Any Witnesses to the Wildings, 02/09/2013?

**softailrider** · February-10-13, 05:04 PM

Originally Posted by SWMAP

Agesupon ages ago all the restless kids weren't carrying semi-atomic weapons as these kids are. Sorry that I don't agree that the huge increase in violence and death is just more restlessness or equivalent to a college beer brawl. These roving gangs with their "shots fired" make me reluctant to be in crowds -and I live in SW Detroit so I know a thing or two about City life.

I don't think that this is on a par with a MSU beer brawl either. This was in the part of town that is supposed to be the safest in the city. Period. This isn't a college partying area, it wasn't a hot summer night on Belle Isle either. These type of things are not supposed to happen smack in the middle of downtown when a festival is taking place or at any other time.

**cla1945** · February-10-13, 05:04 PM

We were kids once, we were restless, we never went out and created chaos and threatened people's lives. We never went into a restaurant and threw tables and chairs around. We never had confrontations with the police.

Keep on making excuses for these criminals, enable them to continue with this type of behavior. Don't ask them to take responsibility for their actions. Perpetuate the dependency on government for your living, your health care, your life.

The definition of "restless" sure has taken on a new meaning.

**Bham1982** · February-10-13, 05:08 PM

Originally Posted by daveyarm

Good point. I live Downtown, and spend a fair amount of time in Midtown. Both of those areas are well-policed, the streets are kept smooth and clean, and the signal lights and streetlights all work properly.

We drove home from a DSO concert at Orchestra Hall, north along Woodward, last night. My first drive up the Detroit stretch of Woodward in about a year. Midtown is clean and functioning, looking much better, though quieter than ever. No cars, no people, almost everything closed at 7, and definitely everything closed at 10.

But the second you leave New Center, it looks worse than ever. Half the streetlights are out, and once you reach 6 Mile, the entire right side of the street has no lights until 8 Mile.

How is it possible that a major U.S. city has no functioning lights on its premiere avenue for two miles? You cross into Ferndale, not exactly the nicest community, and it looks like Beverly Hills or the Hamptons in comparison. Downtown Ferndale looks like Times Square compared to Midtown in terms of activity level.

Also, in Highland Park, the police had stopped a D-DOT bus. I wonder if this was related to the skirmishes downtown? It was HP police, up towards that porno joint near 6 Mile.

**Detroitnerd** · February-10-13, 06:09 PM

What goes around comes around. It's only a matter of time. If the majority in the region says of their fellow man, "Aww, fuck 'em. It's their problem, let them clean it up," how long before those people realize that they are regarded as expendable, as less human, and decide to even the score in any chaotic way they can?

As far as apologizing for criminals, we've had five years to bring to justice the criminal bankers who wrecked the economy, let trillions of dollars in wealth go up in smoke, and who still have no clue how to fix things. Not only are these guys not in jail, we're throwing effectively printing trillions of dollars in a futile effort to prop them up, all while they're planning their next heist. And a few dozen youths do a little "Thursday night bumping" and some of you guys are barking mad enough to start tying noose-knots?

No wonder people leave this region. It's because a lot of you are morons.

Shollin · February-10-13, 06:30 PM

I must live in some alternate universe. These actions are somehow being justified by conspiracy theories and bankers? As someone who works in a bank, I have no problem cutting all financing to the city of Detroit since we apparently ruined the economy because people defaulted on their loans. From now on all these startups can get their financing from their relatives. Let their relatives take on the risk since the banks are so evil. See how long the economy lasts.

**Honky Tonk** · February-10-13, 06:58 PM

Originally Posted by ArmDetroit

Some of you need to take off your tin foil hats. Suggesting that the intention of these shithead kids was to discourage retail from coming downtown is ridiculous. Do you really think that any of these kids read DetroitYes or CrainsDetroit to even know what is happening downtown? For jah's sake most of my friends wouldn't even be aware of the changes happening downtown if I didn't constantly talk about it. These punk kids did exactly what they set out to do.... recreate the flash mob they probably seen in a YouTube video. As far as people being scared to go downtown because of this.... grow a pair... don't let the actions of a few idiots affect your ability to enjoy Detroit.

I doubt most of the "kids" in the news films can read, let alone read DY or Crains. Last summer Bing, in a News story, after someone had opened fire into a crowd walking down the street near Jacoby's, said he had been in touch with gang leaders about them cooling their activities because they were discouraging people from coming into Detroit. Now think about this for a second, the mayor of this City is making deals with gang leaders about behavior? Given that, I don't find it all that far fetched this last night's incident just might have been a message that if you want to conduct business here, you go through me. As far as downtown growth awareness, your friends have to not speak english, live in a foreign country, or are devote Amish, not to know about the renaissance taking place around Campus Martians. You don't have to be part of the "in" crowd, it's plastered all over mainstream news media, daily. The only flash mob videos I've seen, had to do with Christmas carols, classical music performance, or dance arrangements in a public square. I've never seen the ones about about gang mobs accosting people on foot, or terrorizing diners. Do you consider that a normal thing to do? I do have a pair, and I want to make sure they stay attached right where they hang. When I lose them, it won't be for being in the wrong place @ the wrong time, over some stupid shit like last night. I'll take the tin foil hat off of my head, as long as you pull your head out from where the sun don't shine. Deal?

ArmDetroit · February-10-13, 07:29 PM

Originally Posted by Honky Tonk

The only flash mob videos I've seen, had to do with Christmas carols, classical music performance, or dance arrangements in a public square. I've never seen the ones about about gang mobs accosting people on foot, or terrorizing diners.

Here is one example of a flash mob that doesn't have to do with dancing...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vKhKKUKunmw
here is another...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4UHL9AzPAyI

but I guess research isn't your strong suit, nor is common sense... after all you actually believed that "gang leaders" give a fuck about making the mayor's job easier.

**Honky Tonk** · February-10-13, 08:08 PM

Originally Posted by ArmDetroit

Here is one example of a flash mob that doesn't have to do with dancing...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vKhKKUKunmw
here is another...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4UHL9AzPAyI

but I guess research isn't your strong suit, nor is common sense... after all you actually believed that "gang leaders" give a fuck about making the mayor's job easier.

Wow, Get out much? Hell no they don't "give a fuck" about making the "mayor's job easier", and where did I state that was what I think? Looks like a bit of a comprehension issue, but Thanx for putting words in my mouth. [[always a good try when you have nothing else). What gang members DO care about is money and power. Getting paid off, extortsion, have been around for ages. I'm sure you've heard of it.

**Honky Tonk** · February-10-13, 08:19 PM

Originally Posted by ArmDetroit

Here is one example of a flash mob that doesn't have to do with dancing...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vKhKKUKunmw
here is another...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4UHL9AzPAyI

but I guess research isn't your strong suit, nor is common sense... after all you actually believed that "gang leaders" give a fuck about making the mayor's job easier.

I watched both clips and my mistake. Totally wholesome fun, acceptable behavior. The kids in the video missed accosting people and trashing the place, but hey, other places aren't as advanced as Detroit.

**nain rouge** · February-10-13, 08:20 PM

Originally Posted by Shollin

I feel like Nain is Ashton Kutcher and I'm being punk'd.

Look at all of the popular politicians and leaders in Detroit that repeat the same exact arguments. They're popular precisely because their message resonates with a lot of Detroiters. You're making a mistake by taking it so lightly. What is it that they say...? First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, and then...? Well, y'know.

Honestly, do you think black politicians are the only real crooks? It's always easier to notice the corruption in other cultures - look at how easily we can critique China or Europe. But when our own president lies and encourages or even benefits from corruption, we're oblivious because he says what the popular culture wants to hear.

Open your eyes.

ArmDetroit · February-10-13, 08:23 PM

Originally Posted by Honky Tonk

I watched both clips and my mistake. Totally wholesome fun, acceptable behavior. The kids in the video missed accosting people and trashing the place, but hey, other places aren't as advanced as Detroit.

In what world is theft " totally wholesome fun, acceptable behavior"?

I think you just like to argue... I'm not falling for it.

**Jimaz** · February-10-13, 08:25 PM

Originally Posted by Shollin

... As someone who works in a bank,....

I am genuinely surprised anyone can admit something in public that is quite that embarrassing.

Originally Posted by Shollin

I must live in some alternate universe.

Oh, that explains it.

Attachment 18199
The latest fashion in ethical banker attire

Pssst. Wanna buy some hot derivatives?

Shollin · February-10-13, 08:31 PM

Actually I work in the foreclosure department and take great joy in taking away the homes of deadbeats who don't pay their bills. Next time you need money for a car or home then by all means look elsewhere than the bank.

**nain rouge** · February-10-13, 08:32 PM

That's... special.

**Jimaz** · February-10-13, 09:16 PM

Shollin, nothing personal but the whole banking "industry" is going to have to do some major PR repair before anyone ever again respects anyone even remotely associated with it.

Profiting from deliberately creating a global financial meltdown is nothing to brag about.

And FYI, I've successfully avoided bank loans for many decades now, thank you very much. Your services are neither needed nor wanted.

Snidely Whiplash is not a role model, despite what you may have been told by your mentors.

**aj3647** · February-10-13, 09:38 PM

Originally Posted by nain rouge

Actually, when I go to downtown or midtown, I feel very envious. I wish I had the mobility to live and work somewhere like that. Maybe that's why I can empathize a bit with those teenagers in the original story, even if I don't condone crime.

Well then maybe you should just kick the ass of the first white person you see in Midtown. It's "understandable" after all, isn't it? When you feel alienated from society, your natural inclination is to harm another innocent human being. We should all try to "understand" and not judge, yes?

After all, that white person shares some of the blame for having more than you do.

**Bobl** · February-10-13, 10:21 PM

Originally Posted by gnome

And folks wonder how Pine Knob usurped Cobo as the premier concert venue. Roving gangs of black youths in August of 1976 rushed the turnstiles at Cobo and beat patrons at a Average White Band Concert, there were gang rapes on the sidewalk out front ... Judge Gregg Mathis was one of the leaders of the Errol Flynns who beat people with folding chairs.

good job Detroit.

It's been a long time, and memory sometimes plays tricks, but wasn't that the concert where virtually every limousine in the metro area was rented by the 'Flynns or B.K.s, for their arrival at the show?

**jcole** · February-10-13, 10:32 PM

Looks like it wasn't teen-aged angst or a statement against the CBD getting more than they did. Looks like a turf war.

8 teens held after dispute in downtown Detroit

By Candice Williams
The Detroit News
0 Comments

Detroit — Police took eight teens into custody Saturday night after what they described as a neighborhood dispute among rivals at Michigan

and Cass in downtown Detroit.
Detroit Police Sgt. Eren Stephens said American Coney Island

on Lafayette called in a disturbance after some of the teens entered the restaurant. No one was hurt.
Police investigated 76 teens ages 14-17 and five adults in their 20s. The teens were released to their parents

, Stephens said.
The eight teens police detained had outstanding warrants.
Stephens said the department did not increase police presence around the Motown Winter Blast on Sunday night.

From The Detroit News: http://www.detroitnews.com/article/2...#ixzz2KYdxX0kC

**wolverine** · February-10-13, 11:45 PM

Man, this reminds me of two summers ago here in Chicago when flashmobs were happening regularly. Year before that they were big in Philly. This past summer they were pretty much squashed out with tremendous police presence, which has held strong to this day. Certainly it took patrols away from some of the neighborhoods, but the idea was to maintain peace and safety in areas of high commerce and tourism.

Maybe this will be a one time thing for Detroit as well. Usually a couple of episodes and the problem disappears for a few years. Good job to the DPD for catching some of these individuals. I think 1000 hours mandatory community service should do.

Probably what would help is a business association pool for private security. That's what I'm seeing of alot of these days in shopping districts and it's made a huge impact. Even some residential buildings contribute. There's a line item in my rent for block security and it's only $5.

Another thing I'm seeing that will potentially become useful for Detroit is reduction of discouraging of cash fare payments on public transit and switching to registered electronic cards with RFID. I already have one and it requires ID and address to get one. They are easy to pick up and must be preloaded with at minimum one-way fare. They are just as easy to get for tourists as a typical day pass, so it's not a hassle. But basically it tracks you when you ride transit. So in the event of a crime the suspects hop on a bus or train, they can be quickly identified via RFID and onboard cameras. Even without such system fully deployed, the cameras do a beautiful job on the CTA and if you get say...an iphone..stolen on the train there's probably a very good chance you'll get it back. The city is trying to deploy universal phone payment as well. So your phone will cover everything from transit fare, car rental, payment at retail and food establishments, and even laundry machines in apartment buildings.

**corktownyuppie** · February-11-13, 02:30 AM

Originally Posted by Shollin

I must live in some alternate universe. These actions are somehow being justified by conspiracy theories and bankers? As someone who works in a bank, I have no problem cutting all financing to the city of Detroit since we apparently ruined the economy because people defaulted on their loans. From now on all these startups can get their financing from their relatives. Let their relatives take on the risk since the banks are so evil. See how long the economy lasts.

Don't feed the trolls. I'm still waiting for the Occupy Movement to take off so that the "banksters" can all go down in flames and poverty will disappear.

Until then, it's worth noting that 70+ teens were brought to police custody and 8 were detained for outstanding warrants. 5 parents were brought in for questioning. Police showed up in full force and dropped the hammer.

http://www.clickondetroit.com/news/D...z/-/index.html

Agree with Lowell. These things will happen, downtown will continue to grow. We will learn to prevent this type of behavior and react to it more constructively. And we will continue making progress.

Be aware of your surroundings, carry pepper spray. And be street smart. All will be ok.

**Honky Tonk** · February-11-13, 05:01 AM

[QUOTE=corktownyuppie;366926]

Originally Posted by Shollin

I must live in some alternate universe. These actions are somehow being justified by conspiracy theories and bankers? As someone who works in a bank, I have no problem cutting all financing to the city of Detroit since we apparently ruined the economy because people defaulted on their loans. From now on all these startups can get their financing from their relatives. Let their relatives take on the risk since the banks are so evil. See how long the economy lasts.[/QUOTE

Don't feed the trolls. I'm still waiting for the Occupy Movement to take off so that the "banksters" can all go down in flames and poverty will disappear.

Until then, it's worth noting that 70+ teens were brought to police custody and 8 were detained for outstanding warrants. 5 parents were brought in for questioning. Police showed up in full force and dropped the hammer.

http://www.clickondetroit.com/news/D...z/-/index.html

Agree with Lowell. These things will happen, downtown will continue to grow. We will learn to prevent this type of behavior and react to it more constructively. And we will continue making progress.

Be aware of your surroundings, carry pepper spray. And be street smart. All will be ok.

OR, you can just go to Ferndale, Royal Oak, Dearborn, etc., enjoy a coney dog without arming yourself and constantly looking over your shoulder.

**corktownyuppie** · February-11-13, 08:22 AM

Originally Posted by Honky Tonk

OR, you can just go to Ferndale, Royal Oak, Dearborn, etc., enjoy a coney dog without arming yourself and constantly looking over your shoulder.

Yes. Yes, you could. There are two clashing visions going on right now in Metro Detroit. One is the "just move away" vision, "we don't need to put up with this shit". The other is...the other vision. The entrepreneur's vision. The visionary's vision. The vision that says, "It will be harder at first but better in the long run."

I've been an entrepreneur through my life and have made decisions that people once thought were crazy and are now fully vindicated after the passage of time and progress.

Detroit is a city for the visionary right now. It takes courage, creativity, resiliency, and extra resources to build and enjoy a life you could just as easily have with much less effort only 15-20 minutes away from here.

If you're not a visionary, far be it from me to convert you to one.

**Honky Tonk** · February-11-13, 09:40 AM

Originally Posted by corktownyuppie

Yes. Yes, you could. There are two clashing visions going on right now in Metro Detroit. One is the "just move away" vision, "we don't need to put up with this shit". The other is...the other vision. The entrepreneur's vision. The visionary's vision. The vision that says, "It will be harder at first but better in the long run."

I've been an entrepreneur through my life and have made decisions that people once thought were crazy and are now fully vindicated after the passage of time and progress.

Detroit is a city for the visionary right now. It takes courage, creativity, resiliency, and extra resources to build and enjoy a life you could just as easily have with much less effort only 15-20 minutes away from here.

If you're not a visionary, far be it from me to convert you to one.

We exchanged viewpoints a few times now, so I'd like to respond, if I may. I've been a City dweller for 61 years, and watched the City ebb and flow. Each time the City pond becomes a bit smaller, and more contaminated. Last Saturdays "Flash Mob", [[I'll give you that to avoid being chastised), was another "eye-opening" Detroit moment. I realized that no matter what has changed Downtown physically, you're still vulnerable because of the underlying attitude of crime. Kudos to the under-paid, under-staffed Detroit Police Department for rapidly quashing what could have escalated into a really bad situation, but the question to me is, does one want to keep taking the risk? What if I needed Police ASAP where I was @ the time? "Sorry, all our agents are currently busy". 76 people were detained, not counting the ones that got away. What if next time, the "Flash Mob" is too big to control? This is not just a onetime incident. Things like this keep reoccurring on a regular basis. Shots randomly fired, shots fired into crowds, property being stolen or vandalized, and personal attacks for being in the wrong place @ the wrong time. Detroit, after 61 years, still REFUSES to address its main problem, crime. In fact, they’ve even cut back on crime fighting resources. I don’t get it? @ some point in time, I stopped saying nice things about Detroit, stopped having a good time in Detroit, and my “visions” have turned into stark reality. I wish you better luck on your entrepreneurship then my generation had. I no longer have the resources nor ambition to keep supporting the Ilitch/Gilbert dream compound.

**nain rouge** · February-11-13, 10:19 AM

We do need to focus on crime, but if it's true that Detroit has more police per capita than many other big cities, maybe we have to look at other ways to reduce crime. Social equality always seemed like a good idea to me.

**Detroitnerd** · February-11-13, 10:57 AM

Originally Posted by nain rouge

We do need to focus on crime, but if it's true that Detroit has more police per capita than many other big cities, maybe we have to look at other ways to reduce crime. Social equality always seemed like a good idea to me.

If we took a fraction of the money we spent on prisons and police and prosecutors and simply gave it to people in the form of services and subsidies, we'd do a lot more to fight crime that way.