Days of Sadness...

Is it me? Or, is Ypsilanti truly cursed? Right after I post something of a positive nature about Ypsi, a tragic fire occurs, killing three little kids. That fire, which happened at Paradise Manor, is something I've been dreading for the longest time. They've had fires there before, and on more than one occasion I've seen the dumpsters at that place blazing as well. It's popped into my thoughts, down through the years, that it would be just a matter of time until a tragic fire occurred-- And I don't feel good at all about being right. There have been too many close calls over the years with that substandard place. Now the worst has happened. No need to post links here, you've heard the news by now. Over on detroityes.com there's a character named "Rasputin" on their message board, who's often at odds with the preservationists on that site over many of Detroit's empty and historic buildings, he usually gets their ire by calling for the demolition of some of these structures (which admittedly some are dangerous), by concluding his posts with a "Tear that schitt down!" mantra.
In light of what happened at Paradise Manor (basically known as the 'Ave' by us south-siders) he may be on to something, at least in this instance and for our purposes. That place is dangerous. Apparently those buildings are built in such a way that they would be illegal today, as the upstairs bedrooms can only be accessed by a stairway that runs through, or at least too close to the kitchen. I've also read on another local blog, that the damned place didn't even have a current certificate of compliance-- Which is a city requirement. Now, I understand by calling for the demolition of this death trap, the question arises as what to do with the residents that dwell there, who of course, are the poorest among us. I would answer: Almost anything and anyplace... Temp housing, vouchers for some area apartments, hell even Cobble (Tuscan?) Creek, like what AA did to their YMCA residents-- Anything! That's how bad the place is. Bulldoze the lot, and when/if Ypsi ever finds the dough, build something nicer and safer in it's stead. I would also state that even if that place had any 'historic value' (it doesn't), I'd still be for junking that eyesore, and if you've read the header to my blog, you can garner how much I love historic things-- But never over people. AND (since I'm ranting at full speed) while the 'experts' are at it, take a long hard look at Armstrong Ct. and Hollow Creek as well...
To finish up, Aubrey's restaurant in Depot Town, is holding a fundraising dinner for the victims of the fire from 4 to 8pm this coming Monday, Feb. 12-- 10 bucks a plate, but even if you can't attend, please stop by briefly, and consider donating something-- No matter how small.