Wednesday, July 30, 2003

July 30, 2003: Gerald Ford's 90th Birthday

We went to the Gerald Ford 90th birthday (38th President of the US) celebration in downtown Grand Rapids today. It was alot of fun and a great experience.  They had some of the army singers, the F16 planes fly above after Gerald Ford gave his remarks, and then served cake and lemonade to everyone who came. His wife wasn't there as she was sick, but his daughter came with him.

He first arrived in a golf cart and came down the path. I am hoping my picture turned out as they came right in front of us. One of his sons plays a part on the "Young and the Restless" soap opera. I haven't seen him on in a couple of months, though.
It was estimated that 10,000 people came for the celebration. They thought only 5000 would come, so that is pretty good. He seems like a nice fella. I don't think a larger town would have had such a nice celebration for him. 

I really like Grand Rapids. I could see myself living there as it is a nice size town and close to family. Someday, I do want to be living in Florida, but for now, I do think that living near family is the most important. Now, when the snow comes, ask me the same question and I will say "Florida, here I come".