2007 Events --> November 13, 2007 RAP with NAP honors participants in blighted property clean-up
Detroit – At its second annual Rap with Nap forum, the Wayne County Nuisance Abatement Program honored those citizens who took added steps to return blighted property to the tax rolls and, more importantly, restored pride and value to the local neighborhoods where the houses and businesses are located.
The Nuisance Abatement Program is focused on rehabilitating abandoned and blighted properties in Wayne County. The agency targets abandoned and blighted property that owners had neglected or, in some cases, refused to restore. In the event of refusal, Wayne County NAP can attain title through court action. Those honored Tuesday not only adhered to update standards, but took added measures to restore the houses or businesses to near new condition. This year the agency focused on the theme of "Building Opportunities for Success,” highlighting success stories regarding the efforts to create and maintain clean and safe neighborhoods.
“We want to commend our residents for turning blight into beauty,” Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano said. “We have several success stories and important information for community members concerned about abandoned homes and blighted areas.”
A Westland official at the downtown event noted that NAP has allowed a number of city properties to undergo restoration. She urged more community leaders to investigate the program: (313) 967-2203 or at waynecounty.com
Those honored Tuesday included:
Dennis Wright, 16829 W. Chicago
The huge, gaping holes in the roof, the peeling siding and the boarded-up windows presented a depressing and bleak reality to residents of the neighborhood. The rehabilitation efforts on this house re-made it into a beautiful and welcoming home.
Daryl and Mary Bauer, 14006 Kentfield
This property had been a scourge on the neighborhood due to the burnt roof, garbage-filled lawn and extensive drug activity. At one point, seven drug warrants were executed on this house within a four-week period resulting in numerous arrests. The new owners renovated the home and returned it to clean and respectable use.
Sandra L. Studvent, 3132-3134 Theodore
This large 2-story house was in terrible shape and posed an increasing safety risk to the neighborhood. As with any large vacant structure, its negative impact was multiplied because it was so prominent on the block. The renovations restored this property to its former grace and given new life and hope to the community.
Albert Khalili, 16921 Livernois
This commercial property is located right across the street from the University of Detroit Mercy. It was abandoned and open to the elements, creating blight in what should have been a very vibrant and productive location. It was more of a liability than an asset and detracted from the normally upbeat social fabric surrounding a college campus. After substantial renovations, including all new windows, major brick work and a new roof, it serves the UD-M community by providing much needed commercial space and commercial tenants.
Bagley Housing, 17th Street
17th Street: The Bagley Housing Association restored some housing and built new housing on property that former owners had left abandoned and blighted.
Event Photos (Click to enlarge)
August 18, 2008
Western Wayne Senior Olympics kick-off in Westland, fourth annual event targets athletes 50 and up
Westland - Who's going to be the next Michael Phelps? That was the question posed by Kevin Kelley, Wayne County's seniors/veterans director.
County agency continues to build neighborhoods; project along Linwood a big success
The sound of an electric saw and hammers pounding nails may not raise eyebrows in many neighborhoods, but in this area along Linwood in Detroit, for some, it’s the sound of music.
Senior Olympics return to the Downriver region; Wayne County partners with the city of Trenton in 2008
Trenton - Wayne County and the city of Trenton are hosting this year's annual Downriver Senior Olympics, a celebration of health and vitality for athletes over age 50.
Off and flying: Fans flock to Pinnacle opening
as owner
sees dream come true
For horse owner Henry Mast, the only thing more surprising than being the first winner at Pinnacle Race Course on Friday afternoon was that he couldn't find a parking spot at the track before the race.
Detroit – At its second annual Rap with Nap forum, the Wayne County Nuisance Abatement Program honored those citizens who took added steps to return blighted property to the tax rolls and, more importantly, restored pride and value to the local neighborhoods where the houses and businesses are located.
Westland - Who's going to be the next Michael Phelps? That was the question posed by Kevin Kelley, Wayne County's seniors/veterans director. 
The sound of an electric saw and hammers pounding nails may not raise eyebrows in many neighborhoods, but in this area along Linwood in Detroit, for some, it’s the sound of music.
Trenton - Wayne County and the city of Trenton are hosting this year's annual Downriver Senior Olympics, a celebration of health and vitality for athletes over age 50.
For horse owner Henry Mast, the only thing more surprising than being the first winner at Pinnacle Race Course on Friday afternoon was that he couldn't find a parking spot at the track before the race.
