The Insider e-Version
  September 2010
In This Issue
Upcoming Dates
FREE Family Movie Nite
Senior Olympics
Community Gathering
Community Garage Sale
Modern Americana
Community Garden
Dorsey Center Rental Info
Volunteer to Volunteer
August in Review
Municipal Departments
City Council
 
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eNews 
 
The Westland Fire Department has implemented several new technological advancements.  In an effort to go completely paperless, the Fire Department is now utilizing state-of-the-art Panasonic Toughbook laptop computers in the field.  These units serve multiple purposes.  For one, they allow the Fire Department to maintain a database of patient information.  It also allows medics to communicate via Bluetooth technology to our 12 lead EKG Heart Monitors.  The computer captures all the data collected by the monitor and inputs it into the Patient Care Report, including an image of the 12 lead rhythm strip.  These patient care reports are then stored on a secure server for future reference. 
 
The next major advancement in the department is the ability for the medics in the field to send an image of the patients' heart rhythm to the receiving Hospital.  This allows the ER staff to diagnose the potential for a cardiac emergency like a Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack) prior to the patient being transported ensuring that proper care at the Hospital is waiting for the patient.  This could save 20-30 minutes of lead time to deploy the cardiac cath lab team at the hospital. There is no question that this new technological advancement will allow the City of Westland to save more lives. 
 
 
EMS Updates
 
Journey to Better Heatlh

St. Mary's Health

"Your Journey to Better Health" is a program developed by Mayor William R. Wild and St. Mary Mercy Hospital staff, offering residents key information to help residents lead healthier lives. 
 
Seminars include The Proper Use of Medication, Effective Communication with Healthcare Providers, General Nutrition, Women's Health Issues, Men's Health Issues, Senior Fit, Recognizing Ill Health, Diabetes Prevention, Cholesterol Control, Social Service Resources, and Mental Health. Some of the seminars will have a screening accompany the lecture.
 
The first seminar will be held on September 8th at the Friendship Center at 1:00 p.m. The topic will be The Proper Use of Medication. Please call to let us know you're attending, so we can plan appropriately with materials. Open to all residents. Come and begin your journey to better health!
 
Make a Difference in the Lives of Westland Youth

Youth Assistance Program

Did you know that volunteering 1 - 2 hours a week could have a lifelong impact on a youth?
  
Here's your opportunity...
 
 The Westland Youth Assistance Program is currently recruiting volunteer mentors.  All that is needed is a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and completion of 15 hours of mentor training. For more information, call the YAP office at (734) 467-7904.
 Report from Mayor Wild
Mayor William R. WildDear ,
 
It is hard to believe that autumn is right around the corner and another busy summer is coming to a close here in the All American City. Most recently the City has been busy working to remediate Central City Park and enhance our family-friendly community.   
 
Request for bids have gone out for the remediation and redevelopment of Central City Park and the City of Westland is working closely with Wayne County and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment on a plan to get the contaminated park, which has been closed since January 2007, cleaned up for phase one which includes 12 of the park's 33 acres. The plan includes a soccer complex, outdoor bathrooms, a new pavilion and a walking path.  There will also be a concession stand to service the outdoor pool, Play Planet, H²0 Zone and soccer complex.  I am also closely watching Washington D.C., where Senator Carl Levin is guiding a $1.5 million joint city-county request for federal assistance through the Appropriations Committee.  The money would be used for phase two of the remediation process.
 
In addition to the work on Central City Park, the upcoming month is filled with many events that residents of all ages can enjoy. As you take a look at our calendar of events, please note our FREE Family Movie Nite at the Bailey Center on August 31st, the Annual Community Garage Sale in the parking lot of City Hall and Modern Americana presented by Westland's Historic Village Park, both being held on September 18th..
 
As we celebrate going back-to-school and enjoying the last BBQ's of the summer please join me at our last FREE Community Gathering and BBQ of the season at Corrado Park on September 16th. I hope to see you and your family there.
 
In the meantime, if I can ever be of assistance please do not hesitate to contact my office.

 
Best regards,
Mayor Signature
Mayor William R. Wild
 
Upcoming Dates - September 2010
Mark your calendar...
Mark your calendar!
  • Sept. 1 - Blood Pressure and Glucose Testing @ Library 11 a.m.
  • Sept. 2 - Fantasy Football Draft @ Library* 6 p.m.
  • Sept. 4 - Museum/Recycling Center Closed
  • Sept. 5 - Library Closed
  • Sept. 6 - Labor Day City Offices Closed/Rubbish Pick-up delayed a day
  • Sept. 7 - City Council Meeting @ Council Chambers 7 p.m.
  • Sept. 8 - "Your Journey to Better Health" Seminar @ Friendship Center 1 p.m.
  • Sept. 8 - Writing Your Memoirs Class @ Friendship Center 2 p.m.
  • Sept. 13 - District Coffee Hour with Senator Anderson and Representative Leblanc @ Library 9 a.m.
  • Sept. 13 - Fireside Chat with Representative Leblanc and Commsioner Gebhardt @ Library 6 p.m.
  • Sept. 14 - Habitat for Humanity Dedication on Donnelly St.
  • Sept. 15 - Blood Pressure and Glucose Testing @ Library 11 a.m.
  • Sept. 16 - Community Gathering @ Corrado Park 5:30 p.m.
  • Sept. 17 - Friends of the Library Public Book Sale @ Library 10 a.m.
  • Sept. 18 - Friends of the Library $6 Bag Sale @ Library 10 a.m.
  • Sept. 18 - Modern Americana @ Westland Historic Village Park 1 p.m.
  • Sept. 19 - Friends of the Library $4 Bag Sale @ Library Noon
  • Sept. 20 - City Council Meeting @ Council Chambers 7 p.m.
  • Sept. 22 - Documentary Viewing "Beyond Our Differences" @ Library 7 p.m.
  • Sept. 23 - Identity Theft Program @ Friendship Center 1 p.m.
  • Sept. 23 - Open Mic Night @ Library 7 p.m.
  • Sept. 29-30 - AARP Driving Class @ Friendship Center* 10 a.m.
Farmers Market
 
 
The Westland Farmers Market is open every Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the parking lot of Westland Shopping Center by Kohls.
  
 
 
 
For more information on each event click on the calendar of upcoming events at www.cityofwestland.com.
 
*Registration Required 
 
FREE Family Movie Nite
Movie NiteThe City of Westland is hosting a FREE end of summer family movie nite on Tuesday, August 31 at the Bailey Recreation Center. There you can meet Sponge Bob Squarepants and your family can enjoy live music, bouncers, kid's activities, sponsor giveaways, and of course the featured film Alvin and the Chipmunks - The Squeakuel.
 
The Classic Rock band George Brothers will start at 6:00 p.m. followed by a family movie under the stars at 8:30 p.m. Make sure to bring your lawn chairs, blankets, non-alcoholic beverages and munchies.
 
And what is a movie without popcorn? Westland's Mayor William R. Wild will be providing free popcorn to all that attend. This Fun Family Movie Night is brought to you by the Westland Downtown Development Authority and Park-it Free Family Fun Nights. For more information go to www.cityofwestland.com.
 
Help Keep Our City Clean
LeavesWith fall quickly approaching, we will be raking leaves before you know it. Here are tips for Westland residents to enhance the detention basin and minimize long-term maintenance:
  1. Do not place yard waste such as leaves, grass clippings or brush in the catch basin or in the storm drains located in the streets.
  2. Do not use pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers in your basin.
  3. If you must use fertilizers, only use low- or no-phosphorus varieties.
  4. Do not dump any materials in the storm sewer system.
  5. Pick up and dispose of pet waste with your weekly garbage.
The City of Westland will attempt to sweep city streets 3-5 times annually. Help keep our All American City clean by keeping leaves off our sewers this fall.
 
Facebook Frenzy!

Facebook FanHelp the City of Westland reach 1,000 fans!

One of the best features of the City of Westland Facebook Page is being updated on all the city's latest happenings from traffic alerts to upcoming activities. In addition, you will have the ability to tag yourself and friends in photos taken at Westland events. Everyday our fan count rises, so join today by going to www.facebook.com/cityofwestland and become our 1,000th fan!
Wayne County Senior Olympics 2010
Senator Glenn Anderson, Mayor William R. Wild and State Representative Richard LeBlanc join Westland Seniors for the Opening Ceremony.
Senior Olympics
The 6th annual Western Wayne County Senior Olympics were held last week (August 16-21, 2010). Over 700 seniors from 16 different communities participated in 41 different events last week. There is a very diverse variety of events offered; some more physically challenging like swimming, the 5 and 10K bike races, the 5 mile run, golf, and volleyball and events that are challenging in other ways such as marksmanship, bridge, creative writing, baking, art, horseshoes, billiards, bocce ball, bowling, ball room dance, scrabble, shuffleboard, field events and others.
 
Participants competed with those in their own age category. Class A 50-59, Class B 60-69, Class C 70-79, Class D 80-89 and Class E for anyone 90 or better. Westland seniors were the big winners this year with the highest number of participants, the highest number of gold medals (58), the highest number of silver medals (34) and the highest number of bronze medals (28) for a total of 120 medals. The closest competitor was Canton which took back to their city a total of 95 medals. Senior Resources Director, Barbara Marcum, partially attributes some of Westland's success to the historical support the Westland City Council and Mayor's Office have given to the senior program over the years and presently. "Hands down - there's not a community around more supportive of their seniors than the City of Westland. It shows across the board and the Senior Olympics is no exception. Hats off to the Mayor and City Council, and three cheers for the All American City and their Senior Olympic Team - first place is definitely a good place to be. I guess you could say we've set the bar. Our seniors - they're a tough act to follow," said Marcum. 
 
Mayor Wild's Community Gathering
Community Gathering
This news is hot off the grill! Mayor William R. Wild invites you to his FREE Community Gathering on Thursday, September 16th from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Corrado Park located on Gladys south of Joy and west of Middlebelt.
 
Bring your family out for an old fashioned barbeque that everyone can enjoy. There will be fire safety trailer demonstrations, FREE T-shirt giveaway, bouncers, a Live DJ and more. This event is sponsored by ITC. If you have any questions please call the Mayor's office at 734-467-3200 or go to the city website www.cityofwestland.com.
 
Mayor William R. Wild with Westland residents at a previous Community Gathering (Pictured Right).
 
Westland Community Garage Sale
Community Garage SaleAre you looking for that special treasure?  Stop at the Westland Community Garage Sale with almost 100 Garage Sales all in one place!  The Westland Community Garage Sale has many unique and gently used items for your home and hobbies. There are many things you can find from the handyman's dream to antique collectors.  Whatever you are looking for you are sure to find it at the Community Garage Sale! The sale begins on September 18 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and is located on Ford Rd. between Wayne and Newburgh in the parking lot between City Hall and the Police Station.
 
If you are vendor looking to purchase a spot at the Community Garage Sale, spots are available for $20-$25; just come to the Bailey Center cashier located at 36551 Ford Rd. between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily to make a reservation.
 
All proceeds from the garage sale benefit Central City Park, Westland's Youth Assistance Program and the Westland Therapeutic Recreation Program.
 
The Westland Historic Village Park presents... Modern Americana
Historic ParkJoin us in celebrating American Folk Arts in the Modern Era at the Westland Historic Village Park on September 18 from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Watch as centuries-old crafts are breathed anew and discover how numerous practices of yester year can be reinvented and used today. Activities will include spinning and weaving, rug hooking, candle dipping, porcupine-quilling, home-brewing, corn husk dolls, historic children's games and a special lecture on cottage industries by Westland Historical Commissioner, Jeff Koslowski. Admission to the Westland Historic Village Park and Modern Americana is free of charge. All are welcome! The park is located at 857 N. Wayne Rd. between Marquette and Cherry Hill. For more information call (734) 326-1110.
 
DTE Community Garden Update
Garden VolunteersIt's still the growing season, but the first harvest at Westland's Community Garden brought 230 pounds of fresh produce to Gleaners Community Food Bank. Located behind a DTE Energy facility at 38155 Cherry Hill, Westland's Community Garden covers approximately one acre.
 
The garden, planted and tended to by volunteers, is getting watered now thanks to the efforts of Westland Department of Public Services Superintendent Benny McCusker. Using a hose confiscated from someone who had illegally hooked into the city water system and a golf course sprinkler, the garden is no longer depending on Mother Nature for watering. Tomatoes
 
Volunteers are needed to help with weeding and harvesting the garden from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. each Wednesday. Gleaners serves children, seniors, disabled people, working families and other individuals in need of emergency food.
 
Dorsey Center Rental Information
The Dorsey Center is available for rent to community groups and private individuals. The Dorsey Center accommodates gatherings up to 100 people (seating for 80). Kitchen facilities are available. A $30.00 security deposit is required, and must be paid at the Dorsey Center at least five days prior to the event.
 
Rental Rates:
Community Groups can rent the Center for $20.00 for up to 3 hours and $7.00 per hour for additional hours.  Individuals, such as birthday and graduation parties, wedding showers, etc. can rent the Center for $25.00 per hour.
 
To check for availability for your next event, call the Dorsey Center at 734.595.0288, x2630.
 
Volunteer in the City of Westland
Volunteers are the backbone of many organizations and communities. The support volunteers offer help to create a strong and steadfast foundation. Help build and strengthen our All American City by offering your time as a volunteer!
Volunteer
 
Click the "Sign Up Now" button to volunteer at the following locations:
 
August in Review 
Councilman Adam Hammons, Mayor William R. Wild, Deputy Mayor Jade Smith and Community Development Director Joanne Inglis join Habitat for Humanity volunteers for a wall raising on Donnelly St.
Habitat for Humanity
The month of August was filled with diverse activities ranging from summer fun to back-to-school giveaways. Westland Seniors stayed busy by kicking off the month with "Journey to Better Health," a new health project where Mayor William R. Wild and St. Mary Mercy Hospital collaborated to expand residents' knowledge through educational seminars and provide health screenings. Throughout the rest of the month, Westland Seniors dominated the Wayne County Senior Olympics taking home the most gold, silver and bronze medals.
 
Meanwhile, other Westland residents enjoyed the Annual Gary St. Block Party and participated in a Habitat for Humanity wall raising on Donnelly St. Under the Neighborhood Stabilization Program, the City of Westland has partnered with Habitat for Humanity to provide affordable housing opportunities for Westland residents.  Recently on Donnelly St., Mayor Wild joined Habitat executive director Alice Dent and new homeowner Amy Tracy to raise the walls on Ms. Tracy's new home.
 
In addition, businesses continue to prosper and new ones decide to make our city their home. Sportway is celebrating 25 years of business and this month we welcomed Kroger's Fueling Center on Merriman Rd. and Westland Prompt Care on Wayne Rd.  
 
Mayor William R. Wild with Salvation Army volunteers and local Girl Scout Troop.
Backpack Giveaway
Although everyone has been enjoying much fun in the sun, the school year is right around the corner. Mayor Wild joined the Salvation Army for a FREE Backpack Giveaway to pass out 200 backpacks filled with school supplies for low income families who have children in grades K-12 in the Wayne-Westland School District. The City ended the month on a high note by Westland Shopping Center playing host to Radio Disney for several "Back 2 School" sweepstakes.
 
 
 
City of Westland Municipal Departments

Mayor

William R. Wild

mayorwild@cityofwestland.com

734.467.3200

Assessment

Jim Elrod

assessor@cityofwestland.com

734.467.3160

Building

Roger Shifflett

building@cityofwestland.com

734.467.3210

Clerk  

Eileen Dehart         

edehart@cityofwestland.com

734.467.3185

Housing/Community Dev. 

Joanne Inglis

jinglis@cityofwestland.com

734.595.0288

Deputy Mayor

Jade Smith

jsmith@cityofwestland.com

734.467.3200

Finance

Steve Smith

finance@cityofwestland.com

734.467.3169

Purchasing

Bill Gabriel

bgabriel@cityofwestland.com

734.467.3204

Economic Dev.     

Lori Fodale  

lfodale@cityofwestland.com  

734.467.3264

Engineering

John Dickie 

jdickie@cityofwestland.com   

734.467.3210

Fire

Chief M. Reddy  

firedept@cityofwestland.com

734.467.3201

Library 

Cheryl Napsha

cheryl.napsha@westland.lib.mi.us

734.326.6123

Parks & Rec.        

Bob Kosowski

parks@cityofwestland.com

734.722.7620

Personnel

Cindy King  

cking@cityofwestland.com

734.467.3263

Planning   

Bruce Thompson   

planning@cityofwestland.com

734.467.3266

Police

Chief A. Ramsden  

chief_of_police@wlpd.net

734.722.9600

Public Service

Kevin Buford

kbuford@cityofwestland.com 

734.728.1770

Water & Sewer      

Benny McCusker      

bmccusker@cityofwestland.com

734.728.1770

Senior Resources  

Barb Marcum         

bmarcum@cityofwestland.com 

734.722.7628

Information Tech.

Dan Bourdeau        

dbourdeau@cityofwestland.com

734.467.7952

WLND - Cable       

Craig Welkenbach 

cabletv@cityofwestland.com

734.467.3198

Youth Assistance   

Paul Motz             

yap@cityofwestland.com 

734.467.7904

 
City Council

James R. Godbout     Michael A. Kehrer     Christine Cicirelli Bryant     Adam Hammons          

                    James R.             Michael A.              Christine                  Adam                     
                    Godbout                 Kehrer              Cicirelli Bryant          Hammons         
                           President               President Pro Tem

Bill Johnson     Meriem Kadi     Dewey K. Reeves    

                                        Bill                     Meriem                 Dewey K.                  
                                     Johnson                  Kadi                     Reeves
 
Eileen DeHart, CMC - City Clerk
 
*Click the above pictures to e-mail the respective Council members.