Note that I don't swear often, but this calls for it. I will sum it in easy parts.

Detroit: losing money fast. Possible receivership by the state - some are hopeful for this.

Zoo: cultural institution funded by city of Detroit.

Detroit: having problems funding cultural institutions (see Belle Isle Aquarium closure, possible Detroit Historical Museum closure). Did I mention the city threw a helluva Super Bowl party?

Zoo: proposes a deal in Fall 2005 whereas physical and financial operations are turned over to the Zoological Society, and Detroit keeps control of the land. 1 grant of $5 million per year over the next 2 years is requested (less than what the city pays annually currently, which is approximately 12 million a year) for infrastructure purposes, and then there will be complete severance of Detroit city and Zoo. This goes to the city council in November.

Detroit: On Saturday, February 18, by a vote of 7-2, the Detroit city council decides to reject this offer by the zoo. Thus, they also reject a $4 million grant from the state of Michigan to help keep the zoo running during transition.

Zoo: very sad. Announces that since the council rejected the offer, they have no operating budget for 2006. Currently they are operating off of profit from gift store and memberships. Pink slips will be sent out to some of the 153 staff by this Friday. Will begin immediately to formulate a plan to shut down the zoo by May.

People of Metro Detroit: Anger. Lots of bitter, gnashing-the-teeth anger.

Amy: so upset she cries.

Detroit: On Tuesday, February 21, City council holds a press conference defending their position, stating they did not have enough time to look over the offer. Since last November.

Detroit: Race card is played (you knew it was coming, didn't you?!). Council member Barbara-Rose Collins states, and I quote,
"This is not a plantation. We are not owned by everyone else. Black folks are not owned by white folks anymore. I made the point Saturday that the state Legislature was pimping the City of Detroit (by offering the $4 million grant with a deadline of Saturday night), and that we should not play the role of prostitute. That upset a lot of people, but I stand by my words. The symbolism is that Detroit is a black city, and we're not able to govern ourselves. It's a racist attitude and I resent it."

People of Metro Detroit: VERY angry. Racial comments commence on all sides.

Zoo: On Wednesday, approach City Council with the same proposal that was just turned down, with calls for the council to assist the zoo in hammering out a deal.

Detroit: Council calls on suburbs to "help fund" the zoo.

Amy: Who the hell do they think is buying memberships and calling for the zoo to be saved?! There's nothing the suburbs can do when the Detroit city council flings racial accusations the minute the suburbs/state try to help!