2024 House Resolution 265

Whereas, Michigan is the number one cherry producing state in the nation and is the unofficial Cherry Capitol of the World; and

Whereas, Michigan hosts the world’s largest cherry celebration, the National Cherry Festival. It takes place each July in Traverse City, Michigan, welcoming more than 500,000 people to celebrate and promote cherries, community involvement, and the Grand Traverse region; and

Whereas, The first “Blessing of the Blossoms Festival” was held on this date in 1926 before evolving into the National Cherry Festival as we know it today; and

Whereas, The United States produces over 610 million pounds of sweet and tart cherries each year, with Michigan producing the largest tart cherry crop. Approximately 250 million pounds of tart cherries are harvested each year, with 75% of those coming from the state of Michigan; and

Whereas, Cherries contain powerful antioxidants that may help fight cancer and heart disease and relieve the pain associated with arthritis. Tart cherries are especially high in the antioxidant melatonin, which may help prevent or reduce brain deterioration associated with aging, and are also high in vitamin A and beta-carotene; and

Whereas, The Cherry Marketing Institute (CMI) was formed in 1988 and is funded by U.S. tart cherry growers. The goal of the CMI is to increase the use of cherries through promotion, market expansion, product development and research; and

Whereas, The growers, processors, and merchants continue to support the Grand Traverse Region with community support and a push to promote the impact and benefits of the cherry harvest; and

Whereas, One of the most beautiful sites in Michigan, or anywhere in the world, during the month of May is the blossoming of the cherry trees; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare May 22, 2024, as Cherry Industry Day in the state of Michigan.