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.”
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!
The series where the writer gets to know the city more personally, while the readers get to know the writer better in the process.
The second to last weekend of January, I took a weekend trip to New York City, however, that just so happened to be the same weekend that the huge snowstorm hit.
While I was away, my mom texted me that my neighbor, Autumn, had shoveled my sidewalk and cleaned the snow off my car, so I had nothing to worry about except rebooking my cancelled flight home.
Due to the storm, my flight home on Sunday, January 25th, was canceled and I had to rebook for Monday, January 26th. Once I finally returned home on Monday night (after dealing with a delay for my rebooked flight) I texted Autumn thanking her for taking care of things while I was away and offered to take her to dinner to show my appreciation.
On Friday, January 30th, Autumn and I went to Avenue American Bistro for dinner.
Cheeseburger egg rolls, General Tso cauliflower bites, and chicken Caesar wrap.
The first time we went to the Avenue together back in November 2025, we ordered buffalo chicken egg rolls, garlic parmesan fries, and chicken quesadilla to share. I had ordered a dragon fruit margarita and Autumn ordered a Jameson boo-berry mule. Everything was delicious then.
I was excited to be back and as much as I enjoyed the quesadilla, I wanted to try more items on their menu.
Last time Autumn and I ate there, we sat at the bar to eat (there is seating at the bar and high tops in the bar area) but this time, Autumn and I sat at a table in the dining area near the windows.
To start, I ordered a pomegranate Long Island and Autumn ordered the strawberry Mo-tito. For dinner we ordered cheeseburger egg rolls, General Tso cauliflower bites, and chicken Caesar wrap to share.
If you’ve read my column in the past, you probably know how much I love cheeseburgers, so I was thrilled that cheeseburger egg rolls were on special that night. And the egg rolls did not disappoint. I don’t understand how they did it, but it truly tasted like I was eating a cheeseburger in the form of an egg roll. It was amazing.
Autumn suggested the General Tso cauliflower bites (one of her favorite items from the menu) and after trying one bite, I understood why. I couldn’t even tell I was eating cauliflower. It was so flavorful and every bite was better than the last.
The older I get, the more I enjoy Caesar salads and wraps, so I was really looking forward to trying the chicken Caesar wrap. It was so filling and even had croutons in it, which was a surprise. Avenue American Bistro has become the go-to place that Autumn and I have dinner together and catch-up. The two times we have been there, I have nothing but positive feedback for the service we received and the quality of food. I already can’t wait to go back for our next girls’ night there.
Avenue American Bistro has been in Wayne for 16 years. Avenue American Bistro is a made to order, scratch kitchen with a midwestern touch. Some of Avenue American Bistro’s best-selling items are the cheddar quesadilla, white BBQ sliders, General Tso cauliflower bites, and brussels sprout salad.
Avenue American Bistro has monthly specials for food, soup specials every couple of days, and drink specials on select holidays. Also $5 drafts on select drafts Monday through Thursday.
“We are now making our own desserts like cookies and cheesecake egg rolls. Other desserts are coming soon,” said Samantha Ashley, Avenue American Bistro general manager. Ashley has been with Avenue American Bistro for 11 years, manager for three years.
“Our reviews speak for themselves. If you’re looking for something that is a little bit more upscale in the area, come check us out,” said Ashley. “Great food and great staff.”
Avenue American Bistro is located at 3632 Elizabeth St and is open 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. Sunday – Saturday. For more information about Avenue American Bistro, visit avenuewayne.com or call (734) 895-7300. You can find them on Facebook and Instagram by searching “Avenue American Bistro”. Follow for posts regarding specials and if they are closed for holidays.
Be sure to check out Avenue American Bistro and be on the lookout for the next Spotlight Series with Sarah!
The 29th District Court
By Sarah Shurge – On Monday, February 23th, the City of Wayne published a press release regarding the 29th District Court offering a limited-time Amnesty Program for individuals with delinquent court cases.
This initiative not only provides an opportunity for participants to settle outstanding financial obligations at a reduced cost, but also assists the Court in efficiently clearing a backlog of cases with no additional court resources or collection costs.
The Amnesty Program will run from Sunday, March 1st through Tuesday, March 31st.
Any individual with a past due payable violation must contact the 29th District Court to determine eligibility and receive instructions on how to participate.
Eligible participants will have default, late fees, and warrant fees waived, reducing the total amount owed to the original fine.
Warrants will be canceled upon full payment of the original fine. Please note: a $45 clearance fee will still apply and cannot be waived.
This is a limited, one-time opportunity. After March 31st, the Court will resume collection efforts and enforcement, including the full imposition of penalties and late fees.
Payments must be made by cash, credit card (4% service fee applies), certified check, or money order. Personal checks will not be accepted.
For more information regarding the Amnesty Program or to check eligibility, call the 29th District Court at (734) 722-5220 or visit cityofwayne.com/200/29th-District-Court Be sure to take advantage of this opportunity before March 31st!
Wayne Police Officer Jerry Warden in 1972.
This year is the centennial of Wayne having an official police department, having been established in the summer of 1926. Before this, back in the 1820s, the Wayne County sheriff would have to come out here from Detroit to arrest a suspect or investigate a crime.
In 1830 Nankin Township created the job of Constable, responsible for serving papers, assisting the justice of the peace and enforcing the law. There were only three constables responsible for the whole township.
When Wayne became a village in 1869 it created its own Marshal position, this man was responsible for patrolling its one square mile area, enforcing law, and made about $150 per year. The original “Lockup” was a small wooden building with two cells at the corner of Biddle and Brush streets.
In 1926 the formal police department was formed with a budget of $9,956.00 and the Marshal role disappeared. The first chief was Lawrence Knox, and first officer was Granville Morse. These two men patrolled Wayne for many years using their own cars and motorcycles before the department bought their first cars in 1940.
1941 brought the first two-way radios installed in the police cars, and slowly more men were added to the force, having seven by 1944. The original police station and jail from 1926-1950 was the village hall, which is now the museum.
In 1950 a new police station was built on Sims, and by 1955 there were 23 officers. In 1960 an auxiliary police was started for crowd and traffic control.
1974 saw the loss of the first Wayne Police officer in the line of duty, when Patrolman Leonard Anderson was shot responding to a mental health crisis. In 1976 the police station on Sims was expanded and remodeled, adding a second floor. In 1977 there were 38 officers and 20 auxiliary.
The first female Wayne police officer was Jocelyn Dillard who was hired in 1982. In 2004 the new police station opened on Michigan Avenue, replacing the Sims St. station, which was torn down.
Of course, many more highlights, good and bad, have happened over the past 100 years, but it’s just too much to fit in a newspaper column. Be sure to follow the museum for the date later this summer of its lecture on the history of the Wayne Police Department.
By Carolyn Marnon – The Wayne Garden Club will start meeting again this month. We are always looking for people who share our love of flowers and gardens to come to a meeting and learn more. The following meetings are scheduled to be held at the Wayne Public Library on Wednesdays. The start times vary to accommodate different schedules.
March 11 – 12:30 p.m.: Sidewalk Extension Using Native Plants from Feral Flora with Tori Clawson
April 8 – 12:30 p.m.: Behind the Seen-a garden themed presentation by DIA speaker Duncan Campbell
September 9 – 6:30 p.m.: Comfort, Ease and Simplicity: Winter Planning for Spring: with Jan Bills of Two Women and a Hoe®
October 14 – 12:30 p.m.: Witches: From Wonderful to Wicked to Wonderful (Ancient Herbal Healing) with Ed Blondin
We will also be hosting our first Junior Gardeners event at the library! On Saturday, April 11, Stephanie Kozak from Huron-Clinton Metro Parks will present Planting for Pollinators. Participants aged preschool though youth will learn all about pollinators and make a native seed ball to take home. Parents must accompany their children. The program will begin promptly at 12:30 and runs for an hour. You MUST R.S.V.P. beginning April 1 by calling the event coordinator Linda Maylone at (734) 674-7239.
The garden club also has field trips planned to Matthei Botanical Gardens (May), the Northville Garden Walk (July), and Growing Hope Urban Farm (August).
If you would like to learn more about the garden club, contact our membership chairman, Mary Baryo at wgc1916@gmail.com.
The Wayne Garden Club has been part of the Wayne community since 1916!
The City of Wayne added a new LED sign in front of city hall in 2025. Photo by Natalie Rhaesa
By Sarah Shurge – Diane Webb was selected as the new city manager in 2023. Since then, her focus has been improving the city of Wayne.
Webb has a long and diverse career that has centered around the city of Wayne.
For the first 18 years of her career, Webb worked in the private sector, for the Bell System, now AT&T. She worked her way through college as a service technician in the city of Wayne. After completing her undergraduate degree, and while pursuing her graduate degree, she was promoted four times in four years, in the areas of customer service and project management, before becoming a Director of Government and Community Relations.
Then she served the City of Wayne as their liaison to SBC/Ameritech and worked closely with the city’s representatives in Lansing. It was this position that inspired her to pursue a career in public service.
Webb served four years as a city councilwoman in Garden City. Then, went on to serve eleven years on the Wayne County Commission, where she worked with Wayne County Commissioners, McNamara and Haidous that represented the city of Wayne. Her years of working in, with, and around the city made her familiar with the city’s history, successes and challenges before applying for her current role.
Webb has been the city manager for Wayne for two years now, and just recently presented the City of Wayne’s second annual year-end report.
The Wayne administrative team is: City Manager – Diane Webb, Police Chief – Ryan Strong, Fire Chief – Mike Stradtner, Personnel Director – Alyse Leslie, Finance Director – Katie Sample, Community Development Director – Lori Gouin, City Clerk – Tina Parnell, DPS Director – Mike Szuch, IT Director – Dennis Carino, Asst. DPW Director – Dave Schmidt, Building Official – Bob Watson, Planning Engineer – Brendan Esper, and Confidential Assistant to CM – Alayna Brasch.
Webb began this interview stating, “I am incredibly honored to work our phenomenal team of departmental heads, that work together to find the best solutions city-wide,” said Webb. “Equally as important, is the quality of our city council, we could not do what we do without their blessing. I really appreciate the council’s confidence in our leadership.”
Here are some accomplishments that have happened over the past year:
· Beautification of City Hall/new electronic sign.
· The Resurrection of the Infinity Homes Project (70 new homes west of Merriman and south of Van Born).
· Completed parking structure demolition (funded through $700K CBDG Grant from Wayne County).
· New library parking lot project (site restoration in Spring 2026).
“The parking structure had become a blighted public nuisance that was costing the city $20,000 a year, to insure, operate and maintain, only to provide a less-than-ideal parking option for the library. Now the sale of the land will bring new revenue, and its development is an opportunity for investment in the city that will increase our tax base and create jobs. The library also has safer and more convenient parking. The best part is we turned an expense into revenue, without it costing the residents a dime, because the project was funding through a grant”.
· Completed DIA’s new mural in Goudy Park (new mural was provided through the DDA’s collaboration with the DIA’s Partners in Public Art program — grant funding is designed to bring Art Outdoors).
· Completion of Goudy Park Amphitheater Project-Phase I ($1.3M project was funded through HUD, MEDC, and Wayne County ARPA Grants)
“When I first came to city the Goudy Park project was a rescue mission and we were able to save it. We were able to bid the remediation of the underground reservoir out and save the city $1.6M, afford the remediation through the water fund, and get extensions on the $1.3M in grants to complete the amphitheater replacement and the rest of phase I. It was a very rewarding experience,” said Webb. “Goudy Park is a jewel in the city. We are very proud of our Phase I improvements and super excited about Goudy Phase II scheduled to begin this Spring.”
· Secured $212K in Park Grants from the State Budget for the replacement of the 1-mile walk path in Atwood Park.
· Secured $26K from the Wayne County Park Millage by combining the $13,000 allotted from 2025 and 2026 to build two pickleball courts in Jaycee Park
“These will be the first outdoor pickleball courts in the city,” said Webb. “Pickleball” is extremely popular. It’s easier than tennis, good for your health, and enjoyed by people of all ages. “I am very pleased that we are able to bring this new recreational amenity here for our residents to enjoy” Webb said.
Financial overview from the past year:
· Balanced the 2025 budget with a $232K surplus.
· Increased the General Fund balance to $9,747,000 (29% of annual expenses).
· Increased property values by $65,504,000 to $629,759,000.
· Despite the higher value of homes in recent years, the City of Wayne taxpayers that have owned their homes since 2010 still paid less in taxes in 2025 compared to what they paid in 2010.
· In 2025, we decreased pension debt by $1,420,000, our OPEB debt by $458,432, and our long-term bond debt by $3.790.000, and issued no new bond debt.
“It feels like our efforts are paying off. It’s a slow, upward climb. We aren’t out of the woods yet, but it is rewarding to see the things I’ve implemented with the team making a difference. I’m happy to be making progress,” said Webb.
Department accomplishments:
· The Planning Commissions approved four site plans and received 44 zoning applications.
· The Clerk’s office consolidated six precincts to three. The city now only needs two voting tabulators instead of four (saving the city $4,000).
· The IT Department completed 710 support desk requests, migrated city data to Microsoft 365 cloud, backed up all security camera systems, established network backup and disaster recovery documentation, upgraded internet speed, and recycled over 50 pieces of computer and obsolete IT equipment.
“For Director Carino to come in and bring our whole IT network up to date, was miraculous. We’re more efficient, more effective,” and more secure, said Webb. “He is helping us utilize technology to improve internal operations and service delivery”
· The Wayne Police Department responded to 18,617 calls for service.
· The Wayne Fire Department responded to 4,004 calls for service. Of those calls, 3,134 were EMS-related incidents and 870 were fire-related calls.
· Five firefighters/basic EMT’s finished paramedic training, passed the national registry, and have all moved off probationary status.
“We’re not the biggest departments because we’re a small community, but as far as quality goes, I would put our departments against any in the state and beyond,” said Webb. “I’m very pleased with the work they are doing in police and fire.”
· The DPW performed annual maintenance of: 84 miles of water and sewer mains, 820 fire hydrants, 15.22 miles of major roads, 41.56 miles of local streets, 6.61 miles of dirt roads, 14 parks & 2 trail systems, and 17 city-owned parking lots.
· The DPW replaced approximately 516 lead water service lines in the 2025 construction season. Since 2023, the city has replaced approximately 1,068 lead service lines and is officially lead-free.
“I’m very proud we’re lead-free. That’s a public health thing. And we did it all with grants. That’s a big win for the city,” said Webb. Galvanized lines and site restoration will continue this spring with a project completion date of 6/30/26.
“Our DPS staff has never been busier, and their list of accomplishments in 2025 is long, and to think that they managed the lead line replacement project, completed the Traffic
Barrier Wall Removal Project, the Currier Waterman Replacement Project, and the Sewer Lift Stations improvements, on top of all their daily responsibilities, shows their level of talent and commitment”.
“My favorite part of my job is working with my team and seeing the progress we’ve made in the city. My number one goal is to leave things better than I found them,” said Webb.
Thank you to the city’s administrative team, the support from the city council, the DDA Board, and our community stakeholders for all they do for the City of Wayne!
Michael Gasper, 76 years of age, passed away on February 14, 2026, to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ while at home with his wife, Darlene.
Michael was born in Jackson, Mississippi, to the late Steve and Irene Gasper. He was one of six children. Michael was proceeded in death by one sister Julie “Sis” Rickel and is survived by his sisters Stephanie “Stevie” Ohsowski and Beverly Ruff and one brother Gregory Gasper.
Mike married Darlene Canup in 1969, and two sons were born from this union, Christopher and Steven. Mike and Darlene raised their sons in Garden City, Michigan. Mike was a proud member of the UAW Local 600 and worked as a transportation semi-driver for Ford Motor Company for 35 years. After retiring in 2000, Mike and Darlene moved north to Leroy, Michigan.
Mike gave his life to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, when he and Darlene joined the Harvest Worship Center Church in Cadillac. He loved working in his church and with his Pastor Mike Green and Cathy, Mike’s wife. Mike cherished praising the Lord and always enjoyed talking and helping others in his church and home community of Rose Lake Forest. He loved reading his bible, working in his shop, and spending time with his brothers-in-law Marvin, Alton, Allen and Frank and friends, especially Sandra Harris.
Mike leaves behind his loving wife Darlene, his sons Christopher and Steven, two daughters-in-law Trisha and Cathy and four grandchildren, Talon, Aubree, Brett and Brandon. They are joined by his siblings Stevie, Beverly and Greg and his brother and sisters-in-law Barbara and Midian; with his closest nephew and nieces Jeff, Amy, Marion, Angie, Dawn and Shelly to celebrate his life and cherish his memory.
Through Christ Jesus, Mike was a loving and caring person, a devoted husband, father and friend. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Arrangements were entrusted to Grace Funeral Home and Cremation Services. www.GraceCremations.com
Henry and Emma Timmermann
By Sarah Shurge – February 14th is a day dedicated to love, however, Henry and Emma Timmermann celebrated 80 years of love before the 14th.
Monday, February 9th, Henry and Emma celebrated their 80th wedding anniversary.
Henry was born in Germany. When he was two years old, his parents emigrated to the United States. When Henry was six, his family moved to Wayne. They attended the German Lutheran St. John’s Lutheran Church.
Emma’s family moved from Florence, Wisconsin to the Detroit area during the Depression, and then during World War II, her family relocated to Wayne. Emma and her family started attending St. John’s Lutheran Church also.
Henry and Emma met for the first time at a Halloween party in the church basement, which was located in Wayne, just over a month after the end of WWII.
The couple went on their first date to a drive-in theater at Schaffer Road and 8 Mile Road. They continued to date going to movies and seeing shows at the Fox theater in Detroit.
They both served as defense workers – Emma, an original Rosie working for Stinson Aircraft in Wayne building the L-13 grasshopper reconnaissance aircraft, and Henry, a German national, was barred from serving in the war and instead participated in the war efforts with his carpentry work building the Norwayne housing complex in Westland.
Henry obtained his US citizenship at the end of 1945, and in January 1946, after three months of dating, Henry asked Emma’s mother if he could marry her daughter.
Henry and Emma were marrried on February 9th 1946. Pictured is the wedding party Bestman Harold Holland, Anne Holland, Bride Emma and Groom Henry Timmermann, and sister Liz Dunkel.
Emma wanted a summer wedding but with that being the busy season for Henry’s carpentry work, they settled on February. On a rainy afternoon in February 1946, Henry and Emma were pronounced man and wife at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Wayne.
After their wedding, they rented a house near a pig farm by Hunter and Wayne and started planning for a family.
Emma wanted four kids, Henry wanted six. They compromised and settled on five.
Their first born, Harold, was born in November 1946, Henry a year later, Janet was born in 1951, David in 1956, and Elaine was born in 1960.
They bought property on Manila Street in Westland and Henry spent 10 years building Emma a home with four bedrooms and a large playroom.
Emma stayed home to raise their children. Henry worked at the Ford Wayne plant until the Eisenhower depression and he was laid off. He then worked at the Ford Wixom plant until he retired in 1987.
Family and friends celebrated Henry and Emma Timmermann’s 80th Wedding Anniversary last month.
Five children, 18 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren, and 15 great-great grandchildren later, Henry and Emma are still as strong as ever.
Their relationship was built out of mutual respect and centered on faith.
The couple has visited all 50 states – including a 3-month trip when they drove to Alaska, and flying to Maui, Hawaii to celebrate their 60th anniversary courtesy of their children.
Last month on Sunday, January 18th, Emma celebrated her 100th birthday and 80th wedding anniversary to Henry in the gymnasium at St. John’s Lutheran Church.
Surrounded by family and friends, Henry and Emma’s love was celebrated and Emma was honored for all the extraordinary work she has done throughout her 100 years of life.
The Michigan Rosies (Rosie the Riveter Association of Michigan) presented Emma with a certificate for doing her part during WWII. The Wayne Mayor presented a certificate to Emma for her 100th birthday, as well as a certificate to both Henry and Emma for their 80th anniversary.
Both Henry and Emma are members of the Wayne Historical Society.
Congratulations to Henry and Emma on 80 years of love!
Wayne Public Library
By Sarah Shurge – In the time of technology, libraries may seem outdated or unnecessary, however that couldn’t be farther than the truth. The Wayne Public Library is a staple in the downtown Wayne community that deserves recognition.
From July 2024 – June 2025 the Wayne Public Library offered 137 programs to the community, 402 people participated in the 2025 summer reading program, 740 new library cards were issued, 33,610 physical items were checked out, there were 10,610 on-site computer/wifi logins, 49,976 in-person visits, and 4,237 active library card users.
“We were thrilled to have nearly 50,000 visits last year, and I fully expect that we’ll exceed that milestone this year,” said Jody Wolak, Wayne Public Library director. “I’m also really happy that we were able to issue 740 new library cards. These new cards represent people moving to the city, children getting their first library cards, and even people who’ve lived in Wayne for a while but who never sought out a library card before.”
This past year the Wayne Library replaced 14 computers that were 10+ years old.
“Now that we’ve finished replacing the backlog of outdated computers, my hope is that we can get on a reasonable replacement schedule where we replace a portion of the library’s computers every few years to keep our technology up to date without it growing into an overwhelming and expensive project,” said Wolak.
The Wayne Library leveled and labeled all books in the Youth Readers collection, making it easier for library users to find their selections.
New digital security cameras were installed in the library.
In partnership with Wayne RESA, the Wayne Public Library, and the City of Wayne, a Storybook Trail was created in Attwood Park. Each sign along the half-mile path contains pages from a book for families to read.
“Public response to the Storybook Trail has been terrific, and it is a great example of cooperation between the city, library, and Wayne RESA,” said Wolak.
A mobile app was launched for the library, allowing users to easily search the catalog, place holds, manage their accounts, and browse upcoming events. Be sure to scan the QR code to download the app.
“One of my favorite features on the library’s app is the ‘My Barcode’ feature, which will save a digital version of your library card. If you’ve got your phone, you’ve got your card,” said Wolak. “I also love using the ‘Scan ISBN Barcode’ option, which allows you to scan the barcode on any book, see what libraries own it, and put it on hold in a matter of seconds.”
Not only can you check out physical books and DVDs in person at the library, you can download ebooks, audiobooks, and music through Libby and hoopla.
The Wayne Library circulated an all-time record high number of 13,212 digital items through Libby and Hoopla.
In addition to Libby and hoopla, your library card now allows you to access a huge variety of streaming video content through Kanopy, the Wayne Library’s newest digital service.
With Kanopy, you can use your smart TV, mobile device, or computer to instantly stream movies and TV series 24/7 from a collection of over 31,000 popular titles from Warner Bros., MGM, BBC, Paramount Pictures, A24, The History Channel, A&E, The Criterion Collection, Kino Lorber, The Great Courses, and more.
Kanopy also includes a section just for kids with carefully selected titles from Weston Woods, Sesame Street, Jim Henson Productions, Highlights for Children, Signed Stories, and more.
To learn more or get started with Libby, Hoopla, or Kanopy, visit wayne.lib.mi.us and click the link that says ‘download ebooks, audiobooks, music, movies, or magazines’.
The Wayne Library has plenty of exciting events in store this month for all ages to enjoy.
On Saturday, February 14th, from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m., the Wayne Library will host The Snow Ball. This event is for all children with their adults to come dressed to the nines for a snowy celebration complete with snacks, photos, music, and dancing.
“This is the second year that we are hosting the Snow Ball, our fancy snow-themed winter gala,” said Wolak. “It’s a great opportunity for children and their adults (parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc.) to dress up and enjoy a special outing together.”
On Monday, February 16th, from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m., the Wayne Library will host Teen Mini Canvases. This is a teen event (grades 6-12) where kids use simple dots and lines to create their own tiny work of art.
“It’s a low-pressure way for them to express their creativity in a laid back, welcoming environment,” said Wolak.
On Wednesday, February 18th, from 6:30 – 7:15 p.m., the Wayne Library will host Olympic Family Storytime. This is a kids event (ages 5 and under) with stories and songs, making your own Olympic flag, and getting your body moving.
“The Olympics are always so exciting to watch, and the Olympic Family Storytime brings some of that excitement to the library,” said Wolak. “It will be a fun way to burn off some of our pent-up energy from being stuck inside.”
Lastly, on Thursday, February 26th, from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., the Wayne Library will host Knit & Crochet Night. This is an adult event where you can bring your work(s)-in-progress, your supplies, and enjoy a casual craft hour in the company of others in the community who share your interests.
“I just learned how to crochet this winter so I’m looking forward to meeting others who have been doing this a lot longer than I have, seeing what they are creating, and maybe picking up some tips,” said Wolak.
Wayne Public Library board members are President – Larry McConnell, Vice-President – Virginia Cesarz, Secretary- Emily Kliemann, Trustee – Renee Davis, Trustee – Quanda Ross, and Library Director – Jody Wolak.
The Wayne Public Library is located at 3737 S Wayne Rd, and is open 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Monday – Thursday, and 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. Friday – Saturday.
For more information about the Wayne Public Library, visit wayne.lib.mi.us or call 734-721-7832.
“There is really something for everyone at the Wayne Public Library. Please come check us out (pun intended),” said Wolak. “If you’re interested in getting a library card, just drop by the library with your valid ID showing that you live in the city of Wayne and we’ll get you set up with your free card.”
Thank you to the Wayne Public Library for everything they do for our city!