Cherries are delicious, nutritious fruits commonly known for their antioxidant qualities. They were brought to the modern-day United States by settlers in the 1600’s who had a fond appreciation for the delicacy and saw to it that countless cherry trees were grown in the colonies they established in Michigan State.
The climate found in that particular area seemed to agree with cherry farming, which continued to thrive as time went by. In the mid-1800’s, cherries were not only farmed for their palatable traits but commercial production.
By the 1900’s, cherry producers became more and more creative with their produce, adding them to pastries such as pies. May 22, 1925, gave birth to the “Cherry Blossom Ceremony”, where businesses worked together with local farmers to promote the industry.
Fast forward to present-day Traverse City, the National Cherry Festival now takes place during the first week of July and hosts various activities.
One of which is this year’s opening ceremony led by the U.S. Coast Guard station, promising performances by different aircraft, such as Royal Canadian Air Force and the Coast Guard itself. A special treat is also in store for the area, provided by the US Navy’s Blue Angels. The airshows will occur on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th of July.
Must see airshows at National Cherry Festival 2016
This will be the first appearance the Blue Angels will be making after the loss of their Marine Captain, Jeff Kuse, earlier this month while he was practicing in Tennessee.
Upnorthlive reported Commanding Officer of the Blue Angels, Ryan Bernacchi, commemorate the deceased Captain, “We represent the pride and professionalism of the Navy Marine Corps and hoping to inspire a culture of excellence”.
The Commanding Officer noted that that was Jeff Kuse’s philosophy, which had also become theirs.
Bernacchi stated that they would only be flying five planes this weekend at the festival as the venerated man with whom they worked used to fly the sixth. Although the Blue Angels may still be in mourning, what they have shown at their practice session at 15:00 today, Friday 1 July, is that they will give one great performance this weekend. After the festival, the US Navy Blue Angels will end their season with shows in Indiana and Florida.
The US Airforce Thunderbirds were also practicing today in light of their performances on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.
For festival goers who have a flair for aviation, the U.S. Coast Guard Air Station will be open to the public to take a look at all aircraft between 18:00 and 20:00. Furthermore, Chief Meteorologist, Keith Thompson, will be reporting live from the Field of Flight Airshow and Balloon Festival tonight.
Although there is so much to see, given the name of the festival and its origin, the highlight for swarms of people are the large cherry pies. According to the Guinness Book of Records, in 1987, the event was home to the largest cherry pie ever baked. There is great excitement reserved for this weekend in Traverse City as the National Cherry Festival celebrations are underway. Come one, come all but definitely come hungry!
Source: UpNorthLive.com