days in Elk Rapids on Saturday August 5!

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The Traversecityist is story-based podcast mixing interviews, history, folklore and cultural observations I'm and around Traverse City, Michigan. Listen anywhere you get your podcasts.

External Link: http://traversecityist.com

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Here comes everybody's favorite Rock Radio Station! KLT! say hello to Omelette, Finster, Terri Ray, Dean Berry, Squatch, and Mari Dew!
Check out the KLT - Little Town Jerky Giant Red Radio crankin out the tunes for the past 40 plus years - it's The Rock Station KLT!

External Link: http://wklt.com

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Miss Bellaire, Brooklynn and her court Bella and Stella are so excited to be a part of the National Cherry parade! We would love to have you join us for our Rubber Ducky parade the 3rd Saturday in August!

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2023's Chancellor's Award Winner.
Eastern Elementary

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Z93, playing hits from the 90's to now.

External Link: https://www.z93hits.com/

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We are a nonprofit who have fed over 225,000 kids in 3 years

External Link: http://Www.projectfeedthekidstc.org

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"Smart Choice. That’s Northwestern Michigan College, where students can choose from more than 60 programs in beautiful Traverse City, on the shore of Lake Michigan. Tuition is about one quarter the cost of a four-year college or university, and classes are smaller. Yet NMC offers all of the credit if you plan to transfer. Two-year associate degrees, shorter, job-specific certificates and even two bachelor’s degrees are available, in all the fields you’d expect plus a few more, like aviation and maritime.



No matter what your schedule is, NMC’s in-person, online, livestream and hybrid course format options mean you can fit in college. Personalized support services, from tutoring to career advising to counseling will help you reach your goals in college and afterward. Beyond classes, NMC has more than 20 student groups to get involved with. Live on campus and join in free activities like movie nights, kayaking and snow tubing to take full advantage of the Hawk Owl experience.



Thousands of learners transform their lives through NMC's associate degrees, professional certificates, and bachelor's degrees. More than 80 program options are available on four campuses, as well as online and in hybrid format. NMC also fulfills its commitment to lifelong learning by providing a wide range of non-credit classes to learners ages 5-95."

External Link: http://nmc.edu

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2023's Chancellors Award Winner.
The homeschoolers really know how to have fun at the National Cherry Festival. The float highlights some of their favorite activities throughout the week. At the front is a ferris wheel which represents the Arnold Amusements. A must for any kid during festival week. In the middle we have a cherry pie eating contest and a sand castle building contest both very much enjoyed by the kids. In the back you will see a replica of the Bayside Music Stage where Princess Aubrynn and Prince Declan are the stars of this show. Of course can't forget the Thunderbirds flying overhead to represent the airshow; a crowd favorite? for sure. Finally the float is covered with Cherry accents because it wouldn't be a National Cherry Festival without them.

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GO BLUE!
*I will update this in a couple weeks.

External Link: https://alumni.umich.edu/communities-clubs/grand-traverse/

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The American Legion is the Nation's largest and oldest veterans service organization. Membership is open to all honorably discharged veterans and their family members. The Legionnaires of Bowen-Holliday Post 35 are celebrating their continued service to Traverse City for the past 102 years!

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Here's the Classic Cruiser from One Oh Seven Five, C C W Radio. It's a 1974 Chevy van, decked out with wall to wall shag carpeting and playing all of your favorite good time rock and roll. Dave Gauthier, Charlie D and Rich Nadeau are your hosts, on One Oh Seven Five, C C W, and at WCCW dot FM.

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2023's Judges Award Winner.
“Sure to give your dentist a fright, feast your eyes on this sweet delight. Prince Harry and Princess Maren, true royalty indeed. Ruling over Candyland with sugar induced greed.” This float is “old school cool” having been built using Recycled and Repurposed materials. The large Castle, Ice Cream Cones, and Tree were made by hand using donated Paper and Cardboard. The finishing touches were added using old Paint off the garage shelf and dead Bark from the forest floor.

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Norte Youth Cycling champions bikes and community through their programs that empower riders of all ages and abilities. This is Norte's 9th year as a community focused and community supported non-profit. Come ride with us!

External Link: https://www.norteyouthcycling.org/

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Veterans of Foreign Wars Cherryland Post 2780 is celebrating 90 years this year! Their membership has grown from the original 56 to nearly 1000 Post and Auxiliary Members. While maintaining a commitment to veterans from our nation’s past conflicts, they are focused on new recruiting efforts to continue a lifelong legacy. Their post is open to the public with homecooked meals and regular events. Their unwavering support for uncommon heroes shows in their commitment and dedication to this community! This is no longer your Grandfather's VFW, this is YOUR VFW.

External Link: http://vfwpost2780.org

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Schmidt Family of Companies is a fifth-generation real estate brokerage firm founded by Harold F. Schmidt in 1927. The firm was based on the principles of honesty, integrity and an unwavering commitment to outstanding service. Harold Schmidt’s adherence to these standards of excellence earned him the trust and confidence of his clients, building a solid foundation for what was to become one of the most respected and largest real estate brokerage firms in the country.

Harold’s son Joseph Schmidt joined the firm in 1946. His sons Fred and Ken entered the company in 1962 and 1968 respectively. In 1983, the firm joined Coldwell Banker Corporation as a franchisee and experienced unparalleled growth. Today, Mike Schmidt is the CEO of the firm, Steve Bell is President and CFO and Tom Gray is the COO.

Since its humble beginnings, Schmidt Family of Companies has greatly expanded its footprint and offering under the Coldwell Banker brand to better serve our clients’ needs. Specializing in Residential, Luxury and Commercial real estate sales, Title, Relocation and Property Management services; Schmidt Family of Companies is now operating over 90 real estate offices across upper and lower Michigan, both coasts of Florida, northeast Ohio and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

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Marching Band

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Take a road trip to “Michigan Cities” with Prince Amius Howey and Princess Nora Bell of Westwoods Elementary! Featuring all 22 cities from the 2010 parade, this float believes two things: Michigan cities are beautifully diverse, and all roads lead to the National Cherry Festival! We were inspired by green and white city limit signs for our float and t-shirt designs. We paid homage to the famous “Key West” city mileage signs. In the four corners you’ll see mileage from Michigan Cities to Traverse City, as well as key icons (such as tulips, camping, boating, etc.). Princess Nora and Prince Amius take their car on the tissue paper-pomp road (made by Westwoods first-graders) and observe the city seals of each city; notice the colorful, sleek design of each one. Each city is unique and vibrant, while seamlessly working together to make our float and our state so great! Image360 was a terrific asset printing these beautiful images. All 10-inch cherries were hand-painted and are signed by the entire 1st grade at Westwoods. Enjoy our perfect road-trip playlist while Westwoods students pass out donated materials from each city during our walk through our favorite city of all: Traverse City!

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Butch and George Broad, 2 old broads, and their 2 buddies playing live country music. They were just nominated to receive the Michigan Country Music Hall of Fame Award!

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They can just say we are from Tropical Smoothie Cafe, here to bring the Tropics To Traverse.

External Link: https://locations.tropicalsmoothiecafe.com/mi/traverse-city/718-munson-avenue

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TCAPS Montessori presents ‘The 80s,’ in honor of the past Junior Royale Parade theme from 2016, ‘Decades.’ Featuring several iconic 80s pop-culture references, the float is a blast from the past. Including an 8 foot wide Lite-Brite displaying neon cherries, a giant boom box to blast those classic hair band tunes, colorful Rubik’s Cubes, and an ode to arcade culture with iconic characters from Pac-Man and Space Invaders. Enjoy this totally tubular float filled with nostalgia, brought to you by the most radical decade there’s ever been, The 80s.

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Horses, lambs, steers, chickens, pigs, and llamas, Oh my! The 114th Northwestern Michigan Fair along 2022 Fair Queen Olivia Duell are looking forward to celebrating August 6-12, 2023 with livestock showing, free entertainment, nightly grandstands and carnival rides provided by Arnold Amusements. We hope you're 'Goin to the Fair'!

External Link: http://northwesternmichiganfair.net

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At Northwest Michigan Health Services Inc., we believe everyone should have access to compassionate, quality health care. We bring a positive approach to health care, doing whatever it takes to help patients overcome barriers to health care — cost, time, transportation, gender identity, language. From low-cost services to extended hours, mobile clinics, sliding fee and discount drug programs and interpreter services, we find every opportunity to bring wellness to you.

External Link: http://www.NMHSI.org

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Houghton lake tip up town Queen float. Tip up town u s a Is one of the oldest Winter festivals. It used to take place Right on the ice. This is the 73rd annual year. On the Queen's float is Lara Watson. She wants you to know there is something for everyone. Tons of children's activities, carnival rides, games, fun contests, fishing contests, face painting, food vendors, ice slide, polar bear dip, family fun tent and more. They also have a adult beverage tent with live music. Check out their facebook page tip up town usa.

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Immaculate conception, princess Kelsey Kiogima (Key-OH-guh-ma) & Price Addison Gray their theme this year for the 75th anniversary of the junior royalty program was the 1995 theme of “crayon colors” they have created a crayola inspired box of Traverse City Cherry Festival edition crayons. The prince and princess are sitting atop a throne made of crayons. The colors in this limited edition box of crayons are all named after things related to Traverse City. We can see, TC Cherry Red, Coast Guard Orange, Sunset Yellow, Pine Tree green, West Bay Blue, Gods promise Indigo and Lilac Violet. Great job Immaculate conception, Kelsey and Addison!

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Evergreen Community group is an adult social group that does events to promote friendship, healthy living, arts, nature and community involvement. We are free to join for all adults!

External Link: http://evergreen-mi.org

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Sylvia Freeland of Kent City, MI is the 2023 Michigan Apple Queen.
Apples are the largest and most valuable fruit crop in Michigan. Michigan is ranked third in the nation in apple production, behind Washington and New York. More than sixteen varieties of apples are grown in Michigan, including Honeycrisp, Gala, and Fuji. These apples are delicious fresh, and also great in pies, cider and hundreds of other recipes. Visit an orchard or farm market this summer to experience great flavor from the place where apples love to grow!

External Link: http://www.michiganapples.com

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This is one of the many unit we have on selection at classic motorsports. Stop on in to find your motorcycle, dirt bike, and side by side needs.

External Link: https://classictc.com

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Princess Brynlee Vanderwal and Prince Chet NugentSchool: New Covenant Christian Academy Interlochen Michigan Theme: Childhood Pets (last done in the year 1940) Brynlee and Chet are enjoying their backyard while spending time with their pets. Eating cherries, under the cherry tree, watching over their black lab, dalmatian, mut, fish, bird and kitty cats. Their Black Lab is getting a bubble bath! Life is good in Traverse City! Their float is being pulled by Chet Nugent’s 72 Chevy C10 truck. Chet was an avid Cherry Farmer in Benzie County and is the Great Grandfather to our prince. Our float is also surrounded by New Covenant Christian Academy students walking or representing pets. We pray that many of you are enjoying your backyard and your family pets this summer! (should this be included or not?)A very special thank you to our sponsors:Blue Vase BooksGlen Lake MarineNugent Grain CompanyArch & FlutterD & W Auto & TransmissionThe Bedroom Company

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Brent’s Home Restoration and New Construction covers all phases of remodeling and new construction in the greater Grand Traverse area. Please feel free to call, text, email, visit our website or stop one of us and ask for a business card.

External Link: http://www.BHR restoration.com

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BHR Disposal, Rentals and Demolition currently has dump trailers available for rental. They also have some heavy equipment rental options and offer demolition services performed by a professional and knowledgeable staff. Please feel free to call, text, email, visit their website, or stop one of us and ask for a business card.

External Link: http://bhrdisposal.com

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This 1957 Chevy Wagon was purchased by my Grandparents, new from the Factory in Flint. A year later they moved to Southern California to be closer to their Son, my Dad. In 1970 Grandma gave the Chevy to my oldest brother, and he has kept and maintained it since that time. When he decided to let it go last, year my husband and I brought it back home to beautiful Traverse City, Michigan. I have many fond memories growing up in this Chevy with Grandma taking us to many of our activities as kids.

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CHECK OUT THE HUMMER FROM CLASSIC ROCK THE BEAR---THEE CLASSIC ROCK STATION!

External Link: http://classicrockthebear.com

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Glen Lake

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This Truck and Trailer is carrying the Grand Traverse County Road Commission's1948 Studebaker Plow truck that the State of Michigan first used, before being purchased and used by the GTCRC in the mid 60's through the 70's. The Plow was restored by GTCRC mechanics on their own time after hours to its current condition.

External Link: http://GTCRC.ORG

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“The Traverse City Pit Spitters’ season is in full swing! The Pit Spitters are excited to continue to bring fun, family-friendly entertainment to Northern Michigan this summer, and they can’t wait to see you at Turtle Creek Stadium! Make sure to check out PitSpitters.com to purchase your tickets today!”

External Link: https://northwoodsleague.com/traverse-city-pit-spitters/

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This 1936 Chevy Stake Rack Antique Truck is a replica used by Hendrick and Fred Meijer to transport groceries to their first store in Greenville, MI. Meijer is a Grand Rapids, Mich. – based retailer that operates more than 500 supercenters, neighborhood markets, Meijer Grocery and Express locations across the Midwest. A family-operated company since 1934, Meijer pioneered the “one-stop shopping” concept and has evolved through the years to include expanded fresh produce and meat departments, as well as pharmacies, comprehensive apparel departments, pet departments, garden centers, toys and electronics. For additional information on Meijer or to place your order for delivery or free pickup, please visit www.meijer.com.

External Link: http://www.meijer.com

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Mill Creek’s float theme is from 1967, Cherry Tree to Tree. The back of the float is a cherry orchard, where each student at Mill Creek cut out their handprint to make the leaves. In front of the orchard, students are harvesting the cherries with tractors. Near the front of the float is a cherry pie stand where delicious cherry pies are being sold my Mill Creek Orchards.

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Bringing her own convertible. Ford Thunder Bird.

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The more than 70 local McDonald's owner/operators across Michigan are proud to salute the Cherry Festival. They are committed to serve their guests by feeding and fostering community.

External Link: https://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us/mcdonalds-careers.html

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K&A Hops Dogs is located in Chum's Village by the ballpark. This pub is the first of its kind here in Traverse City. What is Hop Dogs? It's an off-leash, dog friendly social hub. If you have a dog, that's great. If not, that's okay too! Everyone is welcome. Looking for something to do tonight? Come Drink Beer, Pet Dogs at K&A Hop Dogs by the ballpark.

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Seamore the Seaduck and the Lake Superior State University Lakers

External Link: http://lssu.edu

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Speeding to the parade from Elk Rapids is Prince Justin Pringle and Princess Maya O’Connell from Lakeland Elementary school. With the help of Lightning McQueen and Tow Mater they are all geared up in their Transportation Themed float. When they aren’t cruising up and down roads and passed the Cherry orchards, both love drawing, playing sports, and hanging with friends.Justin is the son of Justin and Jenny Pringle. He enjoys fishing with his dad and riding his bike around the house…when he isn’t chasing around his little brother and sister. He plans on being an artist when he gets older. Maya is the daughter of Chris and Lisa O’Connell. With the help of her mom, she’s an avid Cosplayer and enjoys dressing up as her favorite Star Wars and Marvel characters. When she grows up she wants to be a nurse so that she can help people feel better.

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2023 Miss Mancelona

Brehanna Bluer and Court

Junior Miss Mancelona Sydney Hemenway

Little Miss Mancelona Angela Griffin &

Mancelona Princess Violet Phillips

External Link: http://mancelonabassfestival.org

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New Hope Community Church - Celebrates nearly 3 decades of Ministry in the Grand Traverse Region. Church Services are every Sunday at 8 and 10am - Church is located 2 Miles North of the Grand Traverse Resort on US-31.
Full Programming for ALL Ages and a dynamic KidZone ministry for Children. Summer Camps are happening now for Youth & Children -
visit their website - newhope.cc - for all of the details.
The church also does a Full Easter DRAMA called THE PROMISE and a special outdoor walk - THE CHRISTMAS JOURNEY - featuring Live animals & the Biblical account of Christmas!

Come Join us - Any Sunday for Dynamic Music and Worship and Preaching of God's Word!

We're a church ready to serve the needs of you and your family.

External Link: http://newhope.cc

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The Woodland school float is a replica of the Mission Point Lighthouse, located at the very top of the Old Mission Peninsula, capturing each and every detail. Our Junior Royals, Princess Calla and Prince Owen, are lounging on the beach. And our classmate, Captain Viola, is spending time in her boat floating in the bay. The colors of our trees and our matching shirts were chosen to symbolize the sunsets over Lake Michigan. The cherries hanging from the fence around the Mission Point lighthouse, of course, represent The National Cherry Festival. The Woodland Junior Royals and their friends helped paint our lighthouse and it’s surroundings and classmates created the fun seagulls that adorn our float. Our float is dedicated to Grandma Christy French, who loved the National Cherry Festival and was a longtime festival volunteer.

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We are the very first rail-biking business to hit Michigan, let alone our town on Traverse City! We allow all to come ride on our special manufactured railroad bikes down a 3 mile out of service railroad track. Come check it out!

External Link: http://wheelsonrailsmi.com

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Morse Moving and Storage, your local moving specialists, and Allied Van Lines are proud to celebrate the 2023 National Cherry Festival!

External Link: https://www.morsemoving.com/

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Representing Cherry Knoll Elementary are Prince Finley Edgecomb and Princess Summer Mons. Cherry Knoll's float theme is Careers - a throwback to Cherry Festival in 1983. The float represents many of the industries found in Northern Michigan and was created based on classmates' answer to "What do you want to be when you grow up?" The prince and princess families appreciate the help from classmates and their families, supplies donated by Cherry Knoll Elementary PTO, J&B Construction, and the National Cherry Festival, and especially the artistic talent of Larry Welton and Rudy Klopcic to make our town come to life!

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Welcome! Huntington

External Link: http://www.huntignton.com

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Please welcome members of the Traverse City Central Band! Central High School has a long tradition of success in Marching, Concert, and Jazz Bands, and is under the direction of Mr. Thomas Vieira and Mr. Peter Deneen.

External Link: http://www.tcaps.net/chsband

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Traverse City Central High School Football Organization

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Traverse City Area Public Schools, Great Community, Great Schools!

External Link: http://www.tcaps.net

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Traverse Heights Elementary school is enchanting viewers with the Dynamic Duo theme of Pokemon and their human trainers, an enduring relationship capturing the hearts and imaginations of many worldwide. Here the battleground is set in a cherry tree grove where the duos are challenged to use their unique abilities and signature moves, working together to win battles and increase experience. Even the Pokemon universe loves cherries with the rare but adorable Cherubi Pokemon.

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If you are looking to rent a side-by-side in Northern Michigan, whether it is for family fun or corporate events, Bigfoot Epic Adventures is the place to go. It is located right on the trail system with over a thousand mile of trails that await for you to explore!

External Link: http://www.bigfootepicadventures.com

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The 2023 Queen of Scots and her Court welcome all to come enjoy the sights and sounds of all things Scottish in Alma, Scotland, USA, over Memorial Day weekend each year. The drone of a bagpipe, the swish of the kilt, and the toss of the caber are all a part of the many aspects of celebrating the great Scottish heritage! They look forward to seeing you in Alma in May 2024!

External Link: http://www.almahighlandfestival.com

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Cherry Central Cooperative is celebrating 50 years in business! Cherry Central is a farmer-owned cooperative that believes we are stronger when we work together. Today, Cherry Central comprises hundreds of small family farms across North America and is headquartered here in the Cherry Capital of the World! We are proud to be the Signature Juice and Concentrate sponsor of the Naitonal Cherry Festival. We hope you enjoy our Indian Summer and fruitHaven products as much as we do. From our farms to your table.

External Link: http://cherrycentral.com

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Princess Violet, Prince Nolan and friends from The Children's House would like to present the theme from 1998, Countries of the World.To the left of our Princess and Prince is Pingo the penguin. He is waving from Antarctica. On the right is Moai, an Easter island statue.In front of Violet and Nolan standing in order is Chin chen itza representing Mexico, Eiffel tower representing Paris, Empire state building representing America, and Leaning tower of Pisa representing Italy.The front left of the float you will see Sydney opera house representing Australia, center is the taj mahal of India and on the right is stone hedge from the UK.You will see many flags throughout the float. Do you know them all? We have 41 countries represented on this float. Their names are hand painted by the children at the base of the float.Do you see all the sparkly cherries? Many friends from the children's house came together to hand paint 75 cherry pairs to represent the 75th year of the national cherry royal parade. Princess Violet, Prince Nolan and friends from The Children's House wish you all a fun and safe cherry festival celebration!

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The Traverse City MINI Cooper Club was started in 2009, by Mark Nelson and consisted of 2 MINIs. They were quickly joined by 10 or more other MINIs. It has now grown to over 450 MINIs of all sizes and colors. Cars range in year from 1975 to 2023. We have members from all over Michigan and neighboring states. We gather monthly to rally and explore the best twisties and food northern Michigan has to offer. The club is located on FaceBook at Traverse City MINI Cooper Club. If you like to drive with other MINIs - come join us! Motor On!

External Link: https://m.facebook.com/groups/142805482408589/

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When you think of Bugs, wonderful might not be the first word that comes to mind! But, Prince Lewis and Princess Grace from Trinity Lutheran School are having a BLAST enjoying their 4th of July Picnic surrounded by bugs. These kids don’t mind sharing their slice of local cherry pie, or a bite of their sandwich with some ants. They love watching all the bugs crawl around and even catching them…their moms only ask that they don’t touch the spiders! Lewis and Grace enjoy catching ladybugs and caterpillars, chasing after butterflies, and even looking under logs to see just how many creepy crawly creatures they can find! Trinity’s float is decorated with over 400 bugs of all different species and colors. Pay special attention to the 125 bugs that you see in the grass along the sides of the float and underneath the Sunshine and Cherry Tree. Those bugs were colored by none other than the students of Trinity Lutheran School from Preschoolers to 8th graders.

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If you or someone you love suffers from substance use disorder, ATS can help. Addiction Treatment Services is located in Traverse City. They are ready with the safe support you need to work through the root of your addiction and find your own recovery lifestyle.

External Link: https://addictiontreatmentservices.org/

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Truck Norris is the WTCM station vehicle... sponsored by Steven's Propane. WTCM plays Today's Country Music on one-oh-three-five. Truck Norris is Ram Tough and you'll be seeing "him" all over Northern Michigan this summer.

External Link: http://www.wtcmi.com

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With more than 100 employees, BATA provides more than 390,000 annual rides to residents and visitors in Leelanau and Grand Traverse counties. The transit authority offers Loop service with dedicated routes and fixed stops, its Bayline route with free 15-minute frequency, as well as Link service that functions as both an on-demand and a traditional dial-a-ride service. In addition, BATA has introduced programs like Bike-n-Ride, Ski-n-Ride, and various event transportation, broadening standard service offerings. Visit bata.net or call 231.941.2324 for more information.

External Link: http://www.bata.net

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The Blair Elementary School is honored to have Princess Piper Dean and Prince Luke Withey representing them. This year their theme takes them back to 1968 with storybook characters. The first graders chose their favorites which include Pete the Cat eating some cool cherry pie, Pigeon driving the float, the Hungry Caterpillar eating cherries, the Lorax saving Cherry truffala trees, and Harry Potter chasing the Cherry snitch.

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The Red Cross responds to all disasters, whether it impacts the entire country, multiple counties and states or individuals and families. The Red Cross aspires to turn compassion into action so that...
...all people affected by disaster across the country receive care, shelter, and hope
...our communities are ready and prepared for disasters
...all members of our armed services and their families find support and comfort whenever needed.

External Link: http://www.redcross.org

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Big Country One-oh-two-nine is your home for Big D & Bubba in the morning and number one for new country all day!

External Link: http://1029bigcountry.com

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CourtadeCourtade Elementary is honored to present the theme from the 2009 National Cherry Festival: Salute to Heroes! The patriotic decor of the float represents everyday American heroes: Doctors, nurses, law enforcement, firefighters, first responders, teachers, military, veterans and farmers - especially Cherry Farmers! On behalf of the Courtade Elementary community, Prince Nolan and Princess Maddie want to extend a very cherry THANK YOU to all heroes!

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This cherry red 1957 Desoto is shown by the daughters of original owners, George and Gladys Schichtel, and has been a crowd favorite in both the Heritage Parade and the Cherry Royale Parade for over 30 years. Its push button transmission and soaring fins highlight its state of the art mechanics and bold design. Let’s hear it for the 2022 “best car for a road trip”!

External Link: http://None

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The Frankenmuth Bavarian Festival Princess and Court are represented today by court members Danielle and Ella, wearing their traditional German dirndls. The Frankenmuth Bavarian Festival is held every year on the second weekend in June, when residents showcase their German heritage. Be sure to kick off next summer in Michigan's Little Bavaria.

External Link: http://www.bavarianfestival.org

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Cherry red, white, and blue is the Pathinder School's float theme. And the Pathfinder float combines two American favorites...patriotism and cherries! Princess Harper, Prince Charlie and their classmates at The Pathfinder School wish everyone a fun time at this year's Cherry Festival!

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Since 1912 Traverse City Light and Power has been serving the electric needs of the Traverse City community. There are 44 men and women working hard at TCLP, not only to keep the lights on but also striving to do it in an environmentally responsible way. From solar power to energy waste reduction to electric vehicles, they are on the front line fighting the climate change battle.
Today they have one of their large digger trucks you will see around town frequently. This is followed by the electric F-150 Lightning, displaying Traverse City Light and Power’s commitment to electrifying their own fleet.
You will also notice the TCLP Fiber banners representing the community’s newest internet and voice option. TCL&P Fiber has internet speeds starting at 200 megabytes along with phone service options.

External Link: http://www.tclp.org

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The Cedar Polka Fest proudly presents their royal court, which includes prince & princesses from each of the five Leelanau County schools. Join us August 24-27 in Ceadr to Polka the night away.

External Link: http://www.cedarpolkafest.org

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Once upon a time Prince Carter and Princess Sydney asked Principal Camp at Silver Lake Elementary if they could go into the cherry orchard to could find local cherries for field day, as they wanted to host a pit spitting contest. Mrs. Camp said, “Of course! I bet all your friends would love to play that game and I’ll even play!”. Upon entering the orchard, all the prince and princess could see were little eyes looking at them. Being a Silver Lake Seahawk, they used their soaring 4 skills of being responsible, safe, respectful, and peaceful as they spoke out “Hello? We are here in search of cherries; do you think you all could help us?”. Suddenly, they heard whispers as little fairies and elves came out from their hiding spots, “We would love to help you, thank you for asking so kindly!”. Prince Carter and Princess Sydney were able to bring back quarts and quarts of hand-picked cherries. The field day was a success and Mrs. Camp set a new world record at 95 feet and 7 inches! All the students at field day yelled, “Fairy Tales happen every day at Silver Lake!”

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TCFSC involves skaters of all ages who both compete and perform!

External Link: http://1288 N. West Silver Lake Rd

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Our participants are all home-educated students ages 9 to 19, performing under the direction of Mr. Nicholas DeBone. The Northern Lights Home School Marching Band is just one of the programs offered by West Michigan Homeschool Fine Arts, with classes in Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo. For over 25 years they have provided classes in band, orchestra, choir, and other ensembles. They have marched all over as the largest home school marching band in the country. Their performance is entitled "Patriotic Parade Sequence."

External Link: https://www.wmhfa.org/

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Join Prince Joel, Princess Emma, and the Grand Traverse Academy bookworms in their magical garden that has grown and blossomed through the enchanting and captivating tales woven by Michigan Children’s Authors. Nestled in the natural wonders that surround us in Traverse City, our bookworms invite you to explore the excitement, adventure, and joy that our Michigan Children’s Authors have knitted into the fabric of our Michigan history through their words with notable books such as the magic of sleigh bells and trains in the Polar Express. Adventure, strength, determination and teamwork in Jumanji. The sacred tales and story of The Legend of Sleeping Bear. The fun and joy of Buck Wilder’s Adventures, and of course, the Legend of the Cherry Queens. See if you can spot all of these and more in our garden. Immersed in the books of Michigan children’s authors, everyone is bound to become a bookworm.

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Blue Lakes Real Estate Group powered by Key Realty

External Link: https://www.bluelakesrealtors.com/

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The Salvation Army Youth Programs embrace area youth with understanding and love! Regardless of circumstance, The Salvation Army provides positive

social opportunities that help build character, decision making, and leadership skills with Christian values. Local youth enjoy summer camp, explore music,their creativity, participate in sports, build friendships, and character that empowers confidence for today, tomorrow and life.

External Link: https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/traversecity/

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Wiigwaasmin Pageant float number 123 is sponsored by the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians.

Wiigwaasmin means cherry in Anishinaabemowin. The language of the original people. This years 2023-2024 crowned indigenous royalty at the National Cherry Festival Powwow is:

Miss Wiigwaasmin, Jada Diaz
Little Miss Wiigwaasmin, Kylie Bush
Wiigwaasmin Warrior, Damien Chippewa

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Old Mission Peninsula School welcomes you to enjoy “Things to do in Northern Michigan,” as they highlight Northern Michigan through the seasons.



Bike riding, bug catching and garden play are spring favorites - until summer hits! You pick lavender, cherries & berries and fun on the water dominate summer fun. Fall color change brings about pumpkin carving & local restaurant patronage on the peninsula, as snow sports round out favorite activities in the winter.



Old Mission would like to wish its Cherry Princess, Quinn, a happy 7th birthday today! She is celebrating on the float with her classmates today by handing out fresh lavender from her family’s 10-acre you-pick lavender farm. We wish her the best birthday today!



Big thanks to float sponsors: Jolly Pumpkin, City Bike Shop, GT Butterfly House & Bug Zoo, Old Mission PTO, Warren Orchards, Lightwell Lavender Farm, and GTA Children's Garden.

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2022 Gaylord Alpenfest Queen Fayth Sanom and Court Sofia Messinis and Rachel Proux

External Link: http://gaylordalpenfest.com

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Traverse City Christian School is proud to celebrate “Great Ladies in History” by highlighting a few of the Great Ladies from the Great Lakes State! These women were leaders, trailblazers, entrepreneurs, authors and scientists. Check out our QR code to learn more about these and other Great Lakes Ladies! We believe that our futures are brighter as we stand on the shoulders of these giants! We could name so many influential ladies in history, but we believe that some of most influential ladies in our history are just named “Mom”.

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Orchard Cleaning Services is a locally owned company servicing Grand Traverse and Leelanau Counties. They are partnered with Cleaning For A Reason, offering free cleaning services to Cancer Patients. They also offer 40% off to police officers, firefighters, and active military. Call them to get a free quote!

External Link: https://orchardcleaningservices.com/

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This next entry if from Detroit RedTail, Inc...a 501c3 non profit organization whose mission is to continue to tell the history of famed Tuskegee Airmen of World War II. The centerpiece of Detroit RedTail is this 2011 Ford Mustang, custom wrapped to emulate the red-tailed P-51 Mustang fighter planes the 332nd Fighter Group flew during the war. On it, Detroit RedTail honors LTC Harry T Stewart, Jr, who turned 99 on the 4th of July, on the driver's side and LTC Alexander Jefferson, who passed away at 100 last June, on the drivers side. One can learn more about Detroit RedTail at DetroitRedTail.org and also Donate to Help Keep Them Rolling.

External Link: https://www.detroitredtail.org/

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The sweetest candy shop in Benzie County. Lake Ann’s Very Cherry Sweets. Prince River Hansen and Princess Addaline Cook are representing Lake Ann Elementary on this totally sweet float full of all your favorite candies!!

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Parade Committee

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Tow Trucks

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