This spring I decided to watch "That '70s Show" for the first time. I was born in Wisconsin and lived there for 15 years and I had never seen an episode in my life but after starting it I was so giddy hearing all of the little inside references to living in the state. Whether it was a place, a lifestyle or just a little habit, "That '70s Show" really nailed all of the little nuances of living in the state.
1. Everyone knows about the Tommy Bartlett Show.
When we first meet Hyde's mom in the show, they mention that she was a waterskier for the Tommy Bartlett Show. While most wouldn't think twice about it, everyone from Wisconsin can appreciate the decade-long tradition of going to see the Tommy Bartlett Show in the Dells.
It's pop. Not soda. Not coke. Pop.
They must have had a Wisconsin native as one of their writers because I'm always surprised by all of the little details they incorporate into the show that are so specific to the state, including calling the sweet carbonated beverage 'pop!'
Being a Packer's fan is not an option.
If you're born in Wisconsin, you're a football fan. And more specifically, you're a Packer's fan. There's no arguing about it. Football is so instilled into the "culture" that there's really no way around it.
The same applies to being a UW fan.
We have A TON of pride for UW. Tradition runs crazy deep and no one can deny their undying loyalty to Bucky the Badger.
Beef, Cheese and alcohol are the main dietary needs of the average Wisconsinite.
GiphyIn one of the episodes, Red has to change his diet after he has a heart attack. When he has to eliminate beef, cheese and alcohol, he goes a little crazy. But if you've ever been to Wisconsin, you'd know that these foods are staples of every meal.
You have an American-made vehicle or nothing at all.
GiphyWisconsin is super blue collar, and we're proud of that. But because we're that way we have extreme pride in who we work for and the quality of American-made products.
Bob's accent.
Hey there, hi there, ho there! While Bob's accent may seem a bit exaggerated, there are certainly people living in Wisconsin who look, act and talk just like him.
The Piggly Wiggly is THE place to go for all of your grocery needs.
Piggly Wiggly's are all over WI and have that hometown grocery store feel. Whenever you walk into one, it feels like you're gonna run into your grandma while you're there.
"I love Wisconsin"
GiphyWhile it seems as though everyone tries their best to get out of Wisconsin, there's always just something so lovable about the place.
