Thanksgiving…

Mayors, community thank veterans and families for service to country

Westland Mayor William R. Wild, Wayne Mayor John P. Rhaesa, Wayne Ford Civic League President Vic Barra, and several elected officials handed out holiday meals last week to during the Ninth Annual Meals for Wayne-Westland Veterans, Surviving Spouses, and Families of Active-Duty Service Members program.

Recipients received a 12-16 pound turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy, sweet potatoes, corn, green beans, cranberry sauce, and rolls for a family of six to eight people. The holiday meals were a token of appreciation for service from area residents, official organizers said.

Families who needed assistance, special arrangements or delivery were all accommodated during the program. 

The event was coordinated by Wild and Rhaesa, members of the Westland and Wayne city councils, Westland City Council President Jim Hart and Councilwoman Andrea Rutkowski. Westland Councilwoman Melissa Sampey organized meal delivery coordination. The effort was also helped by Wayne Ford Civic League members, Westland Community Police officers, VFW 9885 BOVA Auxiliary, John Glenn High School Junior Varsity Football team members, Westland Democratic Club members, Norwayne Kronk Boxing Gym members, Norwayne Citizens Council members, U.S. Ice, and many other individuals.

More than $20,000 in donations for the effort were contributed by Kirk of Our Savior Church, VFW Post 9885 Bova and Auxiliary, Westland Rotary Club, Fausone, Bonn, PLC, Wayne 100 Club, The Westland House Affordable Assisted Living, Councilman Mike McDermott, The Westland Democratic Club, Hegira Health, Inc. and several others.