'I Believe in Karma; I'm Sharing Smiles'

The Woodward Dream Cruise took a spiritual turn over the weekend in Berkley.

A group of Hare Krishnas chanted, danced and drummed down Woodward Avenue and, farther south along the historic roadway in Berkley, Manny Falcon of Southfield serenaded spectators as he reflected about karma.

"I hope I'm not too much of a ham," he said during the classic car parade. "I'm just enjoying a beautiful day."

The musician said he doesn't care too much about cars, but he does care about his dad and lifting other folks' spirits.

Falcon said he and his father, who has been battling Alzheimer's disease, usually attend the Woodward Dream Cruise together. But, this year, Falcon came alone after visiting hours ended at his dad's assisted-care home.

"Normally, I'd be out here with pops," Falcon said as he strummed his guitar and sang tunes for passers-by. "It's a blessing of a beautiful spirit and beautiful people."

The Southfield resident said he also plays for seniors at the Jewish Community Center in Oak Park.

"I'm a big music fan. I believe in karma. I'm sharing smiles," he said. "People just stop by and I play a tune. People stop in front of me and start dancing. It's been a good day."