By Carolyn Marnon – Sixteen year-old Antoine Perry, Jr. was in 29th District Court on December 28 for allegedly murdering a 19-year old outside HYPE Recreation Center on November 26, 2018. Antoine faced four charges: homicide-felony murder, armed robbery, and two charges of felony firearm.
Three Michigan State Police cars and three City of Wayne police cars were seen outside the courthouse while police officers filled the halls outside the courtroom.
The Honorable Judge Laura Mack presided over the court proceedings. She instructed those present that no pictures were to be taken of the defendant’s face or of any minor testifying before the court. She also made it clear that anyone who was testifying that day or who would testify in downtown Detroit was not allowed to view the proceedings.
The first witness was a 16-year old girl who said Antoine had been her boyfriend for a few months before the incident occurred. She said he had told her via Facetime that he was going to “jug” something. According to UrbanDictionary.com, “jug” means to steal.
Later that day, she and Antoine were hanging out in a garage with other friends where “we play music and conversate.” While they smoked weed, Antoine pulled a gun out and started playing with it. The witness said she told him he was trigger happy and that he needed to chill out.
Plans were made to get more weed. She said he told her he was going to take the weed from the weed guy.
The group pulled up behind HYPE where Antoine and another friend got out of the car. Antoine took her phone with him to text the weed guy. A bit later, the friend is running back to the car, shaking, saying “Twoin really blew that nigger” because he didn’t give him the weed. Antoine then shows up at the car, and she sees the gun. She testified they were all scared. Her sister, who was driving the car, takes off and then stops in front of Franklin Middle School. She said Antoine had dropped her phone and she wanted it back.
The second witness was in the HYPE parking lot, getting ready to work out. He said he noticed two African-American men standing by the corner and didn’t think anything of it. He went about gathering his workout gear and water bottle when his attention was then diverted back to the men. A car had pulled up to them. One went up to the driver’s side door and then he said the car took off at a high rate of speed with the person holding onto the door while it was being driven. The person tumbled from the car while firing several times at the vehicle driving away before running toward the corner of the building.
The final witness was Officer Michael Bolton of the Wayne Police Department. He says he received a report of a shooting. The victim was in the main lobby of HYPE bleeding from his stomach. Outside, he found three bullet shell casings and a phone about 3 inches away from the casings. Officer Bolton said the defendant walked up saying he was looking for his girlfriend’s cell phone. The defendant was detained at that time.
During testimony, sobs could be heard in the courtroom.
Judge Laura Mack said testimony showed probable cause. The defendant was placed at the scene of the crime with a gun. The witnesses were credible. The case was bound over to Wayne County Circuit Court.
On January 4 at the Frank Murphy Hall of Justice in downtown Detroit, Antoine Perry stood mute as a plea of not guilty was entered by the court. The court ordered a competency evaluation. The competency hearing is scheduled for March 1.

By Carolyn Marnon – In her free-time, she likes doing triathlons where she swims, bikes and runs!
She has lived in Michigan all her life, except for a short period of time spent in Wisconsin.
She loves reading Young Adult novels and social science non-fiction books.
She was recently certified as a scuba diver and prefers warm water on her vacations.
And she lives in Northville with her yellow lab, Einstein.
Who is this woman? She is Jody Wolak, the new Library Director at your Wayne Public Library.
After a 10-year career in marketing, Jody decided to switch careers. While working full-time in marketing, she worked on obtaining her Master in Library Science. She enjoyed problem solving and being creative, but she also always loved libraries and literature.
Her first library jobs were both part-time jobs as Children’s Librarian at the Rochester Hills library and at the Wayne library. She moved on to full-time employment at the William P. Faust Public Library of Westland as the Teen Librarian.
Before coming back to the Wayne library as its director, Jody spent less than two years as the Youth and Teen Director at the Chelsea library.
The job as Wayne Library Director has turned out to be more than she expected. “I knew I loved working with children and loved reading and books since I was a young child,” said Jody. “I enjoy doing library programs for children to adults and seniors. I think my marketing background has been very helpful in promoting the library and our services and making connections in the community. I’m looking forward to doing more of that here in Wayne.”
She goes on to say, “Libraries are so much more than books and reading. We’re a place for the community to gather, a place to see your friends, and a place to expand your horizons!” Jody and the approximately 16 employees of the library are here to serve the needs of the community. The library recently conducted a survey to learn what the community felt the priorities were for the library after a ballot measure was passed in August giving the library 1 mil in additional funding. The most urgent issue to address is the leaking roof. Although expanded library hours, more programming and additions to the collection (books/DVDs/magazines) are being considered, the library board wanted to know where to focus their efforts and where the biggest impact could be made using the feedback they receive from the surveys to inform their decisions.
The library board meets on the 2nd Wednesday of each month. Surveys were collected through January 3. The board will be able to look at the surveys at their January meeting. Jody expects the library board and staff will have their initial plans ready to share with the community in February or March. Until then, stop into the library and welcome Jody back to the Wayne library.
“We’re entering a period of growth where we’ll be able to expand our services,” said Jody. “Please come check us out if you haven’t been here in awhile.”

Jaylen Armstrong, Lorence Scott II and Eric Quick in front of Fat Man Nok’s new brick and mortar location in Norwayne. Photo by John Rhaesa

By Sarah Shurge – “I want it to be when people say ‘coney dogs,’ they say ‘we have to go to Fat Man Nok’s,’” said Lorence Scott II, Fat Man Nok’s owner.
Fat Man Nok’s Restaurant opened on Saturday, June 1st, however, Fat Man Nok’s has been serving the City of Wayne for years now. Scott originally opened his food cart business in August 2021.
“It feels good to finally know that I put my drive and focus into something and to watch it grow. To see where I came from – the side of that store – to having the community come in and sit down to enjoy my cuisine,” said Scott.
Fat Man Nok’s Hot Dog stand was originally located in the lot next to the West Town Market on the corner of Howe Rd. and Forrest St. Scott did research around the community for where people walked, traveled, or drove past for work, and he decided that was the best location for his business.
“People always came up to my stand and said I’m going to have a restaurant, so to see it manifest is everything you can imagine,” said Scott. Going from food cart to restaurant has been a process and Scott has worked hard to get to where he’s at.
The first event he worked at was at Goudy Park. The City of Wayne-Downtown Development Authority (DDA) asked Scott to bring Fat Man Nok’s to the Makers Market in Downtown Wayne. He has worked concerts in the park, movie nights in the park, at Wayne Releaf, the car cruise, and more.
Scott has been catering to Amazon: Pontiac, Detroit, and Romulus locations, Henry Ford hospital, and more. “I serve high volumes of people with catering,” said Scott.
Due to the amount of people Scott serves, he felt like he and his team would be prepared for the restaurant traffic. “Business is doing well,” said Scott. “We’re still new and want to increase over time. But we’re doing the best we can and pushing out the food.”

Fat Man Nok owner Lorence Scott II

Scott will still be out in the community with his hot dog stand for countless events such as: Flowers in the Mitten, Moonlit Mystic, Hillcrest for the fireworks and the car cruise. “I’m out there every day with consistency,” said Scott. “Even though I’m trying to build my restaurant, I’m still going to uphold my commitment to the City of Wayne.”
Scott always had a passion for taking care of the community. At his food cart, kids and the homeless got a free hot dog. He fed the UAW workers during the strike. And he still feeds the homeless (after closing time) at his restaurant.
Now he offers free popcorn to customers at the restaurant while they wait for their orders. “Children love that feature,” said Scott.
Fat Man Nok’s menu offers: polish sausage, hot polish sausage, hot dog, coney dog, coney loose burger, pickled red hot snack sausage, pulled pork sandwich, BBQ shredded chicken sandwich, and a devil dog. “We make a quality coney dog, I’ll put it up against anyone,” said Scott. The menu has sides such as: frank and beans, baked beans, mac and cheese, four different types of loaded fries, and blue raspberry Kool-Aid.
Some of Fat Man Nok’s best selling items are the coney dog, polish sausage, pulled pork sandwich, and mac and cheese. “We have unique flavors you won’t get anywhere else,” said Scott. “People can feel the love in my cuisine.”
Scott has a suggestion box in his restaurant so customers can write down what they would like to see. “It’s important to me because of the community, I never forgot where I started. All the same people that frequented my stand, still come to my restaurant,” said Scott. “I want to hear what they want and what they suggest.”
Scott also plans to “cook with the seasons” and add items to coordinate with the weather. So when fall starts, he will add chicken and dumplings, stews, and chilis to the menu. “I just wanted to do something different,” said Scott. “It’ll draw people in because they know we only have the option for a limited time. They have to come in and get it while it’s available for the season.”
Scott wanted to give a special shout out to Jeff Frazier from Frazier’s Towing, Lisa Kubany and Lori Gouin from the DDA, Whaa and Tammy from 88 Sushi, and Moe, Eddie, and Chuck from Shell for helping him in individual ways that got him to where he is today.
“Without my customers, this wouldn’t have been possible. I believe in myself and my team – that if I build it, they’ll come – but the support from city officials and fellow business owners helped get my name out there,” said Scott.
Scott and the city are in the works for scheduling a ribbon cutting ceremony for Fat Man Nok’s Restaurant.
“I want customers to go ‘I went there, it was clean, the service was good, my food was good, and my pockets are good,’” said Scott.
For more information about Fat Man Nok’s, you can call (734) 890-8204, or find them on Facebook by searching “Fat Man Nok’s”, and on Instagram at @fatmannoks. To place an order, call (734)329-2717. A website is currently in the works, so keep an eye on the Facebook page for updates.
Fat Man Nok’s is located at 2717 S Wayne Rd (in the Washington Center Plaza) and is open 11a.m. – 7 p.m. Tuesday – Saturday. Happy hour is 2 – 3 p.m. Tuesday and Saturday (buy two coneys, get one free.) Scott is working on adding more weekly specials. First Responders and City Officials get a discount at Fat Man Nok’s.
“We’re open to the public, come check us out for yourself,” said Scott. “Bring an empty stomach so we can fill it up for you.”

2024 Concerts in Goudy Park begin July 31st.

By Sarah Shurge – Have you patiently been waiting for free concerts in Goudy Park to return to downtown Wayne? If so, get ready because they are finally back.
Each show will be Wednesday night at Goudy Park, located at 3355 S. Wayne Rd.
The dates of the concerts are as follows: July 31st is Sunset BLVD. August 7th is Atomic Radio. August 14th is Dead in Dog Years. August 21st is Your Generation in Concert. August 28th is Theo Gridiron and Friends.

July 31st, Sunset BLVD will perform 80’s rock. Sunset BLVD will transport you back to 1987, with a show that celebrates the hits of all things 80s-rock (with a touch of pop). Originating from Detroit, Sunset BLVD covers all 80s-rock from Motley Crue, Poison, Bon Jovi and GNR, to Michael Jackson, Heart and Joan Jett. For more information about Sunset BLVD, visit sunsetblvd1987.com or find them on Facebook by searching Sunset Blvd Band or Instagram by searching sunsetblvdband1987.

August 7th, Atomic Radio will perform radio hits. The 4-piece band will perform radio hits such as 24K Magic by Bruno Mars, Shut Up and Dance by WALK THE MOON, Cake by the Ocean by DNCE, My House by Flo Rida, Give Me Everything by Pitbull, Celebration by Kool & The Gang, Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey, Livin’ on a Prayer by Bon Jovi, and so much more. For more information about Atomic Radio, visit atomicradioband.com or find them on Facebook by searching Atomic Radio Band.

August 14th, Dead in Dog Years will perform classic rock. Dead in Dog Years is a band of brothers who love to play music together. After losing a founding member, the band took time off but are stoked to be back and playing music together. For more information about Dead in Dog Years, visit bandmix.com/stillkickin or you can find them on Facebook by searching Dead in Dog Years.

August 21st, Your Generation in Concert will perform pop, dance, rock, and R&B. The 8-piece band transports the audience on a musical tour celebrating five decades of pop, rock, dance, and R&B hits. The group has shared stages with Lenny Kravitz, Flo Rida, Jason Derulo, The Billy Joel Band, Sheryl Crow, and more. For more information about Your Generation in Concert, visit yourgenerationinconcert.com, or find them on Facebook by searching Your Generation in Concert, Twitter by searching @YourGeneration_ and Instagram by searching @yourgeneration_

August 28th, Theo Gridiron and Friends will perform blues, rock, jazz, and gospel. Theo Gridiron Spight is a singer born and raised in Detroit, MI. Gridiron performs at NFL games, singing the Detroit Lions fight song at their home games. Gridiron is a cross between Baptist minister meets blues-edged rocker, and sings blues, soul, r&b, jazz or rock. For more information about Theo Gridiron and Friends, visit theogridiron.com or call (313)218-1455.
Major sponsors of the events are the Rotary Club of Wayne and Wayne Downtown Development Authority.
Bring a friend, bring your family, or come by yourself, just be sure to come to Goudy Park on Wednesday nights and enjoy the shows!

Cruisin’ Downtown Wayne will be hoppin’ on Saturday, July 13th. Photo by John Rhaesa

By Sarah Shurge – Mark your calendars because it’s that time of year again. The much-anticipated, annual car cruise, Cruisin’ US12 will be happening on Saturday, July 13th, from 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
For the 18th year in a row, Michigan Avenue and downtown Wayne will be packed with classic and custom cars. For the fourth year in a row, pit stops will be returning up and down Michigan Ave for the community to enjoy, thanks to the City of Wayne Downtown Development Authority’s (DDA) partnership with the cruise.
“Pit stops offer the community the chance to experience the cruise at a different level,” said Lisa Kubany, DDA Marketing and Events Director. “Family or single couple, there’s a little bit for everybody. We gear each pit stop to cater to each crowd.”
This year there will be six pit stops, as well as many honorable mentions to stop at. There will be free air conditioned shuttles running every 20-25 minutes (from noon – 4 p.m.) traveling between shuttle stops located near pit stops. Each pit stop will be marked with a sign and shuttles will be marked as well.
For the 9th year, Harry J. Will Funeral Homes will be hosting Hot Cars and Hot Cakes. Come from 9:30 a.m. – noon. The parking lot opens at 8:30 a.m. Show registration is $15 per car and includes pancake breakfast. Additional tickets for adults are $5.00, kids under 12 are free.
There will be prizes for Best in Show, Most Original, and Show Favorite. There will be special drawings to win a canvas picture of your car and more. Donations are being accepted to benefit childhood mental health.
The second pit stop runs from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Jack Demmer Ford. This stop will have a live band, classic car show, Mustang and Bronco club, and the following food trucks: Hogz Backyard BBQ and King Edward’s Feast.
There will be limited spectator parking available in the east parking lot of the “Preowned” car lot. The shuttle stop will also be located in the east parking lot of “Preowned.”
The third pit stop will run from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. St. Mary’s partnered with Knights of Columbus to make this stop possible. This stop will have a french fry food truck, car show, indoor craft show, activities for kids, and pinewood derby races for kids and adults. The community is encouraged to bring their own derby car. The shuttle stop will be on the west side of the church on Third St. (south of Sims).
The fourth stop is the family fun zone from 1 – 5 p.m. at Wayne Historical Museum, Hillcrest Bible Church, and First Congregational Church. This stop will have carnival games, prizes, outdoor games, race cars from Milan Dragway, and DJ Lutalo (from 2-5 p.m.) from the Dance Academy in Westland. This stop will have the following food trucks: Fun Food Express, Emelias Guac N’Roll Taco Truck, G. Faz Pizza, and SweetJays Bakeshop. The shuttle stop is at Biddle and Park St.
The next stop is the outdoor vendor show in the city lot near Brookie’s Cafe. There will be over 30 local vendors in the field, along with food trucks.
The last pit stop will run from noon – 4 p.m. at Books on the Ave and Karma Coffee. This is a pop-up vendor show. Karma’s kitchen will be open and the patio available for dining. The shuttle stop will be located off Sophia St. behind the tax building.
Porta potties will be listed on the map and stationed at the following locations: Jack Demmer, St. Mary’s, family fun zone, and the outdoor vendor show.
There are many honorable mention businesses that will be hosting an event, family friendly activities, and possibly prizes: AKA Sports, All Star Patriots Dance Company, Brookie’s Café, Fat Man Nok’s World Famous Hot dogs outside of the Marker’s Market, Kicks Tae Kwon Do, Kurt’s Caps with cruise t-shirts, State Wayne Theater with the Rocky Horror Picture Show cast, and Taste the Smoke.

Be sure to check out the classic cars up and down Michigan Avenue. Photo by John Rhaesa

Flowers in the Mitten and Makers Market will have 35 local crafters to shop from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., indoor crafts, and a free meet and greet with Bluey from 11a.m. – 5 p.m. There will be a permanent jewelry vendor and chocolate drop shop.
The Wayne Fire Department is hosting a fundraiser for Wayne Professional Firefighters Association in Derby’s Alley starting at 11 a.m. There will be pulled pork sandwiches or loaded nachos.
US12 Bar and Grill will have live music, food, and drink specials. Get there early to get your spot on the patio.
“They [US12 Bar and Grill] have been a part of this cruise every single year and they help make it a huge success for that corner and spectators coming in,” said Kubany. “It’s important and amazing the way they engage the community that they do.”
Moonlit Mystic LLC, Wayne Dairy Queen, and Helium Studio are welcoming to all cruisers as a cooling center.
“The cruise is uniting the businesses with the community,” said Kubany. “Three new people wanted to join us this year, so the news is spreading. People are jumping at the opportunity to become a part of this event.”
The DDA will attend the event and be handing out collectable cruise keychains. The DDA is trying to make the keychains a tradition.
“I feel like the cruise just isn’t an event, it’s a tradition. It brings the community together in a way that’s just different than anything else. There’s something for everybody,” said Kubany.
Parking lots in downtown will be hosting local car clubs, while other cars will be driving up and down Michigan Ave. Thousands of cars show up each year for the cruise, and there are lots of regulars and crowd favorites expected to make an appearance.
McDonald’s dining room will be open on the corner of Michigan Ave and Wayne Rd.
You can visit participating businesses for a Cruising Downtown Wayne Cruise map and be sure to follow the DDA on Facebook for daily updates regarding the cruise by searching “Wayne Downtown DDA”
“This cruise has become more of a celebration of our community,” said Kubany. “We are lucky to get to welcome so many car enthusiasts to our city and get to show them how amazing the City of Wayne is. This year promises to be the best year yet.”
The DDA and cruise are still finalizing all the details for the event.

All meetings will be held at the William D. Ford Career-Technical Center located at 36455 Marquette, Westland.

By Sarah Shurge – The Wayne-Westland Community Schools wants your help in the decision-making process for the schools budget reduction.
During the board meeting on Monday, June 17th, the board of education approved the budget for the 2024-2025 school year, anticipating a deficit of $8,927,613 by June 30th, 2025.
As a result, cost-saving measures must be implemented.
The district is committed to providing opportunities that set our students up for success. Equally important is their dedication to transparency, ensuring our families, staff, students, and community stay informed.
Community input and feedback is highly valued and vital as the district formulates a comprehensive plan to restore our district’s financial health and secure long-term sustainability.
The district urges you to complete a survey (found on thewaynedispatch.com) and share your thoughts on potential cost-saving measures by Friday, July 19th.
The district also invites you to attend one of their community engagement meetings on the following dates: Tuesday, July 9th, from 5-7 p.m., Wednesday, July 10th, from 5-7 p.m., or Thursday, July 11th, from 1-3 p.m.
All meetings will be held at the William D. Ford Career-Technical Center located at 36455 Marquette, Westland. The district asks you to please RSVP so they can plan accordingly. RSVP link can also be found on thewaynedispatch.com.
Each meeting will feature a brief presentation, an opportunity to provide input and ideas, and a Q&A session. For those unable to attend, the district will post the presentation on the district website (wwcsd.net.)
The district wants to thank you for your continued support and looks forward to ongoing engagement and collaboration with staff, students, families, and the community as they navigate these challenging times.

RSVP

Survey

Welcome back to another Spotlight Series with Sarah!
I started this series to get to know the city more personally, while my readers can get to know me better in the process.
If you’ve been keeping up with this series, then you might remember that I mentioned I have a sweet tooth in my first Spotlight Series.
Doesn’t matter if it’s in the morning, afternoon, after dinner, or midnight, I’m always down for a sweet treat. Cookies, ice cream, cheesecake, cobbler, donuts; doesn’t matter, I don’t discriminate.
To keep our sweet tooth cravings local, my boyfriend and I visited Snazzy Treats and Eats on Saturday, June 29th. The bright colored walls were the first thing I noticed when we entered the shop. The right side of the store (pink wall) resembled an ice cream parlor, while the left side (orange and blue walls) resembled a convenience store.
We walked up and down the convenience store side checking out what available goodies were stocked on all the shelves, refrigerators, and freezers. The shelves were loaded with items like chips, ramen, pasta noodles, rice, canned vegetables and beans, soups, cereals, crackers, and a variety of candies. You can buy paper towels, paper plates, sugar, and condiments such as ketchup, mustard, mayo, relish, hot sauce, and ranch.
The freezer had frozen vegetables, french fries, pot pies, and individually wrapped ice cream. The refrigerator was stocked with energy drinks, juices, teas, water, pops, eggs, butter, and lots of flavored pickles.

Banana pudding shake and Carolina peach ice cream at Snazzy Treats and Eats.

I grabbed myself a can of Taiwan classic bubble tea (honeydew with tapioca pearls) and my boyfriend picked out two bags of Lays chips: hot chili squid and roasted fish flavour.
We then checked out the ice cream parlor side of the store. The available ice cream flavors were: strawberry cheesecake, Michigan pothole, banana pudding, vanilla, mint chip, Carolina peach, play dough, and cookie jar.
Cheesecake and peach cobbler are two of my favorite desserts, so I asked for a sample of both. Both samples of ice cream were mouth-watering. The strawberry cheesecake had swirls of strawberry and a chunk of cheesecake. The Carolina peach was refreshing and had peach pieces.
I knew I didn’t need any other sample after I tasted the Carolina peach. I got a Carolina peach cup and my boyfriend got a banana pudding shake.
We watched his shake be made right in front of us from the banana pudding ice cream and I was asked if I wanted a lid for my cup. Since we were taking our sweet treats to go, a lid was a great option so the dog hair in my car wouldn’t get stuck in my ice cream.
With how creamy and flavorful the ice cream was, I plan to stop by again for more.
Snazzy Treats and Eats opened in April 2023. “We’re a small market for people to pick their odds-and-ins up. People come in for something like beans, and we’re a last minute pick-me-up spot for ice cream,” said Charlotte Sealie, Snazzy Treats and Eats owner.
Sealie used to work concessions when her kids did football and cheer, and that’s what sparked her desire to start her own business. She still works full-time at her day job, but Snazzy’s is her long-term retirement plan.
“If you want something different, we like to specialize in different,” said Sealie. “There’s not many places you can go and get the same experience.”
Some of Snazzy Treats and Eats’ best-selling items are the banana pudding ice cream, sugar cone, ice cream sandwich extreme, and bubble plates (bubbled pancake with topping and ice cream, powdered sugar, drizzle, whipped cream, and a cherry).
Sealie mentioned that during the winter months, people were asking about non-dairy options, so Snazzy’s now offers Italian ice (blue raspberry, pina colada, lemon, and lime) in a cup or slushies.
“I try to accommodate everybody and I’m always willing to do things when customers ask,” said Sealie. “Just like malts, even though that’s not on the menu.”
Snazzy Treats and Eats always has the following ice cream flavors available: vanilla, superman, Michigan pothole, and banana pudding. Snazzy’s tends to go through an ice cream flavor (three gallon bucket) in a week and a half to two weeks. “If a customer comes back and doesn’t see a flavor that they just had the prior week, just ask about it,” said Sealie. “I could still have it in the back, but it was so slow that I switched to a new flavor.”
Customers can also get involved in creating their unique flavor choice. Sealie mentioned that people like to mix and match the ice cream for milkshakes, or you can buy any item in the store (like a pop, candy, or ice cream) to combine in your shake.
“We provide unique things to test your sweet taste buds,” said Sealie.
Sealie likes the idea of keeping Snazzy Treats and Eats family friendly, and wants people to bring their children in, so she will not be trying to obtain a liquor license or sell cigarettes.
“I’m here for the community,” said Sealie. “I’m local to the area, have lived here for over 25 years, and would like people to come in and see what it’s all about, or just stop in and say hello.” Sealie wants the community to know that Snazzy Treats and Eats accepts EBT payments.
Snazzy Treats and Eats is located at 35139 E Michigan Ave, and is open 1 – 9 p.m. Monday, 3:30 – 9 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, 1 – 9 p.m. Thursday, 1 – 10 p.m. Friday, and 1 – 11 p.m. Saturday.
For more information about Snazzy Treats and Eats, you can call (734)674-6640 or find them on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok by searching “Snazzy Treats and Eats.”
Be sure to check out Snazzy Treats and Eats and be on the lookout for the next Spotlight Series with Sarah!

Kenneth Allen Warfield, affectionately known as Ken to his friends and family, passed away on June 12, 2024, at the age of 84 in Corbin, Kentucky. Born to Ernest and Sallie Warfield on February 22, 1940, in Artemus, Kentucky, Kenneth was a beacon of love and positivity throughout his life, touching the lives of many with his kindness and passion.
Ken’s legacy of love continues through his beloved wife of 43 years, Golden Warfield; his children, Donald A. Warfield, Robert A. Warfield, Mark D. Warfield, Deborah (John) Olson, and Theresa Sebastian; his cherished eight grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; and his sisters, Phyllis Wilder and Delores (Malcom) Marlowe.
Ken dedicated his life to serving others, a commitment evident through his distinguished career as a firefighter. He proudly served the City of Wayne, where he eventually rose to the rank of Fire Chief before retiring. His dedication to public service did not end there, as he further served his community through two terms (1991-1999) as the Mayor of the City of Wayne. His tireless efforts to improve and protect the city he loved were an inspiration to all who knew him.
Beyond his professional achievements, Ken was known for his unwavering love for his family and his desire to make a positive impact on those around him. He was a man who lived his values, and his actions were a testament to his loving, caring, and positive nature. His passion for bettering the City of Wayne was matched only by the passion he had for his family.
Ken’s interests all shared a common theme: the betterment of his community and the nurturing of the relationships within it. Described by those who knew him as loving and kind, he approached life with a fervor that was both rare and admirable. His passion was infectious, and he left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those fortunate enough to have crossed his path.
As we mourn the loss of Kenneth Allen Warfield, we also celebrate a life extraordinarily well-lived. His spirit of generosity, leadership, and compassion will continue to guide and inspire us. Kenneth’s memory will live on not only in the impactful work he did for the City of Wayne but also in the love and wisdom he imparted to his family.
Ken’s life story is one of dedication and love-a true testament to the remarkable person he was. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who were touched by his enduring legacy.
As we bid farewell to Kenneth, we reflect on the profound impact he had on each of our lives. His memory will be cherished and kept alive through the countless stories of his kindness, his unwavering commitment to his community, and the love he shared with all of us. Rest in peace, Kenneth, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. Your light will continue to shine in our hearts forever. Family is requesting donations in Kenneth’s name to the First Congregational Church of Wayne.

The Wayne County Poorhouse.

This series will be a multi-part complete history of the Wayne County Poorhouse and Asylum, later known as Eloise. As early as 1805 Wayne County had laws on the books for the relief of the poor, but this did not amount to much more than a little bread to be given out here and there to the homeless.
Detroit had just 1,500 people and nobody ventured inland to settle until the 1820s. By the 1830s however the population had swelled to over 3,000 and the Erie Canal was bringing hundreds and later thousands of new settlers to the area. This also brought more poor, homeless, infirm and insane.
In 1832 the county authorized construction of the first “County House” at the Northwest corner of Mt. Elliott and Gratiot Avenues in Detroit. This modest wooden two story building was separated by sex, but only had a few rooms and no beds or carers. Everybody, the poor, homeless, insane, orphans, etc. slept in the same room and tried to coexist. By 1834 the place had become so dirty and rundown that the local catholic church, run by Martin Kundig, and some parishioners stepped in to clean the place up and give some level of care. He was appointed the first superintendent and did improve conditions slightly.
By the end of the decade plans were being made to move the county house to a different location in the county, as Detroit was quickly growing and the rural area the building was built in was quickly being encroached upon. Nankin Township was selected to be the new location, as it was centrally located within the county. In 1838 the county bought the Torbert farm from Samuel and Nancy Torbert for $800. This purchase came with 160 acres of land, a barn, some animals and equipment and the Black Horse Tavern, a log cabin stagecoach stop built in 1828. The county bought an additional 120 acres, creating a large area to be used as the county house saw fit. This location was bisected by the Rouge River, Chicago Road (Michigan Avenue) and the Michigan Central railroad, so proved to be a perfect spot.

Second County House

A new two story wooden dormitory building was erected behind the log cabin for the inmates, and the cabin became the keeper’s house. (The word “inmates” was what all persons at the county house were called, it has nothing to do with being a prisoner as we think today) The “Keeper” was an appointed county official, but had no medical or care training, they were just average farmers who were interested in a position. Often their wives, kids and an attendant or two would help care for the inmates.
In April 1839 the first 35 people were transferred from Detroit out to the new County House, but 111 refused to go to the awful wilderness. This area really was the wilderness back then, as Wayne only had about 10 families and was the only “town” nearby. The trip also took nearly a whole day from Detroit via the muddy and unpaved Chicago Road, with many of them being forced to walk if they could.
The idea to move the county house out to Nankin was also a result of the “out of sight out of mind” attitude towards poor, disabled or insane persons at the time. People did not want to see beggars on the streets, so they would be rounded up and sent to the county house. Pushing it far outside the city ensured the citizens would never have to see or deal with these people again. Check in next month for the continuation.

Bridget Kelly receives the key to the City of Wayne by Mayor John Rhaesa. Photo by John MacDonald

By Sarah Shurge – “I’ve lived here for almost 52 years. It’s been like home,” said Bridget Kelly.
Kelly and her husband, Tom Kelly, moved to Wayne in 1972 from New York with their four sons: Tommy, Patrick, Michel, and Kevin. “We wanted to be in a smaller community than the city,” said Kelly. “We had friends here and there was a job opening. Tom did the interview and got the job, so we moved.”
Tom taught at John Glenn High School, Cherry Hill High School, and Wayne Memorial High. He had a passion for the community and was on the city council for years. Tom went on to become a State Representative for six years (the longest term you could serve) and then returned to the city council afterwards.
Kelly worked with the Sparkey Preschool program for a year, and then worked at Roosevelt Mc-Grath Elementary for 10 years. Eventually, Tom opened a travel agency, Wayne Metro Travel, where Kelly worked until she retired in the 90s.
Just like her husband, Kelly also had a passion for the community. For over 50 years, she served as a member of the Wayne Garden Club, the Wayne Rotary, and the Friends of the Wayne Library.
“My favorite part was the people I worked with,” said Kelly. “They were so enthusiastic about the city and always doing something for the city. Everyone loved the city.”
Even though Kelly loves the City of Wayne, the first weekend of August, she will be leaving Wayne and moving out of Michigan.
“My children have been urging me to move closer to them, so I’ll be moving closer to my son, Patrick,” said Kelly.
To say thank you and honor all of the service Kelly and her husband have provided to the City of Wayne, a celebration was held on Tuesday, June 25th, at US12 Bar and Grill.
Long-time residents and friends were present as Wayne Mayor John Rhaesa presented Kelly with a key to the city. “Bridget has been a great asset to the community. She loved being behind the scenes but she made a great impact on the community,” said Mayor Rhaesa.
Kelly had no idea she was going to be presented with a key. “It was a big surprise. I didn’t even know we had one,” said Kelly. “It was very,very nice and made me feel good.” Even though Kelly is leaving Wayne, she hopes this won’t officially be goodbye. “I’m going to miss everybody here, and I hope to come back,” said Kelly. “With all the people I’ve worked with and known, I’m grateful for their friendship and their care.”
We thank Kelly for all the work she’s done for the city and wish her the best with her move!

The Class of 2024, Valedictorians and Salutatorians – front row: Ava Williams, Jamesyn Swierzb, Alyssa Fuller, Samuel Han, back row: Crystal Phan, Kimberly Barron, Jayden Myers, and Elizabeth Thomas. Photo by John Rhaesa

Wayne Memorial High School has three valedictorians and five salutatorians this year. Both categories of achievement are determined strictly by cumulative GPA. Valedictorians have GPAs 4.0 and above. Salutatorians have GPAs between 3.93 and 3.99.

Meet the Class of
2024 Valedictorians:
Kimberly Barron – Plans to attend the University of Michigan- Ann Arbor
Area of study: Nursing
Parent Names:  Maria Barron & Rosalio Barron
Notable High School Accomplishments:  I was honored to be selected for prestigious programs and clubs such as the National Honor Society, Student Senate, and Upward Bound, where I actively contributed to our school community. Additionally, I spent two of my summers conducting research alongside esteemed researchers at the University of Michigan, gaining invaluable experience and insights. At the end of my high school journey, I was nominated and chosen as a legacy student, leaving a positive impact on my school community for future generations to look upon.

Jayden Myers – Plans to study at Eastern Michigan University
Area of study:  Secondary Education in History and Geography
Parent Names:  Christie Myers and Larry Myers
Notable High School Accomplishments:  Although being one of the three valedictorians is a huge accomplishment for me, my biggest accomplishment is how I’ve developed as a person over the last 4 years in high school. Entering high school, I had really bad anxiety, low confidence, and a small number of friends. But overtime, I was able to eliminate my anxiety, raise my confidence, and amass a large friend group as I began to go out of my comfort zone and experiment with my social skills and humor. Being able to change for the better, in my opinion, outweighs any academic accomplishment that I’ve achieved throughout my time in high school.

Crystal Phan – Plans to attend the University of Michigan- Ann Arbor
Area of study:  Biochemistry or Pharmaceutical Sciences at LSA
Parent Names:  Dang Phan & Toan Do
Notable High School Accomplishments:  Valedictorian, 4 year Honor Roll Student, Upward Bound Acceptance, National Honor Society Acceptance, Received a Gold Key from the Scholastic Art & Writing Competition, 2024 Wayne County High School DIA Exhibition Honor, Member of Operation Opportunity cohort (2024), Completed 3 years of Marching Band, Marching Band Letter, 3 year member of Symphony Orchestra, Solo & Ensemble 2nd Division Rating, Received the Wayne Rotary Foundation Scholarship, Westland Rotary Club Scholarship, and the George and Ruth Bell Memorial Scholarship. Student Senate Class Publicity Historian. National History Academy Scholar, WMHS Legacy Award Recipient.

2024 Salutatorians:
Alyssa Fuller – Plans to use next fall to finish the Early College Program then transfer to Oakland University Fall of 2025
Area of study: Elementary Education
Parents Names: Staci Steffani-Fuller and Johnny Fuller
Notable High School Accomplishments: Cheer Captain, Softball Captain, William D Ford Legacy Student, Student Senator

Samuel Han – Plans to attend the University of Michigan- Ann Arbor
Area of study:  Not decided yet, maybe law or business
Parent Names:  Jong In Han & So Youn Lee
Notable High School Accomplishments:  High GPA, highest SAT score in my grade, getting accepted to University of Michigan

Jamesyn Swierzb – Plans to attend the University of Michigan- Ann Arbor
Area of study:  Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, Minor in Spanish
Parent Names:  Tina Swierzb
Notable High School Accomplishments:  Founded and is the first President of the WMHS Book Club, conducted research in a Human Genetics Lab centering around sex chromosomes and male infertility at the University of Michigan, taught English to Ukrainian victims of war through ENGin, conducted Breast Cancer research with Cancer Research UK, topical winner of the National Poetry Scholarship, published works in books, Questbridge Finalist, Centralis Finalist, Executive Board on National Honor Society, performed music at Oakland University through their Honors Orchestra, received the MSBOA, award 2, in both years participated (1 is best), Singles Varsity 2 on the tennis team

Elizabeth Thomas – Plans to attend the Eastern Michigan University
Area of study: Cinema Production
Parent Names:  Kelly Thomas-VonLinsowe, Robert VonLinsowe
Notable High School Accomplishments:  2-year NTHS Member, 3-time academic letter recipient, MSVMA Musical Theatre Competition – Division II, Michigan SkillsUSA 2023 – Placed 8th for Digital Cinema, Scholastic Art and Writing Awards – Regional Silver Key
DAFT Film Festival – Honor, DAFT Film Festival – Excellent, and National Technical Honor Society Member

Ava Williams – Plans to attend the University of Michigan- Ann Arbor
Area of study:  Biology
Parent Names:  Jamie Fielhauer
Notable High School Accomplishments:  Class President (2020-2022), Executive Board Vice President (2022-2023), Executive Board President (2023-Current), National Honor Society President, Rotary Interact President 2024, Varsity Soccer, Legacy Award Recipient

Students, faculty, administration, and city leaders at the Wall of Honor dedication. Photo by Jenny Johnson

By Sarah Shurge – On Friday, May 31st, Wayne Memorial High School had a dedication to their new Wall of Honor. Gwen Fretenborough, Wayne Memorial High School teacher, spoke at the dedication.
Fretenborough explained that during the summer of 2023, she attended the Friends of the World War II Memorial. It was a week-long seminar where they learned more about World War II and how to teach it. When they left, they were to come back to their school and do a service learning project with the students.
The Wall of Honor is that project. The student dedications begin with the history of Wayne Memorial.
The first Wayne High School opened in April 1925 on Michigan Ave and Williams Street. As World War II rolled through the 40s, many students held dances, played sports, and joined clubs to keep their spirits up and have fun as their friends and families fought in the war.
In the 1950s, the new high school was built, and during the 60s and 70s, Wayne Memorial saw its fair share of protests and movements, along with pep rallies every Friday.
The second dedication goes to the Flying Zebra Class of 1945. The Class of 1945 raised over $30,000 in a subscription drive. $5,000 was given to various charities, including the Red Cross and the Polio fund. However, the students spent the remaining $25,000 on buying a new airplane. “The Flying Zebra” was flown into Willow Run Airport by a woman pilot. The entire senior class went to see the plane. Then the plane was donated to the war effort to be used as an air ambulance, flying wounded from the front to military hospitals for treatment.
The next dedication goes to honoring the 50. The new Wayne High School began construction in 1950. It cost $2 million and originally had 41 classrooms. The “Memorial” in Wayne Memorial was added in 1953 to commemorate the 50 servicemen who lost their lives in World War II. (You can find the names of these men and more information about them on the screens in the Wall of Honor display).
The next dedication goes to showcase items. The Wayne Historical Society donated items (on loan) from the museum such as: a vinyl record from the Wayne Memorial Concert Choirs of 1962 and 1972. The Spectator Yearbook from 1940 and 1942. Student ID cards and handbooks from 1950 (the first class to walk the halls). A special original edition of the Wayne Hi-Lite from 1954. These donated artifacts from former students highlight the Zebra Pride and lifestyle from Wayne High’s 150 plus year history.
The last dedication goes to the presentation of poppies. The red poppy is a symbol of remembrance and hope for a peaceful future. Poppies are worn to show support for the Armed Forces community. The poppy is a well-known and well-established symbol, one that carries a wealth of history and meaning with it.
Fretenborough wanted to thank those that helped make the dedication happen: Wayne Westland Community Schools Print Shop and Communications Department for their support, the Class of 1972 for their donations, Wayne Historical Society, and Adrienne Nathan for her dedication. dedicates