
History of National Grandparents Day
National Grandparents Day began with the compassion of Marian McQuade, who believed
in recognizing the vital role of grandparents. This West Virginian housewife encouraged
Americans to value the knowledge and integrity that grandparents possess. She called
upon the help of political authorities, church leaders, and civic organizations to gather
support for the cause.
West Virginia's Governor, Arch Moore, announced the state's first Grandparents Day in
1973. McQuade, along with her supporters, continued to campaign for this special day by
corresponding with media consultants and government representatives from each state.
After the approval of the United States Congress in 1978, President Jimmy Carter signed a
proclamation declaring Grandparents Day a National Holiday. Grandparents Day is
celebrated annually on the first Sunday after Labor Day. September was selected to
symbolize the autumn years of life.
The official song, "A Song for Grandma and Grandpa," captures the true meaning of the
holiday. The act of remembrance signified by the Forget-Me-Not makes it the perfect
flower for Grandparents Day. The observance of this holiday has gained popularity
throughout the years and continues to grow stronger.
(click on picture to view larger image)
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WEBSITE & CONTENTS COPYRIGHT 2010 - JOHNNY PRILL MUSIC - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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The National Grandparents Day Song "A Song for Grandma and Grandpa" was written and recorded by Johnny Prill
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The National Grandparents Day Song A Song for Grandma and Grandpa
Chorus: Oh Grandma, Grandpa, you know that I love you I love all those little things that you say and do A walk through the park, a trip to the zoo Oh Grandma, Grandpa I love you
Verse One: Going to a ball game, fishing on the lake Eating Grandma's cookies, boy they sure taste great Going to the circus when it comes to town Eating cotton candy and laughing at the clowns
Chorus: Oh Grandma, Grandpa, you know that I love you I love all those little things that you say and do A hug and a kiss, a ride home from school Oh Grandma, Grandpa I love you
Verse Two: Spending time together, talking on the phone Happy birthday presents, chocolate ice cream cones Photographs and memories, picnics and parades Saying that you love me in so many ways
Chorus: Oh Grandma, Grandpa, you know that I love you I love all those little things that you say and do The stories you tell, things I never knew Oh Grandma, Grandpa I love you
Words and Music by Johnny Prill Johnny Prill Music, BMI © 1982, © 2004
Click here to listen to a song clip of "A Song for Grandma and Grandpa"
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Click the TV icon below to view the Music Video of The National Grandparents Day Song "A Song for Grandma and Grandpa"
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.....National Grandparents Day is celebrated on the first Sunday after Labor Day. .....................In 2010, National Grandparents Day falls on September 12.
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Johnny recording "A Song for Grandma and Grandpa"
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McQuade at WV State Capitol, lobbying for elderly.
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Johnny Prill has been called “one of the most creative songwriters of our time” (Bobby Vinton). From his hometown
in Bad Axe, Michigan Johnny still possesses the same immense passion for music as he did when he first began playing
at the age of eight. This zest is always apparent to anyone lucky enough to catch one of his shows. From a young
teenager volunteering to entertain the residents of a local nursing home to the many clubs and venues he has performed at
throughout the years, Johnny does everything a hundred and ten percent. Johnny received The National Songwriters
Award from The National Grandparents Day Council in Chula Vista, California. The award was presented in
recognition of Johnny’s highly popular composition, “A Song for Grandma and Grandpa” which is now the official
song of National Grandparents Day. Johnny's song was chosen because it portrays the wonderful unique relationship
between grandparents and their grandchildren.
Johnny presents a free outdoor concert annually to celebrate National Grandparents Day. The concert is held at
Courtney Manor Nursing Home where Johnny is their longest running volunteer, entertaining residents once a month
for over 23 years. Johnny states, “They are our nation’s grandparents, and they are always so appreciative of the
time I spend with them. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to meet so many interesting grandparents, and I hope
I have the opportunity to meet many more.” National Grandparents Day is celebrated on the first Sunday after Labor
Day. In 2010, National Grandparents Day falls on September 12.
Johnny's songs have also been featured in numerous publications including Country Weekly, The Las Vegas Weekly,
The Detroit News, and The Detroit Free Press.
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Welcome to nationalgrandparentsday.com
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