The Bunker

These are some bits I copied from YHF newsletters when we were still living in Ypsilanti.

"DOWNTOWN YPSILANTI - LOOKING UP? Did you know that the city has recently been awarded a matching grant of $7,000 from the State History Division for a Facade Study of downtown Ypsilatni?? This means $14,000 will be used to study and draw up designs for revivication of fronts in our downtown area. In most cases where this kind os study has been made, visible improvements have followed.

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"DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION: As spring appraches there are many signs of revitalization visible in downtown Ypsilanti... In Depot Town, the owners of Depot Exchange are planning to open their new bar, the Sidetrack, in a few days. The Sidetrack, which will serve sandwiches and feature jazz musicians, is located at 56 E. Cross Street, the site of the former Central Bar. The new owners have attempted to restore the building's significant details, its nineteenth century store front, the pressed tin ceiling, and the magnificent columned bar that takes up one whole wall. Inside they have removed the heating ducts from the ceiling and hidden them behind the walls, restored the original mahogany colored stain of the bar, and added turn of the century light fixtures. It promises to provide a very attrative interior." March 20, 1979

"Have you seen what's been happening in Depot Town? ... the delightful new (old) storefront sign for Huron Valley Office Supply in it's new location at 19 E. Cross St.??? ... the spectacular transformation of the facade of the Alibi Bar and the Weber building??? ... and now the prospect of a real live CABOOSE being corralled and brought to Depot Town for use as DTA and Farmers Market offices and other creative uses???" January 24, 1980

"WOODRUFF'S GROVE is open!! The elegant new cocktail lounge and restaurant in the Centennial Center at the corner of Washington and Pearl Streets is now serving! You might try a "Cyclone of 1893" sandwich, a "Raftsman" salad, or a "Mary Ann Starkweather" steak

NEWS: The city is in the process of making an application for a Small Cities grant which would include funds for further repairs and restoration of the Gilbert House (Girls' Club). These repairs are essenial if the City is to stabilize the building; the alternative - to do nothing at this time - would jeopardize the investment the City has already made in this important landmark." May 27, 1980

"If you haven't visited the new indoor Farmer's Market in the old Freighthouse in Depot Town, you're in for a startling discovery. The Victorians, you know, loved what the English poet, John Betjeman, calls "that marvelous waste of space!" Now one Victorian space is being put to use in an exciting new way - a year-round market, with the freshest vegetables, flowers, fruits, and health foods at competitive prices. Besides all this, there's the wainscoted coffee shop at the south end of the building, with enormous multipaned windows out of which even the worst looks wonderful. Here you can linger about the old pot-bellied stove while you sip coffee and munch doughnut's and homemade pie." November 1980

"DOWNTOWN RENOVATION - Have you noticed the renovation of Oscar Haab's building at the northeast corner of Michigan and Huron... the well-matched brickwork and the new windows? To be followed soon by new awnings! And, did you know that Andy Smith has purchased the old Cunningham Drugs building at the northeast corner of Michigan and Washington and is in the process of renovation? Both of these projects should make a marked improvement in the appearance (and vitality) of our downtown.

"WOODRUFF'S GROVE OPEN AGAIN" We are pleased to remind you that Woodruff's Grove, Ypsilanti's fine new restaurant and bar, which suffered a fire shortly before the new year, is open again to serve you." January 1981

"NOTEWORTHY IMPROVEMENTS: The Depot Town area continues to experience a renaissannce: witness. for example, the new awnings over the fronts of River Art Works and the Health Emporium. These, coupled with the new canvas canopy over the picnic table i front of Kevin's Bakery, add immeasurably to the sense of a street scene, and street traffic is growing month by month in this part of Ypsilanti. Also noticeable are the improvements to the commercial builginds on River Street (the Millworks and it's adjacent building) - new shops and new fronts brighten the scene. Finally, there is the new Miller's Ice Cream Parlor, directly across from Oliver's...

Michigan Avenue is also looking up. The awnings are up and a new optical business has opened in the long-shut builing at the northeast corner of Huron and Michigan... they're painting up a storm along the avenue. First the old Cunningham Drug building at the northeast corner of Washington and Michigan got a total facelift. Now work is underway on three more commercial buildings across from the Public University, aliong the color guildlines suggested by Richard Macias, with whom the city has contracted for his expertise in the area of restoration. We can't wait for the full effect!" September 1982

"Commercial buildings at two major downtown intersections are sporting handsome new paint jobs - Beneficial Finance, at Michigan and Huron, and the Tap Room at Michigan and Washigton. Take time to admire the way the new colors highlight the architectural details on the upper stories of these Italianate structures." November 1981

A BEAUTY SECRET? - ...have you seen the tiny ladies' lingerie and accessories shop that has opened on Morth Huron just south of Detroit Edison? Called A Beauty Secret, it opened last June. The owners, Christina Cantu and Marianne Szalega also have a hair studio on the lower level. ... Give these girlsyour business and watch for a facade face-lift in the spring!" January 1982

"NOTEWORTHY IMPROVEMENTS: In the face of genuine full-scale recession, Depot Town continues to accelerate the pace of its improvements. Note, for example, the new pizzaria in the Old Weber Drug location. Karl and Paula Palen are veterans in the pizza business, & don't expect anything but sucess. Right now the business will we take-out only, but they ultimately hope to have up-front tables. What a populr place that could become!

Note, also, the face-lift in the works at B & D Plumbing at the Cross Streeet Bridge. Forbes' Cleaners, returning to Depot Town after a ten year absence, are opening in the building - one more convenience for the locals! New signage is in the works and, in fact, a face-lift for the entire front is in progress...

Have you noticed a general improvement on South Huron as you approach the downtown area from the south? The entire streetscape continues to improve in appearance because of the work of a number of property owners." January 1982

"RIVERSIDE PARK - Lighted walkways in Riverside Park for nighttime strolling? That's just one of the projected improvements scheduled to be installed by early summer in the park. This is just the begining of more than a $200,000 grant program to improve this important resource." March 1982

"RIVERSIDE PARK: Work is underway to stabilize the bank, with improvements to the road, new lighting, and a small parking lot to come." May 1982

"Prospect Park, where the fountain and the flowers are a treat? Fall is the perfect time to enjoy it! Kids will like the new playground equipment." May 1982

"The Mainstreet Saloon (formerly The Grainery), where there's a new paint job and new signage? Note particularly the sign over the front entrance, which shows individuality and good tastte." May 1982

"Rich's Carpentry in the old Thompson Bldg on N. River, where an appropriate new sign sets an example for other businesses in that historic structure." May 1982

"MAIN STREET COMES TO YPSILANTI On November 3 and 4, Ypsilanti business people and civic leaders united in an intensive two-day series of mettings to discus downtown revitalization. Sponsored by the Downtown Development Authority, the program was under the direction of Tom Lutz, from the National Trust's "Main Street" program in Washington, D.C. Lutz's central point was that Ypsilanti will not have a viable downtown again until the community at large decides that it is ready to make a total commitment to downtown.

At the final meeting at Woodruff's Grove, Lutz told his large audiences that they seem "intimidated by some neighbors". He expressed astonishment that so many of his audience still had doubts about the value of an historic preservation program, which to him means, essentially, making the most of the unique resources we have. He urged the creation of a new umbrella organization which would work with objectivity and vigor to mobilize the community in making a vital downtown. He noted the need for an energetic, young, outside professional who would work full time on the project; but the ultimate success of the project would depend upon an all-out community effort." November 1982

"DEPOT RENOVATION "GO" !!! Sue Remien Fejes, Community Development Director, has announced that plans for the renovation of the crumbling train station in Depot Town are noe "Go" after receiving word that an Urban Development Action Grant from the U.S. Dep. of Housing and Urban Development in the amount of $145,000 had been approved! Designs for the first class resaurant have been on the drawing board for over a year now, and this appears to be the turning point in making the Depot Town dream a reality!" May 1983

"BUSINESS IS LOOKING UP IN YPSILANTI! Aubrey's fabulous renovation of their second floor into a bar and restaurant... Bill Durant's renovation of his flower shop facade, a project carefully designed to capitalize on the integrity of the original architectural features of the building... Sioux Shelton's improvemnets to her building on South Huron across from City Hall where she has moved her Breakaway Travel Agency... Sidetrack's and Depot Exchange's color magic and other improvements..." September 1983

"FLOWERS, FLOWERS EVERYWHERE!!! WELL almost everywhere! You would have to be pretty oblivious to your environment not to have noticed the wonderful imporovement in the appearance of Downtown Ypsilanti made by planting of bright blooms in the planters and the care obviously lavished on so many of them. We have Bill Durant to thank for the organization and success of this project. Bill was one of a handful of Ypsilanti businesspeople who visited Northville last year, where flower plantings are an integral part of the downtown scene." September 1983

"Those of you who missed Chris' Open House on Nov. 1 and as yet haven't seen her charming shop on Michigan Avenue, are urged to stop by and see how she has transformed a small space for her 'little people'. Lost of is have been on Home Tours in the Blinn's delightfully restored house on the East Side. Now Chris has done it for downtown & though the space is small, it's a giant step in moving that troubled part of Ypsilanti towards a new vitality. Nestled wisely between Haab's and Materials Unlimited... her pretty shop offers all of us, as well as serious doll collectors, a new place to be proud of downtown Ypsilanti." November 1983

"SHOP FOR CHRISTMAS IN YPSILANTI - FIRST! November, 1983

"MAINSTREET PROGRAM DOWNTOWN: The MainStreet Program, soonsored by the National Trust for Historis Preservation, has been responsible for many revitalizatioin programs across the country, Now Ypsilanti joins those communities committed to developing a coordinated plan for bringing life back into downtown. The program deals not only with physical appearance but also management structure, financing, & marketing. It encourages development of new business on the basis of community needs. The Downtown Development Authority has agreed to fund hiring of a professional coordinator to develop the plan for downtown Ypsilanti." March 1984

"YPSILANTI'S NEW MIDTOWN ASSOCIATION GAINS MOMENTUM: The Midtown Association, which includes essentially all of Ward 4, roughly from Summit to North Huron and Forest to West Michigan, took on powerful new status this summer with the election of offecers, passage of by-laws, and establishment of three committees to work on specific problem areas: code enforcement, crime, and zoning." September 1984

"DEPOT TOWN LOOKED LOVELY, AGAIN this Christmas - especially the enormous, magical tree in Shankweilers' window!!

DOWNTOWN looked more festive and cheerful, too! The new front on the library is so perfect for the classic character of the building that one hardly notices the improvements, thet are so RIGHT!!!

THE METAMORPHOSIS of Ralph Ellis' Bike Shop front rom dull fifties fadery to original Gothic flory continues to delight the eye. Am entire new (appropriate) front is going on the Italianate building directly behind the National Bank, and other shopfront restorations and renovations are in the works, we hear. BUT if you STILL have not seen the first-class restoration of the Ypsilanti Board of Realtors building at 47 N. Huron, feast your eyes on that now! DOWNTOWN is, as Bill Durant puts it, in a period of transition: let's give them all the encouragement we can!!

LOOKING FOR AN ENGLISH PUB? Dolly's Place, formerly O'Brien's Pub, at 205 W. Michigan, in downtown Ypsilanti, is now for salw. It has the most authentic English-pub atmosphere, inside and out, or any bar in the area. Two Floors above, each with two apartments, in an historic building 115 years old. $155,000. March 1985

A VERY WARM WELCOME to Richard and Mart Balsbaugh, who have purchased not one but two neglected buildings at 207 and 211 North Adams and are now hard at work transforming them into the elegant properties they should alwats have been. "How could any owner let such beautiful properties go so far down hill?", they asked. Mary says this is the first New Year's Day she has spent removing wallpaper! They're living in the corner house themselves and will rent newly-created apartments in the other. Welcome, already dear friends! January 1986

18 & 20 North Washington on the Mall, housing Peg's Golden Griddle, experienced a major transformation from ugly duchling to showpiece when the period storefronts were reconstructed and all the best features of the buildings were highlighted with splendid colors. January 1986

Depot Town Exchange in Depot Toen exchanged its ramshackle rear image for a full-scale rehab, woth new windows, repair work, and a painted-on-the-wall wign right out of the 19th century! And thanks, Sidetrack, too, for your east facade rehab! Clearly, that whole end of Depot Toen is no longer "just a pretty face"! January 1986

All over town, handsome buildings are emerging from behind false facades and synthetic siding - each one like the unwrapping of a christmas package - a wonderful gift to this once tired old town now coming to life again!

Numerous facade improvements were made this past year downtown, among them Willoughby's and Puffer Red's - the whole community appreciates improvements like these! January 1986

A fond farewell to Bonni Rosen-Fine's "And Everything Nice" and a warm welcome to Marge and Dave Gauntlett's "The Cricket Box", opening soon. January 1986

Many new businesses have opened in all three main shopping areas of the community - West Cross Street (University Village), Depot Town and Downtown - look for them and give them your support! January 1986

Standard Printing did a major overhaul on its large building in Depot Town. Note particularlt the metamorphosis in the intryway to what ised to be the Eagles' Hall: new door, new sidelights, new transom, and elegant lighting in the stairwell. And, the new rear entry is worth walking around the building to see. January 1986

"Do you remember Depot Town in 1974, for example, when Bev and Don Shankwiler bought the Artrain Building? The place liked like London after the blitz... Yet in 1977, when the Heritage Foundation held its September meeting in Shankwiler's imaginatively renovated building, things had begun to happen all along that part of Cross Street and a new spirit had emerged - the spirit is very much in the flesh, and Depot Town is a vital, living area popular to thousands all over southeast Michigan.

Small projects as well as bug ones contribute to the new sense of faith emerging that Ypsilanti cant lose, that the old idea that this was a town without an identity is dead, and that a new sense of community pride is spreading well beyond the city limits.

Movement now is into Ypsilanti, not out of it. Enthusiasm is high, property is selling, people are moving in, most encouragingly into downtown. Lowered interest rates are a big help. Still, people want assurance that their investment is safe. A tight Historic Ordinance is a major way of protecting those investments which are so vital to the continued revitalization of Ypsilanti. Jack Harris, March 1986

HOUSE FREE TO GOOD HOME One of Ypsilanti's historic houses is looking for a good home. The former parish house of the First Congregational Church occupies the only available site for the church's planned addition. The church is looking for someone willing to adopt the house - free of charge - and move it from it's lot at 214 North Adams. March 1986

According to the Historic District Commission Chair, the MOST BEAUTIFUL SIGHT IN TOWN is scaffolding all up and down MICHIGAN AVE! May 1986

Thanks Paponetti's Pasta for their bright, inviting new look at 17 East Cross - May 1986

The Mack & Mack building (211-215 West Michigan) has new owners, Tom and Jean Fagan, who plan to open a mini mall woth living quarters above. Already the fifties facade has come down and plans are approved for facade rehab - another tremendous asset to the entire downtown streetscape! May 1986

Much appreciation to Bill Durant, who not only rehabbed a very nice building but established a Hallmark card shop at 113 West Michigan. Another contribution from a comitted community supporter! May 1986

"Rumors are running hot and heavy that Sue is also about to pull a coup in working out details, finally, for renovation of the depot as a restaurant and entertainment spot. She confides that thigs have never been so exciting on that score as they are right now. Look for a renovated depot by 1987, She says.

Reconstruction of the 1860's signal tower, too, as an historic landmark and a perfect information center for the City, seems more than ever possible, as Sue reports. Can't you just see it at the NW corner of Cross and River (on site of the original), with single hollyhocks and all?" November 1986

MIDTOWN UNDER STUDY Mary Steffy, City Planner, reports that the City is doing a systemeatic study of the Midtown area, in terms of an inventory of properties to determine the most appropriate uses for various sites. The study will consider the problem of density in terms of needs for student housing, multi-family rentals and residential owner-occupied homes. Careful control is essential if we are to avoid the dormitory look and maintain the "vital living area" of our home town. Mary's dedication to her job and her very sensible approach to these tough problems makes her worth getting to know. November 1986

DOWNTOWN ENTRANCES TO BE SPRUCED (JUNIPERED, HAWTHORNED?) UP! All signals are "GO", come April this year, as downtown entrances get a face lift. W. J. Johnson Associares of Ann Arbor have sedigned new signage, logo, and - most important and impressive - landscaping at the three crucial entrances to downtown Ypsilanti. At the west entry at Michigan and Admas, there will be plantings of dwarf red-leaf dogwood, honey locusts, and juniper, with raised flower beds, both sides, in front of our library. The comminity fountain, too, will become the focus of a semicircular seating area, with plantings, including flowering pears and yew. Another planting of trees, flowers, and shrubs will hide the raw parking now seen at the corner of South Huron and Ferris. Finally, the eastern gateway, the river's edge at Mainstreet Restaurant and Materials Unlimited, will make a much stronger statement snnouncing your arrival in Historic Downtown Ypsilanti. There will be ground lighting of all the colorful plantsand signage, welcoming you to downtown. Maintenance of these plantings will be subcontracted out to a professional firm. Sue Mosey at the Main Streetoffice, 7 South Washington, has the plans for anyone's perusal. Thanks, Sue! January 1987

Sue Dickinson consfides that the situation has never looked so promising for a breakthrough in the Rehabilitation-of-the-Depot-Dream. Let's "Keep Everything Crossed", think positive, and rally behind our City in its commitment to transform the Impossible Dream into a LIVING reality! January 1987

Let's also anticipate the completion of the new water system in the city, the reconstruction of torn up streets and sidewalks, and an improved service all around. January 1987

HURON RIVER CORRIDOR FOOT BRIDGE - Sue Dickinson, City Economic Development Specialist, reports the designs for a pedestrian bridge inder the Michigan Avenue bridge, over the Huron, are inderwayn with April gunding possible. And why not? Why shouldn't the mighty huron be fully accessible for public pleasure, as are so many riverfront developments in other Michigan cities and towns? Keep onto is, Sue! March 1987

FOUR STAR RESAURANT IN DEPOT TOWN? That's what Sue Dickinson expects, when plans are finalized for the rehabilitation of Depot Town's namesake, the depot itself. Developers are negotiating with Amtrak and have executed a purchase agreement, with the help of Rep, William Ford, D-Taylor. Now the plan is to spend about two months designing the restaurant, taking care that they meet all the certigication requirements of state autorities. Then, they will meet with the local Historic District Commission to review plans for the exterior. Wouldn't that be the cat's meow for Depot To wn (and all Ypsilanti?). There'll be dancing in the streets down there if that becomes a reality diring the state's sesquicentennial year! Realistically, however, preparation of construction plans and specifications, their approvals, and construction will stretch it well into next year at the extreme earliest. March 1987

The former Hollow Leg Tavern has been transformed into a classy deli, with a spacious, all white interior & new awnings, by owners Diane & Joe Mikulec, formerly of Milford. MAX'S DELICATESSEN has a bright, fresh atmosphere & bright young employees. Good sandwiches, bar service, and take-outs. A welcome addition to downtown! August 1987

ABE'S CONEY ISLAND RESTAURANT, at the other end of downtown, corner of Hamilton & Michigan and across from the proposed new EMU Business School, will soon be open. Awnings & signs are up. Look for it! August 1987

We hardly need tell Festival visitors about the new pedestrian bridge between Riverside Park, Frog Island & Depot Town. As we go to press, only the pilings are in, but work is scheduled for completion by Festival. Ypsilantians and visitors will have a new sensation of proximity to the waters of the mighty Huron hot experienced since the days of the primitive crossings referred to in Colburn's History (1923) of the town. August 1987

The Public Library's appearance has been enhanced greatly by the new paint on the windows which perfectly matches the bronze color of the handsome doors. And the petunias are back in the front window boxes. Now let's start a campaign (or a garden club?) to see that boxes full of flowers, too - especially now that the appearance of the little park has been so much improved by the work on the lovely little fountain. August 1987

The new downtown entryways are now will underway, with plantings in front of the librarym & on Huron at Ferris. Not only will there be trees & flowering shrubs, but daylillies & marigolds will brighten our world all summer and fall! August 1987

The Maxtons (formerly Greene's) at 104-106 W. Michigan, are almost finished with their facade improvements, including the replacement of the aluminum storefront windows woth more historic wood-framed windows. August 1987

The sidewalk planters are looking terrific this year - probably due to paid maintenance courtesy of the Main Street Program, plants courtest of the CBC, & the recommendations of historic landscape specialist, Scot Kunst. (The cannas are the perfect centerpieces!) August 1987

Now watch for facade improvemnets at Karonias Palace on N. Washington and at Moray's Jewelers - we hope - please! August 1987

Street and sidewalk improvements in many of the central areas of the city, in conjunction with new water lines, are a welcome improvement. August 1987

THE DEPOT, THE SEPOT, THE DEPOT: they swear work will begin soon; that it will be a first-rate restaurant; that the tower will be reconstructed and glass extensions will be added. We watch, we wait, and we cross everything! August 1987

Meanwhile, there's new Farmer's Market parking and lighting, transforming that barren wasteland north of Depot Town into much needed passageways and parking. Take note and be glad! August 1987

CROSS STREET BUSINESS DISTRICT has a number of new establishments, including a Cottage Inn where the original Donino's used to be. Note, also, some facade improvements, especially the tremendous improvement in the row of shops along Perrin Street, behind Liquor is Quicker. August 1987

Now jog around the corner onto Michigan Avenue to the east and see facade renovation in progress at Morey's Jewellers. Bet you've already forgotten the pink tile akk over the second story, haven't you? - covering the tow victorian windows that matched the adhacent two on Patrick Easto's (formerly Darby's) building. The original tin lintels (the decorative feature above the windows) are being restored to match those of the 19th century. When finished, the building will contribute to the long range plan to restore the character and the quality that downtown Ypsilanti once had. Thank you, Morey's for your input and cooperation with the Main Street Program! November 1987

SUE MOSEY, Main Street Project Director, we think you're wonderful! Win some, loss some: standing in the midst of all the crossfire, you get the projects going, in spite of everything. Hang in there - we love you! August 1987

Both banks have been sold: The National Bank and the Ypsilanti Savings Bank have changed hands. Welcome, new owners, to our historic downtown! August 1987

MAINSTREET ITSELF GET A FACELIFT! Now step back to Washington, head south a few doors and on the east side of the street, you will see WORK IN PROGRESS on Sue Mosey's Main Street office itself. When finished, the front will match the law office next door, including the second story windows, and what an improvement that will be! November 1987

YPSILANTI PROMOTIONAL VIDEO TO HAVE FEBRUARY PREMIERE Ypsilanti area folk are about to get a very upbeat image of themselves and their envirinment with the prodicrion of a promotional cideo of the region. It will visually portry the quality of life here, in its many facets; recreation, business, residential, hospitals, etc. Of course, it will describe the important preservation movement that has grown over the past doxen years including the development of the large Historic District. The cideo is a joint effort of Ypsilanti Township, City, and the Chamber of Commerce. Eastern Michigan and Washtenaw Community COllege have also contributed, as have the Home Builders' Association of Washtenaw County and the AAnn Arbor Board of Realtors, with Sue Dickinson, CIty Economic Specialist, as Coordinator. The finished product will have its premiere in February and then go on sale through the Chamber of Commerce. January 1988

Louis Roumanis, owner of the popular Tower Inn Restaurant on W. Cross, has taken over 205 w. Michigan (formerly Dolly's Pub) and plans to convert the upper floors into 4 apartments, renovate the character-filled pub interior, and redo the facade. Downtown becomes busier and busier as people move into the upper floors and buidins become more attractive. January 1988

WATERWORKS PARK: A project for '88. By the end of 1988 we can expect to see a bike path and footpaths, as well as pedestrians bridges, over the Huron from Michigan Avenue south towards FOrd Lake, including a bridge connecting Riverside Park under the Michigan Avenue bridge with the proposed parkway trail to the south. (At last! the much abused Huron is getting the treeatment it deserves!)

AT LASST! DEPOT RESTORATION PROJECT UNDERWAY! Only the close observer will have noticed that work is in progress on the Ypsilanti depot, that hitherto forsaken namesake of Depot Town. Jim amd Carol Kovalak, formerly of the Pickle Barrel Restaurant in Willis, are the new comers. They have spent months with their architect over designs. and have just about finalized plans with the City - including close scrutiny by the Historic District commission/ Meanshile, they have been nezt time you are at the Farmers' Market. you will dee what an improvement has already been made to that crumbling aspect of the building. Design plans include an addition to accommodate all the necessary elements of a restaurant. The brsszeway between the main builsing and the former baggage house will be glassed in, and a tower will be added to resenble a former one. Look for more obvious work to begin when the weather becomes warmer! January 1988

PENINSULAR PARK: a 'hidden jewel' waiting for completion and discovery... Sue Dickinson reports that work began in the fall on the 6.2 acre park owned by the City just above the Leforge bridge on the north side of the Huron River. Completion of the project is scheduled for spring/ There will be walks, trails, picnic shelter, and canoe portages to please outdoor enthusiasts, making Ypsilanti even more attractive to residents and visitors. January 1988

HURON RIVER MUSEUM?... THe City is also hoping to receive a grant to renovate the adjacent historic powerhouse, converting it to a Huron River Museum. CAll Sue at City Hall if you have old photographs or other memorabilia related to the mighty Huron: anything that would depict its history. January 1988

BANNERS GO UP IN UNIVERSITY VILLAGE... Conveying an identity and pride of place, banners went up along Cross Street in late fall, from Ballard to the Tower. Mounted on light poles in pairs with bold images of the Tower and an historic window they project a sense of vitality and hospitality. Let's have them in Downtown and Depot Town, too! WITH STRONG GRAPHICS! January 1988

CBC OFFERS MOSEY FOND FAREWELL... The Central Business COmmunity is to be commended and thanked for its generous gift of a wonderful fareful party for Sue Mosey. Held at the Mainstreet Restaurant on February 29, the party brought together a large number of people, all grateful for the opportunity to say 'thanks' to Sue for all she has done for Downtown. Sue will not soon be forgotten, and we thank the CBC for sponsoring the gathering that marked the departure of Ypsilanti's first Main Street Project Director. March 1988

HURON RIVER CORRIDOR FOOT BRIDGE: Progress Report... Have you looked at Ford Lake lately? Try pulling into the new public parking lot just south of the Armory (take Hamilton across I-94: it's on your left). Then look for the tarmac path and head east, down the hill, through the woods which in a few weeks should be lovely. This takes you to the marshes along the NW side of Ford Lake, where you'll find viewing decks over the lake, and a board walk through the cattails to the north side of the lake. On your left, alas, is I-94; but on your right is the lake itself, with the almost completed island walkway that will accompany the golf course underway. Half way along is a Monet-like arched bridge (give me the wisteria, quick!) and along the bank of the lake something like ten thousand roses have been planted to delight our senses, in contrast to the highway horror t-other side. This path brings you out at Grove, and you can either backtrack or do the long trek north to Prospect into the old East Side and thence back to the car. Sue Dickinson reports that the first phase of the linkup between Riverside Park and Ford will be built this summer,. That will include a footbridge over the Huron and under Michigan Avenue and extend to the Water Works. Next summer the path will be built to I-94, and the following summer the linkup will be made with Ford Lake. Keep on the trail of these footpaths, Sue! March 1988

CLASSY RESTAURANT IN DERELICT DEPOT... Last year at this time we reported that plans were bieing finalized for a new restaurarnt in the old depot. We shall watch the action over the next several months. Already you can see the foundation repair and the replacement of the tower underway. Pillares on the entry have been rebuilt and much demolition work is going on inside. It will be a constant source of pleaure this summer to see that centerpiece of Depot Town come to life! March 1988

(D)id you notice that there has been some window repair on the Thompson Building? Can it be that that building will someday be on track with the rest of Depot Town? March 1988

NEW MAIN STREET PROJECT DIRECTOR - WELCOME! Mary Ann Labelle, new Main Street Project Manager, has been on board just over two weeks. She will be concentrating this summer on business recruitment and continue facade and entryway improvement and continue facade and entryway improvement work. Parking will be an attention-getter, especially in terms of the impact the new business school will have on Michigan and Hamilton Avenue corridor. May 1998

WATCH HURON PARKWAY PROJECTS THIS SUMMER! Sue Dickson, acting director of community development, predicts that peninsular Park, now nearly 80% completed, will be the most popular place for recreation in the city soobn. She notes that we will see more landscaping in the Frog Island and Farmers Market Area, as well as around the Cross Street bridge. Then watch for work to begin under the Michigan Avenue bridge (when they iron out structural problems involved in an underwalk from Riverside Park on the west to the proposed downriver path on the east). That path will follow the riber to Gilbert Park (you know, the one behind the Flea Market) and from there there will be a pedestrian bridge across to the west side of the mighty Huron into Waterworks Park. Eventually, all this will link up ro the Ford Lake development. Imagine how all this will increase Ypsilanti's appeal! May 1988

RIVER STREET, did you notice, has been re-paved over the past year & a new layout at the intersection of Cross & River helps the traffic flow at that busy junction - all good for business in the area, surely. August 1988

DOWNTOWN SIDEWALKS NEVER LOOKED SO GOOD before Harvel Hayes took on the task of cleaning up with his "Ypsilanti Main Street" cleanup push cart. Inspired by the Main Street Program and paid for by the DDA, the job is well served by Harvel, who declares he likes the summer '88 heat (reminds him of his childhood in the south). See him, greet him, and have a chat next time you're downtown. He adds a nice personal touch to the busy thoroughfare! August 1988

THE CITY HAS COMPLETED ITS FIRST REALLY PROFESSIONAL PROMOTIONAL VIDEO. And the historic preservation movement which is at the denter of the City's renaissance plays an important part of the program. It's only 10 minutes long and is well worth the modest $15 cost - available at the Chamber of Commerce, now ensconced in Judge Breakey's grand Greek Revival mansion at 125 North Huron, where you can see another long overdue paint job in progress. Hooray! August 1988

WELCOME to the new person at the center and progress downtown - Mary Ann Labelle, Main Street Project manager. She will continue the work so well done by Sue Mosey, concentrating at this time on business recruitment. You can visit her at the new Main Street offices UPSTAIRS at 32 N. Washington. If you think that's a step down from Main Street's previous historic offices on S. Washington, think afain - and go see. You'll find a most exciting complex of early 20th century offices, with skylight and all. It's a fun building to visit! We wish you well, Mary Ann. August 1988

At the CROSS STREET BRIDGE, you will welcome the new pedestrian steps and smooth new walkways into Riverside Park. Notice also, that the war memorial plaques have found, at last, a permanent home. August 1988

IT MAY NOT BE HISTORIC PRESERVATION but Sue Dickinson, Senior Economic Specialist, is pleased to remind us that the 4.6 million which the City got from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority for the renovation of the Four Hills Apartments on South Grove is nothing to sneeze abnout. It will, we hope, perk up considerably one of the City's main entry ways. August 1988

SUE IS ALSO PLEASED, of course, that she has gotten $750,000, with just a little help from retiring House Speaker Gary Owen, for the further development of the Huron River recreational corridor. This block of money requires a $250,000 local match. The local press reports that the finds will be used to develop a park with the Loon Feather properties, to complete landscaping at the North Bay islands and the island in the middle of Ford Lake. Eventually, we will have bike trail connections all the way from Gallup Park in Ann Arbor to Ford Lake, southeasst of Ypsilanti. August 1988

IF YOU HAVE A CAR, you may want to drive south on Hamilton, just to see what changes have taken place beyind I-94, where a new Raddison Hotel and the adjoinming ENU Corporate Training Center are well underway, surrounded by a spectracular new golf course. If you want to wander, pull in on the other side of the old Armort, shere there are new parking spaced, and walk down through the woods and around Ford Lake. You get great vistas of the new complex. The whole project should draw movement toward Ypsilanti, rather than awat, as we have known it in the not-so-distant past. August 1988

DENTIST"S OFFICE: From Bumble Bee to Beauty. Hardly anything sowntown was uglier than the two-story building at 108 W. Michigan, usually referrred to as the Bumble Bee. Remember? - all those wide, vertical black and yellow stripes? Well, if you haven't looked lately, you've been missing something. A beautiful restoration is in progress and near completion... neat discovery of a plague in the upper tiers of brick, which reads: "Built by W. G. Davis, 1851." November 1988

ANOTHER IMPORTANT ADDITION TO DOWNTOWN! - Just as the EMU Business School rises fro the dust at the corner of Michigan and Hamilton in downtown Ypsilanti, word comes of another development, perhaps smaller, but the visual impact will also be great. Catherine McAuley Health Center has announced that it will build the Oscar Haab Health Building on the long vacant land on Huron Street between Pearl and Washtenaw. January 1989

NEW MAIN STREET PROJECT DIRECTOR NAMED The DDA has confirmed the appointment of Linda Young of Ann Arbor as the new Main Street project director. From Philadelphia, she has lived in Ann Arbor for 13 years, and she and her husband have bought a house there. By june, she expects to finish a masters degree in urban planning at the U of M. and a masters degree in preservation planning from EMU. Welcome to Ypsilanti, Linda! May 1989

BIG THANKS TO ALL THE VOLUNTEERS WHO HAVE BEEN WORKING ON THE DOCK CONSTRUCTION AT THE FREIGHT HOUSE!!! May 1989

Also, while you're downtown, you should look at the building on the northeast corner of the junction of Adams and Michigan. While you weren't looking that entire west wall of the two-story brick commercial building was torn down and re-built to perfection by the owner of the Wolverine Grill just down the street (where there has been a major face-lift, too!). In the process of taking down that west wall four splendid cast iron pillars were descovered actoss the front. Apparently a fifth one is missing. Let's hope at least the corner can be incorporated into the building facade, as in a similar building at the corner of North Main and Miller in Ann Arbor (our pillars are a little nicer, of course, but they've done a superb job of incorporating theirs into the facade). August 1989

You might also note in this area just to the west of the Business School that Abe's Restaurant is already going great guns, even before the arrival of the students. Now next door, a new business called The Eastern Deli is taking shape: all good news for downtown surely. August 1989

Welcome to Linda Young, the new director of the Main Street Program has been so important in the development of new life downtown. She reports that there is a lot of activity in propsed facade improvement yet to come. Linda will keep us posted, she says! August 1989

NEIGHBORHOOD'S UNITE One great event of the past year has been the formation of CONA. Have you ever heard of it? Well, if you live here, you should - and you should get involved, Ypsilanti now has a coalition of Neighborhood associations. You'd be surprised at the number of growing groups (block clubs, neighborhood Associations, etc.) that are begining to work together to pool their resources and understanding. TOGETHER they're saying, WE CAN DO IT!! August 1989

Back on Pearl, you may want to contemplate what's about to happen to the Centennial Center (the old Huron Hotal), where a massive renovation is about to begin, including reopening of the restaurant; and you can imagine the new AATA bus terminal that is to be built between Washington and Adams. Change is in the air - and faster than we sould have dreamed eight or ten years ago. Linda Young, Manager of the Mainstreet Program, tells us that the new focus downtown will be on increasing residential use of decond and third story spaces and well as onimproving the image by using more tools to reduce the negatives such as trash, dirt, and other issues. November 1989

...wander around to pearl and feel good about what the Maxton's are doing with the old G.A.R. Hall at 110 and its sister building... August 1989

TOM SACHLER, whom we mentioned in our last NEWS for doing the facade just west of Palasek's is now at work on the two facades on either side of the old entryway to the Werth Theatre, almost directly across from the fountain next to the library. Tiles from another era have been uncovered, new glass will be installed in the art deco windows and the lower cornice is being redesigned to suit this historic building. May 1990

Finally, the one we've all waited for, the enormous gruillwork that covered the bank of arched Italianate windows above TC'S SPEAKEASY is now down - and gone forever... the bars came down and the grillwork behind them was lowered, piece by piece, to the street. With the completetion of that front, that entire block will have regained its authenticity. May 1990

NOTE the attractive new shop, Fashions by G & T Unlinited at 46 N. Huron (just beyond the Vitamin Shoppe). Their window always looks attractive with stylish women's wear. August 1990

DEPOT TOWN HAS MANY CHANGES TO NOTICE SINCE LAST YEAR The following are only a few of the changes to be seen in Depot Town since last year’s Heritage Festival. The first is the enormous improvement and expansion in the facilities of City Body Shop at 20 East Cross, appropriately site of this year’s Festival Reception. At the other end of the block, across the
street, Aubrey’s transformed its upstairs into a pool parlor and entertainment area, and the exterior sports and new awnings, a jazzy new vertical neon sign, and lighting that accentuates the historic character of the building.
The other NEW ADDITION to Depot Town that can’t be overlooked is the opening of the DEPOT TOWN SOURDOUGH BAXERY, at 310 North River St., just south of the Ypsi Food Co-op, in the Millworks Building. This is a community project, following the lines of and in cooperation with the Wildflour Community Bakery of Ann Arbor. This movement for REAL bread, instead of the fluff that
Americans were fed for so many years, is national in scope, and popular journals now are including articles on the subject. It has been an expensive operation to develop such a bakery, with special wood—fired brick oven. Now the bakery needs your support: a gift of any amount would be greatly appreciated to defray the cost of starting up. In any event, don’t miss this
BEST NEW DEVELOPMENT IN DEPOT TOWN. It’s delicious whole grain bread with substance. It’s often hot out of the oven. it’s only $2.25 per large round loaf. It’s fashionable to serve (and already on the tables of the Best Houses). It’s Ypsilanti! August 1990

Ralph Ellis, too, at the Ypsi Cycle, is doing up the disaster (formerly Anne's Pub just to the east). That hideous facade in now receiving restoration. Ralph is forever to be congratulated for his commitment and hard work in bringing back that part of downtwn. March 1991

They see a great future for Ypsilanti: as Ann Arbor becomes more and more a congested conglomeration of monoliths and traffic, Ypsilanti will become the more desirable residential community. Lena Horne sings it best: "You gotta believe in yourself!" May 1991

ALONG SOUTH HURON STREET, nearer downtown, you should notice the two houses, 109 and 103, both owned and under restoration by Louis Rome. 103, the former parsonage of the Congregational Church on North Adams, was moved here a few years ago and is in process of becoming a bed and breakfast, with additions, new wiring, sprinkler system throughout, and a bath in each room. August 1991

IMPROVEMENTS IN DEPOT TOWN AND ON THE EAST SIDE It is probably too early to see the biggest little improvement in Depot Town, but you should be aware that the City has allotted money in support of the rebuilding of the ancient Signal Tower at the NW corner of Cross and River streets. That little charmer, known to most of us only in a sketch, with hollyhocks growing out of the foundation, will add a sharp punctuation mark to that junction. Apparently there will be several new signs in Depot Town as well to hail visitors. August 1991

While in the Freight House Yard, note all around the Freight House itself the extensive and colorful plantings of lilies and other flowers this year, an enormous improvement. Though we will probably never see (don’t swear to it) the rebuilding of the great Victorian displays that graced the front grounds of the Depot itself in the early years (to the delight of all travelers along that much traveled line), the folk in Depot Town can all be proud of their efforts. They may like to play that they’re a Rag-tag bunch down there, but that kind of ‘finished’ look, with gardens, et. al., doesn’t happen by just sitting in the Coffee House and bars! August 1991

Back up on Prospect, note the refreshing fountain, an historic monument itself, uncovered in recent years and revitalized by an active community. August 1991

NEW WEST SIDE RESTAURANTS At least two new restaurants have been opened on the old west side. The first to open was Fiesta Mexicana in the 500 block of
W. Cross, not far up from the well known Old China. Authorities of Mexican food agree that this is probably the best AUTHENTIC Mexican restaurant in the area. The other, more recently opened, is DaLat, a Vietnamese restaurant at the SE corner of W. Cross and Ballard, where again you can have authentic Vietnamese food, cheerfully served. Both places are spic and span and deserve a visit. Prices are quite reasonable. August 1991

Barry [LaRue} also reports that his efforts to save the remaining examples of stone sidewalks that used to grace our older streets seem to be having an impact. We should see every example saved, wherever possible, even if it means moving them elsewhere. They lend a ‘feel’ to the historic character of our community that can’t be duplicated with new materials.
Barry, finally, is working to see that the city, or its contractors, saves old street paving bricks when streets are torn up. (Often in the past they are simply carted away to some dump.) HE WOULD BE INTERESTED TO KNOW IF ANY POU)mATION MEMBERS WOULD LIKE TO VOLUNTEER TO SORT, CLEAR, 3RD STACK SUCH BRICKS FOR FUTURE USE. His romantic imagination (bless those of us who have it) envisions at least one small street repaved in old brick——if only to show our children what Ypsilanti ‘felt’ like underfoot——for generations to come. September 1991

LET’S WELCOME THE MEW MAIN STREET PROGRAM DIRECTOR The Ypsilanti Heritage Foundation wishes to extend a big welcome to Lori Ward, the new director of the Ypsilanti Main Street Program. News of her arrival hit top front page headlines (with photo) in the Ynsilanti Press, Friday, Sept. 6. It sounds like she’s a down—to—earth, straight—forward kind of person: “I’ve got my work cut out for me,” she’s quoted as announcing, referring to the 20 empty storefronts along Michigan Avenue. She comes with great credentials: she has worked in the preservation program in Washington, D.C., and more recently was senior planner in the urban design studio of Johnson Johnson & Roy, Ann Arbor. We just want her to know that the Foundation will do whatever it can to promote her interests here. Keep in touch, Lori. September 1991

BE SURE TO READ the Depot Town Rag for November! It contains full coverage of the CROSSING GUARD’S TOWER that is rising on the site of the original tower that was built there in the 1890’s. Like almost everything that gets done around this old town, it is the work (and inspiration) of local, down—home talent. READ all about it in the RAG! Once more you will feel proud to live in Ypsilanti. September 1991

FARMERS’ MARKET IN FULL SWING Don’t forget to visit the Ypsilanti Farmer’s Market in the Old Freight House in Depot Town. It’s especially alive this time of year. Your editor stopped by this past Saturday and found honey of such superb quality compared to what he had bought in the super market that it was like ambrosia of the gods compared to Karo syrup. (The latter will now be saved for cooking.) He also bought some beautiful Golden Delicious apples that were recently taken from the winter cooler at Karpo Farms near Tipton. They’re both decorative AND delicious: but keep most in the refrigerator, unless they’re all eaten immediately by the kids! (If anyone thinks that anything from the West Coast can compare with a Michigan apple, let him or her think again.) He also bought bananas, lettuce, zucchini, onions, and mushrooms from Malcolm. He might well also have bought
wonderful meats (especially sausages found only there and Amish chickens), breads, cheeses, and eggs from Missina s. But the great find was the flat of robust pansies in colorful bloom, $3.00 cheaper than the flat he had just bought at a fine local nursery, less colorful. so there! Get on down to Depot Town! May 1992

YPSILANTI 2002 ANNOUNCES NEXT MEETING Ypsilanti 2002, a fledgling group of civic—minded citizens interested in good government and improving the city's image, both physically and psychologically, moved into its second year (hence, the ‘2’ replaces the ‘1,’ as in 2000 and 2). Image problems were at the center of discussions. Out of these, the 2002 group developed a list of “expected outcomes” toward which they would work. These include: 1)a network of good press; 2)a riverside park system that extends along the Huron River from Gallup Park to Ford Lake through Ypsilanti; 3)wider understanding and use of city ordinances; 4)greater appreciation for the activities of our police and fire departments. There were, of course, other topics proposed as well, but you get the drift. Ypsilanti 2002 is a city—wide group. If you are interested in joining their next meeting on the topic of “Image,” call Cheryl Farmer. May 1992

TAKE A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE AND SEE THE HURON RIVER AS YOU HAVE NEVER SEEN IT BEFORE. You can’t miss the new entryway into Riverside Park cut at the NW corner of the Michigan Avenue bridge, with two flights of steps, separated by a ramp, all high above the Huron River below. The steps lead directly down onto a large deck, and the whole structure is made safe for pedestrians (watch those little ones as you would near any water!) by sturdy pipe rails painted red. Once on the deck, you see the great arch of the bridge and, looking through to the south, you see the mighty Huron as you have never seen it before. In that area just south of the bridge, the banks are “almost as nature left them.” Just behind you on the west is the great east front of Materials Unlimited, that Art Deco (note the tiles) building that was once a car dealership. (This platform must at night be a great place from which to view that establishment, with its ever changing display of stained glass windows.) You can leave the deck by a ramp leading directly into the park. Incidentally, the next stage in the long—term development of the Huron from Gallup Park to Ford Lake will be the building of a dock from this deck diagonally under the Michigan Avenue bridge to the east bank behind Al Walters’ shop on Water Street. There, the plan is to build a dock—like structure in the river but along the bank, leading to the new River’s Edge Park and toward Gilbert Park, where there is still a major local baseball field and a playground; or, if you wish, you may cross a new cast iron pedestrian bridge to, again, the west side of the Huron and Waterworks Park, adjacent to the Ford Plant. As yet there is no footpath that will take you from there directly to the wonderful walkway at and on Ford Lake. That, and
the linking up of Frog Island with the park system to the west, up stream beyond Railroad Street, is all that’s left in the chain. (We should not forget all the good work of AMDY SMITH and his crew in cleaning up this river park system. Another community hands—on project we can all take pride in! Thanks, and every thanks, Andy, for your perseverance and leadership!) August 1992

DOWNTOWN TODAY - JUST ABOVE MATERIALS UNLIMITED, you should note the new
establishment called PERFECTIONS, hair stylists and one of the prettiest shops to be seen in Downtown Ypsilanti in a long time.
Next door to this is another new shop called CURRY OUt an Indian foods carry out place.
UP N. HURON, note the prettiest shop there, too: FASHIONS by G & T UNLIMITED.
Of course, it is surely the new McAULEY HEALTH SERVICE that should receive the prize for the best kept grounds. (What a change from the rut worn dirt “parking lot” that for so long stood there.)
JUST WEST UP MICHIGAN AVENUE, you should note the new clothing business called MIRRORS, located where Norey Jewelers used to be. That whole area, once a nightmare of bad taste transformations of facades——one was in black and yellow vertical stripes, remember?!——is now almost completely restored, except for the anchor building on the corner and the former Mellencamp’s.
RALPH ELLIS, of YPSI CYCLE and the Historic District Commission, is still at work on his second building, 116 W. Michigan. An entire new store front has been built which duplicates a typical front of the nineteenth century, with double entry doors and a side entry to the spaces above, which Ralph hopes to see as apartments soon, as he expands his business into the ground
floor space.
JUST ABOUT EVERYONE AGREES that making those as-yet empty spaces above store fronts into living quarters is the way to go downtown. Indeed, one owner of a yet unfinished loft apartment downtown has told me it’s already rented at a hefty price!
BIG NEWS: NOBLE’S CUSTOM CLOTHING has not only bought the old Mellencamp building, but moved into that much larger space as well. Congratulations!
We may note, too, that just about all the trees and shrubs around the GARY M. OWEN SCHOOL OF BUSINESS have taken hold since last year’s planting. Perhaps this damp, cool sunmer has helped. As regards this branch of E.M.U., we must say again that the foot traffic of friendly students is a welcome addition to the neighborhood! August 1992

Finally though obviously we haven’t covered all the “Good News” downtown), everyone should take a look at our new AATA BUS DEPOT at the corner of Adams and Pearl. This is surely a pleasant architectural addition to the neighborhood, as well as a convenient source of transportation. A study in blue, its design was predicated on the idea that, especially in an historic district, buildings should fit into the neighborhood; hence, the use of pillars, gables, cupola, etc.——yet at the same time reflecting modern design. August 1992

SOMETIME SOON take in the best thing that has happened in Depot Town this past year (besides the building of the Crossing Guard Tower) : As Torn Dodd so aptly describes them: “an outdoor patio/garden at the Sidetrack and a raised rear deck at Aubree’s.” These, he estimates, “will, no doubt, bring a whole new appreciation of the traditional reciprocity of railroads and
saloons. Sanitized as today’s local examples may be, the legend of Casey Jones lives on in these places and they remain a center of social activity for the neighborhood.”(Depot Town Rag, May 1992) Kudos to Tom, by the way, for his undying loyalty to his old haunt and his untirinq love for writing about it! August 1992

And speaking of neighborhood associations, we must also mention
the Normal Park Neighborhood Association, a group of people
dedicated to preserving the quality of their neighborhood, the
area bounded by Congress, Sumait, Cross, and Mansfield. You may
have noticed the signs at the four corners where these streets
meet, informing visitors that they are entering the Normal Park
Neighborhood. These signs were made possible by the Heritage
Foundation’s matching fund grant program. The NPNA is doing its
best to restore Recreation Park, improving conditions there and
increasing its use by neighbors. August 1992

Nearby, note the entirely new paving on Adams, from Michigan Avenue to Cross, done in record time! August 1992

DOWNTOWN BUSINESS AND MARKETING PLAN COMING SOON Last year at this time, Heritage News welcomed Lori Ward as our new director of the Mainstreet Program that has made so much difference in our downtown. This year. in the wake of a series of bad Press headlines (e.g., “Poll: Many in Ypsi shun downtown--as if that were news to anyone interested!), we leant from Lori
that a major study done by the firm of Hyett-Palma of Washington, D.C., will be published about the end of September. Hyett-Palma is a well-known retail marketing consulting firm. They have drawn up a retail and marketing plan, after lengthy and detailed study (from which the above headline was isolated) that attempts to identi~’ what types of retail businesses to go afler for downtown and to lay out a plan to relocate and cluster such businesses so they will help one another. They will also suggest strategies
for recruiting new businesses, business maintenance, physical improvements, advertising and marketing. She notes that the study will press for more student-oriented businesses, since such a large percentage of our present foot traffic downtown is made up of students. At the same time, we need to toot our wonderful resources, such as historic buildings, the Huron
River, and an ever-expanding park system. September 1992

If you’re looking for a wonderful escape from the mall-Washtenaw-
Ave-madhouse-superstore syndrome during this holiday season, then you have the perfect excuse to ease on down to Depot Town for a wander through the newest (and most elegant) addition to our community: The Remington Walker Studio (‘studio’, because open only on weekends). It’s the creation of Sandy Hoag and her partner, Midge, who have been in business for two years now,
decorating homes, especially for the holiday season. You will get the picture by visiting their studio, just east of The Daily Grind in Depot Town: fine antiques, floral and custom designs, wreaths and swags, lamps, tapestries, pictures, glassware, tea sets--the accent textures and touches that are so difficult for most of us to find. These are their forte...
If you can’t make it before the holidays, then you may be in for additional treats: after the holiday rush they hope to extend their services to “Tea in the Afternoon.” Cross everything, and dream on the event! November 1992

DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENTS CONTINUE, DESPITE RECESSION If you have pulled into the parking lot behind Ace Hardware on Pearl Street, you probably have seen some of the development that has been taking place there. For example, there is now a new (and first class) apartment behind what used to be Solway
Vision--rented before the project was completed. There is an impressive new ‘rear’ on the restaurant due west of the lot, designed by Scott Diehls, formerly of Domino Farms, with a new Mexican Restaurant due to open soon within. Then, you will see work going on at the rear of what used to be Mellencamp’s, now owned by Mr. Nagel, the tailor. Finally, (and you will see him out there, even in the rain) you will find Ralph Ellis on scaffolding behind his two buildings (Bike Shop, etc.) working on the bricks and huge original window openings.
Lori Ward and her staff of the Mainstreet Office, Downtown, report that the second TOWN MEETING for discussion of the Downtown Development plan is scheduled for 18th of November at 7:00 p.m.. Significantly, the meeting will be held in the Historic Masonic Temple Building on North Huron, across from the entry onto Pearl Street. The study has been done by a Washington firm, but the downtown wants input from all citizens interested, so it is open to the general public. They see it as the ‘community’s plan’ and want to hear our ideas in order for them to determine if they are on the right track. They will propose the recruitment of specific types of additional businesses, upgrading of present businesses, image ideas and enhancement.
Public interest can make a difference in this program, so do communicate with Lori Ward and her staff at 30 N. Washington, 482-1410.
You may also be surprised to hear that Lori has not given up on the idea of turning the Masonic Temple into an entertainment center and, indeed, has met again with the board of Ann Arbor’s Ark to try to persuade them to consider moving their organization into the Temple.
Perhaps even more exciting is Loris project to develop an Ypsilanti Art Association, similar to Ann Arbor’s, especially since so many of the artists in that group are from Ypsilanti and since Eastern’s Art Department is one of the most creative of its kind in the country. In this instance, the building they have in mind is known as the Kresge Building, the one we all
know so well at the NW corner of Michigan Avenue and Washington. They hope to meet with the K-Mart people who could make possible the opening of the building for use as an art center. She is meeting with John Pappas, internationally known sculptor from Eastern, to explore the possibilities of such a project.
By the way, has anyone else observed the huge industrial containers set up behind the infamous Car Wash next to the Masonic Building? Could this be a hint that something is about to happen on that site: say, demolition and cleaning up, thus making way for the city to gain some kind of control over the property and begin to turn it into our DREAM ENTRY into Riverside Park? Can you imagine what this would do for all of us: an impressive entry into the Park directly from Huron Street, Downtown, and beside the Masonic Temple, serving as entertainment center for the Ark or equivalent group, with an Ypsilanti Artists Association exhibit just around the corner? We’ve come a long way, over recent years: why not continue to think positive now? November 1992

HOORAY! HOORAY! OLD TOWN RESTAURANT TO RE—OPEN! You may have read it in the Depot Town Rag: Old Town Restaurant is re—opening at last. Remember that place where for many years you could take a visitor from the other side of the earth for breakfast——and he or she would love it: the walk down through the old city, into Depot Town in one or another stage of its recent restoration and revitalization? The homey service and the home—cooked breakfasts, like Grandma used to make?
Well, it’s about to be reborn——with variations. The main figure in the revival is Bill French, owner of Aubree’s Saloon and Sticks. He will be joined by Steve Beckett in the part of the restaurant that will serve breakfast. Appropriately, the breakfast experience will take place in the two smaller rooms (the original and second space) to the east.
The Rag reports that the main dining room to the west will thus become the main dining room, open for dinner “specializing in chicken and fish and with the same ‘casual atmosphere’ that Depot Towners are accustomed to.’ Sandy and Bill French will manage that portion of the enterprise. “Plans to reactivate a liquor license are still in the works for that location.” Then the space beyond the main dining room will be opened for a third element of the complex, an entirely new addition to the scene, with separate entrance.
We understand that Pete Murdock is to be given much of the credit for initiating