Yeah, I know, Detroit has it's problems. There are corrupt politicians (Kwame, anyone?), a sad sack football team that might not be able to beat a junior high squad, a socialized auto industry (except the company run by the owners of the aforementioned football team), budget problems, a failing school system, and a plethora of violent crimes. And as if there needs to be more, Children's Health magazine has an article out now called "The 100 Best (and Worst) Places to Raise a Family." Guess which city ranked 100? But, you know what? I still love the place. Let me count the ways.
1) You can't begin this list without the Detroit Red Wings. Yes, they lost in the Finals to Pittsburgh. But they are a bright spot in this city nonetheless. Detroit can always count on this team to compete year in and year out. Mr. Hockey (Gordie Howe), Captain Cup (Stevie Yzerman), Terrible Ted Lindsey, Nicklas Lidstrom, Chris Osgood. Great players, great teams, and a winning tradition. They don't call it Hockeytown for nothing!
2) Ted Nugent, Bob Seger, Kid Rock, Motown. Plenty of great music has made it's way out of Detroit. Chances are you like at least some of these artists, also.
3) Detroit Tigers. Three games up in the AL Central. Their owner Mike Ilitch, also owns the Red Wings. The man treats his players very well, and fosters an environment that lends itself to success. There may not be a lot of good news in Detroit, but the Tigers are a lot of what is good in town right now.
4)Detroit Pistons. Big Ben is back and the Pistons will be a young, hungry team.
5) Detroit Lions. I know they stink right now, but you have to be a fan through thick and thin. Right now it is VERY thin. Is Matthew Stafford the answer? Too early to tell, but he needs A LOT of help around him. "Forward Down the Field".
6) Better Made Potato Chips. If you haven't tried them, go out and get some. If they don't sell them where you live, you can order them online. My personal favorite is the Sweet BBQ! This company was started in Detroit in 1930,and is still the best around.
7) Kowalski Hot dogs. Kowalski means Kowality!
8) Faygo Soda. Their Red Pop is the best. Again, try some if you never have. It can also be ordered online.
9) Your choice of water adventure sites. In Michigan, you are never more than six miles away from water. If you live in Detroit, it is not a far drive to any of the Great Lakes. Take a break from all the bad news and hit the beach. Don't forget to pack the Kowalski's, Better Mades, and Faygo, though.
There are so many other things I could have mentioned. The Great Lakes Invitational is a premier NCAA hockey tournament held at Joe Louis Arena every year between Christmas and New Year. Greektown is always a great place to visit. If history is your thing, try Greenfield Village to learn about Henry Ford.
I do not live in Detroit, but I do hope to end up very near there when hubby and I retire. I do love Detroit. Some of my reasons above may seem superficial or silly maybe, but we need a little laughter now. To those of you that live in Detroit, or anywhere in the Great State of Michigan- keep your heads up! There is plenty to be proud of. Detroit, and all of Michigan, is down right now, but not out.
ya left out canada being just across the river.
ReplyDeleteI grew up in Cleveland, and therefore feel the pain.
ReplyDeleteThat being said, just like Cleveland has its beautiful outlying areas and scenery, so does Detroit, I learned on my one visit there. A good friend lived in Brighton and I was very impressed by the beauty of the town, and the golf courses were unforgettable.
And congrats to your Lions on today's win!
Soloman: Thanks. The one word for a Lion victory- WHEW!!
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