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.”

By Sarah Shurge – If you’re looking for family-friendly activities to enjoy for the Halloween season, the City of Wayne has got you covered with events all throughout the month of October.

On Saturday, October 4th, at 12:30 p.m., the Wayne Public Library will host a costume mask painting. The event is for all ages. There will be a variety of art supplies and blank masks to choose from, so everyone can make their own unique creation. The Wayne Public Library is located at 3737 S Wayne Rd.
“Unmask your creativity and create a spooky, silly, or stylish mask to take home and enjoy,” said Jody Wolak, Wayne Public Library director.

On Monday, October 13th, from 5 – 7 p.m., Corewell Health Wayne Hospital will host Trunk or Treat. The event will have music, donuts, and hot chocolate. Corewell Health Wayne Hospital is located at 33155 Annapolis St.
“It’s a safe, family-friendly event where kids can enjoy Halloween festivities while our hospital team shares in the celebration and strengthens local relationships,” said Keyla LaVeque, Corewell Health Administrative Assistant.

On Saturday, October 18th, from 12 – 6 p.m., Moonlit Mystic will host its fourth annual Witches be Witchin’. The event will have over 50 artisan vendors and artists, oddities and curiosities, tarot readings, food trucks, live music, and giveaways. There will be a costume contest with prizes. Categories include: Best Witch Hat, Best Overall Costume, and Best Children’s Costume. Moonlit Mystic is located at 3019 S Wayne Rd. The event will be held in the back parking lots.
“While you’re here, be sure to step inside Moonlit Mystic. We’d love for you to explore our shop and discover even more magical wonders,” said Tiffany Walker, Moonlit Mystic owner.

On Saturday, October 18th, from 2:30 – 4 p.m., Wayne Westland Federal Credit Union will host Trunk or Treat. The event will have trunks full of candy, costumes, and more. Wayne Westland Federal Credit Union (WWFCU) is located at 500 S Wayne Rd.

On Sunday, October 19th, from 4 – 6:30 p.m., Books on the Ave and Karma Coffee and Kitchen will host their fifth annual Trunk or Treat Spooktacular. The event will have an artist market, hot chocolate, and food items for sale. There will be a trunk contest. If you’re interested in donating candy or want to show off your trunk, call (734)589-0304. Karma Coffee and Kitchen is located at 35634 Michigan Ave. The event will be held behind Karma Coffee.
“It’s a fun and free family event for the community,” said Jennifer Romero, Karma Coffee & Kitchen owner.

On Sunday, October 19th, at 2 p.m., Flowers in the Mitten will host a wood painting class. The wood painting class is $30 per person. You can choose to paint a pilgrim family or Indian family (each family has three figures to paint). Complimentary drinks and finger food will be provided during the class. Flowers in the Mitten is located at 34852 Michigan Ave.
“The class is a time to get together with friends or meet new friends for a fun night out. No craft experience required, just an afternoon of fun and laughter,” said Rachel Botu, Flowers in the Mitten owner.

On Thursday, October 23rd, from 5 – 7 p.m., Jack Demmer Ford is having a Trunk or Treat. Jack Demmer Ford is located at 37300 Michigan Ave.

On Saturday, October 25th, from 12 – 3 p.m., First Congregational Church will host Trunk of Treat. The event will have candy, desserts, games, and costume contests. First Congregational Church is located at 2 Towne Square. The event will be held in the church parking lot.
“If you’re looking for a fun, family event that everyone is welcome to be a part of, this is a great spot to stop by,” said Bob Cooper, lead minister at First Congregational Church of Wayne.

On Wednesday, October 29th, HYPE Athletics will host HYPE-Up for Halloween Trunk or Treat. Those with disabilities can attend from 6 – 6:30 p.m., general public from 6:30 – 8 p.m. The event will have costumes and candy. Cider and donuts will be served (first come first serve, while supplies last). If you’re interested in passing out candy or want to show off your spooky trunk, call (734)721-7400. HYPE Athletics is located at 4635 Howe Rd.
“HYPE’s Trunk or Treat is one of the most meaningful events we host every year,” said Rabih Darwiche, HYPE General Manager. “It’s more than just Halloween fun, it’s a chance for our small community to unite, to give back, and most importantly, to put smiles on the faces of our children.”

On Friday, October 31st, from 6:30 – 8 p.m., Hill Crest Bible Church will host Trunk or Treat. The event will have lots of candy and prizes. Hill Crest Bible Church is located at 3 Towne Square St. Please enter using the west doors located across from the Post Office.
“Join us for our family friendly trunk or treat. We hope to see you here,” said Seth McDonald, lead pastor at Hill Crest Bible Church.

The Wayne Public Library is also hosting several other spooky events this month, such as: Wine Cork Pumpkins (adult program, bring your own corks if possible) on Tuesday, October 21st, Candy Coffins (teen event, grades 6-12) on Thursday, October 23rd, and Halloween Storytime (for children 3-5 years old) on Wednesday, October 29th.
For more information regarding these events, you can visit Wayne.lib.mi.us/events. “We’ve got a variety of fun, free events planned for all different age groups this October. These programs are a great way to express your creativity, get ready for fall, and connect with your community,” said Wolak.
The Wayne Downtown Development Authority (DDA) partnered with Flowers in the Mitten for the third Annual Scarecrow Fest, which happened on Saturday, September 20th. “This year’s Scarecrow Fest was everything we could have hoped for. The sun was shining and we had perfect weather, families enjoyed delicious treats from seven food trucks, explored over 30 vendors, and experienced fun attractions all day long,” said Lisa Kubany, DDA Director of Events and Marketing.
The scarecrows will remain on display during the entire month of October for the public to enjoy. “With the scarecrows now safely showcased in the Town Square throughout October, everyone has the chance to enjoy these amazing designs all month long,” said Kubany.
This is just a sampling of all the events happening in town. So whether you want to see some scarecrows, get creative with crafts, or go trunk-or-treating, the City of Wayne has an event for everyone to enjoy!

Leo’s started back in 1941 as the brainchild of Leo and Dorothy Zuckerman, a husband and wife team that opened “Wayne Toy and Furniture” somewhere in the area of Michigan at Laura. Leo seems to have been from New York, and he worked as a “Novelty Maker” in New Boston before coming to Wayne.
By 1950 they would move the shop to an old house on Michigan Avenue. This house itself was significant as it was built by town founder Ezra Derby in 1832 and was the oldest house in Wayne. The shop at the time mostly sold small children’s toys, bicycles and things of that sort.

In 1947 Mr. Zuckerman was listed in the phone book as a bicycle repairman. In 1956 Michigan Avenue was being widened and the old house stuck out too far into the sidewalk, so it was torn down. The Zuckermans moved a few doors down to 34904 Michigan and changed their name to “Leo’s Gift Center”. They largely sold cards, small knick-knack gifts, and costume jewelry, but for the first time were labeled as a jewelry store and not a toy store. Sons David and Larry would take over the business with their mother after Leo’s passing in the late 1950s, and would see the store switching largely to jewelry.
The store was expanded in 1970 and in 1975 after buying up neighboring storefronts and combining them. They would even have a secondary location in Metro Mall for a time. Leo’s added a bridal shop area, greeting cards and collectibles in the 70s, while changing the name again to “Leo’s Jewelry and Gifts”. Dorothy would retire in 1981, and the business would celebrate 40 years that year. Leo’s continued to grow and prosper and today is largely a fine jewelry and watch store celebrating 80 years in business.

Brothers Scott Gocaj and John Goci were recently honored by the Rotary Club of Wayne with the prestigious Paul Harris Award, recognizing their years of dedication and service to the community. The award, named after Rotary founder Paul Harris, is one of the highest honors given by Rotary International and is presented to individuals who exemplify the organization’s guiding principle — “Service Above Self.”The presentation took place at Mike and Mona’s – US 12 Bar and Grill in Wayne, where family, friends, and fellow Rotarians gathered to celebrate the brothers’ outstanding contributions.For many years, both Scott and John have been active supporters of local causes, community events, and charitable initiatives throughout the City of Wayne and surrounding areas. Their commitment to giving back has made a lasting impact, reflecting the true spirit of volunteerism and civic pride.

The downtown Wayne parking str

ucture has been completely demolished after standing for more than 50 years. Demolition crews have now finished taking down the aging structure and are moving into the cleanup and site restoration phase. The project is expected to be fully completed by mid-November 2025. City officials said the removal marks the start of future redevelopment plans aimed at revitalizing the downtown area and improving public spaces for residents and visitors.

Welcome back to another Spotlight Series with Sarah!
The series where the writer gets to know the city more personally, while the readers get to know the writer better in the process.
As I’ve mentioned before, I am a dog mom. I have a great dane and my boyfriend has two pit bulls, so keeping our dogs active is an important part of my routine.
I used to walk my dog daily in my neighborhood, but unfortunately, we have been charged by off-leash dogs one too many times for my comfort. Now I only walk our dogs at parks where leashes are required.
On Friday, August 1st, I drove to a park to walk our dogs like I typically do on the weekend. I parked my car, walked the dogs around the walking trail, and returned to my car only to see that someone had hit my car and left the scene.
No one was waiting for me to return to my car. No one left a note. They just drove off like it never happened.
I had never been involved in an accident before, let alone a hit and run, so needless to say I started to panic.

After taking a photo of the damage, making a few panicked phone calls to my boyfriend, mom, and brother about what to do, and dropping the dogs off at the house, I returned to the park and started asking around if anyone had noticed the car that hit mine.
Unfortunately, no one had witnessed the accident but someone had mentioned the park security cameras might have caught the incident. So I called the police, filed a police report, and then filed a claim with my insurance the following morning.
While completing my claim, I had to select a repair shop to schedule an inspection for my car, so I picked Gerber Collision & Glass.
My inspection was scheduled for Monday, August 4th.
Again as I mentioned, I’ve never been through this before so I had no idea what I was doing or what to expect. So Monday morning, I called Gerber to ask a few questions regarding my inspection later that day.
I spoke to Josh Pugh, and he was incredibly helpful with answering my questions and made me feel more prepared about what to expect.
When I showed up to Gerber Collision & Glass for my inspection, Pugh took photos of my car and answered all of the questions I continued to have. I scheduled my repair appointment with the receptionist, Destinee Clark. And I was in and out within 15 minutes.
Monday, August 18th, was my scheduled drop-off day for my repairs.
When I got to Gerber, I checked in with Clark, signed some papers, and then met Pugh outside as he was carefully inspecting my car. He pointed out any concerns he saw on my car (any blemishes, minor scratches, dents, etc), I signed more paperwork, and handed over my car keys.
Pugh told me that I would be updated regarding my car’s progress, we said goodbye, and I was in and out within 10 minutes.
On Friday, August 22nd, I received a text from Gerber with an estimated completion date of 08/27 for my car.
On Monday, August 25th, I received another text update from Gerber that they were over the halfway mark and my car was still on target for the August 27th estimated completion date.

The next day, on Tuesday, August 26th, I received another text update that they were nearing completion, and if they encountered any delays, they would call me.
On Wednesday, August 27th (my estimated completion date), I received a text from Gerber in the morning that my car was fixed and ready to come home, and that I would receive a phone call soon. Almost immediately, I received a phone call from Gerber informing me that my car was ready.
Once I got off work, I headed back to Gerber to pick up my car. My car was waiting outside when I arrived and was looking good as new.
I had to sign paperwork for the shop’s records, I received a little booklet with copies of my own paperwork, and Clark gave me my keys back. I was back in my car within five minutes.
For this being my first experience ever needing car repairs, I was extremely impressed with how quickly and smoothly Gerber made the process for their customers.
The entire process took less than a month to complete (my car was hit on the 1st and fixed by the 27th) and I was updated every step of the way.
I cannot thank Gerber enough for getting my car back to normal and their great service.
Gerber Collision & Glass has been in Wayne for at least 20 years, however, there are 77 Gerber locations in Michigan.
“We’re a larger corporate business that’s run more like a mom-and-pop shop,” said Amanda Stamper, Gerber Collision & Glass manager. “We’re more down to earth and everything we do is customer based.”
Gerber is a full-service auto body shop with services including: collision repair, auto body repair, dent / scratch repair / removal, frame straightening, auto paint repair, paintless dent repair (PDR), bumper repair, and more.
Gerber Collision & Glass’ most popular service is direct repair with all major insurances.
“Every repair is different. Our goal is to get the vehicle in with a technician within 24-48 hours of drop-off. We don’t want anything sitting in the parking lot waiting because that adds days to the repair,” said Stamper.
All Gerber technicians are OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) certified. “We have amazing techs here. Everything they do is spot on,” said Stamper.
Stamper has worked at Gerber for seven years, at the Wayne location for one year.
“My favorite part is how satisfying it is when customers get their cars back in great condition,” said Stamper. “People depend on their vehicles more than homes honestly, it gets them everywhere. It’s about making them feel comfortable. Seeing them shift from nervous to being happy, and helping them go back to normal life.”
Gerber offers same day express drop-offs. “This is for people that don’t have time or just want to leave it and be done. We’re trying to accommodate people. Life is hectic, we get it,” said Stamper.
Gerber Collision & Glass is located at 38970 Michigan Ave, and is open 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday – Friday.
For more information about Gerber Collision & Glass, visit gerbercollision.com/locations/wayne-mi or call (734) 326-8400.
Be sure to check out Gerber Collision & Glass, and be on the lookout for the next Spotlight Series with Sarah!

By Sarah Shurge – On Tuesday, August 19th, at the City of Wayne’s Council meeting, Officer Herrera and Officer Kanan were awarded a life-saving award.
A life-saving award is awarded to a law enforcement officer whose conduct results in saving the life of another person.
“I am grateful for the heroic actions of Officers Herrera and Kanan,” said Wayne Police Chief Ryan Strong. “Their training, quick thinking, and actions saved two lives.”
On June 16th, 2024, Officer Herrera was dispatched to a home on Winifred Street at 4:30 a.m. for a baby choking. Upon arrival, Officer Herrera observed the child (less than one year old) to be not breathing.
Officer Herrera is trained in first aid and CPR through the American Red Cross, so she lowered the child face down, gave her some blows to the back, and the child began breathing again.
“She literally saved this very young Wayne resident’s life as part of her duties,” said Chief Strong.
Officer Herrera has been with the Wayne Police Department for three years in November. Being a police officer was the first thing Officer Herrera wanted to be as a little kid.
“One of my favorite things about my job is saying hi to kids and how kids are super excited to see us,” said Officer Herrera. “I also like when people vent to us — like in a domestic violence situation. A lot of people don’t have anyone to talk to, so just letting them talk.”
Officer Herrera was a bit shocked when she was awarded the life-saving award. “We do stuff every day. To me, it’s just part of the job. But it felt really nice. Mostly I was happy to see that baby,” said Officer Herrera.
Both families that received life-saving support were present at the council meeting. “It was so awesome to see Officers Herrera and Kanan reunited with the two people they saved and their families at the city council meeting,” said Chief Strong.
On September 18th, 2024, Officer Kanan was dispatched to Edmund Street for an unconscious woman with no pulse.
Upon arrival, Officer Kanan began doing CPR on the woman. Officer Kanan is also trained in first aid and CPR.

After administering CPR, the woman began breathing again. She was later transported to the hospital where they learned that she had gone into cardiac arrest.
After the incident, Officer Kanan called her to check and see how she was doing. He was informed that she was put on a pacemaker and the doctors don’t know what caused her to go into cardiac arrest since she is young and healthy.
“I can confidently say law enforcement is the best job in the world. You can come into work one day and save a life, as Officer Kanan did,” said Chief Strong.
Officer Kanan has been with the Wayne Police Department for two years and four months. He also wanted to be a police officer since he was a kid.
“My favorite part is being there for people during their most critical times in need — this was one of those situations. Being there for the kids is one of the cool parts of my job. Making people’s day, especially if they’re having a rough day. Making a difference,” said Officer Kanan.
Being awarded the life-saving award was a rewarding feeling for Officer Kanan. “I was glad all my training actually went into effect. You do mock practices, so then anxieties kick in when you realize this is the real deal. My instincts kicked in and it was a real rewarding situation,” said Officer Kanan.
Congratulations to Officer Herrera and Officer Kanan for their well-deserved recognition!
“Too often we only hear about negative actions of police officers. The actions of these two officers are emblematic of what police officers do every day,” said Chief Strong.
For more information about the Wayne Police Department, visit cityofwayne.com/159/Police or you can find them on Facebook by searching “City of Wayne, Michigan Police Department.”

Phil Marnon was a man of the people. And people knew, if they needed anything, they could rely on Phil to help them.

“Can I get you anything?”

“What do you need?”

“What can I do?”

Philip Eugene Marnon passed away on September 1, 2025.  Phil was born in Detroit, MI on March 8, 1942, the 6^th out of 10 children to John and Margaret Marnon. Few knew that he had been born prematurely and had suffered from lung problems his entire life. It was advanced COPD complications that ultimately cut his life short.

Speaking of short, he earned the nickname “Pee Wee” early in his career at Hazel Park Racetrack where he went to work at age 16. He eventually worked in the stables for Marion Van Berg, one of the nation’s leading thoroughbred horse trainers and owners at the time.  Phil was an exercise boy who raced horses around in the morning and a hot walker who walked horses after the races to help them cool down. He was recognized as the top exercise boy in the country receiving a horseshoe-shaped pin as an award. Phil (the name means “lover of horses”) told many stories about his time on the racetrack, including the time Mrs. Van Berg found out Phil had a brand-new baby sister, Donna, gave him some money and made him go to the store and get her a little dress. Even though he eventually returned to life in Detroit after 5 years on the racetrack, he never lost his love of horses, visiting many more racetracks throughout the country.

In December 1963, Phil married his childhood sweetheart, Alicia “Liz” Barton, who lived in the neighborhood. When he got drafted into the Vietnam War, they made plans to marry 2 weeks later. Fortunately, he did not pass the physical due to his lung/asthma issues and was sent home. He and Liz eventually bought a home in Wayne, MI to raise their family  and it is where they have lived for the past 58 years.

Phil spent 24 years driving semi-trucks in the local Detroit area, always home at night for his wife and growing family.

Phil finished his working career in 2004 when he retired from L&W Engineering in Romulus, MI.  His entire family, including children and grandchildren were at the company on his last day when the owners presented him with a 3-wheel bike, one of his favorite possessions in retirement.

Retired or not, Phil could never stay still.  He always had to be moving or busy. He took daily jaunts out on his new bicycle, often disappearing for hours at a time. It seemed like everyone in the neighborhood knew Phil, either for his talkative nature or just because they saw him on his bike. He would pick up cans to recycle, stop at 7-Eleven on Annapolis in Wayne to visit Mary and the other employees and buy his daily lottery tickets. He enjoyed playing the lottery and often received scratch-off lottery tickets for his birthday and at Christmas. His daughter said he always ran into somebody he knew wherever he went. And if he didn’t know someone, that was okay; he would talk to them anyway. He always had stories to tell to whoever would stop to listen.

Phil is survived by his wife, Alicia “Liz” Marnon, his daughter, Jacqueline “Jackie” Jones of Wayne, MI, and his sons Philip “Scott” (Stefani) of Juneau, AK and Robert “Bobby” (Carolyn) of Westland, MI. He is also survived by his grandchildren-John Marnon, Alicia (Marnon) Bauer (Ricky), Ross Jones (Jordan), Sara Jones, Jake Marnon, Sam Marnon and by his great-grandchildren, Landon, Riley, Brodie and Luna. He is also survived by 3 sisters-Gail, Rosemary and Donna and his brother, Eddie and multiple nieces and nephews.

Per his final wishes, Phil has been cremated and will have his ashes spread near a little church he loved visiting outside of Juneau, AK. There will be a Celebration of Life, but a date has not yet been determined.

By Sarah Shurge – Since 1989, National Recovery Month has been observed every September.
This is a national observance to celebrate the gains made by those in recovery from substance use disorder, to promote the belief that recovery is possible for everyone, and to support new evidence-based treatment and recovery practices for mental and substance use disorders.
Addiction is a disease that doesn’t discriminate – it can happen to anyone, and anyone could be going through recovery.
Councilman Rabih Darwiche is no stranger to sharing his recovery story. Darwiche’s story began at the age of 19 when he suffered a knee injury in basketball. He tore his ACL and MCL and was prescribed opioids.
Darwiche became addicted to Vicodin, without even being aware of his addiction. After a year, Darwiche found out what withdrawals were when his doctor took him off his medication and he became ill. He thought he had the flu and went back to the doctor. The doctor informed Darwiche that he was experiencing withdrawals.
Darwiche’s family wanted him to get help, but he was prescribed suboxone (which was used to help treat opioid addiction) by his doctor. He became addicted to that for another two years and once he stopped that, he started going to the streets.
Throughout his 20s, Darwiche swapped out one drug for others, using marijuana and alcohol to cope.
“If it had a name, I did it,” said Darwiche. “I wasn’t progressing in life. I was going from one job to the other. Every time I’d achieve anything, I’d lose it by relapsing.”
Then in 2009, Darwiche had a bungee cord accident. The cord snapped and the hook went into his right eye. Darwiche underwent surgery for retinal detachment, resulting in him being half blind now with visual disturbance in his right eye. “That put me down for a couple of years and I relapsed after that,” said Darwiche.
Darwiche would be sober for a good six months and then relapse. “You know the saying: one is too many and a thousand isn’t enough,” said Darwiche.
Over a six-year period, Darwiche went to rehab around 20 times. He would go to detox and walk out.
There are many reasons Darwiche left, including: he wasn’t ready, he wasn’t comfortable in his own skin, he was going through a heart break, he got into a fight with someone there, etc.
Then on May 3rd, 2016, Darwiche went to rehab for the last time. His last time and very first time attending rehab were the only two times he graduated.
Darwiche almost had liver and kidney failure and he had 16 charges against him, including: possession, DUI, suspended license, and he was facing up to nine years in prison.
“I never got caught doing anything until I was 30,” said Darwiche. “I went into rehab hopeless and spiritually bankrupt.”
Darwiche met a few people in drug treatment at Oakdale Recovery Center in Canton and heard about Save By Grace at CrossPointe Community Church.
The first turning point in Darwiche’s recovery happened when he returned home and everything in his room had been changed. He stared at the cigarette burns that remained on the floor and the hair on the back of his neck stood up.
At 33 years old, Darwiche was the youngest of seven children (four sisters and two brothers) and he was the only one living with their parents. He walked into the living room and looked at his parents – his father had Alzheimer’s and dementia, while his mother had diabetes – and he said, “three sick people can’t help each other,” and walked out.
“I realized if I stayed home, I would die,” said Darwiche.
The second turning point happened a day later when Darwiche was at a three-quarter house. There was a bad thunderstorm, the power went out, it was 95 degrees with no AC, there were bed bugs, 14 guys in the living room, and it smelled like feet.

“I chose to stay because I thought: one night of this is better than suffering with active addiction,” said Darwiche. “That was freedom to me.”
Darwiche went to Save By Grace, started volunteering at CrossPointe, and got a few jobs.
The pastor at CrossPointe asked Lori Gouin, the DDA director, about job opportunities and she said she knew a guy at HYPE about a maintenance job.
Darwiche filled out an application and went in for an interview where he met Ali Sayed, founder and CEO of HYPE Athletics. During the interview, he mentioned substance abuse and was talking about what HYPE stood for (Helping Youth Progress and Excel). Darwiche stated that if the job got in the way of his recovery, he’d quit.
Sayed suggested bringing meetings to HYPE and Darwiche was hired on the maintenance team about nine years ago.
“What inspired me to stay at the nonprofit and HYPE working maintenance was that as I was cleaning toilets, I thought: you’ve never stayed consistent. For the first time in my life – at 33 years old – I’m gonna gain consistency,” said Darwiche.
Darwiche took care of his father during his final three years before passing.
“I was disgusted changing his depends, but cleaning bathrooms no longer made me disgusted. It changed me. I was grateful,” said Darwiche.
In active addiction Darwiche was mean to his mother. While working maintenance, Darwiche remembered how she took care of seven kids and cleaned the bathroom every day, and he gained a new respect for his mother for cleaning the bathroom every single day.
This inspired him to become even better at maintenance.
“I decided I’ll become the greatest toilet scrubber,” said Darwiche.
Darwiche gained a lot of compliments for cleanliness at HYPE. He started gaining values and climbing chains.
“I gained a purpose and changed my perspective. I got that from people that inspired me in recovery and volunteering in things in the community,” said Darwiche.
Darwiche has been sober for nine years and was promoted to general manager at HYPE in 2022.
“Recovery isn’t the end, it’s just the beginning. It takes courage to get in sobriety, and discipline to stay there. When cravings come, remember how far you’ve come. Change is real,” said Darwiche. “My first day walking into rehab I couldn’t comprehend staying sober more than one day. Now I can’t comprehend the idea of using. It’s so far distant to me.”
Darwiche oversees all the departments and programs at HYPE, and he is currently serving in the following organizations: Wayne City Council 2024, City of Wayne Planning Commission since 2022, Board of Directors at Wayne Rotary since 2023, Wayne Westland Health & Welfare Advisory Board 2024, Outreach Director for Safe Wellness Center,
Kiwanis of Wayne-Westland Board member 2024, and Board of Directors at FAN Northwest Wayne County since 2023.
FAN (Face Addiction Now) formerly known as “Families Against Narcotics” has the mission to provide education, resources, and support to families and individuals impacted by addiction. The Northwest Wayne County FAN chapter was launched in March 2017.
FAN seeks to change the face of addiction and end the stigma of addiction, while educating the community, as well as those affected by addiction by creating positive change in the treatment of addiction.
“Recovery is hard. Addiction is even harder. Support can make the difference between giving up and pushing though,” said Darwiche. “National Recovery Month is important because it brings awareness to let people know that nobody is alone.”
If you are struggling with addiction or going through recovery, you aren’t alone, and help is out there.
The first Monday of every month from 6 – 8 p.m. at HYPE (4635 Howe Rd), FAN puts on forums to spread information and offer a network of support to those affected by addiction. Experts and guest speakers speak on all aspects of addiction to help the families.
For more information about FAN, visit faceaddictionnow.org/support-/northwest.
For more information about HYPE Athletics, visit hypeathletics-.org.
The Recovery Action Network of Michigan (RANMI) launched its very first Recovery Community Center in the heart of downtown Wayne. The Recovery Community Center will serve as a welcoming and safe environment for people in recovery and offers a variety of free resources and peer-driven support services.
Recovery Action Network of Michigan is located at 35112 W. Michigan Ave. For more information about Recovery Action Network of Michigan, visit ran-mi.org, email info@ranmi.org, or call (248)938-2134. To receive services, call or email.
If you need help with your recovery or addiction, do not hesitate to reach out. “You don’t have to do it alone. Reach out. Ask for help. You’re stronger than you think and your life is worth fighting for,” said Darwiche.
Congratulations to Councilman Darwiche on nine years of sobriety!

We recently received a large donation of Stein family memorabilia at the museum, and some of the stories associated with the family are very interesting. Howard Stein Sr. (1901-1991) grew up on his family farm in Canton at Michigan and Haggerty. He began growing vegetables in his father’s greenhouse and eventually started growing flowers too.
Around 1922 he began what became known as Stein’s flower shop. When the new theater building was built in Wayne in 1927 Stein opened a shop in Wayne just two shops down from the ticket booth.

Harold married Irene Quackenbush in 1923 and they would have three children, Audrey, Howard Jr. and Peter. Stein’s flower shop would become a Wayne staple through the 1950s. Mr. Stein was a founding member of the Wayne Kiwanis club, and a founder of Wayne Bank.
Howard Jr., known informally as “Bud” would graduate from Wayne High School in 1943 and immediately joined the Army Air Corps for WW2. After training in Miami, he was stationed as a B-29 bomber radar operator on the island of Tinian in the pacific theater. While on a bombing raid over Japan his plane was hit by flak and going down. The pilots radioed a nearby submarine and got as close to it as possible before bailing out and letting the plane crash in the sea. Bud was one of only 3 survivors of the 11-man crew of that plane.
The submarine USS Toro picked them up out of the sea and the men had to live on the sub for a month before it came back to Tinian. At the end of the war Bud went to Michigan State for a degree in Horticulture so he could take over the family business. While there he met Phyllis and they married, and they would have three sons.
In 1954 the Wayne flower shop was closed and all operations moved back to the family farm in Canton which had been expanded and rebuilt. At the time flowers for arrangements accounted for 80% of sales, and the Steins grew most of what they needed on-site, with a few imports from Florida and California. Centerpieces, corsages, wedding, funeral and Church flowers were their bread-and-butter sellers. The shop and greenhouses employed 18 people and covered 40,000 square feet.
Outside of flowers Bud was involved with the Chamber of Commerce, Jaycees and in the Wayne Rotary Club for many years. In 1984 after running the family business for 35 years Bud sold Stein’s Flowers to Keller Florist Inc. and it became Keller & Stein Florist, which still exists but not at the Michigan Avenue property.
Bud and Phyllis would travel extensively in retirement, including back to Tinian to revisit his WW2 sites. Bud also created a unique mock Indian village behind his home in Canton and was active in an old-timer’s investment group and coffee klatch. He was also one of the founding donors of the WW2 memorial in Washington DC. Howard “Bud” Stein Jr. died in 2004 after a heart attack. His wife Phyllis passed away just last year. Many in Wayne remember a trip to Stein’s Flowers or likely received an arrangement from them.
Wayne still has a florist if you’re in the market, Flowers in the Mitten at the Makers Market, 34852 Michigan Ave.

Residents with old court fines hanging over their heads will soon have a chance to clear the slate at a reduced cost. The 29th District Court has announced a special Amnesty Program that will run from September 2 through September 30, 2025.The program is designed to help people resolve unpaid tickets or fines by waiving added penalties such as default fees, late fees, and warrant fees. Participants will only need to pay the original fine, plus a $45 clearance fee that cannot be waived. Warrants tied to those cases will also be lifted once the balance is paid.
Court officials say the initiative is not only a benefit to residents but also a practical step to reduce the court’s backlog of cases.
“This is truly a win-win,” officials explained. “People get the chance to take care of old fines at a much lower cost, and the court is able to close cases without expensive enforcement or collection efforts.”The program is open to anyone with a past-due payable violation, but eligibility must be confirmed by contacting the court. After the September deadline, the court says it will return to aggressive enforcement, which could mean reinstated fees and other collection actions.
Payments can be made in person with cash, credit card (a 4% service fee applies), certified check, or money order. Personal checks will not be accepted.Residents interested in taking advantage of the program should contact the 29th District Court at (734) 722-5220 or visit www.cityofwayne.com/200/29th-District-Court