Even though it is only eight square miles, Allen Park is huge. When you mention it to someone outside of the city, they recognize the name for excellence in at least one thing. I spent my whole life in Allen Park and you learn a few things along the way.

1. You always go shopping on the hill.

The Hill is a strip mall on the outskirts of town that has every store you would ever need and more.

2. Sports dominate the weekend.

Between Friday night football games and Junior League games on Saturdays, Allen Park is made of sports.

3. You know the rivalries.

Each sport has that one team that they hate and want to destroy. You know them all and hate them just the same.

4. The Jag Jungle is the best student section downriver.

Seriously, our student section is loyal and huge. If you find a spot inside it, you are one of the lucky ones.

5. You have seen the LARPers in the park.

Every Sunday like clockwork, the LARPers will be in Champaign Park.

6. Liberati’s is a staple.

Liberati’s is the best Italian Bakery. Everyone knows and loves it.

7. Powell will never retire.

Mr. Powell is a pillar of Allen Park High, he has retired four times but still has never left.

8. You have a favorite Coney Island.

Whether it is Tim’s, Ted’s, or Dix’s you know which one is your favorite.

9. Cabrini was better when it was wooden.

The Cabrini playground went from a giant wooden castle littered with bees to a small metal and plastic playscape. Honestly, it was better as wood.

10. You know it is summer when the Cabrini Festival comes to town.

The Cabrini Festival was the end of the school year carnival that everyone goes to. Sadly, if you went to the public school, it was just before finals week.

11. Some people never leave.

Most of the teachers went to Allen Park schools. Also, many of the people you will meet are at least second-generation residents.

12. You will forever bleed green and white.