News Briefs – September 2020

Congratulations to Tyler Xuereb, winner of the 2020 Wayne Police Department Scholarship. Tyler recently graduated from Wayne Memorial High School and will be pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice from Michigan State University. The Wayne Police Department Scholarship was started by Carolyn Strutz, widow of beloved police department maintenance man, Sam Strutz. The scholarship is designated for Wayne Memorial High School students pursuing higher education in the criminal justice field. The scholarship is entirely funded by donations. Tyler received $1,000 toward his studies at Michigan State University.

The former BJ’s Kitchen on Wayne Rd has a new owner and is undergoing renovations. We will keep you updated as more information becomes available.

The Westland Planning Commission recently approved the plan to split the 16-acre Eloise property into five separate parcels. The redeveloped property could include a hotel and event space.

Congratulations to Lt. Andrew McKay who retired from the Wayne Police Department after 23 years of service. Lt. McKay has served Wayne as Police Lieutenant, Firearms Instructor, Taser Instructor, Evidence Technician, Accreditation Manager, and many other duties. Lt. McKay is well known for his commitment to service, his family, and his fellow officers. Prior to serving at the Wayne Police Department, Lt. McKay worked at the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department, and served in the United States Marine Corps.

Grewal Trucking was given approval by the Wayne City Council to utilize vacant land along Annapolis as a truck terminal. The company is planning to pave the vacant land to use for truck parking. They also plan to build a 400 sq. ft. building on the site. Some time in the future, a 6400 sq. ft building will also be constructed.

Gleaners Community Food Bank is holding free food distributions at Maplewood Community Center, 31735 Maplewood St, Garden City. The next date is September 16 from 2:30-4:30 p.m. Families and individuals in need of food are encouraged to attend this drive-up distribution which includes 30 pounds of groceries. Items could include milk, fresh fruits, vegetables, lean protein and other shelf-stable items. You will stay in your vehicle; groceries will be placed in your trunk. No appointment is needed. You do not need proof of eligibility or identification to receive food.

You’re invited to help clean and straighten Shafer Park in Wayne, Michigan on Saturday, September 12, 9:00 a.m. until noon. There will be light weed pulling, raking and picking up of trash. It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors here in Wayne and spend time with neighbors and friends! Long-sleeved shirts, long pants and gloves are recommended. If you have rakes, brooms and other light gardening tools please bring them along.

Peter Pumpkinhead’s Workshop is heading to Notre Dame Hall in Wayne on October 3, 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Free for kids of all ages, there will be fall and Halloween crafts to make. There will also be candy. The Notre Dame Hall, 3144 S. Wayne Rd will also be offering $3 Meal Deals!

The Wayne Historical Society has announced a number of programs coming up later this year. Add these to your calendar now and watch this column for further information.

Sept. 10, 7:00 p.m.
NorWayne-A Planned Community
Hank Johnson of the Norwayne Citizens Commission will be the guest speaker presenting the history of Norwayne.

Oct. 4, 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Annual Cemetery Walk
This year’s cemetery walk will be at Westlawn Cemetery and will highlight several local families and figures. The event is 1:00-3:00 p.m. This is an outdoor walking tour, so please dress appropriately. Donations will be gratefully accepted.

Oct. 8, 7:00 p.m.
The History of Eloise
Tyler Moll will present the history of this infamous hospital, poorhouse and asylum at 7:00 p.m. at the Wayne Public Library.

Oct. 17, 4:00 p.m.
Witches Brew Tea
A haunted tea party at the Wayne Historical Museum will feature several Wayne characters in a spooky setting. Event is at 4:00 p.m. Tickets are $35 may be purchased ahead of time.

Oct. 24, 8:00-11:34 p.m.
Ghost Hunt at the Museum
Join the Great Lakes Ghost Hunters as they hunt for paranormal activity in the 140-year-old Wayne Historical Museum. A one-hour spot is $25.

Nov. 12, 7:00 p.m.
Blacksmithing: Bert Green Story
Learn about Bert Green and what life was like as one of Wayne’s last blacksmiths. You will also learn how the company continues today.

Dec. 5, 6:00-9:00 p.m.
Holiday Night at the Museum
Come out and see Santa, get cookies and hot chocolate, and join in the Christmas cheer as the town Christmas tree is lit.