Woodward Dream Cruise observations and tips

I’ve happily covered the Woodward Dream Cruise for The Detroit News for at least the last 10 years, and I’ve learned and noticed a few things that I’d like to pass on.

First, unless you’re riding shotgun, don’t be driving while talking on your cell phone. It’s dangerous enough to do this while in normal traffic, but while bumper to bumper and surrounded by classic cars worth tens of thousands of dollars…well, you’re just asking for trouble that will send your car insurance through the roof.

This is especially true if you’re trying to change lanes or merge into traffic from a side street.
Speaking of turning and merging, if someone is nice enough to let you into traffic, be sure to give them a thank you, wave of the hand or big smile. They didn’t have to be nice, so be nice in return.

I found it pretty interesting that some of the car dealerships along Woodward won’t let cruisers or spectators park in their lots just off the roadway, but the A.J. Desmond and Sons Funeral Home will.

Finally, notice all the American flags flying from poles along Woodward, most of them at half-staff in honor of the numerous servicemen from Michigan who have been killed in the Middle East the past few weeks.
Give the flags a salute as you cruise by.