Let the Cable TV wars begin: Wayne Cablevision gets the first go-ahead
Prior to the start of the 1980s, television antennas and rotors were the only means to grab on-air television stations. A Downriver resident would be guaranteed channels 2, 4, 7 and 9 on the VHF dial, and were rewarded with a bonus if channels 11 and 13 came through, meaning it was a "good weather day."
All of this would change with the advent of cable television, which made its inroads in 1979, and the competition for provider awards (known as franchise agreements) would be more fierce than anticipated. Leading the charge would be Canadian-based MacLean-Hunter, under the local name of Wayne Cablevision. Cable television had already made inroads in Canada, partially by utilizing signal feeds from American stations to offer to Canadian subscribers. With the idea having become extremely popular in the Northeast, areas in the Midwest were now being targeted for cable TV service. |
In the spring of 1980, while Taylor City Council had originally awarded the franchise agreement to Wayne Cablevision and was awaiting final approval, another company took the opposing charge. United Cable, based in Colorado, would take out a full-page ad in the Detroit News and Free Press in March of 1980, imploring the city to renege on the agreement and open the matter for further discussion. Their ultimate goal was to strengthen the U.S. economy and ensure that as many cable providers as possible be American-based. Barry Gage, who was president of MacLean-Hunter's cable division, was astounded "that a company would try to blackmail the Taylor City Council. It's all sour grapes from a bad loser."
A sidenote here would be that two smaller, American-based companies were also in the running for the Taylor franchise agreement: Teleprompter and Metrovision, though they were not referred to by name in the original United Cable advertisement. Within the ad itself was a form that could be mailed into a Wyandotte post office box, identified only as "Buy American." By this time, United had in fact scored the franchise agreement for Lincoln Park, but Vice President of Marketing Mark Van Loucks continued their aggressive push by stating, "This country is in a real pickle. Where else would the argument to buy American be more appropriate than in Detroit?"
Taylor Mayor Donald Zub implied that the matter was, for the most part, closed. "(United is) wrapping themselves in the flag. They are using any tool they can. But it's not going to work. Our people are too smart for it." A related matter involved city Attorney Donald DiBiasi's reported 10% share in MacLean-Hunter possibly influencing the city's decision to approve. He would also indicate that United was being vengeful of its loss.
A sidenote here would be that two smaller, American-based companies were also in the running for the Taylor franchise agreement: Teleprompter and Metrovision, though they were not referred to by name in the original United Cable advertisement. Within the ad itself was a form that could be mailed into a Wyandotte post office box, identified only as "Buy American." By this time, United had in fact scored the franchise agreement for Lincoln Park, but Vice President of Marketing Mark Van Loucks continued their aggressive push by stating, "This country is in a real pickle. Where else would the argument to buy American be more appropriate than in Detroit?"
Taylor Mayor Donald Zub implied that the matter was, for the most part, closed. "(United is) wrapping themselves in the flag. They are using any tool they can. But it's not going to work. Our people are too smart for it." A related matter involved city Attorney Donald DiBiasi's reported 10% share in MacLean-Hunter possibly influencing the city's decision to approve. He would also indicate that United was being vengeful of its loss.
Despite the overall road toward MacLean-Hunter's final approval in the Downriver communities, United promised something unprecedented in its 27 year history: a door-to-door campaign, both by mail and in person, basically going over the heads of the city council. The $25,000 full page ad, they said, was just the beginning of what they promised to be a barrage of ads with no budget limitations, as well as letters to individuals, businesses, and union members. (Contributor: Matt Burb)
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"It is time to stand up for American business, American investment, American jobs! Please consider my opinion in your final decision." |
Downriver tries to show its true grit as the 1980s commence
As the 1980s began, one of Downriver's most important industries would show signs of trouble.
McLouth Steel, successful for over 40 years in Metro Detroit, a staple in Trenton for 32 years and in Gibraltar for 26 years, began to suffer budget trouble. They had made adjustments in the latter half of the 1970s by reducing payroll and positions from their 1950s heights. Yet as the decade began, payroll remained at approximately 3,775.
More sobering news was provided by the Downriver Community Conference (DCC). It was estimated that Downriver unemployment could be in the 30% range, affecting 30,000 to 35,000 people. Of these, 25,000 were UAW workers, 1,500 at McLouth, 2,000 at Great Lakes Steel, 870 at BASF Wyandotte, plus other yet-to-be-announced layoffs at Dana Corp. and Pennwalt.
It is relatively safe to assume that most of those people - and thousands of others - would witness one of the fiercest weather events to hit the area since the 1950s.
McLouth Steel, successful for over 40 years in Metro Detroit, a staple in Trenton for 32 years and in Gibraltar for 26 years, began to suffer budget trouble. They had made adjustments in the latter half of the 1970s by reducing payroll and positions from their 1950s heights. Yet as the decade began, payroll remained at approximately 3,775.
More sobering news was provided by the Downriver Community Conference (DCC). It was estimated that Downriver unemployment could be in the 30% range, affecting 30,000 to 35,000 people. Of these, 25,000 were UAW workers, 1,500 at McLouth, 2,000 at Great Lakes Steel, 870 at BASF Wyandotte, plus other yet-to-be-announced layoffs at Dana Corp. and Pennwalt.
It is relatively safe to assume that most of those people - and thousands of others - would witness one of the fiercest weather events to hit the area since the 1950s.
The DERECHO strikes Downriver, providing lasting, haunting memories
July 16, 1980 is a weather day that still lives in residents' minds today. The day started out clear and dry, but by 8:00 AM the perception drastically changed. A weather phenomenon referred to as a Derecho began blowing in from Wisconsin, directly west to east. Within minutes, the sky would turn a dark, pea-green color, followed by extreme gusts on wind (reaching 86 MPH at Detroit Metro Airport, but higher gusts at surrounding stations, some reaching triple-digits).
The storm sped east as quickly as it came, but some of the destruction was extraordinary. Interviewed on our Facebook site in 2014, witnessed concured they had never seen the sky as deep green as they had seen before or since. The Arena section of Thunderbowl Lanes, which had hosted "Bowling For Dollars" as recently as the previous year, was heavily damaged as part of the roof caved in. Railroad boxcars were left scattered like toys on railroad tracks throughout Downriver. Most homes & businesses lost power for up to five days, as high-tension power pylons along I-75 were toppled from Southfield to Schaefer Roads (where the metal towers taper off to standard wooden poles show the proof). The screen literally went down at the venerable Ecorse Drive-In Theater, as the 1940s-era screen became a mangled piece of steel. Part of the facade of the Sears store in Lincoln was blown off.
The storm sped east as quickly as it came, but some of the destruction was extraordinary. Interviewed on our Facebook site in 2014, witnessed concured they had never seen the sky as deep green as they had seen before or since. The Arena section of Thunderbowl Lanes, which had hosted "Bowling For Dollars" as recently as the previous year, was heavily damaged as part of the roof caved in. Railroad boxcars were left scattered like toys on railroad tracks throughout Downriver. Most homes & businesses lost power for up to five days, as high-tension power pylons along I-75 were toppled from Southfield to Schaefer Roads (where the metal towers taper off to standard wooden poles show the proof). The screen literally went down at the venerable Ecorse Drive-In Theater, as the 1940s-era screen became a mangled piece of steel. Part of the facade of the Sears store in Lincoln was blown off.
Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported, and news coverage locally was not even front-page; it was more a summary with a few photos accompanying the article. Within a week, power was restored and any resulting cleanups began.
Cleanup, meanwhile, was the order of the day at McLouth Steel, as they were trying to eliminate the first signs of debt. In September, management went to the workers asking for their first concession: a one year wage freeze. The union force responded with a picket that would last three days, as the union and management inevitably would return to the drawing board. |
The passing of a true Downriver legend: E.J. Korvette liquidates
The drawing board, however, would be removed from the headquarters of E.J. Korvette that fall. Having slumped through flat sales, and two changes of ownership (of the land and business), it was announced that the Southgate store at Fort & Pennsylvania Roads would be shuttering after 17 years. In competition and in step with the competing K-Mart on Eureka Road for many years, the store that astounded everyone at its opening with its sheer size and variety of items... the store which changed the course of discounting and store credit as residents had known it... would be confined to the history books, leaving Chatham Supermarket and Sentry Drug Store as the lone tenants inside Korvette City.
The closing was not as bally-hooed as the Downtown Detroit Hudson building would be a couple years later, as it was felt that within time, the Korvette building would undoubtedly house another tenant. News coverage was scant as a result and the closing occured without incident or much fanfare.
The closing was not as bally-hooed as the Downtown Detroit Hudson building would be a couple years later, as it was felt that within time, the Korvette building would undoubtedly house another tenant. News coverage was scant as a result and the closing occured without incident or much fanfare.
McLouth workers unite to disallow more concessions; a new owner assumes his duties
In that year (1981), McLouth Steel management would approach its workers with another concession offer: this one would institute a two-year cost-of-living wage freeze. The workers resoundingly voted "no" on this passage as well, although a strike did not occur.
By the end of the year, McLouth reported a $16 million loss, and was forced to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, the largest reported Downriver up to that time.
McLouth Steel ended up with a new buyer, a new company name (McLouth Steel Products Company), and new short-term plans in 1982, as Cyrus Tang purchased the company for $46.5 million. A total of 162 jobs would be cut after the purchase as part of a new six-year contract which would require more givebacks by the workers.
By the end of the year, McLouth reported a $16 million loss, and was forced to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, the largest reported Downriver up to that time.
McLouth Steel ended up with a new buyer, a new company name (McLouth Steel Products Company), and new short-term plans in 1982, as Cyrus Tang purchased the company for $46.5 million. A total of 162 jobs would be cut after the purchase as part of a new six-year contract which would require more givebacks by the workers.
Governor Blanchard's support helps to save Downriver job placement program
Althought the stock market would begin to rebound in 1982, along with national economic outlooks, Michigan and Downriver were slower to react to the improvements. The Downriver Community Conference, meanwhile, was continuing to grow, and its job outreach service was seeing increased participation.
By the end of 1982, however, the DCC's job service was fighting for its life.
Wayne County Executive William Lucas attempted to have the county take over the job training program. The attempt would fizzle when Governor James Blanchard, a DCC supporter, gave a March 1983 ruling allowing the DCC to continue overseeing this service, effectively ending Lucas' attempts at a county takeover.
By the end of 1982, however, the DCC's job service was fighting for its life.
Wayne County Executive William Lucas attempted to have the county take over the job training program. The attempt would fizzle when Governor James Blanchard, a DCC supporter, gave a March 1983 ruling allowing the DCC to continue overseeing this service, effectively ending Lucas' attempts at a county takeover.
More "Big Barrel" sub-projects affect Allen Park under court order
Two months later, a Federal Judge announced Allen Park would need to comply with a ruling to construct a sewer separation system which would aid in the cutback of water pollution. As recently as the early 1980s, for example, the Detroit River was often too polluted to even freeze over during the coldest winters. Allen Park had been looking into alternatives aside from a federal mandate for a few years, but had made no significant progress. Wastewater was still combining with storm water and discharging into Ecorse Creek. The new facility was designed by Wade-Trim Associates. Located near I-75 and Goddard Roads, the building would win awards for its modern design.
Downriver comes up with another steelmaking "first"
Forward thinkers from National Steel in Ecorse made an important July 1983 announcement possible.
The company would spend $200 million to construct an electrogalvanizing line (EGL) and a second continuous caster unit.
The EGL would make National Steel the first facility in the United States to produce continuous coated, rust-proof steel which would be mostly purchased by auto manufacturers.
The company would spend $200 million to construct an electrogalvanizing line (EGL) and a second continuous caster unit.
The EGL would make National Steel the first facility in the United States to produce continuous coated, rust-proof steel which would be mostly purchased by auto manufacturers.
Taylor Schools attempt to navigate a literal minefield in 1983
Heading back to school in the fall of 1983, students and their parents in the Taylor School District faced the possibility of a radical shakeup, the threats of which had not been heard of here before. The school district had major problems for over a decade and had fallen into receivership in the late 1970s. Strikes, picket lines and parent sit-ins were not uncommon. For a brief period, there had even been three superintendents simutaneously on the district's payroll. The newest Superintendent - Jerry Montecillo - was charged with cleaning up the district under orders by State Superintendent Phillip Runkel.
Major cuts would take effect if a ballot referendum were not passed the following February. The ballot requested a 5.4 mill increase as well as approval of a $5.7 million deficit elimination bond. These proposed cuts were perhaps the most radical ever announced in the face of possible failure.
In the proposal - named the "Pack And Save Plan," - half of the elementary schools (9 of 18) would close and students from the three high schools (Taylor Center, Kennedy and Truman) would all be brought together in two groups using one 5-hour shift at one high school. Bus service would also be eliminated. If the proposal was to fail, students would be directed to bring paper bags to their school the next day to pack up their books "for their new education." In other words, failure of the bond would result in immediate consequences.
Fortunately, both the millage and bond passed easily in February 1984. A total of 17,690 residents came to vote, a number 2 1/2 times the amount of any prior failed millage.
Major cuts would take effect if a ballot referendum were not passed the following February. The ballot requested a 5.4 mill increase as well as approval of a $5.7 million deficit elimination bond. These proposed cuts were perhaps the most radical ever announced in the face of possible failure.
In the proposal - named the "Pack And Save Plan," - half of the elementary schools (9 of 18) would close and students from the three high schools (Taylor Center, Kennedy and Truman) would all be brought together in two groups using one 5-hour shift at one high school. Bus service would also be eliminated. If the proposal was to fail, students would be directed to bring paper bags to their school the next day to pack up their books "for their new education." In other words, failure of the bond would result in immediate consequences.
Fortunately, both the millage and bond passed easily in February 1984. A total of 17,690 residents came to vote, a number 2 1/2 times the amount of any prior failed millage.
Downriver officially recognizes its future area ambassador, Heinz Prechter
The newspaper quotation perhaps said it best in April 1984:
"Local government and business officials were abuzz in highly optimistic tones following the announcement that ASC (American Sunroof) and the DCC (Downriver Community Conference) have joined forces to promote a major commercial and industrial development along I-75 near Northline."
With that announcement and meeting at the Presidential Inn, Heinz Prechter was officially introduced to the masses on his way to becoming Downriver's greatest ambassador in history. Until then, Prechter had been content to operate ASC, having only purchased two automotive dealerships outside of his core operation. In the initial plan, 400 acres were to be developed into a high-profile office complex which would contain, as realtor Donald Treadwell said, "(a business) focal point."
"Local government and business officials were abuzz in highly optimistic tones following the announcement that ASC (American Sunroof) and the DCC (Downriver Community Conference) have joined forces to promote a major commercial and industrial development along I-75 near Northline."
With that announcement and meeting at the Presidential Inn, Heinz Prechter was officially introduced to the masses on his way to becoming Downriver's greatest ambassador in history. Until then, Prechter had been content to operate ASC, having only purchased two automotive dealerships outside of his core operation. In the initial plan, 400 acres were to be developed into a high-profile office complex which would contain, as realtor Donald Treadwell said, "(a business) focal point."
The Korvette eyesore gets a brief reprieve as a competitor to Gibraltar Trade Center
Four years had passed since its closure, but there was finally some signs of life in the old Korvette City shopping plaza in Southgate with the opening in 1984 of the Southgate Flea Market, taking up the main portion of the first floor.
To this date, there had been some talk about redeveloping the area; one idea involved the building of a new Downriver-based central Catholic High School, which may have combined Aquinas High School (Southgate), Gabriel Richard (Riverview) and Mt. Carmel (Wyandotte). The flea market was expected to be a success and be the first major competition for Gibraltar Trade Center in Taylor. Within less than two years, the flea market would depart, leaving the aging building to the elements.
To this date, there had been some talk about redeveloping the area; one idea involved the building of a new Downriver-based central Catholic High School, which may have combined Aquinas High School (Southgate), Gabriel Richard (Riverview) and Mt. Carmel (Wyandotte). The flea market was expected to be a success and be the first major competition for Gibraltar Trade Center in Taylor. Within less than two years, the flea market would depart, leaving the aging building to the elements.
Residents protest Monroe's Fermi II, while cheering the Olympic Torch relay
Under construction for several years south of Wayne County, representatives of the Fermi II nuclear power plant announced in May, 1984 that construction was nearly complete. What would follow would be the first of many waves of public protests over nuclear power. It would still be nearly four years before a kilowatt would be produced, but the idea of nuclear power had taken a hit since the Three Mile Island disaster of 1979.
The Downriver area was the fortunate witness of the Olympic Flame which came through the area on its way to the Los Angeles Summer Olympics in 1984. The route began in New York on May 7 and was due to arrive in Los Angeles in time for the Games' start on July 28. The May 21 route had the torch proceed from the city of Monroe north on Telegraph, then eastbound on West Road, and finally northbound on Fort Street toward Detroit.
The Downriver area was the fortunate witness of the Olympic Flame which came through the area on its way to the Los Angeles Summer Olympics in 1984. The route began in New York on May 7 and was due to arrive in Los Angeles in time for the Games' start on July 28. The May 21 route had the torch proceed from the city of Monroe north on Telegraph, then eastbound on West Road, and finally northbound on Fort Street toward Detroit.
Sibley Quarry, Riverview Highlands find themselves under the radar again
Now co-managed by Michigan Foundation Company as well as the Riverview and Trenton municipalities, Detroit Edison's Sibley Quarry was facing increased public scrutiny over its blasting procedures being responsible for increased damage to homes and other nearby personal property. Various petitions had been circulated, and the effort landed a small victory for the residents: a $14,000 professional engineering study to identify the problem's source and cite possible remedies. The study was due to be completed by May of 1984, but the ultimate solution would still be years in the making.
When the Riverview Landfill (a.k.a. Mount Trashmore) began initial operations in 1968, one of the original plans included the burning of methane gas at the site (the landfill formation itself would be the source of the gas). Despite efforts to get this back on track in 1984, they would once again fall short. The contract for extraction originally belonged to Watson Bio-Gas Systems; however, due to internal company problems, the contract was instead let to O'Brien Energy Systems from Pennsylvania. Representatives from O'Brien were determined not to cause further delays, but they would be forced to ask for an extension for startup in November 1984 as a result of McLouth Steel being hesitant to sign off on a customer deal without technical problems being addressed. Riverview was waiting for action, as a possible $13 million windfall could be realized over an ensuing 17-year period.
Meanwhile, police presence was beginning to become routine in Riverview's east end neighborhoods, as a total of twenty-one burglaries east of Fort Street took place in less than a week's time in October. Most of these occurred during the daylight hours, when most occupants were at work.
When the Riverview Landfill (a.k.a. Mount Trashmore) began initial operations in 1968, one of the original plans included the burning of methane gas at the site (the landfill formation itself would be the source of the gas). Despite efforts to get this back on track in 1984, they would once again fall short. The contract for extraction originally belonged to Watson Bio-Gas Systems; however, due to internal company problems, the contract was instead let to O'Brien Energy Systems from Pennsylvania. Representatives from O'Brien were determined not to cause further delays, but they would be forced to ask for an extension for startup in November 1984 as a result of McLouth Steel being hesitant to sign off on a customer deal without technical problems being addressed. Riverview was waiting for action, as a possible $13 million windfall could be realized over an ensuing 17-year period.
Meanwhile, police presence was beginning to become routine in Riverview's east end neighborhoods, as a total of twenty-one burglaries east of Fort Street took place in less than a week's time in October. Most of these occurred during the daylight hours, when most occupants were at work.
Pennwalt facility suffers explosion
A gas explosion rocked the Pennwalt facilities on the border of Wyandotte and Trenton on December 21, 1984. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. The problem was traced to a malfunction in a fitting used to transfer hydrogen gas from one housing to another. A contractor for Wall-O'Donnell Gases was attempting to transfer contacts from one tank to another when the explosion occurred. Flames shot forty feet into the air in a blaze that two fire departments would battle for over two hours.
Mazda announces its debut in American-based manufacturing with Flat Rock plant
In December 1984, Mazda officially announced they would be building a new assembly plant just north of the old Michigan Casting Plant, along I-75 between Vreeland and Gibraltar Roads. The $450 million facility would begin construction in the spring of 1985 and represented the firm's first production facility in the United States. Flat Rock Mayor Ted Anders was enthused at the 3,500 job additions the facility would provide. The city would ultimately give Mazda a 12-year tax abatement to encourage the facility's construction and operation.
Not quite "Big Barrel," but progress finally gets underway for better drainage
Ending what amounted to be a 61-year general stalemate among area officials, the development known as "Mini Sewer" finally broke ground on June 17, 1985, following acceptance of minor contract amendments in February and March of that year. The system would service many of Downriver's southern communities including Flat Rock, Gibraltar, Huron Township, Romulus, South Rockwood, Van Buren Township and Woodhaven. The project, stated as being ahead of schedule as of January 1986, was due to have Phase One complete by 1988.
The overall agreement did not come easily, as Gibraltar and Huron Township both balked as some of the earlier amendment proposals. In addition, a group known as FLUSH (Friends Looking Upstream for Sewer Help), led by activist Sarah Jane Privatera, filed a lawsuit in federal court that would challenge the project.
The overall agreement did not come easily, as Gibraltar and Huron Township both balked as some of the earlier amendment proposals. In addition, a group known as FLUSH (Friends Looking Upstream for Sewer Help), led by activist Sarah Jane Privatera, filed a lawsuit in federal court that would challenge the project.
Brownfield designation pays off as South Works facility gets green light
Good news for environmentalists rang in 1986, as it was announced a settlement had been reached between the state of Michigan and BASF regarding the long-polluted South Works facility lands south of Eureka Road in Wyandotte. The chemical company agreed to pay the state $290,000 to reimburse local taxpayers for "past and future costs of enforcement and (land quality) monitoring."
This would symbolize the beginning of the end of a saga which had lasted since Attorney General Frank Kelley filed suit against BASF in October of 1983, involving allegations of soil and ground water pollution at both the North and South Works facilities. The south location had been mothballed in whole by the end of 1980. In the proposed consent agreement between the two parties, BASF would be committed to act upon the results of a scientific study of the two sites taken over the past few years. Included in the improvements were the installation of groundwater purge systems in four South Works locations and three North Works locations.
This would symbolize the beginning of the end of a saga which had lasted since Attorney General Frank Kelley filed suit against BASF in October of 1983, involving allegations of soil and ground water pollution at both the North and South Works facilities. The south location had been mothballed in whole by the end of 1980. In the proposed consent agreement between the two parties, BASF would be committed to act upon the results of a scientific study of the two sites taken over the past few years. Included in the improvements were the installation of groundwater purge systems in four South Works locations and three North Works locations.
Upcoming voter proposal threatens to take Elizabeth Park out of the public domain
At the same time, a News-Herald editorial penned the need for voters to turn down a ballot proposal (in a presumed special election) promoting encroachment on lands surrounding Trenton's Elizabeth Park.
Having originally been deeded to Wayne County by the pioneering Slocum family of Trenton for public use in 1911 (and symbolically dedicated as such via plaque in 1923), the land was threatened to return to its original private ownership due to the county's proposal to construct an amphitheater on site. The initial design called for 1,500 parking spaces to accomodate the amphitheater, which would have taken 65 acres out of the 162 acre parkland. This was defined as encroachment affecting the public trust. In spite of the extra revenue Trenton city officials said the new construction would provide, environmental impact was additionally cited as a concern for the area's well-being (the amphitheater would be designed for higher-level rock concerts, for example). Petitions from seven different communities calling for a retraction of the project were being circulated.
Having originally been deeded to Wayne County by the pioneering Slocum family of Trenton for public use in 1911 (and symbolically dedicated as such via plaque in 1923), the land was threatened to return to its original private ownership due to the county's proposal to construct an amphitheater on site. The initial design called for 1,500 parking spaces to accomodate the amphitheater, which would have taken 65 acres out of the 162 acre parkland. This was defined as encroachment affecting the public trust. In spite of the extra revenue Trenton city officials said the new construction would provide, environmental impact was additionally cited as a concern for the area's well-being (the amphitheater would be designed for higher-level rock concerts, for example). Petitions from seven different communities calling for a retraction of the project were being circulated.
The Allen Park V.A. gets a temporary reprieve; Holiday Drive-In does not
The end of 1986 would bring good news to veterans & their families, as well as building preservationists: the Allen Park VA Hospital on Southfield and Outer Drive would remain open concurrently with a new hospital proposed for the Detroit Medical Center area. The road to the decision had not been easy, but it would involve spending between $41 and $52 million to help upgrade the 39-acre Allen Park facility, which had been built in 1938.
As far back as 1972, there were complaints the facility had operational cost overruns, and by 1975 veterans staying at the hospital were complaining the building was outmoded. These proposed renovations would result in a reduction of bed space; the number falling from 611 to 420. However, a total of 180 of those 420 beds had been saved from possible relocation to a facility in Battle Creek. The issue of cost overruns, meanwhile, were tied to the need for upgraded staff; namely, specialists to tend to the increasing advancements in technology.
Meanwhile, the Holiday Drive-In on West Road in Brownstown became the second of the five Downriver locations to shut down at the close of the 1986 season, following the 1984 closing of the Michigan in Southgate. Overall drive-in numbers nationally and state-wide were beginning to spiral downward.
As far back as 1972, there were complaints the facility had operational cost overruns, and by 1975 veterans staying at the hospital were complaining the building was outmoded. These proposed renovations would result in a reduction of bed space; the number falling from 611 to 420. However, a total of 180 of those 420 beds had been saved from possible relocation to a facility in Battle Creek. The issue of cost overruns, meanwhile, were tied to the need for upgraded staff; namely, specialists to tend to the increasing advancements in technology.
Meanwhile, the Holiday Drive-In on West Road in Brownstown became the second of the five Downriver locations to shut down at the close of the 1986 season, following the 1984 closing of the Michigan in Southgate. Overall drive-in numbers nationally and state-wide were beginning to spiral downward.
Ecorse becomes first Downriver city - and first in Michigan - to enter receivership
In spite of previous warnings and the knowledge of a deficit approaching $6 million, the December 1986 announcement of Ecorse falling under state receivership made headlines as the first such occurrence in Michigan history.
The emergency manager was Louis Schimmel, who was appointed by Wayne County Circuit Judge Richard Dunne at a salary of $100 per hour. Schimmel would immediately become unpopular with Ecorse citizens with the cuts in programs and routines he would implement in the ensuing years.
Ecorse's deficit could be traced to tax abatements given to Great Lakes Steel Works, in addition to prior political administrations mismanaging money. These abatements had also affected the Ecorse and River Rouge Public School districts.
As the first occurrence in the state, their story would bear watching closely.
The emergency manager was Louis Schimmel, who was appointed by Wayne County Circuit Judge Richard Dunne at a salary of $100 per hour. Schimmel would immediately become unpopular with Ecorse citizens with the cuts in programs and routines he would implement in the ensuing years.
Ecorse's deficit could be traced to tax abatements given to Great Lakes Steel Works, in addition to prior political administrations mismanaging money. These abatements had also affected the Ecorse and River Rouge Public School districts.
As the first occurrence in the state, their story would bear watching closely.
After brief reprieve, a negative balance sheet hits McLouth Steel again
Since the purchase of McLouth Steel by Cyrus Tang a few years before, the steelmaker had seen its fortunes rise (profit in its first year) and sink again, with a $250 million debt by 1987. The workforce, which numbered 3,775 in 1980, fell to 2,000 union and 400 non-union. Negotiations were taking place - talks which would last two years and result in an additional $85 million loss. With Tang having left the company, the new plan forward would directly involve the workers in an employee stock-ownership program. The new marquee at West Jefferson and King Roads would proudly read, "McLouth... An employee-owned company."
Two devastating fires consume local Downriver landmarks
June and October 1987 proved to be heartache for fans of both Mulias & Ellias Department Store, as well as Ciungan's Shrimp House, as both storefronts were ruined by fire.
The blaze started on the evening of June 24, 1987 at two different points in the well-stocked basement. Tragically, the fire alarm system was not activated properly to where the fire could have been contained at this point. Alarms rang in neighboring Woodhaven and, according to former Fire Chief Russ Stahl, by the time the responsive trucks got there, the building was pretty well engulfed in flames. With the blaze growing to four alarms, there was a water pressure problem in the neighborhood, so the Detroit fireboat came downstream and acted as a fifth alarm, while quelling most of the raging fire from a distance.
The building - and almost the entire block - was a complete loss. To this day, the cause of the fire is not 100% assured. Most had said it was arson, though some thought it was electrical in nature. Regardless, downtown Trenton would find it very difficult to recover its lost business.
The building - and almost the entire block - was a complete loss. To this day, the cause of the fire is not 100% assured. Most had said it was arson, though some thought it was electrical in nature. Regardless, downtown Trenton would find it very difficult to recover its lost business.
Ciungan's was an Ecorse landmark in existence for 39 years at the foot of Southfield near 4th Street, known for their excellent shrimp.
A kitchen fire was the cause of this blaze, which gutted the building. The owners would eventually decide not to rebuild in that location. However, one of the best-kept Downriver secrets is that the original Ciungan shrimp recipe is still made on Saturday's at Lloyd's of Grosse Ile. |
Pre-presidential fireworks in Wyandotte?
Though it would not be as fierce as some presidential conventions of the past, a January 1988 Republican gathering at a Wyandotte restaurant provided some fireworks. Using the facility to name delegates for their upcoming convention, a shoving match would occur between Marvin Bush (the father of then-Vice President George H.W. Bush) and televangelist Pat Robertson. A group of Robertson's supporters were attempting to block access to the caucus site from Bush supporters as well as the press.
Sibley Quarry quietly enters a new era of mining
While the reputation of one location was suffering, the reputation of another long-standing business was doing its best to be repaired in 1988. The Sibley Quarry's operations had been modified once Detroit Edison purchased the facility back in 1951. The quarry was not used solely for limestone processing only; blasting was done as a way to make room for the fly ash Detroit Edison would dump in the quarry. This fly ash was residue which came from Edison's many coal-fired power plants.
Per an agreement with Detroit Edison (the owner of the property), Michigan Foundation (the lease holder) was conducting blast operations on the quarry's northwest end. This is closest to the Fort/Sibley intersection, making it closest to residential areas. Numerous complaints were filed to Riverview City Hall in December 1987 following an exceptionally loud series of blasts, which continued to shake homes as they had for many years. Residents, however, were tiring of the operation.
Desiring to be a good neighbor, Michigan Foundation turned to a new way of blasting that would cut the shockwaves and aftereffects greatly. Each blast was now done in a 3-tier approach. Most importantly was the fact this new method required 30% less explosives per charge plus more sophisitcated blasting caps. In addition, the agreement with Detroit Edison was modified to where blasting the northwest end of the quarry ceased.
Riverview Councilman Elmer Trombley toured the site and mentioned the progress was remarkable. On prior reports of nearby homes shaking during blasts, he admitted, "People weren't making those up." News-Herald photographer Larry Caruso attended a sample blasting operation and said he could see and hear the blast, but did not feel it. This "new attitude" by Michigan Foundation began to make amends with its neighbors as the blasts were now just a fraction of what they were.
Per an agreement with Detroit Edison (the owner of the property), Michigan Foundation (the lease holder) was conducting blast operations on the quarry's northwest end. This is closest to the Fort/Sibley intersection, making it closest to residential areas. Numerous complaints were filed to Riverview City Hall in December 1987 following an exceptionally loud series of blasts, which continued to shake homes as they had for many years. Residents, however, were tiring of the operation.
Desiring to be a good neighbor, Michigan Foundation turned to a new way of blasting that would cut the shockwaves and aftereffects greatly. Each blast was now done in a 3-tier approach. Most importantly was the fact this new method required 30% less explosives per charge plus more sophisitcated blasting caps. In addition, the agreement with Detroit Edison was modified to where blasting the northwest end of the quarry ceased.
Riverview Councilman Elmer Trombley toured the site and mentioned the progress was remarkable. On prior reports of nearby homes shaking during blasts, he admitted, "People weren't making those up." News-Herald photographer Larry Caruso attended a sample blasting operation and said he could see and hear the blast, but did not feel it. This "new attitude" by Michigan Foundation began to make amends with its neighbors as the blasts were now just a fraction of what they were.
The bankruptcy of Gilead Baptist Church makes headlines
Bankruptcies appeared to continue scattering around Downriver, but perhaps no outsider would have thought a church would have been among them. Indeed, in November 1988, Gilead Baptist Church in Taylor filed for Chapter 11 protection, bringing to life a very difficult situation involving two ministers and their congregation.
In a situation somewhat likened to a scandal yet to bring down Jim Bakker and his PTL television empire, the leadership of Gilead had begun over-reaching in their goals. Initially located where the Allen Park City Hall currently is, Gilead had recently found new church grounds on Telegraph in Taylor with ample room for expansion. Eventually the church, under the leadership of Rev. J. Thomas Downs, would purchase acreage in Florida to build a mobile home park, built a high-rise nursing home south of the church, and purchased a nearby motel in the hopes of wiping out prostitution and other "sinner" activities taking place there.
For these projects, mortgage notes were issued to Gilead, who put their church assets up as collateral. However, due to one circumstance or another, the majority of these plans fell through and would prove costly. Defaults began and lawsuits were filed to begin recouping money. Rev. J. Thomas Downs would be accused of wreckless financial dealings, chief among them was asking his congregation for monetary donations, knowing full well the resulting transactions would be risky. Nearly two dozen church members would leave the membership as a result.
In a situation somewhat likened to a scandal yet to bring down Jim Bakker and his PTL television empire, the leadership of Gilead had begun over-reaching in their goals. Initially located where the Allen Park City Hall currently is, Gilead had recently found new church grounds on Telegraph in Taylor with ample room for expansion. Eventually the church, under the leadership of Rev. J. Thomas Downs, would purchase acreage in Florida to build a mobile home park, built a high-rise nursing home south of the church, and purchased a nearby motel in the hopes of wiping out prostitution and other "sinner" activities taking place there.
For these projects, mortgage notes were issued to Gilead, who put their church assets up as collateral. However, due to one circumstance or another, the majority of these plans fell through and would prove costly. Defaults began and lawsuits were filed to begin recouping money. Rev. J. Thomas Downs would be accused of wreckless financial dealings, chief among them was asking his congregation for monetary donations, knowing full well the resulting transactions would be risky. Nearly two dozen church members would leave the membership as a result.
Memorial Day 1988: Writing on the wall for Bob-Lo Amusement Park
Five months before pastorship changed hands at Gilead, Memorial Day 1988 would prove to a be a dark day for the future hopes of Bob-Lo Island.
Attendance had steadily been declining since its peak of 800,000 annual visitors in the mid-1970s. Having changed hands two more times since Todd H. Browning first sold off the assets in 1979, a marketing error would prove to be nearly tragic, and would make the road to recovery for the amusement park extremely difficult to achieve.
Ticket packages were sold to two Detroit Public Schools, who had rival gang factions. The salespeople were not aware of this, and were criticized for their short-sightedness once events had occurred. After a routine boat ride to the island, it became rowdy throughout the morning and afternoon; fights involving knives and unconcealed firearms were commonplace. The Ontario Provincial Police would dispatch twenty officers to help restore order and prepare the returning boats for loading.
Once off the Bob-Lo dock, the fights would resume, concessions would be looted and boat equipment would be tossed overboard. Approaching the Detroit dock, the crowd rushed to jam the exits and stairways. Finding their path to the exits on the Ste. Claire blocked, its crowd would rush to the port side, nearly listing the boat over. Upon arrival to the park the following day, all the fencing at the dock was found ripped out, and had to be replaced. The resulting media coverage would end up dooming the prospects of the attraction.
By October 1988, Pastor Thomas Downs replaced his father as minister of Gilead Baptist Church, still reeling over loan defaults and possible lawsuits. He began warning the congregation of possible bankruptcy if donations did not increase - the entire church budget was reliant on these contributions. He also informed creditors - which by now numbered in the hundreds - that the church needed time to restructure properly. The opposite effect would occur as this would bring even more creditors to the table, demanding more money.
Eventually, the church was said to have held $5 million in second mortgages and promissory notes. The United States Trustee office requested that Pastor Downs step down. Federal Courts believed the younger Downs knew about his father's dealings, and continued with them upon his father's retirement.
Attendance had steadily been declining since its peak of 800,000 annual visitors in the mid-1970s. Having changed hands two more times since Todd H. Browning first sold off the assets in 1979, a marketing error would prove to be nearly tragic, and would make the road to recovery for the amusement park extremely difficult to achieve.
Ticket packages were sold to two Detroit Public Schools, who had rival gang factions. The salespeople were not aware of this, and were criticized for their short-sightedness once events had occurred. After a routine boat ride to the island, it became rowdy throughout the morning and afternoon; fights involving knives and unconcealed firearms were commonplace. The Ontario Provincial Police would dispatch twenty officers to help restore order and prepare the returning boats for loading.
Once off the Bob-Lo dock, the fights would resume, concessions would be looted and boat equipment would be tossed overboard. Approaching the Detroit dock, the crowd rushed to jam the exits and stairways. Finding their path to the exits on the Ste. Claire blocked, its crowd would rush to the port side, nearly listing the boat over. Upon arrival to the park the following day, all the fencing at the dock was found ripped out, and had to be replaced. The resulting media coverage would end up dooming the prospects of the attraction.
By October 1988, Pastor Thomas Downs replaced his father as minister of Gilead Baptist Church, still reeling over loan defaults and possible lawsuits. He began warning the congregation of possible bankruptcy if donations did not increase - the entire church budget was reliant on these contributions. He also informed creditors - which by now numbered in the hundreds - that the church needed time to restructure properly. The opposite effect would occur as this would bring even more creditors to the table, demanding more money.
Eventually, the church was said to have held $5 million in second mortgages and promissory notes. The United States Trustee office requested that Pastor Downs step down. Federal Courts believed the younger Downs knew about his father's dealings, and continued with them upon his father's retirement.
Looking towards the 21st century: New name, new routes
By then, a committee was formed in an effort to rebrand the Downriver area under the new, unpopular title of Metro Shores. "Vision 21" spokespeople insisted the area needed an image refresher away from the factories and industries of the past, and felt a name change would provide new insight into the area's present and future, while eliminating supposed negativity. None other than "Mr. Downriver" himself, Heinz Prechter, was akin to changing the name. "There is a 'down' connotation some have to Downriver," Prechter would say, "(and) it's a campaign to show we're 'up' with Downriver." The area of Metro Shores would have encompassed a larger area, adding Belleville and Sumpter Township to the classification.
In November 1988, several years of study came to an initial close at the Presidential Inn in Southgate. The meeting was presented by the Southern Wayne County Chamber of Commerce. Hosted by Robert Adams, the deputy director of transportation for M-DOT, it concerned the feasibility of constructing a new east-west route further south from I-94 to better serve central & southern Downriver.
But the overall news was not too good for supporters. Of seventeen possible sites identified for a major thorofare (which ideally would connect with I-275 to the west), four were labeled probable: Eureka, Pennsylvania, Sibley and West Roads. Adams stressed that the actual planning for a road of that stature could take up to five years, with construction taking another three. Ninety percent of the transportation budget was used for roads already in service, and no concrete plans were allowed for new projects critics might have labeled unnecessary.
"One of the things the government has to do is protect us from ourselves and itself," Adams would state at the meeting. Other causes of delay were an exhaustive series of studies, and "red-tape" hurdles which were increasing in number. Yet, he ended the meeting with the message that the project was "ongoing, underway, and will be completed in an orderly fashion." It would also be announced at the meeting that the possibility of a second Bridge to Canada construction project was looking bleaker - if it would even take place at all.
In November 1988, several years of study came to an initial close at the Presidential Inn in Southgate. The meeting was presented by the Southern Wayne County Chamber of Commerce. Hosted by Robert Adams, the deputy director of transportation for M-DOT, it concerned the feasibility of constructing a new east-west route further south from I-94 to better serve central & southern Downriver.
But the overall news was not too good for supporters. Of seventeen possible sites identified for a major thorofare (which ideally would connect with I-275 to the west), four were labeled probable: Eureka, Pennsylvania, Sibley and West Roads. Adams stressed that the actual planning for a road of that stature could take up to five years, with construction taking another three. Ninety percent of the transportation budget was used for roads already in service, and no concrete plans were allowed for new projects critics might have labeled unnecessary.
"One of the things the government has to do is protect us from ourselves and itself," Adams would state at the meeting. Other causes of delay were an exhaustive series of studies, and "red-tape" hurdles which were increasing in number. Yet, he ended the meeting with the message that the project was "ongoing, underway, and will be completed in an orderly fashion." It would also be announced at the meeting that the possibility of a second Bridge to Canada construction project was looking bleaker - if it would even take place at all.
A tragedy hits Wyandotte and Downriver: The case of Lawrence DeLisle
The normally quiet community of Wyandotte was jolted by a vehicle jumping off Eureka east of VanAlstyne and sinking into the Detroit River in June of 1989. Recovered alive from the sinking vehicle was Lawrence DeLisle, husband and father of four. Only he and his wife survived; his deceased children would be recovered later.
Despite initial claims of a leg cramp surfacing as DeLisle crossed Biddle Avenue, it was dismissed by investigators. The subsequent trial revealed DeLisle as a broken man drowning in debt, wishing to end the lives of himself and his entire family to lift self-guilt. Although defense attorneys argued vehmently that his Ford LTD was defective, a jury found him guilty of murder after a nine-hour deliberation. DeLisle ultimately appealed this decision. The U.S. Supreme Court would uphold the lower court decision would be upheld, and the 28-year-old DeLisle would spend the rest of his life behind bars.
Despite initial claims of a leg cramp surfacing as DeLisle crossed Biddle Avenue, it was dismissed by investigators. The subsequent trial revealed DeLisle as a broken man drowning in debt, wishing to end the lives of himself and his entire family to lift self-guilt. Although defense attorneys argued vehmently that his Ford LTD was defective, a jury found him guilty of murder after a nine-hour deliberation. DeLisle ultimately appealed this decision. The U.S. Supreme Court would uphold the lower court decision would be upheld, and the 28-year-old DeLisle would spend the rest of his life behind bars.
The PSI discoveries begin Downriver's version of the Love Canal
Twenty-five years after the closure of a small oil refinery on Brownstown's south end, a Michigan Department of Natural Resources examination of the Peters Road property unearthed nightmares not unlike those witnessed by residents of Niagara Falls, New York and the nearby Love Canal, which most likely inspired the modern environmental movement.
Petroleum Specialties Incorporated (PSI) owned sixty acres of land near the triple borders of Brownstown, Flat Rock and Woodhaven. Right across Peters Road by a block was the expanding Deerfield Estates trailer park. Residents of Deerfield resembled their counterparts in New York in various ways, meaning they had no idea the conditions on a neighboring
Petroleum Specialties Incorporated (PSI) owned sixty acres of land near the triple borders of Brownstown, Flat Rock and Woodhaven. Right across Peters Road by a block was the expanding Deerfield Estates trailer park. Residents of Deerfield resembled their counterparts in New York in various ways, meaning they had no idea the conditions on a neighboring
property were more toxic than those found earlier in the decade at the BASF South Works property, for instance. PSI had been an active oil refinery from sometime in the 1930s until 1964. Upon ceasing as an active refinery, it became a storage facility. Evidentally, the land was tossed aside as a figurative afterthought since at least the early 1970s, as the conditions found by the M-DNR were repulsive enough.
The inspection took place on June 15, 1989. Inside were a total of 38 bulk tanks, enough to handle 17 million gallons of oil... provided it stayed in the bulk tanks. The M-DNR found an open lagoon of petroleum, high PCB counts in the soil, asbestos construction material, leaking electrical transformers, lead, arsenic, cyanide, benzene, and rotting storage drums containing Xylene and Toluene. A suit was filed by the M-DNR immediately after this inspection, with a hoped-for answer coming quickly from the property's owner. In the meantime, all nearby residents could do was be patient for progress. Undoubtedly, this was not accomplished without a great deal of fear.
The inspection took place on June 15, 1989. Inside were a total of 38 bulk tanks, enough to handle 17 million gallons of oil... provided it stayed in the bulk tanks. The M-DNR found an open lagoon of petroleum, high PCB counts in the soil, asbestos construction material, leaking electrical transformers, lead, arsenic, cyanide, benzene, and rotting storage drums containing Xylene and Toluene. A suit was filed by the M-DNR immediately after this inspection, with a hoped-for answer coming quickly from the property's owner. In the meantime, all nearby residents could do was be patient for progress. Undoubtedly, this was not accomplished without a great deal of fear.
Southwestern Taylor gains unfortunate notoriety
Beginning in the early 1980s, the southwestern corner of Taylor was gaining a less-than-sterling reputation as a haven for the drug trade. No less than five different condominium facilities were located within a one mile stretch of land. Of all of these it was Pine Ridge (the westernmost complex) which garnered the unfortunate nickname of "Crack Ridge" due to the involvement of the activity. On some weekends, 60% of overnight police runs would be to this complex, and the situation would slowly worsen as the decade wore on.
The most tragic incident during this timeframe was undoubtedly the assault on 19 year-old Kristin Grauman in 1989. Walking near the complex at night, she was picked up by two men who had been involved in an earlier run-in at Pine Ridge, and seeking drug purchases in the Inkster area. Grauman was to function as their guide, but when they intentionally over-ran their destination, she became fearful. In the ensuing assault she would be doused in gasoline and set afire by the criminals. Grauman would survive in a heavily disfigured state, but would bravely take the stand in the men's subsequent trial to explain the happenings that evening. Grauman would be lauded for her courage and determination, and the men eventually were handed heavy sentences.
Despite this being a wake-up call to the community, it seemed the activity would continue to rage on at the same pace as before.
The most tragic incident during this timeframe was undoubtedly the assault on 19 year-old Kristin Grauman in 1989. Walking near the complex at night, she was picked up by two men who had been involved in an earlier run-in at Pine Ridge, and seeking drug purchases in the Inkster area. Grauman was to function as their guide, but when they intentionally over-ran their destination, she became fearful. In the ensuing assault she would be doused in gasoline and set afire by the criminals. Grauman would survive in a heavily disfigured state, but would bravely take the stand in the men's subsequent trial to explain the happenings that evening. Grauman would be lauded for her courage and determination, and the men eventually were handed heavy sentences.
Despite this being a wake-up call to the community, it seemed the activity would continue to rage on at the same pace as before.