 
Detroitrunaway
Member
Username: Detroitrunaway
Post Number: 17
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 10:26 am: |    |
Well...I must tell ya my opinion. Yes...the riot acts destroyed a lot of cities...later in the 80's...which is what I remember most...during the 'crack epidemic' (politically correct term)added fuel to the fire.
However, I think you can make the most out of your life in just about any city. I left Detroit in 1996...came back one year later...then moved again in 1999. But before my final (maybe) departure...I worked for the MetroTimes, which was also my entertainment bible. I must say...working there....I had immediate access to everything surrounding entertainment and local/weird news. I had the time of my life.
Now don't get me wrong, as a single woman I would never be caught in ANY area alone at night...The Points, Palmer Park, Rosedale, ClintonTwnship, SterlingHts,etc. There are dangerous people everywhere...and you must stay aware of your surroundings. I've also visited/lived in other states: Memphis, TN; Columbia, SC, Washington, D.C.; and now Baltimore...and my safety rule stands. I've found wonderful things about each city and do not regret any of the locations. I make my own happiness...not the city counsel, not the residents, not the viberant downtown areas, or the suburbs. I'm a fun/outgoing individual...so I look for things to make me smile. So no matter how many sad articles I read, or news flashes about another shooting, or a mass murder...I don't judge the city. I mean....would I judge NY cuz of 911, would I blame D.C. cuz of the sniper, would I hate Columbia because Susan Smith (i think that was her name) drowned her two boys in the water and blamed them being missing on a black man....hell no. So I say Jhart...get in touch with you...and you'll make the right decision. |
Iheartthed
Member
Username: Iheartthed
Post Number: 990
Registered: 04-2006
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 11:11 am: | |
When I was in A2 there was a rash of gas station robberies and an attendant was executed during one of them... |
Quozl
Member
Username: Quozl
Post Number: 793
Registered: 07-2005
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 11:17 am: | |
Funny, when I was in Ann Arbor I never saw a rash of gas station robberies or executions. |
Iheartthed
Member
Username: Iheartthed
Post Number: 991
Registered: 04-2006
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 11:17 am: | |
>Nice. Looking forward to more fine contributions.
LOL, right? Why is she even here? |
Jt1
Member
Username: Jt1
Post Number: 9429
Registered: 10-2003
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 11:20 am: | |
To clarify Iheart's post I qouted this fine gem by Margaret:
quote:left the same year I graduated from high school, 1969. have not even visited since 1975. so that tells you what I think of Detroit |
Margaret
Member
Username: Margaret
Post Number: 16
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 11:49 am: | |
have you ever heard of curiosity? maybe because it's been so long, I have found myself thinking about the high school years. Jt1, do you have a problem? I was simply suggesting that Jhart check out Chicago. I totally understand his feeling of being tired of Detroit and was trying to contribute an idea. |
Jt1
Member
Username: Jt1
Post Number: 9431
Registered: 10-2003
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 12:03 pm: | |
I was just making fun of the fact that you haven't been in Detroit for 32 years are still proclaiming that you don't like Detroit but participate.
If you don't see the silliness in that then I can't help you. |
Mayor_sekou
Member
Username: Mayor_sekou
Post Number: 1042
Registered: 09-2006
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 12:15 pm: | |
Went to Chi town a few weeks ago. For the first time I really went to Chi town meaning I stayed away from the North side and downtown. And honestly I can say it is just as shitty as any other city and without those aforementioned neighborhoods I would go so far as to say that there would be little difference between Chi-town and Detroit. Meaning there are just as many good and bad parts as there are here but the neighborhoods feel denser, there are actually alive commercial strips, and the redevelopment bug is far ahead of us there. But at least this is home. And I hate the Bulls and Chicago people talk to much.
So rejoice Detroit you may yet retain one of your college grad native sons. Next month I explore the east coast and I suspect that with the exception of the marvel called Manhattan I will feel exactly the same as I do about Chicago. |
Jt1
Member
Username: Jt1
Post Number: 9432
Registered: 10-2003
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 12:17 pm: | |
PS - Sometimes I just like being a jerk. 
So this is where you can say you don't return to Detroit because of the people like me. |
Iheartthed
Member
Username: Iheartthed
Post Number: 995
Registered: 04-2006
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 12:20 pm: | |
"Funny, when I was in Ann Arbor I never saw a rash of gas station robberies or executions."
Guess you weren't there when I was there. Which makes sense considering the vast age difference... |
Iheartthed
Member
Username: Iheartthed
Post Number: 996
Registered: 04-2006
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 12:33 pm: | |
>Mayor_sekou
You might like NYC a little lot more than Chicago. For as big of a city as this is, it runs incredibly efficient. Much more efficient than any part of metro Detroit that I have ever encountered... which is probably what appeals to me most about this place.
I'm a Detroiter at heart, but it was very easy for me to get acclimated to this place. It is easily my second favorite American city. I'm assuming that you're pretty much in my same age range, so my advice to you is that if you have never lived outside of Michigan then leave. Immediately, lol. Check something else out for a while and then go back. You'll have a much different perception of the problems faced by Detroit, and maybe even a better appreciation for the city. A very prominent Detroit figure gave me the same advice and it was one of the best pieces of advice anyone has ever given me. |
Mackinaw
Member
Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3011
Registered: 02-2005
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 12:38 pm: | |
I'm considering doing the same thing, Iheart. I may go to law school in NY or NJ, but I will need to weigh my opportunities there against probable scholarships at the Detroit law schools. Being paid to stay in a city which I love and want to be in during these years of change would be great, but since I want to be here in the long run, going east now makes sense. I just don't know. |
Detroitrulez
Member
Username: Detroitrulez
Post Number: 289
Registered: 12-2006
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 1:02 pm: | |
what a CROCK. ^^^ |
Iheartthed
Member
Username: Iheartthed
Post Number: 997
Registered: 04-2006
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 1:05 pm: | |
>Mackinaw
If you have a reasonable chance to go for it then I would suggest you go. Especially if you can be on the NY side of the river... |
Citylover
Member
Username: Citylover
Post Number: 2432
Registered: 07-2004
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 1:09 pm: | |
I don't know why but I am compelled to refute obvious falsities.........and MayorS has contributed one.
To say that there is little difference between chicago and detroit is well........I really can't be any more tactful, a lie. Chicago has decay as any big city.But chicago also has vibrant neighborhoods with lots of things going on_ hell a drive up lakeshore or up diversey will tell anyone that. Detroit in short does not have those things.
My allegiance is with Detroit as well.But I hae no illusions about what Detroit is and don't need to as my allegiance stands no matter what it is. |
Quozl
Member
Username: Quozl
Post Number: 798
Registered: 07-2005
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 1:13 pm: | |
Iheartthed wrote:quote:A very prominent Detroit figure gave me the same advice and it was one of the best pieces of advice anyone has ever given me.
Who is this "very prominent Detroit figure" who lays down advice like that? It must have been Oopsie the Clown or Sonny Elliot...
(Message edited by iheartthed on June 19, 2007)
(Message edited by quozl on June 19, 2007) |
Iheartthed
Member
Username: Iheartthed
Post Number: 998
Registered: 04-2006
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 1:14 pm: | |
Yeah, but what Chicago isn't is authentic... Which is why nobody outside of the U.S. can tell it a part from Detroit. |
Quozl
Member
Username: Quozl
Post Number: 799
Registered: 07-2005
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 1:19 pm: | |
^^^ You are so full of shit^^^ |
Iheartthed
Member
Username: Iheartthed
Post Number: 999
Registered: 04-2006
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 1:21 pm: | |
"Who is this "very prominent Detroit figure" who lays down advise like that? Must of been Oopsie the Clown or Sonny Elliot..."
I won't say but I assure you that he, Oopsie and Sonny know the difference between "advice" and "advise". |
Michigan
Member
Username: Michigan
Post Number: 549
Registered: 04-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 1:24 pm: | |
Guys, while Chicago is a nice town, New York is a great city. Mac and Iheart- I highly recommend going east or west for a period of time. If you choose New York, well you will be amazed at how well run a city of 8 million can be. There is no longer anywhere in Manhattan that is not safe. Queens, Brooklyn, Staten Island, even The Bronx all have Areas with row after row of multi-million dollar housing stock, and people are moving to them in droves. And, each one is its own city unto itself. Finally, New York is integrated, unlike Chicago. Many people of color have told me that they have been made to feel uncomfortable in certain Chicago neighborhoods, bars, and nightclubs. That won't happen in New York.
Chicago has better Mexican food than Manhattan, but not as good as Queens. Chicago seems to have better Thai food, But the Chinese and Japanese food in NY draws people from those actual countries. Everything else food wise, goes to New York. Add to that the fact that you are in, well, New York and things are pretty good.
I guess you see where my bias is. |
Citylover
Member
Username: Citylover
Post Number: 2433
Registered: 07-2004
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 1:25 pm: | |
Um Yeah right ihearththed chicago is not authentic...........whatever the hell that is supposed to mean |
Quozl
Member
Username: Quozl
Post Number: 800
Registered: 07-2005
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 1:26 pm: | |
Yea, wow, a spelling error, thanks for catching it, I know the difference too butthole surfer. You can't say because no one ever gave you the "advice". |
Iheartthed
Member
Username: Iheartthed
Post Number: 1000
Registered: 04-2006
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 1:26 pm: | |
>I guess you see where my bias is.
I live in New York, hence, my bias as well. |
Michigan
Member
Username: Michigan
Post Number: 550
Registered: 04-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 1:29 pm: | |
Where I heart? |
Iheartthed
Member
Username: Iheartthed
Post Number: 1001
Registered: 04-2006
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 1:32 pm: | |
"Yea, wow, a spelling error, thanks for catching it, I know the difference too butthole surfer. You can't say because no one ever gave you the 'advice'."
I didn't say "I can't", I said "I won't". Is that Alzheimer's setting in or just time to upgrade those sexy specs, Q? |
Iheartthed
Member
Username: Iheartthed
Post Number: 1002
Registered: 04-2006
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 1:33 pm: | |
>Where I heart?
Manh |
Quozl
Member
Username: Quozl
Post Number: 801
Registered: 07-2005
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 1:34 pm: | |
I would not waste your time Michigan. Iheart went on this same diatribe a few months back about Chicago, he offered nothing substantial to back up his/hers assertions, just pure Iheartthed BS... |
Belleislerunner
Member
Username: Belleislerunner
Post Number: 313
Registered: 12-2003
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 1:36 pm: | |
Comedy for the day...
"There is no longer anywhere in Manhattan that is not safe."
I appreciate we all have pride in where we live (I've lived in DC (Chinatown), NYC (W Harlem) and Detroit (Midtown)) but let's not get overzealous. |
Iheartthed
Member
Username: Iheartthed
Post Number: 1003
Registered: 04-2006
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 1:40 pm: | |
"Belleislerunner
Member
Username: Belleislerunner
Post Number: 313
Registered: 12-2003"
Congrats on your 313 post. |
Belleislerunner
Member
Username: Belleislerunner
Post Number: 314
Registered: 12-2003
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 1:44 pm: | |
Quality over quantity =) |
Michigan
Member
Username: Michigan
Post Number: 551
Registered: 04-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 1:47 pm: | |
I know, I know Belleisle. But I really do not feel unsafe anywhere in Manhattan anymore. Especially in the daytime. When di dyou live here (NY) last?
Chicago is a great place, and they have really done a tremendous job at rejuvenating the city proper. Does it still have areas that are depressed, absolutely, but it will come along with time.
Detroit has its own strengths (and weaknesses) and I think that if good government gets some time the place could be a jewel(I don't think casinos alone will be the answer).
Okay, sorry for the thread jacking |
Detroitrunaway
Member
Username: Detroitrunaway
Post Number: 18
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 2:18 pm: | |
I don't understand what's going on here. Will someone help me to understand. Why are we comparing Detroit w/ Chi-town, NY, and other cities? Detroit is and will not be these other cities. Not because we don't have the ability to improve in some aspects. But the fact is...those other cities are what they are...NY and Chi-town. If I want the feel of those cities....then I'll move there. I want Detroit to revitalize...but keep its individual (not in a person since) unique characteristics. I'm mean...this is Detroit. Please read my past comment today....I beg of you. |
Blksoul_x
Member
Username: Blksoul_x
Post Number: 1
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 2:24 pm: | |
'Jhartmich', by your comments, it appears you support the ideology of 'amerikkkanism', or the 'pie-in-the-sky' ideology. Ironically, the things that you desire within your living paradise is the beacon of social and ethnic oppression in which you are running from.
blksoul_x-atcha! |
Detroitrunaway
Member
Username: Detroitrunaway
Post Number: 19
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 2:26 pm: | |
My reasons of moving in the first place was not because I thought Detroit sucked...but because I'm adventerous...and wanted to see how other regions went about with their daily lives. Just like an explorer venturing out into space...but comes back to earth...or a diver exploring the marine life...and reports back to us (earth). The reason I bought a home in Baltimore is because of circumstances...I met someone and got a great job...so I stayed. But if that was not the case, the percentages of me moving back was very high. |
Jjw
Member
Username: Jjw
Post Number: 341
Registered: 10-2005
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 2:32 pm: | |
Hey Detroitrunaway: Question for you... Were you in Patterson Park in Baltimore taking pictures of the bike race about three weeks ago? Just curious... |
Michigan
Member
Username: Michigan
Post Number: 552
Registered: 04-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 2:32 pm: | |
Druanawy- Exactly, that is why I apologized for the thread jacking. Detroit has to become great as Detroit, not by mimicking other cities. Detroit has plenty of homegrown things that are spectacular, unlike some other small cities. There is no need for Detroit to be anything but itself, just bring its best aspects to the fore front.
Jhart, you can always come back if you leave!
If I may paraphrase here- "'Blksoul_x', by your comments it appears you support the ideology of "idiocy", or "pie-in-your-face" lunacy. Ironically, the things you posted make you sound like a dolt."
Michigan-atcha |
Blksoul_x
Member
Username: Blksoul_x
Post Number: 2
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 2:36 pm: | |
'Detroitrunaway'__ your post name ought to be 'Detroitcastaway'!
Blksoul_x-atcha! |
Detroitrunaway
Member
Username: Detroitrunaway
Post Number: 20
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 2:41 pm: | |
actually, no I wasn't there....damn! did I miss that. I was downtown at the Harbor....touring the antique boats....drunk a beer at HardRock...and watched a live Go-Go Band....ChuckBrown...father of gogo...for those of you who don't know what gogo is....its a sub-genre of funk music...born in DC. |
Detroitrunaway
Member
Username: Detroitrunaway
Post Number: 21
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 2:43 pm: | |
Michigan....I did read your post...it went over my head for a sec...about the thread jacking...its cool. Like you (and as hard for me to say....that crazy new person blksoul) I don't want to lose more detroiters. I'm living with it everyday of my life. |
Michigan
Member
Username: Michigan
Post Number: 555
Registered: 04-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 2:46 pm: | |
I think BLKsoul_x is a fake, just as Eec was. THose crazy conservatives trying give the liberals a dose of their own medicine! |
Detroitrunaway
Member
Username: Detroitrunaway
Post Number: 22
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 2:49 pm: | |
Michigan...I'm not sure where blksoul is going with his comments...lets give him/her the opportunity to explain further...but our main objective is to save a few souls from leaving...we need them. but in all honesty....just like u said...jhart...can always come back. |
Jjw
Member
Username: Jjw
Post Number: 342
Registered: 10-2005
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 2:54 pm: | |
Detroitrunaway: Sorry about that. I met someone taking pics who had just moved here from Detroit and told her about this web site. Thought it may have been you. |
Detroitrunaway
Member
Username: Detroitrunaway
Post Number: 23
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 3:03 pm: | |
oh...okay...it would have been nice to see that person's comments that you met. Its funny...because I live about 10-12 minutes from Patterson Park. Small world.
Has anyone else been to Baltimore? or heard things about it? It has somewhat of the same reputation as Detroit. As soon as I started investigating B-More...I felt a connection and have stated that it reminds me of the 'D'. I felt right at home...that's probably why I don't get home sick too often. Go figure. |
Mackinaw
Member
Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3014
Registered: 02-2005
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 3:07 pm: | |
Baltimore seems nice. I've never been in its downtown, though.
For you New Yorkers watching this thread: what are your thoughts on Newark, NJ. It seems like it is undergoing a resurgence like Detroit, appears to have a nice enough downtown and some good neighborhoods, and is clearly in a great location for commuting to NYC or other towns in central NJ. Do any of you know enough about it to recommend a neighborhood to live in there? |
Dede313
Member
Username: Dede313
Post Number: 19
Registered: 11-2006
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 3:11 pm: | |
Thats right Andy. If you dont feel safe in Detroit..MOVE..we dont care(my thug element coming out)Be happy! Western Michigan is nice and still ``city like`` |
Iheartthed
Member
Username: Iheartthed
Post Number: 1004
Registered: 04-2006
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 3:22 pm: | |
>Do any of you know enough about it to recommend a neighborhood to live in there?
Newark has a pretty bad rep around here, almost synonymous to Detroit's rep in metro Detroit. I don't know any neighborhood names, but I do know that there are some nice areas around Rutgers. It also doesn't appear to be as far along on its resurgence as Detroit. It is much more car oriented than NYC, but Newark Penn Station is about 15-20 minutes by train from NY Penn Station.
It's also a lot smaller than Detroit.
But a lot more of a big city feel than Ann Arbor, even though it isn't that much larger.
(Message edited by iheartthed on June 19, 2007)
(Message edited by iheartthed on June 19, 2007) |
Mackinaw
Member
Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3016
Registered: 02-2005
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 3:28 pm: | |
It's smaller, but it is dense and is part of a major huge area, so I'm thinking even living in Newark would give a good flavor of east coast living, no?
As for Manhattan, I'm starting to rule myself out of NYU, but I'm aiming for Fordham (its law school is near Lincoln Center). |
Iheartthed
Member
Username: Iheartthed
Post Number: 1006
Registered: 04-2006
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 3:32 pm: | |
Newark has a cheaper cost of living and convenient access, but if you want the true "east cost" (i.e. NY) experience then nothing beats living right in the city. If you plan on going to school in the city I would recommend Jersey City before Newark if you're looking for a cheaper cost of living. |
Mackinaw
Member
Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3017
Registered: 02-2005
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 3:42 pm: | |
Thanks for the info. |
Michigan
Member
Username: Michigan
Post Number: 557
Registered: 04-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 3:54 pm: | |
DetroitRUn- you are always a calm voice of reason. I like Baltimore, I go there occasionaly. My Sis lives in Takoma Park, so sometimes when visiting her we day trip to Baltimore. I see an awful lot of similarities to Detroit.
Mackinaw- In Newark I would recommend the "Iron Bound" district. That would be excellent if you are at Rutgers.
If you go to Fordham and want to save some money by avoiding Manhattan rents I would recommend several neighborhoods in Brooklyn, or Hoboken in New Jersey. Both are right over a river (the East or the Hudson) and both have gave good subway access (The path for Hoboken and to many to list for Brooklyn). Maybe even better would be Astoria or Long Island City in Queens. Superb subway access to them both and they are really starting to blossom. You also would closer to campus. If you want more info let me know and we can discuss this in detail. Hey, might even get a NY contingent going for this board. The key for you is to avoid driving or even owning a car if possible.
(Message edited by michigan on June 19, 2007) |
Mackinaw
Member
Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3018
Registered: 02-2005
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 4:06 pm: | |
Absolutely. I actually don't want a car for as long as possible just to avoid expenses and the poor investment of purchasing one. If I stay in Detroit I will live within walking distance of school.
Thanks for the info. |
Jjw
Member
Username: Jjw
Post Number: 343
Registered: 10-2005
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 4:17 pm: | |
Maybe I'm missing something Michigan and Detroitrunaway but I've lived in both Detroit and Baltimore for about the same amount of time and I really don't see that many similarities at all other than the high murder rates. Help me out here? |
Islandman
Member
Username: Islandman
Post Number: 529
Registered: 08-2004
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 4:26 pm: | |
Michigan,
Don't forget Jersey City. A lot closer than Hoboken. For Detroiters, imagine living in Windsor and catching the subway to downtown Detroit for work.
Edit: Oops..just noticed Jersey City was mentioned.
(Message edited by Islandman on June 19, 2007) |
Detroitrunaway
Member
Username: Detroitrunaway
Post Number: 24
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 4:34 pm: | |
thanks for the compliment Michigan. One day...when you're in the area...we'll have to have a cocktail...or a soda...which ever u prefer. :-)
I don't much about NJ...but I'm now closer to it. I guess I'll have to make my way up there...to investigate. |
Michigan
Member
Username: Michigan
Post Number: 560
Registered: 04-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 4:34 pm: | |
Hoboken seems a little younger IM, thats all. |
Xd_brklyn
Member
Username: Xd_brklyn
Post Number: 245
Registered: 10-2003
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 4:35 pm: | |
Mackinaw, if you are looking at Fordham, you should also look at some of the Westchester towns along the Metro-North Harlem River Line. Affordable and less than an half-hour from Grand Central. These towns are quieter and the air quality is better up there than anywhere here in the city.
Have no idea what kind of environment/neighborhood you are looking for, so this is not a recommendation, but just wanted to add another option here. |
Mackinaw
Member
Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3019
Registered: 02-2005
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 4:38 pm: | |
I know Westchester has to be nice, but if I go out there I'll definitly be looking for something in an inner city, if at all possible. Thanks. |
Rms
Member
Username: Rms
Post Number: 50
Registered: 11-2005
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 4:56 pm: | |
Worked in A2 and lived in Ypsi for years. Ypsi and A2 both have that small town comfortable feel, which can be nice. But Detroit was always the place to go explore. It has an allure because of its past grandeur, which the younger population is just rediscovering. My generation was taught to stay away by people my parents age. It's hard to understand, but growing up in the burbs, this has always been my city.
As I started to discover Detroit during and shortly after college years, special occasions would bring me here - New Years Eve, a group meal for an important occasion, theater, museums, EMkt, neighborhood tours, etc. I attended that Firehouse Loft kickoff party at the north end of EMkt a few weeks back and it was quite the event. I can't think of any apartment or condo development that had that kind of splash in A2, Ypsi, or Novi.
Detroit has some of the better architecture of the region. I imagine it as it was, and thrill as I see it coming back to life. I want to be a part of that. We are such a disposable society. New new new is better better better. NOT. Part of my commitment to be here is to ensure that at least one more place, one more part of our history, is maintained.
I also find that I meet really interesting people here. I have more unusual experiences here - good ones, that make life more interesting. |
Detroitrunaway
Member
Username: Detroitrunaway
Post Number: 25
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 5:02 pm: | |
RMS....I can't have put it better.
that was very nice to read....as i head out the door. |
Detroitrunaway
Member
Username: Detroitrunaway
Post Number: 26
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 5:05 pm: | |
jjw...I was just in a conversation about my post. And I've only lived in B-more for a short time...not even a year...but I have a feeling in me that makes it feel like home...so i'm still investigating. If I'm wrong...I'll post later...if the thread is still availalbe.
no one is unreachable from correction. :-) |
Jjw
Member
Username: Jjw
Post Number: 344
Registered: 10-2005
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 5:23 pm: | |
I'm glad you feel at home and welcome. After one year, you will get your official "Baltimoron" badge. |
Michigan
Member
Username: Michigan
Post Number: 563
Registered: 04-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 5:31 pm: | |
lol jjw
I find the old somewhat disused industrial areas, not to mention the abandoned housing somewhat reminiscent of Detroit. But I also see Baltimore's relationship to Maryland as somewhat similar to Detroit's with Michigan. |
Jjw
Member
Username: Jjw
Post Number: 345
Registered: 10-2005
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 5:36 pm: | |
Michigan, you are right on both accounts; although I will say that the state of Maryland supports Baltimore a lot more than Michigan supports Detroit. Could be because the size of the state is so much smaller and it doesn't hurt to have former mayors as governors. Thanks for responding. Some people here don't get the punch line above. Always amusing. |
Blksoul_x
Member
Username: Blksoul_x
Post Number: 3
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 5:56 pm: | |
Hey 'Detroitcastaway'eeer runaway__methinks the politicians that reside in your area(DC-ville)has rubbed off on you. You sound like a politician, always flip-flopping__go figure!
There is not a clear distinction in the two cities. Detroit has a well known historical distinction__ one that consist of music, automobiles, art and sports teams.
From a national standpoint, I can't say that about Baltimore. Perhaps it would be safe to compare Baltimore to other 2nd tier east-coast cities.
Detroit has it's own self mastery, one that consist innately of Black southern tradition and hostile white bourgeoisie, where as each side reflects its perspective uniqueness in all margins of people activity in the surrounding area.
Blksoul_x-atcha! |
Michigan
Member
Username: Michigan
Post Number: 568
Registered: 04-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 6:09 pm: | |
Jjw, I think you are right about Mayors as Governors. THat makes a big difference. Also I think Maryland sees that the east coast corridor is so dense that every incremental improvement that they can make in Baltimore will bring more people (and their tax dollars) from DC, Philadelphia, New York. What I mean is, those cities are all growing outward very quickly. Baltimore is surrounded by them and perfectly poised to absorb the overflow from them(The way Toledo grew when Detroit was booming). Detroit is more isolated Geographically from other large growing urban centers. It means they have to work much harder to attract people to the city. I hope this made some sense. |
Pipdid
Member
Username: Pipdid
Post Number: 4
Registered: 01-2006
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 7:49 pm: | |
Mackinaw, I have a surprising suggestion for where you might live if you go to school in New York. The Bronx...don't laugh. I knew that my brother-in-law lived in the Bronx and always assumed it was pretty horrible. I finally visited just a few weeks ago and was impressed.
Where he lives is very different from the infamous South Bronx. He has an apartment right near the Metro commuter rail station and it overlooks the beautiful Bronx Botanical Garden and near Fordham University. It also seems affordable and undiscovered.
What is really great about it, as a city lover and architect, is that it is so easy to hop on the train and in just a couple of stops, you emerge into Grand Central Station in the heart of Manhattan. Forget Weschester...Do the Bronx.
I have good friends who bought a very nice place in Jersey City. I agree that, like Hoboken, its nice and very convenient to Manhattan but I bet its pretty pricy these days. |
Mackinaw
Member
Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3020
Registered: 02-2005
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 7:55 pm: | |
I look forward to seeing the whole city. Thanks for the advice. I definitely would not count the Bronx out, especially with the fact that I'm also looking at Newark, and I don't have to be that picky because Detroit is my standard up to this point. I'll gravitate towards areas, therefore, that have potential and plenty of positive aspects, in spite of reputation.
Rms, great post. You hit on a lot of important points that form my view of why Detroit is important. |
Detroitrunaway
Member
Username: Detroitrunaway
Post Number: 27
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 8:04 pm: | |
alright ya'll...I'm back.
Got to read the hits from about 5pm....i'll get back into the swing of things in a few minutes...
ps...thanks jjw for the warm welcome...with your crazy ass LOL |
Pipdid
Member
Username: Pipdid
Post Number: 5
Registered: 01-2006
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 8:12 pm: | |
Mackinaw, remember that the Bronx, (at least this area), has a much shorter and easier commute into Manhattan. And that you will treat yourself twice a day by passing thru that great space at Grand Central. It's like living my fantasy of what Michigan Central ought to be. |
Margaret
Member
Username: Margaret
Post Number: 17
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 8:15 pm: | |
Jt1 - no problem here. wow, quite a discussion today.
Jhart - so, now what do you think? are you headed to Baltimore? Chicago? Newark? Manhattan? Paris? Rome? Florence? Athens? you sure did get a lively thread going here, didn't you? I say, the sky's the limit, get out there and experiment if you can. I enjoyed the hell out of living in San Francisco for five years, but that was in the early 70s. I also think that the controversial "advice" here, from Iheart I think it was, about leaving Detroit for a while and then returning, is very good advice. Whoever it came from, it makes sense to me. there is no substitute for perspective. |
Detroitrunaway
Member
Username: Detroitrunaway
Post Number: 28
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 8:32 pm: | |
margaret....u came back and made an impressive impact. |
Why
Member
Username: Why
Post Number: 18
Registered: 04-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 9:54 pm: | |
It's really a shame to see people have second thoughts about living in Ann Arbor. I lived there in the early 90's and had a great time. I just couldn't see myself growing older there when the general, college age population, stays the same age.
I reconsidered Ann Arbor in the late 90's and found it was nothing more than the new Detroit for Belleville and Ypsilanti. Droves of thugs hanging out everywhere. Ann Arbor? Neo-Detroit is what it is. It's absolutely surrounded just like every other gem of a city in S.E. Michigan. |
Jhartmich
Member
Username: Jhartmich
Post Number: 59
Registered: 04-2006
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 11:39 pm: | |
Wow! What did I start here. This post seems to have gone all over the place. |
Michigan
Member
Username: Michigan
Post Number: 574
Registered: 04-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 11:44 pm: | |
PIPdid- how nice to start your ride overlooking Spyten Dyvil in Riverdale (home of the Kennedys, the Simons as in SImon&Schuster, Carly Simon) and end your ride in Grand Central.
And relatively inexpensive. |
Fjw718
Member
Username: Fjw718
Post Number: 109
Registered: 11-2005
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - 11:55 pm: | |
Michigan - Thats the HUDSON line, i think PipDid's brother lives on the HARLEM line, which runs through central bronx and not along the east river. A little less scenic. |
Mallory
Member
Username: Mallory
Post Number: 136
Registered: 05-2006
| | Posted on Wednesday, June 20, 2007 - 9:58 am: | |
I left my city of birth in 1991. I now live in Florida, and would move back in a heartbeat. I miss it very much, which is why I am on this website daily. I feel your pain, though. I always heard the phrase "if we could all just come together" when I lived there, yet no one ever "came together." 16 years later, its the same ole same ole. But with all of its dents and dings, it's still a great place. Remember, you're never going to run away from crime. You'll find a nicer place to live, but the threat of crime will still be there. Welcome to the 21st century, I'm afraid.
Although I hear that it is really nice in Switzerland... |
Elviswithteeth
Member
Username: Elviswithteeth
Post Number: 15
Registered: 03-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, June 20, 2007 - 10:26 am: | |
Sweep the floors...Turn out the lights...Take out the trash! Bring in Toyota! UAW is in for a rude awakening this fall! Doing time? Give me a break! Retirees... stop whinning! |
Michigan
Member
Username: Michigan
Post Number: 579
Registered: 04-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, June 20, 2007 - 11:07 am: | |
thanks for clarifying FJW, still, lots of nice housing stock available in central bronx ( and Harlem but much more expensive!)
Okay enough about other cities! Why should Jhart stay in DETROIT? |
Detroitrunaway
Member
Username: Detroitrunaway
Post Number: 29
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, June 20, 2007 - 12:38 pm: | |
Elvis....I don't get it...clarify please.
Mallory...Good one.
Jhart....yeah...you got us going pretty good. But it's worth it. I'm trying to make more time to help out here in B-more. First by upkeeping my own property, next will be to get involved in the community, etc. Every little bit helps.
P.S. BlkSoul_x is mighty quiet. Maybe its for the best. He's not very friendly is he? But then again, I guess we're not here to make friends, just making a difference. |
Jjw
Member
Username: Jjw
Post Number: 346
Registered: 10-2005
| | Posted on Wednesday, June 20, 2007 - 1:46 pm: | |
JHart's decision is ultimately his to make. If his pros outweigh his cons, then stay in Detroit and add to the city's rebirth. If the cons outweigh the pros, game over and time to hit the road. One proverb worth remembering is that the grass is not always greener on the other side. Hopefully his decision will be practical and lead to a happy and successful future. |
Civilprotectionunit4346
Member
Username: Civilprotectionunit4346
Post Number: 13
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, June 20, 2007 - 2:20 pm: | |
I am debating about moving too. I like the people here, it's just the whole economic & job situation. It doesn't seem to be improving and the way thing's are looking with unemployment rates rising here. I don't think the Auto industry if it does try and come back will have a big impact. The strange thing is that this has been happening for a long time and not alot of people in power have been doing much to help the situation here. Companies like Google have come and brought some job's here, but still the state will need some other industry. Michigan needs to look elsewhere then the auto industry to bring the economic situation to a more better status. |
Detroitrunaway
Member
Username: Detroitrunaway
Post Number: 30
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, June 20, 2007 - 2:29 pm: | |
Civil...I had the same thoughts. Cars and music is in the past. We need to refocus our efforts on implementing new industries for Detroit....or better yet...Michgan as a whole.
Rms stated that better, better,better is not always the best...we must hold on to culture and historic aspects but I'm sure Rms will agree that if anything we need new are jobs...ie: a future for our children. |
Margaret
Member
Username: Margaret
Post Number: 19
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, June 20, 2007 - 2:58 pm: | |
it would be so great to see Detroit and other cities get really and truly creative with their economies: how about somehow utilizing this new computerized era to their advantage? converting the old plants into...? data processing? manufacturing computers? I don't know, something like that? It seems to me that with the advent of the computer age, there are so many possibilities that do NOT have to include polluting the environment. just ideas... |
Mackinaw
Member
Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3022
Registered: 02-2005
| | Posted on Wednesday, June 20, 2007 - 3:20 pm: | |
Margaret, you should come back for a visit.
TechTown is focused on harboring the sorts of industries you mentioned. Let's not pretend, though, that we are devoid of anything other than standard manufacturing industries. The diversification of the Detroit economy has corresponded with the recent uptick in economic activity in the city, especially downtown. Compuware? EDS? The DMC and all of its research? Biodiesel production coming to New Center? Rock Financial in all likelihood coming to downtown? Aren't these, in addition to all the mainstays of the various professional/service industries, examples of advanced, new economy sectors that don't "pollute the environment." If your imagining the hazy, sout-covered, smelly Detroit of 40 years ago, stop. The really good news about this is that 40 years ago we did not know what was about to hit us and our industries, and we failed to prepare. Now we can see the light at the end of the tunnel, and finally react, change, and adapt. |
Crew
Member
Username: Crew
Post Number: 1292
Registered: 02-2004
| | Posted on Wednesday, June 20, 2007 - 3:23 pm: | |
Mackinaw, In reality the DMC does very little research. I believe you mean the research done by WSU, partly on the DMC campus. |
Mackinaw
Member
Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3023
Registered: 02-2005
| | Posted on Wednesday, June 20, 2007 - 4:29 pm: | |
True, True. Tons of people working for the DMC are involved though. A lot of adjunct faculty. The point is that biomedical science/research, an ever-emerging field, is strong in Detroit. |
Detroitrunaway
Member
Username: Detroitrunaway
Post Number: 31
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, June 20, 2007 - 5:05 pm: | |
Wow! Hey Margaret...Mackinaw and Crew has done some impressive research on the happenings in Detroit. I usually get most of my information from the family...and occassional browsing on the web. But now...I know who I'm using as a resource...YOU Guys. Keep up the good work. Spread the news.
Which reminds me...does anyone have any advice on how I can sell my VP on holding some of our conventions in Detroit. Normally, its the job of one of our planners (which I'm not). I don't want to step on anyones toes...but I've got this burning desire to convince her somehow. The thing is, I don't have any meeting planning skills, don't know how to gather the necessary information that she may want, I have some idea (as to what will accommodate the conference size) but want to really present something special where it would be difficult for her to ignore Detroit. She has mentioned in the past that she looked into Detroit, but the lack of hotel rooms (one of our conference has an attendance of 7,000) have been an issue before. Our memebers are very picky...and want the best. If anyone has suggestions...please give me detail info on how to go about it. It will be my contribution to the city we all love. Heading home now...I'll check back around 7pm. |
Mackinaw
Member
Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3025
Registered: 02-2005
| | Posted on Wednesday, June 20, 2007 - 5:18 pm: | |
Drunaway, with some persuasion and good proposals you could make it happen. There's a thread on here right now about the Detroit Metro Convention/Visitors Bureau and their new campaign to get conventions. Perhaps you could get some literature from them. If your conferences is really that large, perhaps you could arrange a conference call or face-to-face between your boss and a DMCVB rep. Cobo can clearly handle major conferences, and we are well on our way to having plenty of hotel rooms. In a year or two you'll be sitting pretty for a downtown event...all the hotels we currently have plus the Westin Book Cadillac and the casino hotels. The Doubletree Fort-Shelby rehab won't be far behind.
There's always plenty to do downtown, and the cleanliness and level of activity will leave most downtown visitors with a good impression.
...you SHOULD pay close attention to Detroityes to get your info on the city. I live up here but still need to visit this site to feel informed, because so much relevant news is clustered here. |
Detroitrunaway
Member
Username: Detroitrunaway
Post Number: 32
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, June 20, 2007 - 7:06 pm: | |
Mackinaw...thanx. I'll start with the DMCVB. I'll do some weekend research (only time I have) and I'll see what I can come up with. In addition, I'll gather what I can on our large and signature conferences....will call up a rep, present my department contacts and hope for the best. Who knows, I may even get a promotion out of it. That would be nice...more money means more trips to the 'D'. OOH! I'm so excited. |
Margaret
Member
Username: Margaret
Post Number: 20
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Thursday, June 21, 2007 - 3:30 pm: | |
thanks, Mackinaw and Detroitrunaway...you're right, Mack, I have those old images in my pea brain. but I'm glad I said what I did, cuz it got you guys to discuss that stuff. thanks for the info! perhaps I should come back for a visit, but it would be very expensive for me, since I live way out here in western Montana (where we too could use economic developments like the ones you were talking about)...
and Drunaway, good luck with your convention and/or promotion! too bad the BobLo boat is no longer an attraction, right? oh the memories I have of Captain BobLo and the island picnics, the - what was it? - Mighty Maus? that jerky, scary roller coaster...I realize I digress...
and Mack, I am happy to read your remarks on how much the city has cleaned up its act. so, the question is, how is that changing and adapting going? and getting back to the origin of this thread, perhaps part of that changing and adapting needs to be an effort to get on top of that "thug" element that's driving everyone nuts? perhaps this discussion can help Jhart think about staying in Detroit: contributing to the changing and adapting, etc. ok, I swear I'll shut up now. LOL. |
Mackinaw
Member
Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3053
Registered: 02-2005
| | Posted on Thursday, June 21, 2007 - 4:24 pm: | |
I don't think it's wrong that you left and saw other places and got some perspective, which is valuable. But you cannot take advantage of your perspectives unless you come back and see what the city looks like today.
The changing and adapting is going well. There is more interest in living and working in Detroit than in the last three decades at least.
Midtown has boomed. The Woodward corridor is looking as good as it has in decades thanks to rehabs of apartments, warehouses, etc. There has been plenty of new construction, with more of the way. This has been spurred by an interest in the younger generations to live near where they work and study...namely, more Wayne State people are living in Detroit.
The East Riverfront is the next example of changing/adapting. It was an industrial/warehouse armpit, and then when the industries fled, it became a depressed area with a few random clubs and bars. Now, the transition to a vibrant mixed use neighborhood which capitalizes on the waterfront is being initiated.
Downtown is transforming successfully. Campus Martius, new office buildings, Book-Cadillac...
Detroit has become an entertainment and leisure destination, and this will become even more true with the casino hotels having been finished, and the Civic Center transformed. It is not much of a shopping destination, yet. It is seeing the creation of new economy jobs i.e. high tech like I mentioned before. Employers have been and will continue to be moving there. If you keep an eye on this forum you will know whether/if/when Quicken Loans moves as many as 5,000 workers to Detroit.
These are our adaptations. The mayor and the Economic Growth Corporation have aggressively pursued employers, and developers to build/renovate housing to make the central city a 24/7 place with a substantial population. The model could very well be central city Philadelphia...there's an incredibly vibrant mix of housing, businesses, parks, and entertainment in that downtown, with a large population right there in/around the CBD. This is what we're striving for. That is new and different thinking...in the old days downtown was a 9-5 place for workers.
And it's not just downtown improving. As noted, Midtown is growing just as fast, and a number of neighborhoods are as strong as they have been in a while. Woodbridge, Corktown, Indian Village, Mexicantown...
Stay tuned. |
Detroitrunaway
Member
Username: Detroitrunaway
Post Number: 36
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Thursday, June 21, 2007 - 7:35 pm: | |
I guess we're all agree that Detroit is making a come back....downtown, cass corridor (oops! I mean midtown :-) and other attraction areas are good reasons to live in the city. But the what remains to be a struggle is the job opportunity and the neighborhoods.
I grew up on the east side of Detroit. Gratiot, btwn outer drive and six mile...right on the other side of the city airport. And speaking of the city airport (i'm venturing off my original point for a moment) remember when C. Young promise to expand by moving the cemetary? he made that empty promise without getting the permission of the decease family members. Well we all know what happended; nothing. The commercial airline that did service it pulled out. The short runways were a danger to the passengers. smart move. But I do miss those $30 roundtrip tix to chi-town. :-(
But getting back on track...I remember giving my friends directions to our house. We used to be the 8th house off the corner, once you turned off gratiot. later our house turned into the 3rd house off the corner. all the rest of the homes were torned down due to...well all kinds of destructive crap. Later, the second block on our street was well known to people as the block to get your drugs. I knew there was activity, but it wasn't until my sister's boyfriend, who was from Roseville mentioned to his friends where his girl lived....and they almost had a fit...asking "man you could have been picking up for us all this time...if we knew she lived there". As like the rest of the neighborhoods.
My family moved to East English Villiage, we they reside now. Very nice...has maintain over the decades of blight.
The neighorhoods must make a come back so that people can live in other areas besides the lofts and condos in the immediate dtown area.
My mother used to say "I don't know why they tore down all those housing development (projects) now the roaches have scattered all over the city".
For those who may have resided in those projects...no disrespect...there were some decent people there...just in a tough situation. But the rest of them can go straight to....they did this to the city. With their "renters mentality". I've been broke many times...struggled and made payment arrangements with bill collectors...but I kept my place a spic and span as possible. I loved to paint my apartment with viberant colors...just painted it back white so I could get my security deposit back. I picked up trash around my area. and made the best out of my small rental resident. But my god...just because things are bad...don't add fuel to the fire. |
Margaret
Member
Username: Margaret
Post Number: 21
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 2:40 pm: | |
ok, Mackinaw, I am actually going to go look at Detroit on the general Net and see what sort of attractions are there now. my 40th high school reunion is coming up in two years...hmmmm perhaps I would consider a visit there, perhaps. I really am happy to hear what you say about the adapting and the improvements. that's great! I looked at the photos on the "Tour Detroit" here on this site, and the river looks beautiful. not brown and gray like it used to when I was a kid. one time my sister and I were really, really hot down at Lakewood Park, sat on those great big chunks of concrete by the river, got pretty wet, and when we got home our Mom had a huge fit because we had gotten wet with river water. that's how bad it was, on the east side anyway.
I'm like Detroitrunaway, too, with that heartbreak over the neighborhoods: we had a wonderful old house on the far east side, on Lakewood, between Jefferson and Kercheval; it was a gem - big porch, oak beams on the living room ceiling, even a "butler's pantry" if you can believe that; I always thought it really belonged on a bluff overlooking Lake Michigan somewhere near Saugatuck...and I wish it had been, because after my folks finally gave up on that good old neighborhood -- after my Mom got mugged!! -- they lost tons of money on the sale of the house, moved to Allen Park, and a few years later our fantastic old house was so trashed it got torn down!!! what gives??? everyone says HUD HUD HUD...really? I have a HUD house deal, and I've done so many improvements people don't recognize the little house I call home. like Drunaway says, just because things are bad, don't add fuel to the fire: was HUD to blame for the renters or buyers trashing the places? destructive crap is right, it's truly unbelievable what happened to our old neighborhood. that was a beautiful old place...tall trees, a good mix of homes, neat people. and the huge loss to my folks, when they felt forced to sell for so much less than that house was really worth, almost ruined them. I totally agree with Drunaway: the people who did that destructive crap to our neighborhood can go straight to...
Dad worked for Uniroyal for 40 years, first at the Jefferson plant and then near Allen Park. or in Allen Park, I can't remember. did Uniroyal pull out of Detroit? or are they still over there in the western suburbs? just curious. I know MIchelin bought that company, right?
but yes, Mack, I will stay tuned. and I'm glad to have this information. thanks again! |