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The MotorCity Theatre/RollerRink Historical Project
Guestbook
This Site Began Research March Of 2000/Construction April 2004
Skating Rink
Remembered,,
{Article as printed in The Macomb Daily "Voice of The People" Tuesday
September 16th 1986}
Is it just me, or did anyone else out there cry when they heard that
Motor City Skating Rink was going to be torn down. They say it was a place
where young punks hung out and took drugs and got in fights etc. Granted,
I'm sure that did happen. I just wonder why some adults couldn't control it
more. The place has so many good attributes that have been overlooked. At
least it did when I went there.
I have so many fond memories of the place. So do many of my girlfriends. One
called me up about a month ago in tears. "Have you seen it Robin?" she cried
into the phone. "Seen what?" I replied. "Motor City. It's gone." We talked
for a half hour and told each other about many experiences we each had
shared. I hung up and cried for an hour.
I had my first kiss there. I remember it like it was yesterday. It was
couples only. The big glass ball in the middle was sprinkling light all over
the room. The song Good Night My Love, by Paul Anka. Who could forget that
song. Every night it was the last song. Young lovers would skate around and
around holding each other close and kiss at the end. It was such a special
moment for me. I am sure that many people have there own special memories of
life that happened right there on that rink.
So many friendships started there too. I remember when there was a whole
group of us who were friends, or just knew each other for such a long time.
The faces have faded and names blurred. But Motor City Skating Rink held so
many lessons of life right there for many of us. It was a clean place to
hang out. It was good exercise and fun. It was a place to learn of love and
of broken hearts. It was a place to hide from your parents and develop the
person you wanted to be. Every child in the world needs that. We learned to
become independent and trustworthy. We learned that people grow up and move
on.
As we grew up and moved away, a new generation of Motor City brats took
over. They, as we did, formed their own set of memories hidden in our dusty
diary's and boxed letters. Back then, things were so simple. We didn't know
it then, but we do now. Now as the dust of shattered brick lay still, I
would like to say a fond farewell. Goodbye Motor City. You may be gone, but
never will you be forgotten. We salute you and bid you adieu.
ROBIN GRIX-CREATH
Warren
We would Be Honored if you would Add your own Memories/Stories to this Guestbook we are keeping!
If You
Would like to have your Photos, & Graphics added to your Guestbook Entries
feel free to e-mail them to us & we will insert them for you, or you can
link them via html text in your entry.. Enjoy,,!!
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Pages: « 1 »
September 14, 2008 at 10:57:10am
68.41 * *
mary Evans, Email, Web Site
Ok this is my 4th attempt at posting..All I am gonna say now is Motor City reunion @ Skate World with the 70s and 80s music. btw Anthony I tried to use the word p l a y in re: to music and it kept rejecting my posts.
July 26, 2008 at 05:41:13pm
69.137 * *
Jerry sheffield, Email, Web Site
Does anyone know if Nancy(Stribling)Sellars changed her email address. I have been trying the one she left in her message,but I can't get hold of her.Please let me know if anyone can help me.
July 23, 2008 at 04:55:57pm
24.192 * *
Chuck Stanko, Email, Web Site
Was doing a bit of surfing and ran across this site, was Shocked to see pics of Tom,Steve, Marge (the Whole Schang crew) lol even Del and wojo
All of whom are True Rink Rats 
July 10, 2008 at 09:13:10am
86.151 * *
Skip, Email, Web Site
The site is looking good. I will be stopping over here sometime in the near future no doubt.
July 09, 2008 at 07:26:13pm
69.14 * *
Peggy (Edwards) Carter, Email, Web Site
OMg I did not know Motor City Skating Rink had a web Site. I had so much fun back in the days. Friday and Saturday nights. If it could be like that now.
July 06, 2008 at 07:15:56am
69.137 * *
jerry sheffield, Email, Web Site
I think we should all get together for a reunion at skate world arena in troy.It would be great to see old frends and lost loves.Nice clean large floor,lots of space to show the regulars at this place how we used to get crazy on our skates.
June 08, 2008 at 03:21:58pm
66.184 * *
Anthony J. Guarnieri, Email, Web Site
3 New Enhanced security features installed on the
MotorCity Guestbook,,!!!!
***The "captcha" Verification Code (Required)
***IP address
verification,, allowing only one entry post per IP address every few days.
*** Automatic
Screening of Prohibited words. Your guestbook posts will be rejected if you
posts contain these words, our screening list can be updated as new words become
problems.
These
changes were made to stop the multiple posts by unwanted spammers, we hope this
makes your visit a more enjoyable experience,, Thank You.
I grew up at Motor city-what a shame it had to come to an end. great family place and a place to meet up with new and old friends. i have many fond memories of this roller rink. please keep this going
robbin rhodes <rmuha126@yahoo.com>
harriosn twp, mi USA - Thursday, May 29, 2008 at 09:23:02 (PDT)
Motor City was an every weekend event for us. I remember couples skating with Mike Hojara....ahh! I also remember standing off rink with my hands on the rail and a large kid fell on my thumb and actually broke it! I couldn't change out of my skates so I roller skated all the way home and my mom took me to the hospital and yep, it was broken. We had many skate parties and many, many memories in the mid-80's.
Holly Slay (Balaban) <holly_slay@yahoo.com>
Oxford, MI USA - Tuesday, May 27, 2008 at 09:53:39 (PDT)
wow lots of memories from there was some of the best times of my life when i was young there,i showed my wife a pic of me on here she couldnt believe it wish it could be rebuilt for us old people lol and if anyone one has more pics let me know
les adkins <wolfarrived@hotmail.com>
fayetteville, wv USA - Wednesday, May 07, 2008 at 04:26:46 (PDT)
Great site,Brings back thoughts of great times,lost friends,lo st loves.I still love to skate,I go to skate world in Troy.They have adult nights wednesday and sunday nights.Nice large and clean wood floor,I would like to see more motor city skaters there.
Jerry Sheffield
USA - Tuesday, March 25, 2008 at 18:51:56 (PDT)
skated at roller dome warren and outer drive in the mid sixties just found our dance class photo with our teacher peggy she was from texas.
kathy potvin <ktooman3591@sbcglobal.net>
USA - Monday, March 17, 2008 at 13:48:36 (PDT)
We just heard about the website from Nancy Stribling, so we decided to check it out. It brought back great memories. Although we only skated until we were 15 years old it was sad when we heard that Motor City was no longer there. Shout out to our Motor City friends from the past. We shared great memories! Debbie and Diane (Brashaw)
Debbie and Diane(Brashaw)
Warren /Sterling hgts, Michigan USA - Saturday, January 26, 2008 at 08:54:19 (PST)
A piece of my childhood died the day they tore Motor City down. I remember those HOT Thursam boys Tommy York and Donnie & Ronnie & many others. I started skating there when I was 2 years old I also took figure skating lessons there. I take my younger daughters skating at Skateworld on Saturday mornings.I still LOVE to skate and I can still keep up with the best of them. Would love there to be a rink reunion again my best to all and remember to Shoot The Duck every once in awhile.
paula (Greene) Jackson <uticaequip@netzero.net>
Rochester Hills, MI USA - Tuesday, January 22, 2008 at 08:35:38 (PST)
I lived on Continental, just around the block from Motor City. We walked up there just about every day to skate. I skated in the 72' show. I have pictures that I will have to send. What great memories!
Pam Cichoski <dacquire@aol.com>
chesterfield, mi USA - Wednesday, January 02, 2008 at 21:22:00 (PST)
Thanks for doing the site.. I went there as a young 1 and didnt know how old it really was..I remember the saturday afternoon sessions.. I really had alot of fun there. I grew up on Toepfer & Peters. Great Site!!! Keep up the good work.
Lynn <Nutty3131@hotmail.com>
Sterling Heights, Mi USA - Monday, December 03, 2007 at 16:16:55 (PST)
So many memories I would need to write a novel to tell them all. To all you out there that remember the twins (Donnie & Ronnie Whitaker) drop us a line. Oh and if you remember our uncle Jr. he finally got rid of the bandana. Drop him a line as well.
Ron Whitaker <Lumbee12@aol.com>
MI USA - Monday, December 03, 2007 at 07:57:38 (PST)
This site is wonderful for a peaceful night at home w/nothing to do but think about the old days. My friends Kim Jones, Pam Morrissey, Vicky Mills and I were up there just about every night for skating and on the weekends for the Back Door. It was a very depressing day Motor City closed down. Nothing really much to do for us teens that was close that all school friends went and hung out. Its greatly missed.
Monica Kiernicki <lexyliv04@yahoo.com>
Oak Park, Mi USA - Saturday, November 24, 2007 at 17:26:45 (PST)
Douglas Thursam <thursamdoug@yahoo.com>
Warren, MI USA - Sunday, July 01, 2007 at 08:33:39 (PDT)
started skating at motor city seem's like yesterday but was spring of 1961 thru fall of 1963. worked for eddie for awhile in 62 with bob sysco and dale defour. in 1963 i married a girl that skated at the rink by the name of linda daniels infact she is pictured in the girls of the 60's we moved away early in 1964 and i went into the field of rock n roll and worked with some of the biggest bands of the 70's and 80's and 90's. i've traveled everywhere and had fun but the time i spent at m/c has always been the best memories to me. i can't remember a lot of names but marylyn allen, pam colemon and carl allison were good friends.so if any of you are still around i would love to hear from you eugene holmes e-mail meangene2006@comcast.net
eugene holmes <meangene2006@comcast.net>
nashville, tn USA - Saturday, April 21, 2007 at 20:37:47 (PDT)
I remember going skating from 76 till 85. I left Mi in 1985 and moved to Ky. When my mother told me that they tore down the old rink, I could not believe it. To me it was everything. I was there every time the doors opened. Mon.
Thur. Sun. The first time I ever skated I was about 7 yrs old and my babysitter took me there. I remember it well, because I busted my butt, by grabbing the rail and swinging around it like everyone else was doing and away went my feet and down I went. Swore from that time on, if I fall again to never hit my butt (lol). I also
remember when I was 16. Decided to drink a fifth of jack before going, that was a
mistake. I was in the bathroom for three and half hours, after I went around the rink once. My boyfriend Rob was in there rubbing my back and trying to comfort me. I have lots of other memories of friends, fights, and loves. It is a shame that the rink is gone, now all the kids have to do is walk the streets, to me skating was a better alternative and more fun. Thanks for all the great memories.
Wendy Delsigne <delsigne@alltel.net>
London, Ky USA - Sunday, April 15, 2007 at 14:30:09 (PDT)
My name is Mary Evans..
( in the photo on the left from 1979 I'm on the far right) Motor city was my life when I was 12, 13 and 14 which was 78,79, 80 and even 81.. I would sneak and walk there from 6 & Gratiot where I lived on Hamburg.. If Mom didn’t take me or say I couldn’t go.. lol boy I didn’t want to miss skating.. Those were the days. I use to go skating every weekend matinee.. the skateathons... can food night.. dime night, penny night.. ah the memories that Motor City left for me...k well here come the pics and ty
for putting them on the site., also Karen Donnelly who is in one of the pics lost her life in that plane crash that went down n Miami everglades a few years back.. She was married to a Chicago bears star who also was with her on the plane.. and also Eddie Franklin just passed away in Dec...
Mary Evans <michigandancer2000@yahoo.com>
Harrison Township, MI USA - Saturday, February 03, 2007 at 21:10:39 (PST)
i must clarify ,some of the best and most memorble nights were the all nightskates when everyone took mescaline they were a riot !!! alot of nights you didnt even go in the building to skate we would hang out in thev parking lot and drink and smoke of course,and a steady stream of regulars would drop by and party throughout the night ,some nights we would be out there till five or six in the moring still partying!! there was always agroup of people partying at the dentist office across the street and some times even a little sex in the parking lot ,and dont even think it was easy having as a girlfriend who was considered the toughest at motor city was easy it wasnt ,and we all know who that was ,what a head ache!!!! ieven had pleasure of living with "crazy jimmy" for a year talk about memiories ,i remember stealing popcorn from eddies future wife at the snack bar when ever i had the munchies ,sorry.so many songs remind me of the years at motor city or how about the fued between macomb skating and us that was a scene ,if you were involvedsome people just couldn't let go of motor city till the bitter end ,while alot of us moved on to explore life beyond the rink only to have wished we had n,t of let go so soon,i really feel for those of you who hung on to the bitter end,i know you are hurting till this day ,and for those of you who remember who i am, wheather you liked me or hated me drop me a line life is to short!!!!
harvey vantroostenberghe <harvan1@aol.com>
eastpointe, mi USA - Saturday, January 27, 2007 at 07:53:31 (PST)
So many memories about Motor City. The first time I went there it was a movie theatre when I was about seven years old. A "spooky" movie was playing, and I think it was called "The Killer Shrews". I couldn't sleep without the light on for a month! But more importantly, I went back years later when it became a roller rink to watch my brother Barry skate, and I was amazed on how well he skated. Barry loved going to the rink with his friends and taking his girl out for the night. This would have been in the early 80's, and I think her name was Michelle. I'm going to call him and tell him about this site. I'm sure he will be just as pleased as I was reading about all the old times. Thank you to the person or persons who put this site together....it's been a real pleasure reading it and looking at the pics. Deb Ivey
Deb Ivey <Charpatma@aol.com>
Warren, MI USA - Sunday, January 21, 2007 at 20:53:12 (PST)
LETS SEE SKATING GETTING HIGH SKATING GETTING HIGH,COUPLES SKATING,GETTING HIGH ,GIRLFRIENDS, SKATING ,GETTING HIGH OH YEAH DRINKING ,SKATING,DID I MENTION GETTING HIGH???!!!WHAT A FUN PLACE LOTS OF MEMIORES NEVER TO BE FORGOTTEN,AND BY THE WAY I DON'T GET HIGH OR DRINK FOR THAT MATTER ANYMORE !!!!!!!
harvey vantroostenberghe <harvan1@aol.com>
eastpointe, mi USA - Thursday, December 14, 2006 at 16:06:14 (PST)
Wow! Great Job here. I lived on Republic & Van Dyke. Motor City was my world at that time. I attened Saturday sessions in 1969 at the age of 8. By the time I was 12, watch out, I was up their on Friday nights and both sessions on Saturday & Sunday. I raced always as I needed that free pass if I was going to attend both sessions on Sunday:) I cannot add anything more than anybody else here. The memories are awsome and ones that I will cherish. I still have my first pair of roller skates and many sets of covers. I skated with my friends (Marge Harris, Kevin Sollars, Carol Moore, Dawn Wardzella, Lois Hollingsworth and Beth Willhite any many more) from 1969 until my family moved in the summer of 1976 further North. I remember I was supposed to start working at MC that summer as a sweeper and remember how dissappointed I was that I was not going to be able to do that. I enjoyed the most was the racing, twirling in the center and of coarse "Couples" (as we all did) hoping that special someone would ask you to skate:) I recently visited the old "stomping ground" and just isn't the same without the rink. I wish my kids had a place like MC to go hang out. I would love to share memories.
Wendy Powell <Stormbreeze@comcast.net>
Gagetown, MI USA - Friday, October 13, 2006 at 13:57:44 (PDT)
I just recently found out that the night before the demolition there were about 200 teenage demonstrators. They decided to sit on the floor of the rink in a vain attempt to stop its destruction. This was in Oak Lawn, but you get the idea just how popular the place was.
Mark Again <mje1110@juno.com>
Chicago, IL USA - Wednesday, July 26, 2006 at 17:09:51 (PDT)
I used to skate at the Oak Lawn Roller Rink in the late 70's and early 80's when I was a teenager. These were some of the sweetest memories of my life. About 2/3 of the girls that I dated came from that roller rink, which is now a Saturn dealership. Sometimes I think I would give up 1/2 of my stock portfolio just to be a teenage boy on a Saturday night just one last time.
Mark <mje1110@juno.com>
Chicago, IL USA - Thursday, June 29, 2006 at 17:13:05 (PDT)
I finally got around to checking out this site & looking at some of the many wonderful pics (gonna hafta go looking for my old pics!) and it's amazing! A lot I just don't remember, but the ones that I do.....like my best friend Frenchy! and watching all her brothers skate, and my handsome partner Mike, lessons with the inimitable, indomitable Rose!!! my mom and Mrs. LaCroix making costumes for us and driving us to competitions, lessons, practice, everything! and the "hell" of working for Eddie! (just kidding, he was a great first boss!) and skating 7 days a week, all day long on Saturday & Sunday, starting with helping in the Tiny Tots class & ending with the last skate of the nite, when they had to throw us out! go home, go home! Can't believe I've missed reunions (well, I made it to one, but it was right around the 1st divorce and not the happiest time for me....) Now I take my granddaughter, Alora Rose Friant skating at the Great Skate on Saturday mornings sometimes, and she loves it so much she wants to have her b-day party there! My son tells me she talks about it the most of all the fun we have! And I can certainly understand, cuz it was the most fun I had too, even tho I came to it late (12) and ended too soon (18) it was the best way to grow up! And Motor City was the world to me at the time! I was horrified, even after hearing of it's tear-down, to drive by and see that flat lot with a strip-mall going up! What were they thinking?!? What a different world...... Let me know of the next reunion, ok? I'll MAKE time, even tho life just FLIES by, doesn't it?
Anita Goodman <bestsparkle1@yahoo.com>
Clinton Township, MI USA - Monday, March 27, 2006 at 18:17:36 (PST)
Just found this site and had an interesting walk down memory lane. Almost didn't recognize Grandpa Hakim without his toupe!
Looks like you put a lot of time and effort into this site.
good on ya!
Take care, Eddie, from your eldest cousin Lynn Abate and your Aunt Rosemary, now living in California
Lynn Abate Johnson and Rosemary Ann Hakim <jafralaj@yahoo.com>
Kenwood, CA USA - Sunday, March 19, 2006 at 17:30:43 (PST)
Not so much a memory, but a look into the future, with my
new invention, CRAZY BALL- skates, skateboards, and much, much more. This is a multidirectional wheel system. Likely
to with out a doubt bring back skating, as a thing to do.
US 6, 899,344 B1.. "THIS CHANGES THE STATUESQUE".
Maurice W. Raynor <MRAYN3@AOL.Com>
L. A. , CA. USA - Saturday, February 25, 2006 at 22:27:56 (PST)
Who could forget the $.15 to get in and using the $.10 for Milk Duds and Juju Bees - all for just a quarter. The shows were really good too!!!
Jan Laura <jwolfbauer@yahoo.com>
Maumee, OH USA - Wednesday, February 15, 2006 at 10:50:12 (PST)
this site brings back so many memories it's just unreal! I spent many nights skating there and many nights having alot of fun ! No parents to worry about, none of the crap kids today have to worry about ! thankx for a great trip down memory lane ! This site was an awesome idea !
Lori Berg <no_lies_pleez@yahoo.com>
Warren, MI USA - Sunday, February 05, 2006 at 19:13:25 (PST)
OMG...I was just sitting with a friend looking back at the old days...and had a thought of Motor City...hum...and poof. Yep, I use to live about...20 minutes away If I got a ride...But most of the time I walked ...Me, Jeanie. Well I was reading some of the blogs...Yep! I was the Girl in the Army Jacket with the mickey on the back...And yep! I got kicked out for a year because I would not remove it...But that was me every week up there just begging to get let in...And my consistency paid off...Jacket went into locker or whatever...I met a lot of people there and yep!!!!!!!! there were lots of drugs!!!
I got high on most Friday nights and Saturday night. After we hung outside trying to figuring out how we were going to get home...And of course a little worrying about the trouble we would get into for being home so damn late...Yep!!! Motor city was the place to go for Drugs Fun and friendships and of course your occasional fight... And again Yep!!! That was me who got into a Big...Big fight with this girl outside...Remember it went 3 rounds...and OH the stopping of traffic on Vandyke...cause we rolled across the lanes...That was the night my P-coat got stolen...And the Big Bully Girl never came back...caused I kicked the shit out of her. LOL
Yep!!!! It was all good...and some of us kept the shitheads out. I remember always being in the races...OH how I loved them. I use to skate with a guy once in a while who had 1 arm... I loved skating backwards too. So yep... Roller Skating Rink was the best of best places to hang out...
And now... YEARS LATER... old, fat, married, kids, and happy as hell.
PS...Although I learned about Drugs and Partying there...I never Got into trouble...As most of my friends back then are either Dead or in Jail... So... Thank-you Motor City People for opening up a place for children to hang and learn.
Emmy B
Emily Biafora <seeubme@aol.com>
Highland, mi USA - Monday, January 09, 2006 at 08:59:21 (PST)
My sister and I and my good friden shirley whitesell, all skated at motor city, my sister and I took lesson from joe, shirley also did, we were in the shows, and skated for motor cite at the meets. at one time i skate with ron chase. well my sister beverly and shirley dont skate anymoore but i do, I remember all the good time at the rink on wensday and thursday, nights. I had a couple of Boyfridens that I meet their and hated to here goodniht my love, because i had to wait intill the next week to see them. I hope someone rememers me and my sister or shirley and get back to me.
Pauline valenzuela/Dayble <maggie49734@lycos.com>
warren, Mi USA - Friday, December 30, 2005 at 09:15:33 (PST)
Please, tell Nancy DEHOSSE to go on this Website, and click on DEHOSSE. She will get her family genealogy in Word (protected by Norton antivirus)
BOCQUET-DEHOSSE <andre.bocquet@free.fr>
Isbergues, 62 France - Friday, December 30, 2005 at 00:48:30 (PST)
I just found this site today and man, it brings back a flood of memories, so many old girlfriends and friends.. I was a semi regular until one night in early 86 when I was "banned for life" for getting in a fight with Ronnie (Whitaker) and Junior. Man I was mad for months about that :) Until I became a reg at Skateland. It's amazing now that I think about it how much a place like MC could rule your life during your teen years.
Dave
USA - Sunday, December 25, 2005 at 16:46:49 (PST)
Skated from 1971-1975 and loved every minute. Many, many memories. This is a great site, thanks for putting together.
Memories:
Couples
Friends
Pinball
Boyfriends
New Years Eve Parties
48 Hour Skate-a-thon
Arthur P (WRIF)
And many many more!
I was sad when I saw that whole corner change but as many have said - it still stands in the hearts of all who enjoyed and grew up there.
I will definetly be back often to see updates.
Joy (Popour) Derington <jjdtwin2@comcast.net>
USA - Wednesday, November 09, 2005 at 09:54:19 (PST)
Hello to all!!! This site is awesome...I just wish that I had some things I could add to it. Just this letter will have to do. Sorry!! I would like to say that I would love to hear from everyone and anyone from Motorcity!!!Also Thank you so very much to all of you that made so many great memories of those wild teen years I lived thru. Looking back I can see the great times and memories that I missed out on when I left for military duty. What a bummer!!! Looking back at the days when I would get up early and walk to the rink to meet my fellow skaters so we could carpool to competition. Wish my memories included winning one or two or even placing in the top ten but they don't. It was usually me tripping Barb or Corky. Sorry about that guys! I hope that there is a reunion of something in 2006 because I will crawl to get there if I have to. At the present time my wife Jennie live in Warren, Ohio. Our address is 1567 Elm Road N.E. Warren, Ohio 44483. Our phone number is 330-372-4981 and our email is aeauctions@yahoo.com I would love to hear from all!!!
Chuck Bruner <aeauctions@yahoo.com>
Warren, Ohio USA - Thursday, November 03, 2005 at 15:35:40 (PST)
I was a Lincoln High School lad back in 1961 and worked about a year for Eddie Hakim at "Motor City". Work wasn't work - it was fun!! I especially enjoyed the dances with bands from the Doo-Wop era. What a great site for memories.
Richard Wood <woodra@charter.net>
Saint Helen, MI USA - Wednesday, October 19, 2005 at 13:35:53 (PDT)
Hey people how are ya. i have to say motorcity was the place you could count on going to having fun and not worring about any trouble.
everyone from the hood stuck together and made sure there was fun and no trouble.
miss all of ya .keep in touch
Tom York <triple157@charter.net>
jasper, tn USA - Wednesday, September 07, 2005 at 05:47:22 (PDT)
What pleasure it was reliving some old memories! I used to live on the same block of Motor City, and remember the when I first wanted to learn how to skate. My mother bought me a pair of those old metal skates that you used to put on over your shoes. The Hakim's lived just down from me across from "the field". I remember I was so ready to learn, and I went down to ask "little Eddie" to teach me. He did his best, but I just didn't have the knack. All my brothers and sisters skates at Motor City, and I desperately wanted to continue the tradition. After spending months and months practicing during the Saturday and Sunday matinee's, I was ready for the evening skating. I would go every day, every evening, because I loved it so much..the people, the music and the atmosphere. Like so many, I fell in and out of love..sometimes twice in the same evening! My mother loved the neighborhood, and shortly after Motor City was torn down, she sold her house as well to make room for the new strip mall. She moved into a nice house, but paased away in December of 86..only a few short months after leaving her home on Paige... I know how badly she missed that neighborhood, as I did for a very long time..it was nice to bring back the old days, thank you so much for such a nice job on the web site!!!
Kerry Friant <Enchantedknight@comcast.net>
Roseville, Mich. USA - Saturday, August 27, 2005 at 17:08:17 (PDT)
What do I remember about the Motor City days?!? Being young, and thinking we would always be that way. Thinking nothing was more important than skating. Believing the world just might end if we missed a session. That "all" the great people were at the rink. Some true, perhaps inflated (as teenagers see things) - but yes, some of the most enjoyable days of my life. Thanks to all for being there!
Shelley (Wingerter) Hickcox <shickcox@excite.com>
Cadiz, KY USA - Friday, August 05, 2005 at 19:25:33 (PDT)
This was really great! All the old memories...I am like all of you. I had lived one block away and skated from the mid 70's to the early 80's and remember so many of you. The music, heartbreaks, the skate moves, racing all of it like it was yesterday. I still have lots of photo's, my skates, even my skating jacket (I could never fit in) But thank you all of you for the great memories and this site. Sam :)
Sam Darby (McDonald) <isdarby@ameritech.net>
Warren, MI USA - Thursday, July 28, 2005 at 08:33:11 (PDT)
I just saw the sight for the first time. Oh my was I surprised. Wayne, David and I started skating at motor city when I was in the 3rd grade. It kept us out of trouble and gave us something to do. We all stayed in great shape because of that. Skating was my life for a long time. I will never forget all my time spent at Motor City it was home away from home. I stopped going to skating when I started dating my husband. I was crushed when they tore it down. It has been 20 years since I have skated. It was the best time of my life. I met some of the greatest people in the world. Glad I can say they were all my friends. Please in form me of any other reunion. If I would have known Wayne and I would have been there. Hope to see you all again. Nancy
Nancy (Stribling) Sellars <nsellars2421@wideopenwest.com>
Warren, MI USA - Saturday, July 23, 2005 at 09:23:54 (PDT)
I served with John Topolewski in the airforce in the 60's.
Found his picture and wanted to contact him for old times sake! If he has contacts with anyone within your site please forward my email address to him. Thanks
Jim Goldsberry <jimgoldsberry@comcast.net>
Sacramento, CA USA - Tuesday, July 19, 2005 at 00:52:45 (PDT)
WOW, blast from the past. Grew up at 8 1/2 and Van Dyke. Spent every Saturday of my youth skating at Motor City. Matter of fact still own a pair of Chicago ball bearings.
Peggy (Popour) French
MI USA - Saturday, July 09, 2005 at 07:04:35 (PDT)
i went skating there for years......seen Stevie Wonder..etc. but you know I
never knew there was a pool in the basement........ha ha.......
Toni Hakkim <tonithemom2000@yahoo.com>
USA - Friday July 08, 2005 at 02:07:23 (PDT)
This is a GREAT site with lots of GREAT memories. I grew up right down the street from the rink and this is the first rink I ever skated at. My husband Mickey Lacek was a HUGE skater here. Mickey and I now live in Richmond, MI with our Daughter Carissa and are expecting one on the way. It would be great to hear from all the old skaters!!
Toni and Mickey Lacek
Richmond, MI USA - Thursday, June 30, 2005 at 07:46:37 (PDT)
I just recently heard about the site from Steve and Marge who I ran into at a graduation party...What a great site to look at and reliving some of the good times and Motor City....I wasn't a great skater, but was always there on Friday and Saturday nights....Great site and hopefully it keeps getting more updates.
chuck pointer <chuck.pointer@mnp.com>
macomb township, mi USA - Tuesday, June 28, 2005 at 11:37:15 (PDT)
I don't remember the skating rink but My mom and dad were big skaters there (mickey&laura) I seen some great pictures on there. They look really funny. And I know there were a lot of great times everyone had there heard all about them!!! Just wrote to say I think it is great to see someone make this web page to show all the memories.
Kristin
eastpointe, mi USA - Friday, June 17, 2005 at 18:58:30 (PDT)
I remember as a real young girl going to the movies. I felt so important because the theatre was owned by my father's cousin. At first I was upset the movies went away. As I grew older I loved the roller rink. Spent lots of weekends there and met lots of fun people. My first Kiss, concert and freedom were spent there. I thought the Rationals were the greatest. Thanks so much for remembering such a fun time and place that lots people went just to have fun.
Nina Henry-Labellarte <nlabellarte@aol.com>
Roseville, MI USA - Tuesday, June 14, 2005 at 22:25:22 (PDT)
I love the website, this brings up great memories, I grew up raight down the street from Motorcity and had some great times at the rink, I have fond memories of skating with Mickey Lacek and all the gang, whom later married Laura, but soon divorced, Mickey is now happily married to Toni Lacek. Sure wish the rink was still around
tamine <tamineof3@aol.com>
Wixom, MI USA - Tuesday, June 14, 2005 at 11:29:49 (PDT)
This was the first roller skating rink I ever skated at. Lot's of good memories. I think I skated here starting in the late 60's and into the 70's. My brother Pat and Mickey were alson big skaters here. Mikey later married Laura who was also someone who skated at the rink.
Jennie Lacek <jlacek40@aol.com>
Phoenix, AZ USA - Monday, June 13, 2005 at 22:10:01 (PDT)
Your site is special!
Thank you for your work
Samuel Morris sm1968@yahoo.com>
Raleigh, NC USA - Friday, June 10, 2005 at 04:50:28 (PDT)
Wow what a blast from the past I was a skater in the mid to late 70"s. Me and my sister Sheila Henry used to go every weekend. she was 7 years older than me but she stood right by my side until we got in the door then I was on my own she was to cool to hang out with me but at the time I thought I was to cool to hang around her. I got my first pair of skates there Chicago rollers I had hot pink boot cover and the fuzzy balls to go with them lol I have alot of great memories of that place. it is a part of who I am. thanks
Linda
Linda Seymour ( VanOver) <frog_in_pa@yahoo.com>
PA USA - Wednesday, June 08, 2005 at 21:49:19 (PDT)
I just found this site. I love it! Brings back so many memories of when I hung out there. I went skating every week end and the lines to get in would so long. Thanks for setting this site up.
Dolores Chavis <chavis287@yahoo.com>
Pembroke, NC USA - Friday, June 03, 2005 at 12:12:12 (PDT)
Hello,
I am not sure who the web-master is here, so I apologize for not addressing you by name.
I am an old roller skater, now 62 years old. I just stumbled across your Motor City web page looking for Gail Locke, and found a mention of her in Ray Ninness's Guest Page note. He, like me, played for the Motor City Bulldogs hockey team. I played for the Bulldogs from late 1962 to some time in 1964. I remember when I started because prior to playing for Motor City, I played for the Arcadia Wildcats thru July, 1962, when they won the first-ever National Hockey Championship in Lincoln, NE. I was the goalie. I left the Arcadia team shortly after the championship to play for Motor City.
Bill Pate played hockey for Motor City as well as teaching art skating, and I remember when we (the Bulldogs) beat the Arcadia Wildcats for their first loss ever in late '62 or early '63! It was a very sweet victory! And it was at their rink as well!
I also skated the art events for many years (1950-1960) at Dearborn Rollerdrome, Roller Skate Arena (on 8 Mile) and Arcadia. I managed to win Nationals in Oakland in 1957 in Junior Fours with Nancy DeHosse (later wife of Tom Gregory, another skater and pro), Dick Larpenter, and Sandy Perry (Kennedy), and took a 3rd in Junior Boys Figures in Boston in 1956. My favorite event was Dance, but the best I ever did was win the 1958 Great Lakes Regional in Intermediate Dance with Michelle Seger (who I would also love to find.) I quit the art events after 1960 to concentrate on college, but continued to play hockey. I spent a good part of my life in roller rinks, and I have absolutely no regrets!
I would love to find Gail Locke. I heard that she is back in this area again after many years in New Jersey, but I haven't been able to track her down yet. Her last name is now Walker, I heard. If you have any info on her I would love to get it. She was like a big sister to me! I'm on a nostalgia kick lately, and trying to find old school mates and skating friends.
Bill Pate worked for Ford Tractor for many years (while I worked at Ford Styling), but I haven't of him or from him in many years either. I retired from there 4 years ago.
I attached a current photo of me, and my high school graduation photo (1960 - Cass Tech.) in case anyone might recognize me.
I looked thru your web site and you have done a wonderful job -- thank you! Although I wasn't a part of the Motor City family for very long, I still consider myself a part of it.
Good luck in your endeavors, and if you feel like replying, I would be glad to hear from you.
Please feel free to put this in your Guest Book, and to use it in any way you may like. If you ever sponsor a reunion, I would love to hear about it. If you put out any bulletins to the "family", please include me on your list.
Thank you for your fine web site, and all of your efforts to keep the "family" communicating.
Warmest regards,
Paul
When work, commitment, and pleasure all become one, and you reach that deep well within where passion lives, nothing is impossible! Live your dreams! Make your life extraordinary!
Paul Libke
44722 Dionne Street
Canton, MI 48188-2410
Home / FAX: 734-394-2605
Cell / Direct: 734-748-6464
Email: PaulLibke@comcast./net
Web Site: www.HHI4YOU.com (for some useful info)
Paul Libke, REALTOR® ABR
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Office Phone: 734-981-2900
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Web Site: www.RemericaCountryPlace.com
Paul Libke <PaulLibke@comcast.net>
Canton, MI USA - Sunday, April 24, 2005 at 12:12:57 (PDT)
hey bro nice site man brings back memories real bad,you have done a nice job, i hung out with you guys so much thanx for the memories tony
joe dinco <joe_dinco@hotmail.com>
eastpointe, mi USA - Friday, April 01, 2005 at 22:03:29 (PST)
Wow,
design is much better from my last visit
,my respect!
Phill McCreek <pmc@hotmail.com>
Las Cruces, NM USA - Monday, March 21, 2005 at 17:45:07 (PST)
Used to live in St Clair Shores and Skated at Motorcity from the time it opened until I married a lady I met there and stopped skating in 1964 or so.. My parents used to tell me to move my bed to the rink and save time driving home ;-) I had a key to the place and would open the doors Sunday morning to practice Figures, and put on Kick Ass Rock-N-Rool and be out there practicing, until Bill Pate would show up and put on Classical Music telling me how starnge I'll feel at a meet when there is no Kick Ass Rock-N-Roll playing ;-O I skated with Pam Lucas Dance, Pairs and Fours with Bob Webber, (God Speed Bobby) and Marylin Allen. For many years I skated seven days a week, played Hockey on the Motorcity BulL Dogs with all the roudy clowns, and of course there was Speed Skating, the number of laps I put in on that floor wow.. No wonder I have no knees left??? Then of course there was Motorcycle Racing, but that was another lifetime, and no so good on the knees either. I am vertually retired out to New Hampshire Bedford to be exact, it's a surburb of Manchester. I will be getting Married this coming July 23. One of my son's live about twenty minutes up the road from Bedford, so it's a shorter trip to see the Grandkids, then it was from Michigan..
Wish I could have made the party, how you all enjoyed it..
Ray Ninness still itching to get a couple more rounds of the International Harris Tango in before I hang up the wheels ;-)
Ray Ninness <Rwninness@comcast.net>
Bedford, NH USA - Thursday, March 17, 2005 at 16:11:11 (PST)
I had know idea this web site was up and running! Very cool. I've been living on the north/west side of Oakland County for a long time and recently moved back to Warren to be closer to my family and reconnecting with old friends. I hadn't thought about Motor City in a long time. I grew up in that place and worked for Eddie for several years in the late 70's? and early 80's. The photos are great and brought back so many memories. I think I also have a few photos to donate. Man, I just threw out some memorbilia when I moved. I think I still have my name tag.
It seems like yesterday I was begging my parents for a ride up to the rink until I learned to drive. Then all my friends were begging me for a ride to the rink - I miss my Camero - we would put 6 kids in that poor car. I remember floor guarding, DJ'ing, working the door, getting into a WHOLE LOT of trouble (I drove Steve and Eddie crazy), and meeting so many friends. Just mess up Steve's record collection once or bump into the turntables! I can remember Eddie calling the DJ booth and telling me to turn the music down - I liked it loud! Oh, the parties were great!
Motor City defined an era. My parents (they've since past on) went to Motor City when it was a movie theater over 50 years ago and my brothers and sisters skated there in the 60's and 70's and attended concerts.
Well, congratulations on this site and all. Hope to see you all soon!
Tommy Barnes <Tom.Barnes@oakland.k12.mi.us>
Warren, MI USA - Wednesday, March 16, 2005 at 14:18:18 (PST)
As I sit here reading all the posts I find myself tearing up. Much of it mirrors my own memories. Being spun in the middle, watching Michael Jacksons Thriller, races, checking out the hot guys..hehe I only raced once, I was chicken. :) But it was great!! I beat someone that was a regular winner and man was she ticked. hehe Loved that place sooo much. All my friends went there, shoot lived there I should say. I had my first boyfriend and my first kiss there. Met some great friends as well. The two songs that always remind me of MC are Chaka Khans Through the Fire, and Shannons Let the Music Play (sorry child of the 80's) LOL. There are a few more but those are the two that really get to me. Im so glad that this site is here to remind me of the great childhood memories I have of Motor City. Though they might not be as many as some of you, this was my home for six great years (81-86). Thanks sooo much for putting this all together. And to all, thanks for sharing your memories!! Jen
Jennifer (Fishel) Santangelo <jenafiffer@yahoo.com>
Shelby Twp, MI USA - Tuesday, March 15, 2005 at 12:47:19 (PST)
I'm looking forward for this weekend's festivities! I am also honored that Eddie Jr, Mikey McKay and I can relive our DJ days at the rink, with Steve ending the night with a classic set!
This weekend is gonna rock! I can't wait!
Punker <ChrisStarz@aol.com>
Traverse City, MI USA - Wednesday, March 09, 2005 at 11:39:21 (PST)
Too bad this rink is gone. We live 5 minutes away from this site. My son, Tyjuan Kirby is the only Warren resident at this time, that is competing in Artistic Roller Skating. Having made the Jr. World team 2 years in a row, he represents Warren well. We have driven 3 hours each way to Ohio to train. Too bad there isn't a club in Warren anymore.
Maureen <supergolddbz@aol.com>
Warren, MI USA - Monday, March 07, 2005 at 11:26:43 (PST)
Boy you talk about bringing back some memories! I started skating at Motor City in 1977, and skated there 2-3 days a week until the mid 80's. I also remember working as a D.J. & floor guard for a while. It was one of the first places to start playing the MTV videos. I remember some really great times there. How about the all night skate parties?
brian buckner <gizmowarp@hotmail.com>
gladstone, mo USA - Friday, March 04, 2005 at 14:29:44 (PST)
There are so many memories I have, that I don’t even know where to start…
From taking lessons from Rose & Joe, being in skating shows (I specifically remember one where I dropped a football I was supposed to catch..lol) to sleeping during a session, up in a room that was above the original pro shop, to ‘exploring’ the upstairs, and swimming in the basement pool that Rembrandt painted… Motor City is such a grand place in my early memories, and everything seemed larger than life.
Then, in later childhood, call them the ‘rink rat’ days, I basically grew up there…
Without being specific, while still being quite accurate, it’s pretty safe to say that:
The first time I ever (fill in blank)______________ was at Motor City.
And the music… Almost every song I hear from back then brings back some type of memory, and some, to the point that I can almost smell the popcorn, and put myself there, like it was yesterday.
In the end, however, it’s the people that really made Motor City the beloved place that we cherish… The employees & skaters. Every day, from early childhood, to early adulthood, there are so many people, at Motor City, that have had an impact on my life, even people I haven’t seen in years, that I could fill pages and pages.
It’s a pretty amazing place, isn’t it?
Thanks to Tony Guarnieri for putting this website together, and doing the research, that is, The Motor City Roller Rink & Theatre Historical Project. People are blown away by this thing, and you did a great job!
I also want to thank Steve Schang for his major contribution to all of this, and on a sidenote, for continuing to keep us all together, and in touch.
Eddie Hakim Jr. <eddie@happyhourdj.com>
MI USA - Thursday, March 03, 2005 at 18:11:21 (PST)
I used to skate at the rink in the later 60s.This girl i used to have a big crush in the 7th grade got me to go for the first time.So iwent up there we met and got our skates on she had her own, she skated for a period of time, so i knew i was in deep shit because i never rollor skated. Well it was the worst time in my life. I couldnt even stay up. I fell so much that my ass was black and blue. But the worst of all she kept laughing at me.Well on the way home i was broken harted she did this to me and she knew i never skated before.And i would SEE THIS girl[NITA NORMAN] the next day at school.Well i made myself a promise that i would learn to skate and give some PAY BACK. So i went on sundays for the double secions and skated my ass off and to walk home with a blister on my foot. And finally that day came when i could hang with the best of them and her too.And it felt pretty dam good i would have to say. And what is kind of strange we dated in for a spell in 1973.We had some good times parting. And fact i worked for her dad Bill at his gas station on 12 mile and scher.And i remeber her mom said i had bedroom eyes that was sweet of her, she was pretty hip lady.Well the moral of this story after dating for a spell i needed a change and gave her the BOOT but in the nice way,hope your werent hart broken like i felt at MOTOR CITY ROLLOR RINK. Well Nita if you read this give me your feed back if you rember any of this,HA HA.BUT i really thought always you were a cool chic.Oh one more thing anybody that went to LINCLON 68 TO 71 trow me some info on my e mail. BE COOL, PEACE.
jim rubrick <mopar4life68>
roseville, michigan USA - Wednesday, March 02, 2005 at 22:13:18 (PST)
I remember Skating on Wed, Thurs, and Sun. nights. Took lesions from Bill Pate, Skated in Shows. I spent more time there then I did at home. Linda Robinson and I became good friends we stood up in each others weddins. Linda is Now Millhollen and lives in Florida. We see each other when ever we can and vacation together with our husband every other year. I remember the fun we all had and our reunion just before the rink was torn down. Then we had our next reunion at Skate World. I remember our mothers sitting on the seats next to sound booth. They watched us like hawks, had to get there moneys worth of us skating. My mom and dad are both deceased as is Mr. and Mrs Robinson. I met my husband at Mt. Clemens rink and we have now been married 37 years in Dec. We have two daughters and one son, and two grandsons. Hey girls remember Mrs. H. with her yard stick measuring our skating skirts to make sure they we not too short. Mr. and Mrs. H. used to check the dark corners to make sure we were behaving our selfs.
Ginger (Moon) Mitchell <redinwhite@aol.com>
St. Clair Shores, Mi USA - Monday, February 28, 2005 at 13:48:25 (PST)
Wow! I took my four year old skating for the first time today at thi rink near our house (Great Skate). Just the feeling of skating brought back so many memories. Then I get home find a link to this site in a mail from an old friend from the neighborhood. My dad lived on Westminster and on Sunday's or Saturday's a group of us would walk up there to skate. That would have been 1984- 1986. I have many memories of standing in line, pan-handeling for skating money for my boyfriend and the Bon Jovi poster by the sound booth. My boyfriend and I would sneak under the screen during the couples only songs and make out like crazy. I can't believe we never got caught! Thanks for this site! I love the pictures of the building.
Andrea Sabatini Joy <joy_andree@yahoo.com>
Warren, MI USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 17:06:57 (PST)
I went to the rink alot but not as much as most.When I moved out on my own my first place was just on the other side of VanDyke above the tuxedo store.Me and my friends would set on the roof and just people watch (maybe have a couple beers) Eddie always parked his car in the garage next to my door.I did not know him like lots of you did but he was always nice to me. Thanks for the walk down memory lane. I would love to see more old pics of the south end near VanDyke.
Tim Dail <TimDail@aol.com>
Warren, Mi USA - Thursday, January 20, 2005 at 16:12:17 (PST)
I skated for many years at Motorcity, sessions, Art skating Dance, Pairs, Fours,Figures and Speed and Roller Hockey for the Motorcity Bulldogs. My parents used to think I lived there. I used to skate seven days a week and all day Saturday and most Sundays. I often wonder where everyone dissapeared to. Pam my dance partner especially, and I'll be dammed if I can remeber her last name, and all the records are still packed?? I just moved from Michigan last July and now live in Bedford, New Hampshire. It would be fun to hear from any of the old art crowd. Bill Pate, Gail Locke, the Pam's .. I'll have to do a little digging for the rest of the names???? Eddy Hakim??? where the hell are you these days???
Ray Ninness <rwninness@comcast.net>
Bedford, NH USA - Monday, December 20, 2004 at 12:50:58 (PST)
THE IGGY POP CONCERT IN 1980 COMES TO MIND, THE GIRLS BATH ROOM WAS IN BACK BY THE STAGE AS SECURITY WAS MOVING PEOPLE BACK AS THE IG WAS LEAVING THE STAGE, I TOLD SECURITY WAS WATCHING OUT FOR MY GIRL FRIEND (TO BUY TIME). IT WORKED IGGY JUMPED DOWN AND GREETED THE LUCKY FEW , BEEN A BIG FAN SINCE THAT ROCKIN NIGHT AT THE MOTOR CITY. DAVID MEADE
DAVID MEADE <dmeadexx@yahoo.com>
GILBERT, AZ USA - Thursday, November 11, 2004 at 18:10:48 (PST)
Yeah Buddy!
I remember and honor the MODE...I spent many Friday through Sunday evenings there in the seventies through 1981 when..sorry ladies...My wife and I found each other and got married :) I LOVED the MODE!!! I practically grew up there.
In the current era, I skate Sunday nights at Bonaventure because hey, Motor City is only accessible to me in the realms of my memory. Maybe a reunion can be held? Email me: Oakfords@aol.com
David Oakford
David <Oakfords@aol.com>
Farmington Hills, MI USA - Friday, October 15, 2004 at 13:19:02 (PDT)
WOW! Growing up at 11 mile and Schoenherr in Warren and stumbling, literally, upon what you are doing to "remember" MOTOR CITY as I have during my life, I was thrilled beyond belief!!! I was on my speed skating team's website and saw they had posted your link. I remember every weekend almost FALLING out of my mom's station wagon as I couldn't get out of the car fast enough and try to get in the line that I would see extend far down the sidewalk, around the building on weekends to skate. The RACES, the COUPLES ONLY, the ALL SKATE.....the FUN on skates had by all and the best part was the huge floor. It was sad when it no longer stood near the corner of 9 mile and VanDyke...but.....it "stood" and evidently still does......in others as I thought it only did in my heart as a very happy time and fun thing to do WHATEVER your age was when you skated there. I graduated the first class to graduate from Warren Tower in 1975 and returned to skating (inline speed skating) in 1999 where I competed with the Wolverines Inline Speed Skating Team and now instruct as the Developmental Coach under the direction of Robb Dunn, for his National and Internationally acclaimed team. It is my main goal to teach others the sheer joy of what skating can do for you as not only a person, but an athlete as well, for ANY new "beginning skater" who comes to learn. For all involved on this project, THANK YOU for bringing back one of THEE most favorite things I did when I was "younger" by skating at Motor City! I'm still.....SKATING!
Pamela Coletta (Kalubisky) <ladyspeedsk8z@sbcglobal.net>
USA - Tuesday, September 14, 2004 at 19:23:46 (PDT)
Reviewed web site today and it brought happy memories! Us Wingerter Girls were skaters from 1966-1970. I plan on researching my photos & submitting some to add to this website. Hello to everybody. Anyone wishing to contact any of us "Wingerter Girls" can send e-mails to nancybarbier@yahoo.com.
Nick & Nancy Barbier-TN
Denise Wingerter Gill-TN
Sharron Wingerter Michael-MI
Shelley Wingerter Hickcox-KY
Janet Wingerter-FL
Nick & Nancy (Wingerter) Barbier, Denise (Wingerter) Gill, <nancybarbier@yahoo.com>
Mount Juliet, TN USA - Tuesday, September 14, 2004 at 08:01:39 (PDT)
My first days at Motor City were in 1965/66. I can still see Eddie behind the counter in front,I was around 7 years old. I always wanted him to wait on me because I thought he was so nice!..he bandaged me up one time when I was hurt.
I went from a few weekend matinees right into private lessons. I was in freestyle, speed, figure, dance and the shows until 1970/71.
What I remember most was the early morning testing that was nerve wracking, but I just had to get that medal!.
The shows were always the bonus after working so hard all year, priceless moments! By the way thanks to all of you who made it happen!
John Blavatt was my skating partner for about a year, we bombed in one of the shows when he dropped me! I'll never forget that, nor the silver outfit I had and ,John in his top hat,white tuxedo and ,matching silver trim, we were it!
I didn't start back again until I was a young adult, more interested in the parties at the rink!
It was fun, exciting and I remember Eddie always feeding us, he's a great cook!
I haven't made it to any camping trips, but hope to in the future.
Hat's off to the Hakim's !
Sherry Denny-Dobiesz <dobieszc@hotmail.com>
Shelby Twp., Mi. USA - Monday, September 13, 2004 at 18:15:10 (PDT)
Hapy to see this site. Korky Anderson Naert called and alerted us to this site. I was also given an article by a friend in Center Line and it brought back many memories.
Janet and Al Knauber <multimech@aol.com>
Shelby Twp, MI USA - Thursday, August 12, 2004 at 09:59:36 (PDT)
Motorcity,, We miss you,, although the building is long gone the memories We have from there will last forever...
My parents also dated there when it was a movie theatre.
I still remember the first time my sister Diane took us up there in 1976, & got us hooked on skating there, she even set me up with my first couples there that night, I would skate up there with my brothers, sisters, friends, a lot of times 2-3 times a week, & a lot of times on weekends skate both sessions, I still have the pair of skates I brought from there, some old ticket stubs, t-shirts, jackets etc, as well as My Wife Janice who I met there on the skating floor in 1981.
Motorcity may your memories last forever.!!!
***Special Thanks to Eddie Hakim, Steve Schang, Chris Smith (aka punker),***
& everyone who helped make this site possible.
Anthony J. Guarnieri <anthony@guarnieri.com>
Warren, MI USA - Monday, August 02, 2004 at 18:10:40 (PDT)
Wow, how time flies, when I think of when I first started work at Motor City
Skating Rink on April 2nd, 1965 and when they tore down the Motor City
Roller Rink building July of 1986. All the good times and all the
interesting people that I met over all those years. I still keep in contact
with some of the people that use to work and skate at Motor City, and it
always brings back good memories talking about the people we knew and the
many stories we remembered. But thinking about Motor City Skating Rink, I
also realize that this place of many of my memories would never come about
with out the Hakim Family. They bought the building and made Motor City
what it was. And I have to give Eddie Hakim much of the credit for keeping
Motor City alive, and keeping it a fun place to be. I give Tony Guarnieri
allot of credit for putting together this web page on Motor City, and
hopefully allot of people will use it to locate old and new friends.
Steve Schang (Shag)<Schang@wowway.com>
Sterling Heights, Mi USA - Sunday, July 31, 2004 at 10:48:44 (PDT)
I worked at Motor City in my teens and remember setting up the stage for concerts and playing roller hockey for many years. We left Warren in 1997, but I have fond memories of the rink any many great friends. Hello to all, Bob Loth.
Bob Loth <robert.loth@saintmarysreno.com>
reno, nv USA - Tuesday, July 20, 2004 at 12:28:14 (PDT)
I hung out at Motor City from 1974 to 1980 I went skating for the last time, the third week in January 1980. A week later I was in Texas going throu Air Force Basic Training.
I had a lot of great times at that place. I used to skate two to four tims a week and always both sesions on the week end.I often wounder what all the regulars during that time frame are doing now. I still see Gino.M we have been friends since 74.and once in a while Tony .G Any body remember Crazzy Jimmy, Iv always woundered what happened to him and how he's doing? Or Tim Redmen. I was in England when they destroyed Motor City . I want to say HI to al my old friends. and Thank Tony . G for building this site.
Mike Chynoweth <Eagle2459@hotmail.com>
Warren, Mi USA - Sunday, July 18, 2004 at 07:47:43 (PDT)
Nice to see some great replies from some people I know (Kelly). I skated, and worked at Motor City from 1980 to 1982, when I joined the Coast Guard. I stayed in touch with Steve, Eddie, Linda and everyone else. To this day, "Motor City and Friends" lives, and next week we have our 22nd annual kamping trip on the Rifle River! I have not been to my school's 10th or 20th reunion, but would go to a Motor City reunion!
Anyone who remembers me, email me at anytime, just put "Motor City" on the subject line. I get too many junk emails!
In the Wind, he's still alive.... Ted Nugent
Chris Smith.... AKA Punker <ChrisStarz@aol.com>
Traverse City, MI USA - Tuesday, July 13, 2004 at 07:48:20 (PDT)
I was so sad to see The RINK go, My brothers & Sisters, and myself would always be there on week-ends...Since that place went down, I have not been to any other rink since, even though there are several in the area...Thanks to my sister Mary for sending this E-mail...
Walter Betlej <eldavaj@hotmail.com>
Hamtramck, MI 48212 - Saturday, July 10, 2004 at 14:19:38 (PDT)
WOW, great site i am so happy to see some one else still thinks about Motorcity as much as I do. I really got a kick seeing the photos and hereing the names of some old friends.
Would like to keep getting updates on people and events
Tracy Stephens <Tracy5506@aol.com>
Harper Woods , MI USA - Monday, June 28, 2004 at 10:51:26 (PDT)
I remember hanging out with friends and watching the skating races,I also remember a couple of brothers who would race and were they fast I don't remember there name's. When it got torn down I was in the military down in Ft Knox KY and when my brother told me I was shocked!
One of my co-workers told me of this sight and it brought back memories. Thanks
Jonathon M. Collis <jonnycat982000@yahoo.com>
Detroit, MI USA - Friday, June 18, 2004 at 07:35:49 (PDT)
Wow, I offen wonder what ahppen to everyone from MC! Now this fantastic article in the Paper and a great web site started.
The wife & I both worked there in the late 60's & early 70's. (oopps) where has all the time gone? We both met there and started a life together there (still going)....
Hope to see others from that error in here.
Garry
Garry Watts <gwatts@ameritech.net>
Warren, MI USA - Monday, June 14, 2004 at 11:49:54 (PDT)
Thanks for bringing back the memories! During the 60s, I spent countless Saturday afternoons skating at the Motor City....AFTER I learned how to skate, which I did on that hardwood floor!!
Randy
Las Vegas, NV USA - Sunday, June 13, 2004 at 07:20:42 (PDT)
Gosh it has been a long time but I have many memories at this skating rink.I went to motorcity in 1985 and STILL have
it the coupons for a dollar off.If u would be interested in it please contact me through my email.
Lori Wilson <lwilson1970@aol.com>
warren , MI USA - Friday, June 11, 2004 at 16:57:29 (PDT)
Motor City was my home away from home. I practically grew up there. I spent 9 years there 1976-1985. Why? Because there was always great fun and cute guys! Plus admission was always reasonable. Heck sometimes it was alomost free when they would have specials, like can food drive or Penny night. Wow It would be so packed on those days! Devotees like me would come early and even hang out the extra two hours on week nights, we just couldn't get enough. I remember when they put in the big screen and played video's.
That's when Thriller came out and we would stand in the middle and watch with wide eyes.I also remembering to learn to skate backwards and the two step. Or playing video games and ganing out with all my friends. I still live in the neighborhood and it's such a shame that the place closed down. I often wish there was a place for our youth to go (that was also affordable)and hang out and develope friendships and memories like we did. Thanks to everyone who worked to get this site developed GREAT JOB! Fay :)
Fay (Hoch) Akers <illstrtrfay@yahoo.com>
warren, mi USA - Friday, June 11, 2004 at 07:04:42 (PDT)
Wow, where to begin? So many memories like it was yesterday and yes, I remember "pipeline" as well. My friends and I attended Motor City every Friday and Saturday night from our young years while at
Mc Kinnely Elem. to Walcott jr. high until I graduated in 1983 from Lincoln. I lived at 8 Mile and Groesbeck and we would walk, yes WALK, all the way to skating and back with our skates slung over our shoulders and we would stay for both sessions. Those days we didn't have to worry about the boogie man!
We would show up to be first in line & first on the floor before it got crowded (we loved having the floor to ourselves). I think I was one of only a few girls brave enough to spin with all the guys (even much older guys) in the middle, that may have been because I was over 6 feet tall and I could last without the guys lifting me up off the floor or giving in (during reverse of course...I lived to spin and hated that! Why couldn't we just be allowed to spin all night long in the middle? *giggles*). I also remember always having to do the two step backwards or the criss cross during Bob Segar's "old time rock n roll", we just thought we were all that and a bag of chips with all our cool moves! hehe
Of course I had to have the best skates with the coolest gadgets (stoppers, boot covers (all colors) and how about the lights? Who remembers those?? Yeep, I had to be one of the first with the cool purple lights on the bottom of my skates! Oh the memories!
I could go on forever but I won't. I would like to take a second to thank everyone who worked on putting this together to bring us all back together again. Keep up the good work.
Carla (Buckley) Murray <bobkatm@comcast.net>
Macomb, MI USA - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 18:23:21 (PDT)
Oh wow! Motor City! I have so many memories. The one that jumping out in my mind is meeting guys on pipeline "any guys" and hooking up at the rink! Anyone else remember pipeline? Before the internet? I live in New Warren now (Shelby Township) and at the corner of 23 & VanDyke is 'The Rink'....reminds me and takes me back to the best days of my life! Motor City Skating and Bel Air!
Lea Irwin (Clement) <lea_irwin@yahoo.com>
Shelby Township, MI USA - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 15:32:38 (PDT)
WOW! The memories.....I worked at Motor City for all of my teen life, I grew up there! I loved the rink. It was always fun, And it was where I fit in, I miss everything about it. It was a great place!
Lisa Broughton-Maggio <GreatAmerican1@aol.com>
Macomb Twp, MI USA - Tuesday, June 08, 2004 at 18:24:14 (PDT)
Memories of skating. I never knew how to skate until I would go there. I use to go either Fridays or Saturdays or both with my best friend Janice. Janice and myself are still great friends. We went so often that we found a guy that we both wanted to skate with, I was going to ask him; however, he went to ask Janice. Today, Janice and Tony will be married 19 years. I remember when they went to tear it down. That day was very sad.
Kathy <pahrump904@hotmail.com>
Pahrump, NV USA - Monday, May 10, 2004 at 19:05:56 (PDT)
It was my usual hangout on Friday or Saturday night. God was I shocked to see that it was gone. Alot of wonderful and fun times were held inside that ol' building. Sad to see it gone.
Penny Duke (Kambeitz) <lafayettesluver71585@yahoo.com>
Gautier, MS USA - Monday, May 03, 2004 at 12:13:36 (PDT)
I remember Motor City Skating Rink like it was yesterday! I graduated from Lincoln in 1983. Our "class" had quite a few skating parties there. What a blast they were; we always had a huge turn out for those. I also remember our "group" going there (it seems) just about every Sat. night. I remember begging parents to let us stay for both sessions. After marrying and moving away from Warren, it's a shock to drive down Van Dyke and approach 9 Mile. So many changes; it doesn't look anything like when I grew up over that way. That's ok; I have a lot of wonderful memories!
Kelly (Little) Freund <kellymf9365@comcast.net>
Fraser, MI USA - Sunday, May 02, 2004 at 18:03:24 (PDT)
IT WAS ANICE TO GO TO SKATE AND TO HANG OUT
ANTHONY MAZUREK <BOOGIETRACEY69>
WARREN , MI USA - Sunday, May 02, 2004 at 17:01:56 (PDT)
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