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 – The Elementary Athletic Program was established in 2021 after recognizing a significant gap in accessible recreational athletic opportunities for elementary students. This program was the vision of Scott Tocco, WWCS Assistant Superintendent of Administrative Services.
RCX Sports became a partner in 2021 to offer NFL Flag Football, creating an exclusive league within Wayne-Westland Community Schools (WWCS).
WWCS serves approximately 9,500 students across five communities of Wayne, Westland, Inkster, Romulus, and Canton. Entirely grant-funded, the program has serviced 4,770 students since 2021.
“Thanks to generous contributions from Hype Athletics in 2024 and our Title Sponsor, Golling Chevrolet in 2025, along with essential grant funding we have been able to sustain and grow this program,” said Maria Mitter, WWCS District Outreach and Strategic Projects.
Golling Chevrolet sponsored $100,000 for the League Title Partner sponsorship package. The League Title Partner package included: exclusive naming rights for the entire Elementary Athletic Program for two years, premier logo placement on all uniforms and promotional materials, recognition signage at all elementary buildings, featured recognition at every elementary athletic event, and special recognition presented at Board of Education meetings.
The leagues are more than games – they are safe, inclusive spaces where students foster social and emotional growth through teamwork, conflict resolution, and perseverance, while discovering the joy of physical activity.
The coaching staff is made up of district staff and volunteers. Games occur on Saturday mornings and over 1,500 students and their families have been in attendance every Saturday.
“Throughout each season, we collect feedback from families, and the impact is undeniable. One parent shared that this program provides the only time outside of recess when their child gets to play with peers,” said Mitter.
The Fall season (Sept-Oct) has two programs:
1) Co-ed NFL Flag Football (grades 2-5) has a six game season with weekly practices. 250 students participated in 2025 (added league for grades 2-3 in 2025). $115 per student.
2) Co-ed Cheer (grades 4-5) has a six game season with weekly practices. 173 students participated in 2025. $95 per student.
The Winter 1 season (Nov-Dec) has one program: Girls Basketball (grades 4-5) has a five game season with weekly practices. 161 students participated in 2025. $140 per student.
The Winter 2 season (Jan-Feb) has two programs:
1) Boys Basketball (grades 4-5) had a five game season with weekly practices. 244 students participated in 2025. $140 per student.
3) Co-ed Cheer (grades 4-5) has a five game season with weekly practices. 216 students participated in 2025. $95 per student.
The Spring program (March-April) has two programs:
1) Co-ed Soccer (grades 2-3) has a five game season with weekly practices. Piloted in spring 2025 (300 students anticipated in 2026). $110 per student.
2) Co-ed T-Ball (grades K-1) has a five game season with weekly practices. Pilot program starting spring 2026. (80 students anticipated in 2026). $65 per student.
Middle School pilot Spring 2026: Co-ed 7v7 NFL Flag Football (grades 6-8) has a six game season with weekly practices. (90 students anticipated in 2026). $115 per student.
“Many of our students have never played an organized sport and may never have had the chance without this program. This is why we continue to seek sponsorships from our community partners who are committed to helping us strengthen and expand our Elementary Athletic Program for years to come,” said Mitter.
Available sponsorship packages range from $500 to $50,000. Each package includes different features.
Sponsorship packages can be tailored to meet your organization’s unique goals.
Your investment ensures that every child – regardless of financial circumstance – can step onto the field or court, proudly represent their school, and experience the lifelong benefits of athletics.
If you have questions regarding sponsorship packages or you’re interested in making an impact, contact Maria Mitter by phone at (734) 419-2046 (office) or email mitterm@wwcsd.net.

The Wayne Drive-In

The Wayne Drive-In opened in 1949 on Michigan Avenue near Hix Road. It was built by the Shafer family who owned and ran the Old Wayne Theater and the State Theater, and they claimed at the time it was the largest drive-in in Michigan.
It began with one screen and a capacity of 850 cars. The 35-acre site was eventually expanded to 1,500 cars, and in 1971 a second screen was built. Workers at the nearby Ford plant were said to be able to watch movies from a second-floor break room, and even had a speaker wired up.
In the 1980s a third and fourth screen were added, and by all accounts the drive-in was still very popular when it closed suddenly in 1990. Ford Motor company had bought the land and wanted to expand the plant and railroad lines onto the property.
All the screens and buildings were torn down, but the neon “Wayne Drive-In” sign was saved. It reappeared on an episode of Discovery Channels “Chasing Classic Cars” when the show’s host, Wayne Carini bought it to restore it. The sign is currently installed on his private farm in Connecticut.
Many Wayne residents have fond memories of going there to see movies, or of sneaking in. At the museum, we have a few of the speakers and heaters, some signage and a reel of film from the projection booth. This spring we hope to remodel our theater area and have more artifacts out on display, so come visit us!

Congratulations to the Wayne Memorial Zebra Marching Band for being America’s Thanksgiving Day Parade WDIV 1st Place Champions!
On Thursday, November 27th, the Wayne Memorial Zebra Marching Band performed in the Detroit Thanksgiving Day Parade, alongside other marching bands, giant balloons, floats, and Santa Claus.
They were featured on the live broadcast on WDIV-TV Local 4 and participated in the Battle of the Bands contest.
Voting was available on ClickOnDetroit.com to choose your favorite marching band in America’s Thanksgiving Parade presented by Gardner White.
Congratulations again to the Wayne Memorial Zebra Marching Band!

The City of Wayne officially kicked off the holiday season in dazzling style on Friday, December 5, as the annual Holiday Night at the Museum celebration welcomed hundreds of families to Town Square for an evening filled with festive cheer and community spirit.
A new addition this year—the “Santa Fast Pass” wristband system—proved to be a major success, streamlining visits with Santa by assigning families designated time blocks. The system allowed attendees to enjoy the festivities rather than wait in long lines. More than 300 children made their way through the beautifully decorated museum to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus and receive a special toy.
Hillcrest Bible Church once again served as a key community partner, lighting up the night with a spectacular fireworks display and hosting families with hot cocoa, cookies, and a cheerful holiday photo booth.
Entertainment filled every corner of Town Square throughout the evening. Circus performers drew crowds with high-energy acts, an ice sculptor carved Rudolph-inspired winter masterpieces, and students from St. Joseph Catholic School delivered a charming seasonal performance. Inside the museum, a lively barbershop quartet filled the halls with classic Christmas carols, while outside, Westland Dance Academy kept the excitement going with dancing and games for all ages.
“Holiday Night at the Museum continues to be one of our most cherished community traditions,” said Mayor John Rhaesa. “We are grateful to our sponsors, partners, and volunteers who make this event possible year after year.”

PHOTOS BY CRAIG HEBERT

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.
Early last year my mom adopted an American Staffordshire Terrier from a shelter. She named him Zachaeus and absolutely adores him. The problem is, Zachaeus likes to jump on people and his nails are like daggers. The other problem is, as a rescue, Zachaeus doesn’t like to get his nails trimmed, so he’ll scratch, try to bite, and pee out of fear.
If you remember from last month’s issue, I mentioned that my mom had surgery and ended up with a blood clot in her lung. She’s on a blood thinner now and has to be careful not to get any scrapes, scratches, or cuts.
This means Zachaeus’s nails need to be trimmed but for safety reasons, my mom is not able to do it herself. After witnessing my brother try to manhandle Zachaeus to get his nails trimmed and it not going well, I’m not willing to attempt either. This is also after a failed attempt at the vet as well.
Because of this, my mom called around to find somewhere to take Zachaeus to get his nails trimmed and she found Dogs-N-Suds Pet Grooming.
A big factor on why my mom picked Dogs-N-Suds was that it was opened late enough for my brother to drive her and Zachaeus after he got off work, since my mom is still not cleared to drive herself after her surgery.
Another factor was that Debbie Gurley, Dogs-N-Suds Pet Grooming owner, who my mom spoke with on the phone, was willing to try with a “difficult” client (Zachaeus).
So on Tuesday, November 4th, my brother drove my mom and Zachaeus to Dogs-N-Suds Pet Grooming for a nail trim appointment.
My mom told me that when they first arrived Gurley met with Zachaeus, petted him, said “let’s begin,” and got started.
My mom had ordered some sedatives for Zachaeus (which I picked up from the vet’s a few days prior to the appointment) to try to help calm Zachaeus down, however, my mom said the medication basically had no effect on him during his appointment.
At first Zachaeus wanted to sniff all over and my mom was worried he might try to mark his territory by peeing but Gurley said “we can clean it up if he does.”
Zachaeus was put on a grooming table and my brother held onto his leash while a second leash was attached to the table that was wrapped around his abdomen.
Dogs-N-Suds’ interior has an open layout, so you can sit in the front area and watch your dog or Gurley allows you to be with your dog in the back during their appointment (as my mom and brother were with Zachaeus).
“It gives you a comforting feeling because you don’t have to worry about what’s going on with your dog. You can see everything that’s going on with your dog,” said my mom.

Dogs-N-Suds Pet Grooming.

Gurley picked up one of Zachaeus’ feet, rubbed it, talked to him, and he didn’t freak out like he did before with previous nail trims attempts. “She was very patient with him. She kept talking to him and reassuring him and he didn’t feel threatened,” said my mom.
My mom said Zachaeus didn’t try to bite – he only growled a couple of times, and she suggested a muzzle but Gurley declined the offer.
Both my brother and mom were surprised with how successful the appointment went.
My mom said Dogs-N-Suds was very clean, the building was easy for her to access while recovering from surgery, the nail trim price was very cheap, and she was happy to tip extra.
“I know for a fact I’m going to take him [Zachaeus] back there again and again because it was such an easy process,” said my mom. “You could tell she’s been around dogs a long time. She’s completely calm and confident around them and that comes with experience.”
Dogs-N-Suds Pet Grooming has been open for 25 years and at its current location in Westland for three years.
Gurley has been a groomer for almost 50 years. She originally wanted to be a registered nurse but fell in love with pets.
“My favorite part is loving on the pets and making them pretty and smelling good,” said Gurley. “We treat dogs as if they were our own.”
Dogs-N-Suds offers grooming, nails, ears, medicated flea baths, and anal glands on request. Grooming includes nails and ears. Prices are based on dog size.
“Come see us, we love pets and do great quality work,” said Gurley.
Dogs-N-Suds Pet Grooming is located at 2729 S Wayne Rd, Westland, and is open 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. Tuesday – Saturday. For more information about Dogs-N-Suds Pet Grooming, call (734)895-9540. You can find them on Facebook by searching Dogs N Suds Pet Grooming. Be sure to check out Dog-N-Suds Pet Grooming and be on the lookout for the next Spotlight Series with Sarah!

Roger Robert Provey Jr., a cherished father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, sports official, and friend, passed away suddenly on November 4, 2025, at the age of 74 in River Rouge, Michigan. Born on July 28, 1951, in Romulus, Michigan, Roger lived a life marked by passion, kindness, and an unwavering love for his family and community.
Roger grew up in Wayne, Michigan attended Monroe Elementary, Ben Franklin Junior High, and graduated from Wayne Memorial High School in 1969.
Roger loved music and sports. His love of music had him singing lead roles in the musical production of the “Mikado” up in Junior High School. He also sang in the Choir in High School and at Eastern Michigan University. His University Choir toured Europe.
His love of sports had him playing football and baseball in elementary school, little league, Babe Ruth league and High School.
Roger’s journey began as the son of Roger Provey Sr. and Florence Provey, both of whom predeceased him. Roger was also predeceased by his wife Brenda, brother Andre LaVelle and his sister Karen Provey.
His legacy continued through his children Carl, John (Kayla), and Kendolynn (Brian). He was the proud Papa to C.J (Amanda), Christopher, Robert, Jacqui, Tonja, Kristyn (Jordan), and Scott (Kayla). His joy was further multiplied by his great-grandchildren Brayden, Noah, Gideon, Julian “JJ,” with each new addition bringing a sparkle to his eye. Roger is also survived by his brothers Craig Provey, Douglas and Wayne LaVelle.
For over 40 years, Roger dedicated his time to the sports he loved as an official. His passion for officiating football, basketball, baseball, and softball was unmatched. As a member of the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA), he was highly respected for his fair and consistent approach to the game. Athletes, coaches, and fellow sports enthusiasts admired Roger for his integrity on the field and his ability to make the tough calls with a sense of justice.
Roger’s character was one of genuine warmth and friendliness. He was a man who never met a stranger, and it was a common occurrence to run into someone he knew, no matter where he went. His ability to strike up a conversation with anyone made him a beloved figure in his community.
He was also an active member of the Westland Friendship Center, where he enjoyed playing cards-Euchre and Pinochle-four times a week with his friends. Their monthly lunches at various local eateries were events filled with laughter, camaraderie, and fond memories.
Beyond his human connections, Roger had a soft spot for dogs, and his affection for his furry friends was evident to all who knew him. His kind-hearted nature extended to all living creatures, and his presence brought joy to every room.
Roger Provey Jr. lived a full and active life, leaving a legacy of love, dedication, and kindness. His absence will be deeply felt by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. As we remember Roger, we celebrate a life well-lived, a game well-played, and a man well-loved. His memory will continue to inspire and guide us in the days to come.

Santa and Zeus

By Sarah Shurge – If it’s cold for you, it’s cold for them.
It’s important to know how to keep your dog safe during cold temperatures when they cannot speak for themselves.
According to Detroit Animal Care & Control (DACC) and Friends of DACC, here is a cold weather guide:
– Above 45 degrees: generally safe. Most dogs are fine with normal playdates and walks.
– 45-32 degrees: up to 30-60 minutes. Small, short-haired, or elderly dogs should wear a coat; watch for shivering.
– 32-20 degrees: about 15-30 minutes. Risk of hypothermia for smaller breeds.
– 20-0 degrees: 10-15 minutes MAX. Only heavy-coated breeds (Huskies, Samoyeds, etc.) should be out; monitor closely.
– Below 0 degrees: Quick potty breaks. Dangerous for ALL breeds, quick potty breaks as needed; frostbite can occur in minutes.
So how do you keep your dog exercised, stimulated, and warm during the cold winter months? You can keep your dog warm by putting a winter coat on them (specifically short-haired breeds) and protect your dog’s paws from frostbite with dog booties.
Some great stimulation options are indoor playdates, car rides, and trips to pet-friendly stores where you can walk indoors. Pet-friendly stores include: Tractor Supply, Home Depot, Lowe’s, and pet stores like Petco and PetSmart. Goody’s Pet Supply is an excellent and close option. Goody’s offers winter gear such as: dog booties, dog coats, and paw thaw ice melter.
Goody’s Pet Supply and Providing for Paws are hosting a wonderful event to bring your dog or other pets to. Pet photos with Santa will be Saturday, December 13th from 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. at Goody’s.
$10/photo by Dee Maggio Photography. Photos printed onsite. Proceeds go to Providing for Paws.
Providing for Paws is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that helps rescue animals in need. Providing for Paws hopes to help curb the amount of homeless animal population by educating owners on the importance of spaying and neutering their pets, as well as proper pet care, such as vaccines, preventatives for flea and tick as well as heartworm.
“Huge kudos to the rescue for their long legacy,” said Tom Swim, Goody’s Pet Supply Manager.
Goody’s Pet Supply is located at 35340 E Michigan Ave. For more information about Goody’s Pet Supply, call (734)728-5300.
For more information about Providing for Paws, visit providingforpaws.org/, call (734)237-1812, or email info@providingforpaws.org.
If you see a dog outside in the cold for extended periods of time, please call (313)922-DOGS (3647)

Young girl telling Santa and Mrs. Claus her Christmas wish list. Cover photos and photo above by Craig Hebert

By Sarah Shurge – Mark your calendars because Wayne’s annual Holiday Night at the Museum will be Friday, December 5th, at the Wayne Historical Society on 1 Towne Square St. The event will start at 5 p.m. and will go until 9 p.m.
This year there is a “let it glow” theme, so wear your best glow in the dark costume/outfit to join the fun. There will be a contest for best glowing ensemble with prizes for both adults and kids.
Santa will make his grand entrance at 6 p.m. The Wayne Memorial High School Marching Band will perform and lead the grand entrance.
Santa and Mrs. Claus will be inside the museum from around 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. where they will take photos with the kids and hand out gifts to every child.
This year there will be something new, so families don’t have to stand in line waiting for Santa for so long – a Santa fast pass. Look for the sign for the Santa sign-in table on the corner of Biddle St and Main St.
Families will check in and kids will get color-coded wristbands to let them know their timeslot to come back to the museum for their photo with Santa. The first 40 kids will get let in right away for their photo and the next 40 kids will be let in during the next wave and so on.
This allows families more time to enjoy the event and activities. It’s important to keep your time slot. If you miss your window, don’t try to sneak in. You can get in during a different window.
The tree lighting ceremony will be held outside the museum following Santa’s grand entrance. Aside from the tree lighting, the night will be filled with activities for the whole family.
The event will have outdoor games, ice carvings, choirs and carolers including children from St. Joseph’s Catholic School, and costume characters. Wagon rides will be from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. (line up on the side parking lot of Hill Crest Bible Church).
DJ Lutalo from The Dance Academy will be at the event and hold a dance contest and prizes.
There will be a firework display, so those with sensory issues please be aware and take caution.
Several food trucks will also be at the event, including Fun Food Express, El Jefe Taco truck, and Hill Crest will provide cookies and hot chocolate.
Another new addition to the event is a photo booth inside Hill Crest. The photo will be emailed to your phone. From 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. the Grinch will be available at the photo booth for photos and from 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. Elsa will be available for photos.
Thanks to Kurt Jarman, Kurt’s Caps owner, there will be warming areas with fire pits. There will also be porta potties available for the public. This is the ninth year in a row the Wayne Historical Society has planned Holiday Night. Hill Crest Bible Church has helped with the event for eight of those years and provides the toys Santa gives to the children.
“Last year was awesome. Even though it was freezing, the crowds came out,” said Lisa Kubany, Wayne Downtown Development Authority (DDA) Marketing and Events Director. “It took us longer to get Santa organized, that’s why we’re thinking outside the box to help families enjoy the activities we’ve provided for them.”
This is the first year the Santa fast pass is being tried out, so please be patient and understanding as the system is being figured out.
The event is currently sponsored by the Wayne DDA, Hill Crest Bible Church, Wayne Historical Society, First Congregational Church, Ford Motor Company, Wayne Westland Federal Credit Union, Fun Food Express, El Jefe Taco, Kurt’s Caps, The Wayne Dispatch, Wayne Fire Department, Wayne Police Department, and Wayne DPW.
Park St, Biddle St, and Main St will be closed 5 – 9 p.m. Newberry St will be closed 6 – 9 p.m.
The Wayne Historical Society is open 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Wednesday – Thursday.
If you want to learn about events, fundraisers, or more information about the museum, you can visit the website at facebook.com/waynehistoricalsociety. Or call (734)722-0113.
The DDA is also launching their Passport Program on Small Business Saturday.
The DDA is hosting an event at Flowers in the Mitten/Makers Market (34852 W Michigan Ave) from 10 a.m.- 12 p.m., on Saturday, November 29th.
The event will have a raffle and give away $300 worth of gift cards to shop in Downtown Wayne.
The first 50 people that arrive will receive a Small Business Saturday welcome bag. Five of those people will win gift cards to go shopping that day.
To participate in the Passport Program, be sure to visit each business listed on the passport to get a stamp. There are 12 businesses participating (six shopping, six dining). Turn in your stamped passport to City Hall (3355 S Wayne Rd.) by Friday, December 19th.
On Monday, December 22nd, the DDA will announce the winners. First place will receive $400 worth of gift cards to city of Wayne businesses. Second place will receive $100 worth of gift cards.
The DDA is also working with Fox 2 News. During the month of December, watch Fox 2 News and look for the Weather Authority logo. Enter to win through the Fox 2 Weather Authority and win a $500 gift card to Leo’s Jewelry if you win the quiz.
For more information about the Passport Program or Fox 2 Weather Authority, you can contact Lisa Kubany at (734)722-2000 (ex. 1400) or email lkubany@cityofwayne.com
Don’t miss out on all the upcoming fun!

(Wayne / Wayne County, MI)
A team of assessors from the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission (MLEAC) will arrive on Thursday, December 4th, to examine all aspects of the Wayne Police Department’s policies and procedures, management, operations, and support services Chief Ryan Strong announced today.
“Verification by the team that the Wayne Police Department meets the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission’s “best practice” standards is part of a voluntary process to achieve accreditation, a highly prized recognition of law enforcement professional excellence”, Chief Strong said.
As part of this final On-Site Assessment, employees and members of the general public are invited to provide comments to the Assessment Team. They may do so by telephone or email. The public may call 734-895-9096 on Thursday, December 4th, between the hours of 10am-12pm. Email comments can be sent to ramore@cityofwayne.com.
Telephone comments are limited to five (5) minutes and must address the agency’s ability to comply with the Commission’s standards. A copy of the standards is available for inspection at the Wayne Police Department at 33701 E Michigan Avenue Wayne, MI 48184. Please contact Lieutenant Robert Amore at 734-721-1414 x1527.
Anyone wishing to offer written comments about the Wayne Police Department’s ability to comply with the standards for accreditation is requested to email the Accreditation Program manager at msilverthorn@michiganpolicechiefs.org or write the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission at 3474 Alaiedon Pkwy, Suite 600, Okemos, MI 48864.
The Wayne Police Department must comply with 108 standards in order to achieve accredited status. Chief Strong indicated, “Accreditation results in greater accountability within the agency, reduced risk and liability exposure, stronger defense against civil lawsuits, increased community advocacy, and more confidence in the agency’s ability to operate efficiently and respond to community needs.”
The Accreditation Program Director for the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police is Matt Silverthorn. “The assessment team is composed of law enforcement practitioners from similar Michigan law enforcement agencies. The assessors will review written materials, interview agency members, and visit offices and other places where compliance with the standards can be observed. Once the assessors complete their review of the agency, they will report to the full Commission, which will then decide if the agency is to be granted accredited status”, Matt Silverthorn stated.
Accreditation is valid for a three-year period during which time the agency must submit annual reports attesting to their continued compliance with those standards under which it was initially accredited.
The MACP, through its Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission, is the legitimate authority and accreditation agency in the state of Michigan. For more information regarding the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission, please write the Commission at:
MACP, Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission at 3474 Alaiedon Pkwy, Suite 600, Okemos, MI 48864 or email at msilverthorn@michiganpolicechiefs.org.

Curtis Caddell, and his mother Marlynne Moore own MK Properties Events together.

By Sarah Shurge – It’s always a good day when a new business opens in the city of Wayne. On Tuesday, September 2nd, MK Properties Events had a ribbon cutting ceremony.
“It was nice that the city came out,” said Marlynne Moore, MK Properties Events owner. “The mayor, police chief, council members, and family members were there.”
MK Properties Events is an intimate event space located in the heart of downtown Wayne.
The space can host private parties, corporate events, trainings, political events, showers, bachelorette/bachelor parties, religious ceremonies, repass, pop-up retail shops, painting with a twist, game nights, sporting events, yoga, dancing classes, live performances, and more.
“People can do a lot with our space. There is opportunity to do lots of things there,” said Moore. “There’s a lot of positives to draw people to our space.”
Some of MK Properties Events’ amenities offered include: security cameras, free 5G WiFi (guests only), Bluetooth sound system, smart TV, dimmable lighting, heat and air conditioning, kitchenette, rectangular and round tables, sturdy cushioned chairs, handicap restroom, and all-day accessibility for your event.
“We’re trying to bring something in addition to Wayne. There are other event spaces in Wayne and surrounding areas but we all bring different things. We aren’t in competition with each other,” said Moore.
MK Properties Events allows guests to come into the event space four hours prior to set up.
“It’s so much harder to set up for an event. Most of the time people aren’t ready in time because they didn’t have time to set up and get ready. We allow people to have time to be prepared,” said Moore.
Moore and her son, Curtis Caddell, own the business together.
In 2022, the mother son duo established MK Properties, LLC and purchased their first commercial property together in Wayne. The location was previously leased by a tenant that was doing event space as well.
When the lease expired, Moore was retiring from her job after 30 years. Her and Caddell decided to operate the venue themselves and do an event space too but make it bigger and do more with it.
In February 2025, they made the decision to keep the venue and by May 2025, MK Properties Events was open. “We worked very hard to get it looking the way it looks now,” said Moore.
They had their first event booked by May 22nd which was a prom sendoff.
“We have not gone a month without an event. Our goal is to have an event weekly,” said Moore. “We’re in such a good location. Downtown Wayne is such a good place. It’s walkable and there’s always something going on.”
With the upcoming holidays approaching, MK Properties Events is available to book for holiday parties, Christmas dinners, and New Years Eve events.
“Come take a look. You’ll be pleasantly surprised,” said Moore. “I make myself available to anything and everything. We care about people. We go beyond.”
MK Properties Events is located at 3023 S Wayne Rd and is open for events 9 a.m. – 1 a.m. Sunday – Saturday.
For more information about MK Properties Events, visit mkpropertiesevents.com or call (248)761-7746. You can find MK Properties Events on Facebook, Instagram, and Tik Tok.
Congratulations to MK Properties Events on its ribbon cutting ceremony and be sure to book your event now!