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 – Save the date! You’re invited to a National Day of Prayer gathering on Thursday, May 7th, at 7 p.m. The event is hosted by New Life Metro Detroit (39390 Michigan Ave.) in Wayne.
Local churches from across the community are coming together in unity to pray over the city, its schools, educators, first responders, families, and leaders.
“This is an exciting event. Please join us as we pray for everyone,” said Pastor David Huguley of Bethlehem Temple of Praise.
Mayor John Rhaesa also encouraged residents and faith leaders to take part in the gathering. “Events like this show the strength of our community when we come together,” said Rhaesa. “I encourage our churches and residents across Wayne to unite in prayer for our city, our schools, and all those who serve others each day.”
The National Day of Prayer has a long and meaningful history in the United States. Its origins date back to 1775, when the Continental Congress called for a day of prayer during the early days of the nation. In 1952, Congress established the National Day of Prayer as an annual observance, and in 1988 it was designated to be held on the first Thursday of May each year. The day serves as a time for Americans of all backgrounds to come together in reflection, prayer, and unity.
In Wayne, this local gathering reflects that same spirit—bringing together churches and residents across denominations to stand together in faith and support of one another. “We want to see you there,” said Pastor Kelly Merry of New Life Metro Detroit. Attendees are encouraged to participate in this powerful evening of community prayer and encouragement.
For questions or to RSVP, contact Pastor Huguley at (734) 673-9432 or Pastor Merry at (734) 326-7000.
“The Bible tells us to pray without ceasing,” said Pastor Huguley. “We look forward to seeing you.”
Wayne State Farm agent Kevin Hatmaker, an avid golf fan and collector, stands proudly in front of a portion of his impressive collection of autographed Masters flags, showcasing years of dedication to the game’s rich tradition. Photo by John Rhaesa
By Sarah Shurge – You never know when a moment is going to change your life.
For Kevin Hatmaker, that moment happened when Charles Coody, American professional golfer and 1971 Masters champion, mailed back a note along with the Masters pin flag he had sent Coody to sign. “More than happy to sign for a collector,” Coody wrote.
That moment changed everything for Hatmaker. He realized what he was. He was more than just a guy that loves golf. He was a collector.
Hatmaker has attended dozens of golf events across the U.S. and overseas. He’s been to twelve Masters, countless other majors, Ryder Cups, a Presidents Cup, the Memorial (sixteen years running), and even The Open Championship (a few times).
He’s even stayed at the Old Course Hotel in St. Andrews, Suite 268 – the famous Tiger Woods Suite with bulletproof glass windows, overlooking the 17th tee.
Hatmaker used to buy two flags per tournament that he attended: a field flag for multiple autographs and a champion’s flag, reserved solely for the winner. Now he has so many flags (about 400), that he usually only buys one.
Hatmaker doesn’t sell his autographs (however, he’s donated a few duplicates to charity events and given some to a few kids).
Hatmaker just loves the game – its players, its courses, and the souvenirs that helped him remember where he’s been. But he wasn’t always the guy that loved golf.
Golf didn’t enter his life until he was in his 30s.
Hatmaker met Dave Basch at an entry-level job at an appliance store. They quickly became good friends. Over the years, they worked at three different companies together, advancing their careers and growing their friendship.
One day, Basch invited Hatmaker to play golf. Hatmaker declined, explaining that he’s never played and wouldn’t be a suitable partner. Basch responded by taking Hatmaker to a driving range. And Hatmaker was awful.
Kevin Hatmaker in front of Founder’s Circle at Augusta National Country Club for the Masters Tournament in 2017. The Augusta National Clubhouse is in the background. Augusta has professional photographers that will take your photo at this location, and provide you a card with information how to retrieve it after you leave the course. Connected devices are not allowed on the grounds at Augusta any time during tournament week!
“I lifted my head, topped shots, hit worm burners, popped balls straight up, and often missed the ball entirely,” said Hatmaker.
Hatmaker was ready to give up, when one clean solid swing had the ball soaring more than 200 yards. Everything changed after that.
Hatmaker and Basch played wherever they could afford: local public courses at first, then TPC Michigan (a Jack Nicklaus design and former home of the Senior Players Championship).
During those early years, Basch asked Hatmaker if he wanted to attend the Ryder Cup at nearby Oakland Hills Country Club. “I didn’t really know what the Ryder Cup was, but golf was involved, and Dave had free tickets, so I was in,” said Hatmaker. They went, Hatmaker learned how special the event was, and was hooked.
In 2008, the PGA Championship came to Oakland Hills and Basch had free tickets again. They went.
On a practice day, they noticed fans buying souvenir pin flags and getting them signed by players. Basch suggested they try it. “I was skeptical. Surely no professional golfer would stop and take time to sign for me,” said Hatmaker.
But regardless of Hatmaker’s skepticism, they bought flags anyway. And the professional golfers did stop. Hatmaker ended that week with 15 autographs and watched Padraig Harrington, Irish professional golfer, win.
“That flag – my first major – was professionally framed with museum glass and archival matting,” said Hatmaker.
Since then, Hatmaker has built his life around attending tournaments, seeing iconic courses, and collecting souvenir flags that mark where he’s been.
Kevin Hatmaker posing with the Claret Jug (the trophy for winning the Open Championship, aka “British Open”) in 2017 at Royal Birkdale Golf Club in Southport England. The current Claret Jug trophy dates back to 1928, awarded to Walter Hagen. Each year the champion receives the original trophy, but must return the trophy before next year’s Open.
“By God’s grace, a frugal upbringing, wise career choices, and an incredibly understanding wife, I’ve been able to pursue this passion,” said Hatmaker.
Hatmaker will be celebrating 38 years of marriage in October.
In Fall 2014, Hatmaker had knee replacement surgery, physical therapy in the winter, and was back at a tournament in the spring walking with a cane to the first green.
Dave Basch (left) and Kevin Hatmaker in front of the scoreboard at Augusta National Country Club for the Masters Tournament in 2016. Phones and connected devices are still not allowed on the grounds at Augusta National, so this photo was taken by an old school camera, which are only allowed on practice days of the tournament.
“We had tickets, I wasn’t not going to go,” said Hatmaker.
Hatmaker doesn’t attend these golf events alone. Basch has always been by Hatmaker’s side. “We’ve gone all over the world to golf events. We both love it. He loved playing the game initially, but we both got hooked on professional events,” said Hatmaker.
Hatmaker and Basch left for their 12th Masters on Sunday, April 5th.
“I’m most looking forward to walking in and seeing that first view of the course – that panoramic view of that first hole. It’s just beautiful, it looks better than it does on TV,” said Hatmaker.
Hatmaker and Basch will be at the Masters in Atlanta until Sunday, April 12th.
“I will always be there at tournaments, chatting with players along the ropes, hoping they sign my souvenir flag and soaking in the moment. Because now I know who I am. I’m a collector,” said Hatmaker.
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 previously mentioned before, I am the chauffeur to three large short-haired dogs. I have a dog hammock in the backseat of my car for them, but if you know anything about short-haired dogs, then you know they shed like no other. Unfortunately the dog hammock doesn’t contain their hairs, so my entire car is usually covered in dog hair.
Because of this, car washes (exterior and especially interior) are very important to keep my car clean.
Admittedly I put off cleaning my interior for way longer than I should have. My floor mats were filthy from winter, dog hairs were scattered throughout my car, and my windows were smudging with dog drool.
On Saturday, March 14th, the weather was finally above 40 degrees so I went to Johnson’s Car Wash to tackle the task of getting my car clean for spring.
Johnson’s has three lanes where you can pay (a members only lane, a credit or members lane, and a cash/credit/members lane).
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 previously mentioned before, I am the chauffeur to three large short-haired dogs. I have a dog hammock in the backseat of my car for them, but if you know anything about short-haired dogs, then you know they shed like no other. Unfortunately the dog hammock doesn’t contain their hairs, so my entire car is usually covered in dog hair.
Because of this, car washes (exterior and especially interior) are very important to keep my car clean.
Admittedly I put off cleaning my interior for way longer than I should have. My floor mats were filthy from winter, dog hairs were scattered throughout my car, and my windows were smudging with dog drool.
On Saturday, March 14th, the weather was finally above 40 degrees so I went to Johnson’s Car Wash to tackle the task of getting my car clean for spring.
Johnson’s has three lanes where you can pay (a members only lane, a credit or members lane, and a cash/credit/members lane).
I purchased the basic wash (wash and towel dry), however, other options include: shine & protect, wheel works, and Johnson’s best. Johnson’s payment options include: Apple pay, Samsung pay, Google pay, VISA, Discover, American Express, Master card, and cash.
Once through the car wash and towel dried, I parked at one of the 11 self-service stations to clean the inside of my car.
Johnson’s has a free self-service rubber floor mat washing station inside the front exit bay. I removed all four of my mats from my car and headed inside to utilize this feature with my filthy mats.
The process is easy: insert mats into the holders/clips. Apply soap (wand is located on the left-hand side). Rinse mats with water (wand is located on the right-hand side). Dry mats with air dryer (also located on right side). Unclip mats and head back to your car.
I placed my clean mats on the ground next to my car and grabbed a bottle of cleaner and some clean towels (provided by Johnson’s) to begin cleaning my smudged windows and wiping down my dashboard.
Lastly, came my most dreaded part. Vacuuming all the dog hair.
Each self-service station has a vacuum. You simply press the green button to start and the red button to stop. I vacuumed the driver side, passenger side, backseat, and trunk. It felt like I was vacuuming for eternity, but I paid at 4:30 p.m. and my car was completely clean by 6 p.m.
I didn’t do a perfect job on the interior, but it was a huge improvement from before. Every time I take my car to Johnson’s, I’m getting better and faster at cleaning my interior. I have been taking my car to Johnson’s for years now and will continue to do so.
Johnson’s Car Wash has been family-run in Wayne since 1976. “When you support our business, you’re supporting a local family-owned business that’s been doing this for 50 years. We’re grateful for everyone that supports us,” said Tony Johnson, Johnson’s Car Wash manager.
In March 2024, Johnson’s introduced the membership programs where you can pay a low monthly price to wash your car daily. Then in November 2024, they switched to self-service interior. “We’ve received a lot of positive feedback,” said Johnson. “People are happier that we have all this stuff for free for the interior. We have all the tools you need to do it here rather than at home.”
Not only does Johnson’s have vacuums, towels, cleaners, and rubber floor mat washing station, they also have a rug beater that knocks off dust and dirt on carpet mats.
“Our mat washing station is very popular. People are very drawn to. They need a power washer and that’s what we have,” said Johnson.
Johnson grew up at Johnson’s Car Wash, since his father, Terry Johnson is the owner.
“My favorite part is that I get to hang out with dad and see him almost every day,” said Johnson. “I like being with the guys that work here, meeting and talking to all the customers, and helping people come up with the cleanest car they can.”
Johnson’s Car Wash is located at 33520 Michigan Ave and is open 8a.m. – 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday, and 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Sunday.
For more information about Johnson’s Car Wash or to join a membership online, visit johnsonswashclub.com or call (734)326-3110.
I purchased the basic wash (wash and towel dry), however, other options include: shine & protect, wheel works, and Johnson’s best. Johnson’s payment options include: Apple pay, Samsung pay, Google pay, VISA, Discover, American Express, Master card, and cash.
Once through the car wash and towel dried, I parked at one of the 11 self-service stations to clean the inside of my car.
Johnson’s has a free self-service rubber floor mat washing station inside the front exit bay. I removed all four of my mats from my car and headed inside to utilize this feature with my filthy mats.
The process is easy: insert mats into the holders/clips. Apply soap (wand is located on the left-hand side). Rinse mats with water (wand is located on the right-hand side). Dry mats with air dryer (also located on right side). Unclip mats and head back to your car.
I placed my clean mats on the ground next to my car and grabbed a bottle of cleaner and some clean towels (provided by Johnson’s) to begin cleaning my smudged windows and wiping down my dashboard.
Lastly, came my most dreaded part. Vacuuming all the dog hair.
Each self-service station has a vacuum. You simply press the green button to start and the red button to stop. I vacuumed the driver side, passenger side, backseat, and trunk. It felt like I was vacuuming for eternity, but I paid at 4:30 p.m. and my car was completely clean by 6 p.m.
I didn’t do a perfect job on the interior, but it was a huge improvement from before. Every time I take my car to Johnson’s, I’m getting better and faster at cleaning my interior. I have been taking my car to Johnson’s for years now and will continue to do so.
Johnson’s Car Wash has been family-run in Wayne since 1976. “When you support our business, you’re supporting a local family-owned business that’s been doing this for 50 years. We’re grateful for everyone that supports us,” said Tony Johnson, Johnson’s Car Wash manager.
In March 2024, Johnson’s introduced the membership programs where you can pay a low monthly price to wash your car daily. Then in November 2024, they switched to self-service interior. “We’ve received a lot of positive feedback,” said Johnson. “People are happier that we have all this stuff for free for the interior. We have all the tools you need to do it here rather than at home.”
Not only does Johnson’s have vacuums, towels, cleaners, and rubber floor mat washing station, they also have a rug beater that knocks off dust and dirt on carpet mats.
“Our mat washing station is very popular. People are very drawn to. They need a power washer and that’s what we have,” said Johnson.
Johnson grew up at Johnson’s Car Wash, since his father, Terry Johnson is the owner.
“My favorite part is that I get to hang out with dad and see him almost every day,” said Johnson. “I like being with the guys that work here, meeting and talking to all the customers, and helping people come up with the cleanest car they can.”
Johnson’s Car Wash is located at 33520 Michigan Ave and is open 8a.m. – 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday, and 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Sunday.
For more information about Johnson’s Car Wash or to join a membership online, visit johnsonswashclub.com or call (734)326-3110.
Although Wayne is small and a large part of its historic buildings were torn down in the 1960s during Urban Renewal, there are still some historic gems left that should be protected. Designating an area a Historic District is one of the few ways to legally protect an area from destruction, and ensures the area is preserved for future generations.
The area along Brush, Clinton and Elizabeth is an example of an area that could be designated, as it has the highest percentage of pre-1900 homes left in the city. Another great area would be the tree streets, as they have many 19s and 20s bungalows and cottages, many of which are catalog and kit homes.
Historic Districts get a bad name from misinformation and overzealous commissions of the past, but in creating a historic district today they can be created to work for the modern world. I’ll try to clarify some pros and cons below. The biggest benefit is they prevent houses from being torn down, which can change the feel and character of a neighborhood. They can also regulate infill or new houses being built in a neighborhood, preventing houses that are too big or out of character with the surrounding buildings.
“The Hoise house, one of Wayne’s lost great houses, torn down in 1966.”
Historic Districts will regulate the front facade of a house’s appearance from the street, this may mean they have a say in changing windows, porch railings or siding. They do not regulate paint colors, landscaping, anything on the interior of a home, or the back and sides of a home. The goal is to keep an appropriate and historic look from the street, while allowing freedom in the other areas.
If you live in a historic home, it’s because you like that old look and character, so the goal is to preserve that look along the street for all to enjoy.
Most modern Historic Districts don’t require repairing or replacing things with expensive or original materials (for example, replacing 100-year-old wood with 100-year-old wood), most allow modern materials that just mimic the look, saving owners money.
Homes in historic districts also increase in property value by 10-30% compared to non-designated areas in the same town. The state and federal government also offer some tax credits for restoration on designated homes, sometimes covering 20% of a project cost. Statewide there are 82 recognized Historic Districts, including in our neighbor cities, such as Canton, Livonia and Plymouth. By adopting a historic district, the city as a whole could also benefit, as it’s one of the requirements to become a Certified Local Government (CLG) through the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. A Certified Local Government is a program where the city must show that it actively plans for, protects, and tells the story of important historic places. In exchange, communities gain special access to exclusive grant funding opportunities, technical assistance from the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), and other benefits. Wayne has already lost so much of its history, it’s time to save what is left.
By Sarah Shurge – The Wayne High Schools Alumni Association is hosting the All-Class Reunion again this year.
Join fellow Wayne High School or Wayne Memorial High School alumni and guests for an evening of memories and celebration of 40 years of awarding student scholarships.
The 40th Annual All‑Class Reunion Banquet will be held on Friday, May 15th from 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. at Wayne Tree Manor (5100 Van Born Rd.)
The program will be at 5:30 p.m. and dinner at 6 p.m. Dress code is casual.
The Class of 1976 will be honored as they celebrate their 50th year of graduation.
Reservations are $35 before Friday, May 1st. $45 after and at the door.
For more information or details for reservations, visit waynehighalumni.com or email waynehighalumni@aol.com
To all the Wayne and Wayne Memorial alumni, be sure to celebrate your Wayne pride.
Don’t miss out, reserve your spot today!
Superintendent Dr. Catherine Cost
By Sarah Shurge – On Wednesday, March 25th, the Wayne-Westland Community Schools Board of Education conducted final interviews with three outstanding candidates for our next Superintendent.
Following those interviews, the Board voted to appoint Dr. Catherine Cost as the next Superintendent of Wayne-Westland Community Schools, effective Wednesday, July 1st (pending successful contract negotiations).
“The Wayne-Westland Community Schools Board of Education is proud to welcome Dr. Cost to a district defined by its people: passionate families, committed educators, and a community that shows up for its children. We are energized by what lies ahead,” said Kimberly May, Board President.
Back in June 2025, Dr. Catherine Cost was appointed to serve as Interim Superintendent. After starting in July, Dr. Cost had immersed herself in getting to know the community and District.
Dr. Cost has spent her career in public education, starting as a teacher and principal, then serving as the superintendent for Wyandotte Public Schools for just under nine years, and the assistant superintendent at Farmington Public Schools for eight years prior to that.
Dr. Cost earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan, her master’s from Oakland University, and her doctorate from Wayne State University.
Dr. Cost is passionate about supporting students and families, which is what brought her to Wayne-Westland Community Schools.
Welcome Dr. Cost to the Wayne-Westland Community Schools District!
Jennifer and Chef Dave Romero owners of Karma Coffee and Kitchen, invite you to come out and support Downtown Wayne Restaurant Week.
By Sarah Shurge – Mark your calendars and save your appetite because Restaurant Week is returning to Wayne!
“There’s something for every taste and every budget, and this week is the perfect chance to try it all,” said Lisa Kubany, Wayne Downtown Development Authority (DDA) Marketing and Events Director. “Every year we’ve worked hard to grow this event and the audience it reaches.”
The fourth annual Downtown Wayne Restaurant Week is happening Saturday, April 18th – Sunday, April 26th.
“Restaurant Week is important because it celebrates our small businesses, brings people together, and highlights everything that makes Wayne special,” said Kubany.
The following businesses are participating in restaurant week: Amo Sami’s Shawarma (38800 W. Michigan Ave.), The Avenue American Bistro (3632 Elizabeth), Billi’s Shawarma (35600 E. Michigan Ave), Brookies Café (35234 W. Michigan Ave), China Garden (35125 E. Michigan Ave), Donut Craze (39365 E. Michigan Ave.), Karma Coffee and Kitchen (35634 W. Michigan Ave), Lady Di’s House of Soul Food (4422 S. Wayne Rd.), L. George’s Coney Island (34438 W. Michigan Ave), Lee’s Chicken (34250 W. Michigan Ave), My Place Restaurant (35454 W. Michigan Ave), Nick’s Coney Island (35425 E. Michigan Ave), The Red Apple Restaurant (32711 E. Michigan Ave.), Steve’s Coney Island (5727 S. Wayne Rd.), Tropical Smoothie Café (35131 E. Michigan Ave), US12 Bar and Grill / Mike & Mona’s Bistro (34824 W. Michigan Ave), and Wayne Chicken and Fish (4429 S. Wayne Rd.).
“We honor our local businesses every day, but during Restaurant Week, we are especially proud of each one and what they bring to our community,” said Kubany.
Scan the QR codes on the tables at participating restaurants and upload a copy of your receipt each time you dine to be entered to win $200 in gift cards to Shop and Dine in Wayne.
Help your favorite restaurant win best in Wayne by voting for Best Burger, Best Pizza, Best Breakfast, Best Cocktail, and Best Vibe. Scan the QR code in participating restaurants to cast your vote.
“Indulge in your favorites, try something unexpected, and show love for Wayne’s amazing local restaurants,” said Kubany.
The $200 gift card winner will be chosen live on the DDA Facebook page on Friday, May 1st.
The exact time will be announced soon.
The top-voted businesses will be recognized as “Best in Wayne” by the Wayne City Council and Mayor.
“I grew up enjoying these businesses and have always appreciated the role they play in our community. Since 2021, it’s been a privilege to work with them and help shine a light on all they contribute,” said Kubany.
Be sure to dine in Wayne during Restaurant Week. Support local. Support Wayne!
Be sure to volunteer to help make Wayne even more beautiful!
By Sarah Shurge – In recognition of Earth Day, the Rotary Club of Wayne, will be sponsoring the 11th annual City of Wayne Spring Clean-Up Day in downtown Wayne on Saturday, April 25th, from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
“We’re proud that the annual clean-up is still going on. We want to protect the environment and it’s nice to have a legacy doing that,” said Carol Bevard, Rotary Club of Wayne assistant governor.
The Rotary Club of Wayne is an organization of individuals who live or work in Wayne and contribute their time, talents, and treasure to improve the quality of life in Wayne and around the world.
“The environment is important for our future generations. It’s important to learn how to take care of it. Come out because this event makes the community much better,” said Bevard.
Community members of all ages are invited to give a couple hours of their time into tidying up the city of Wayne after the winter season has passed. Volunteers will be picking up trash, raking leaves, and sweeping sidewalks.
If you’d like to volunteer, just show up. Everyone will meet at Goudy Park. Instructions will be given around 8:45 a.m. and teams/groups will be sent to their designated clean-up areas at 9 a.m.
Many community businesses, organizations, and churches will be participating.
The City of Wayne Department of Public Works (DPW) will provide trash bags and people to collect trash on the curb. The Rotary is providing a few trash grabbers, so please bring your own if you have one.
Matt Mulholland and his crew, Rouge-A-Palloza, will be cleaning things out of the Rouge River.
“We’d like to thank the community for all the volunteers that came out last year. Over 68 volunteers came from all over and we would love to see them again,” said Bevard.
The Rotary Club and the Wayne Historical Society are also having an Old Wayne Cemetery clean-up in the summer. Stay tuned for the official date.
The Wayne Rotary is also hosting a Free Community Shredding Day on Saturday, May 16th, at HYPE Athletics (4635 Howe Rd.)
The event is open to the public for disposal of confidential documents to prevent identity theft. There is a maximum of five boxes, and there is a camera on the truck so you can see your documents being shredded. The event will run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The Rotary Club is looking for more people to join. They meet every Tuesday at Noon in the Thomas Kelly Room in the Wayne Public Library.
“Rotary Club is an organization that has 1.2 million people worldwide, so if you want to make a difference in the world, join Rotary,” said Bevard.
Bevard has served in the Rotary since 2019, held the title of Rotary President from October 2021 – June 2024, and has been the assistant governor since July 2025.
If you are interested or looking for more information about the Rotary Club of Wayne, visit waynerotary.com, find them on Facebook or Instagram at “waynerotary”, or contact them at waynerotary@gmail-.com.
Be sure to volunteer to help make Wayne even more beautiful!
2026 Regional Champion Wayne Memorial boys basketball team.
By Sarah Shurge – Congratulations to Wayne Memorial High School’s boys basketball, girls basketball, boys bowling, and wrestling teams for dominating athletics this season.
“It’s an amazing time this time of year,” said Mark Woodson, Wayne Memorial athletic director. “It’s a great feeling to see our kids have success.”
Over Spring Break, the wrestling team competed in their District and Regional Tournaments.
Congratulations to Mariah Simpson for qualifying for the State Tournament, her third time as an individual.
Congratulations to Daniel Harris for qualifying for the State Tournament, as well. Harris had to beat two wrestlers that he had lost to earlier in order to become Wayne’s first men’s state qualifier in almost 10 years.
Another congratulations to Lupe Chapparo for qualifying for Regionals, falling one point short in her quest to repeat as a state qualifier.
“Just to be around those kids and see them compete and work hard, I feel good,” said Woodson.
The Lady Zebras are 2026 District Champions.
Congratulations to Wayne Memorial boys basketball Regional Champions. They played River Rouge on Thursday, March 5th, winning 71-47.
The boys basketball team won in the Regional Semifinals on Tuesday, March 3rd, won District on Friday, February 27th, and won KLAA on Friday, February 20th.
“It’s an amazing feeling when you see the team work so hard during the season, put the time in, and get rewarded,” said Woodson.
Congratulations to Wayne Memorial girls basketball District Champions. They played Crestwood on Friday, March 6th, winning 71-39.
The girls basketball team won the KLAA title against Belleville.
“It’s an amazing feeling for both teams,” said Woodson.
Congratulations to the Wayne Memorial boys bowling team for winning the KLAA cross-over tournament (East vs West Tournament) on Friday, February 13th.
“They went to the Final four last year. The coach does a phenomenal job with those kids,” said Woodson.
Congratulations to the unified co-ed basketball (special needs teams) for competing in the KLAA Championship on Wednesday, March 4th.
“It’s amazing to see those kids compete on the court. For them, it’s not about winning or losing. It’s a special thing,” said Woodson.
The KLAA Winter All conference team 2025-2026 is as follows: Girls Basketball: Mariah Cross, Kaylee King, and Morgan Smith. Honorable mention:
Wayne Memorial boys bowling team won the 2026 KLAA cross-over tournament
TaiChiauna Allen. Boys Basketball: Jaylohn Allen, Cyrus Goins, Brandon Quick, and Jeremiah Smith. Honorable mention: Antwaun Williams. Girls Bowling: Isabella Gillin and Venessa Kinsey. Boys Bowling: Lyman Derrick III.
“You want to see your kids rewarded for their hard work and dedication. It’s a great feeling to see them achieve those goals,” said Woodson.
Wayne Memorial will have a girls flag football team for the first time this year. The team is sponsored by the Detroit Lions. The season will start in spring. Wayne will host one game at home on Friday, May 1st, versus John Glenn.
Congratulations again to the Wayne Memorial High School’s boys basketball, girls basketball, boys bowling, and wrestling teams! And good luck to the boys and girls basketball teams as they continue to compete this season!