Running list of non-Dan Gilbert Large Projects

[illwill]

Here's an example. I was in a pretty rough Chicago west side neighborhood over the weekend with a friend and I overheard a girl sitting on the front stoop next door [[approximately 19 years old) telling her boyfriend that she was super excited because she has an interview with Macy's Department Store Downtown.

At first I felt jealous that Detroit doesn't have a department store Downtown but immediately afterwards my emotions went from jealousy to being a little pissed because these businesses DO make a big difference to their residents. The fact that this girl has no education but is fortunate enough to be able to hop the train to her Macy's Department Store job Downtown where she'll probably make a decent wage is something that Detroiter's should have the opportunity to have as well. I also know that she relocated to Chicago from down south, [[probably for the job opportunities I'd assume).

The Chicago retail and restaurant industries are supported by non-skilled service industry workers and If cities such as Chicago didn't have these businesses then what would those cities be like and what would their residents be doing? They'd be forced to leave where they live and in turn, those cities would be in the same situation as Detroit. They need each other. Businesses couldn't operate without local residents and the local residents need the employment to live comfortably. And in the end, all of this combined makes a stronger and more vibrant city...and adds to the tax base.

So every little bit helps.