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Articles by David Fair
Reflections and ruminations with the WEMU GM: David Fair and Michael Jewett to retire
TRANSCRIPTION: Molly Motherwell: And hello! This is General Manager Molly Motherwell, sitting down for the last time with David Fair and Michael Jewett on the cusp of your retirements in the next few days. I thought it would be a great opportunity for the three of us to sit down, having been colleagues now for decades, and just look back over the years of your being here, us being a team and just working with WEMU in general.
Cinema Chat: Russ Collins returns to the WEMU studio to reflect on more than 30 years on air with David Fair
RESOURCES: Marquee Arts Marquee Arts on Facebook Marquee Arts on X (Twitter) Marquee Arts on Instagram TRANSCRIPTION: David Fair: This is 89.1 WEMU. It is your community NPR station, I'm David Fair, and the theme is the indicator. It's time for this week's edition of Cinema Chat. And on that note, I'd like to point out this is the last edition of Cinema Chat that I will ever host before I step into retirement. And I wanted to do something a little special.
Issues of the Environment: A conversation with WEMU's new environmental host, former state lawmaker Rebekah Warren
REBEKAH WARREN'S ENVIRONMENTAL HISTORY Positions: Michigan House of Representatives: ● Chair, Great Lakes and Environment Committee, 2007-2010 ● Ranking Member/Vice Chair of the Ways and Means Committee, 2019-2020 Michigan Senate: ● Ranking Member/Vice Chair of the Natural Resources, Environment and Great Lakes Committee, 2011-2018 Member, Great Lakes Commission, 2011-2019 Member, Council on Future Mobility Member, National Conference of Environmental Legislators (NCEL), 2007-2021 Co-Chair,...
Washtenaw United: Meet Decky Alexander, new host of Washtenaw United
ABOUT DECKY ALEXANDER: Jessica ‘Decky’ Alexander is a professor of applied drama/theatre and the Director of Engage@EMU, an office whose mission is to cultivate community and university collaboration. Both as a performer and as a faculty member, Decky has used the mediums of theatre and performance to foster voice with underserved and under-heard individuals and communities.
Cinema Chat: 'Amores Perros,' 'The Death of Robin Hood' and 'Toy Story 5' open in theatres this weekend
OPENING THIS WEEK "Amores Perros" (25th Anniversary 4K Restoration) — OPENS FRIDAY, JUNE 19 AT THE MICHIGAN A bold, intensely emotional, and ambitious story of lives that collide in a Mexico City car crash. Inventively structured as a triptych of overlapping and intersecting narratives, the film explores the lives of disparate characters who are catapulted into unforeseen dramatic situations instigated by the seemingly inconsequential destiny of a dog named Cofi.
Issues of the Environment: Protecting the rare Mitchell's satyr butterfly from extinction
Resources Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission Mitchell's satyr butterfly Transcription David Fair: This is 89.1 WEMU. And today, we're going to explore the delicate balance required to prevent extinction of a rare butterfly. It's called the Mitchell's satyr. It exists only in small pockets in Michigan and Indiana. And as it turns out, Washtenaw County is one of its homes. I'm David Fair, and welcome to this week's edition of Issues of the Environment.
Washtenaw United: Many Hands Lifesharing Community growing in Dexter
ABOUT KERRY KAFAFIAN: Kerry Kafafian. Kerry is a determined parent of a young adult son with intellectual and developmental disability. She knows hundreds of families facing the same challenges and knows how profoundly important the work is. Kerry is using her University of Michigan Business School degree in marketing to champion the innovative Lifesharing model of care. Kerry began working on a Lifesharing community for her son in 2005.
Washtenaw United: Many Hands Lifesharing Community in Dexter to bring 1st in Michigan opportunities to families in need
ABOUT KERRY KAFAFIAN: Kerry Kafafian. Kerry is a determined parent of a young adult son with intellectual and developmental disability. She knows hundreds of families facing the same challenges and knows how profoundly important the work is. Kerry is using her University of Michigan Business School degree in marketing to champion the innovative Lifesharing model of care. Kerry began working on a Lifesharing community for her son in 2005.
Issues of the Environment: City of Ann Arbor works to expand partnerships to enhance A2ZERO efforts
Resources Ann Arbor Office of Sustainability & Innovations Missy Stults A2ZERO I Am A2ZERO Ann Arbor Sustainable Energy Utility Transcription David Fair: This is 89.1 WEMU, and in a time of funding uncertainty, there is indeed for creation of more public-private community partnerships that will help ensure ongoing development of our clean energy infrastructure. I'm David Fair, and welcome to this week's edition of Issues of the Environment.
Washtenaw United: Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation continues its philanthropy in uncertain times
ABOUT SHANNON POLK: Shannon Polk serves as President & CEO of the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation (AAACF), leading one of Washtenaw County’s most enduring and trusted philanthropic institutions. A licensed attorney in the State of Michigan and an ordained minister, Shannon brings a rare and powerful combination of legal acumen, pastoral grounding, and philanthropic leadership to her role - allowing her to navigate complexity with both strategic rigor and deep humanity.
1st Friday Focus on the Environment: David Fair says farewell with Lisa Wozniak and Lana Pollack, introduces Rebekah Warren as new co-host
ABOUT LANA POLLACK: Lana Pollack Lana Pollack has spent her long and diverse career as an outspoken advocate for people and causes whose voices are often unheard in the halls of power. Before beginning her political career, Pollack had the pleasure of raising two children and was a teacher of dance and social studies. She spent years as a political volunteer, learning from the ground up before she managed campaigns and chaired the Ann Arbor Democratic party.
Issues of the Environment: Washtenaw County expanding reach of rain garden program
Resources Washtenaw County Water Resources Commission Washtenaw County Rain Gardens Program Native Plant Expo & Marketplace Transcription David Fair: This is 89.1 WEMU, and today, we're going to talk about how we can make a difference in the health of our environment without having to leave our properties. The Office of the Washtenaw County Water Resources Commissioner has scaled a decentralized green infrastructure network--more than 2,000 rain gardens now.
Ann Arbor Meals on Wheels combats growing need and uncertain federal support
RESOURCES: Ann Arbor Meals on Wheels Big Hearts for Seniors TRANSCRIPTION: David Fair: State demographers are warning that Michigan's aging population and stagnant labor market could have serious consequences unless we start to better address the issues. One-third of Michigan's population is over the age of 55. That's putting pressure on elder care and health care services. I'm David Fair, and this is 89.1 WEMU.
Washtenaw United: National Kidney Foundation of Michigan tackling 'silent epidemic' of chronic kidney disease
ABOUT CRYSTAL D'AGOSTINO: Crystal D'Agostino has a Masters' of Social Work, employed with NKFM for 17 years and was a nephrology social worker prior. RESOURCES: National Kidney Foundation of Michigan (NKFM) NKFM on Facebook NKFM on X (Twitter) NKFM on Instagram NKFM on LinkedIn NKFM on YouTube TRANSCRIPTION: David Fair: This is 89.1 WEMU, and welcome to our weekly exploration of equity and opportunity in our community. I'm David Fair, and this is Washtenaw United.
Cinema Chat: 'Steal This Story, Please' and 'Backrooms' open in Ann Arbor, 'The Breadwinner' opens at the multiplex
OPENING THIS WEEK "The Breadwinner" — OPENS FRIDAY, MAY 29 AT THE MULTIPLEX A supermom lands a Shark Tank deal, switching roles with her breadwinner husband. But he struggles to adapt as a stay-at-home dad to their three daughters. Starring writer/comedian Nate Bargatze and Mandy Moore. "Pressure" — OPENS FRIDAY, MAY 29 AT THE MULTIPLEX In the tense 72 hours before D-Day, General Dwight D.
Issues of the Environment: Ann Arbor Climate Corps helps march toward carbon neutrality
Resources Ann Arbor Office of Sustainability & Innovations Maggie Halpern A2ZERO Carbon Neutrality Plan Ann Arbor Climate Corps Transcription David Fair: This is 89.1 WEMU, and when we think of combating the climate crisis, we most often think about what we're putting in the air. In order to better protect our land, water and air, it takes boots on the ground. And that's where the Ann Arbor Climate Corps comes in. I'm David Fair, and welcome to this week's edition of Issues of the Environment.
Cinema Chat: A recap of Cinetopia 2026, plus 'Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu' opens at the State and nationwide
OPENING THIS WEEK "I Love Boosters" — OPENS TODAY AT THE STATE AND THE MULTIPLEX A group of shoplifters take aim at a cutthroat fashion maven by stealing her clothes and reselling them at a lower price, what they call "fashion-forward philanthropy." From writer/director Boots Riley ("Sorry to Bother You") and starring Keke Palmer, LaKeith Stanfield, Taylour Paige, Demi Moore, and Don Cheadle.
Issues of the Environment: The Hungry Locavore in Ann Arbor builds community through local food network
Resources The Hungry Locavore The Hungry Locavore on Facebook The Hungry Locavore on Instagram Transcription David Fair: This is 89.1 WEMU, and let's talk about our local agricultural and business community. I'm David Fair, and welcome to Issues of the Environment. There is a growing local food network, and, among other things, it can contribute to the effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help in the effort toward carbon neutrality.
Washtenaw United: Friends In Deed and its executive director are driven to assist those experiencing poverty
ABOUT R. TYRONE KELSEY: Tyrone Kelsey lives in Superior Township. Married 39 years with 3 adult kids. BS in Public Administration from EMU. MA in Spiritual Formation from Ashland Theological Seminary. MA in Sociology from EMU. Just completed 1st year as Executive Director of Friends In Deed. The majority of 45 year was in IT, 27 years with Ford Motor Company.
Cinema Chat: Filmmaker Jeremy Xido's 'Sons of Detroit' to open the Cinetopia Film Festival in Ann Arbor Thursday evening
ABOUT JEREMY XIDO: "Sons of Detroit" writer/director Jeremy Xido at the Timko Broadcast Center. Originally from Detroit, Jeremy graduated cum laude in Painting and Comparative Literature from Columbia University, NY and trained at the Actor's Studio. A Fulbright and Guggenheim recipient, he’s artistic co-director of performance/film company CABULA6, voted “Company of the Year” by Ballettanz, and awarded “Outstanding Artist of the Year” by the Austrian Ministry of the Arts.
Issues of the Environment: U-M's Digital Water Lab advances monitoring systems in the Huron River
Resources Digital Water Lab at U-M Dr. Branko Kerkez Huron River Day 2026 Transcription David Fair: This is 89.1 WEMU, and you've all heard the reports of severe flooding in different parts of our state. The governor declared a state of emergency for 40 counties a few weeks back, including in Washtenaw County. I'm David Fair, and this is Issues of the Environment.
Washtenaw United: Educate Youth helps high school students set clear post-graduation plans
ABOUT GAIL WOLKOFF: Gail Wolkoff is a dedicated teacher educator, former school administrator, and longtime advocate for youth-centered, equity-driven education. After decades in public education, she resigned from classroom teaching and administration in May 2010 to pursue her vision of building community-based programming that connects young people to the world while fostering a deep love of learning.
Cinema Chat: 'I Swear' and 'Everyone is Lying to You for Money' open downtown, 'The Sheep Detectives' and 'Mortal Kombat II' open at the multiplex
OPENING THIS WEEK "I Swear" — NOW PLAYING AT THE MICHIGAN John Davidson grows up with Tourette's syndrome in the 1980s Scotland. He faces a society that does not understand his condition but eventually becomes a campaigner to increase public awareness. "The Sheep Detectives" — OPENS FRIDAY, MAY 8 AT THE MULTIPLEX Every night, a shepherd reads aloud a murder mystery, pretending his sheep can understand.
Washtenaw United: United Way for Southeastern Michigan works to prepare grants for its partners that serve the community
ABOUT ALYSSA ALONTE: Alyssa has been working at United Way for over 3 years, managing various grant programs and working closely with organizations across Southeast MI that provide food, housing, and healthcare. Alyssa has a background in public health and has previously worked for the Wayne County Health Department and Henry Ford Health.
1st Friday Focus on the Environment: Weighing impacts of data centers and renewable energy projects on rural areas in Washtenaw County and Michigan
ABOUT DR. SARAH MILLS: As the Director of Graham's Center for EmPowering Communities, Sarah manages UM's partnership with the Michigan Office of Climate and Energy, helping communities across the state consider energy in their land use planning, zoning, and other policymaking. Through this work, she is developing templates, case studies, and other guidance documents that can help local governments across the state set policies related to clean energy.
Cinema Chat: The most anticipated films of Cinetopia 2026, 'The Devil Wears Prada 2' and 'Power to the People: John and Yoko Live in NYC' open in Ann Arbor
CINETOPIA RETURNS MAY 13 – 17 Back for its 11th year, Cinetopia brings audiences and filmmakers together to celebrate bold cinema, independent voices, and films you cannot see anywhere else. Featuring 18 curated films from around the world, designed by people who love film as much as you do. Cinetopia is your chance to discover unforgettable stories from filmmakers with unique perspectives and true creative vision. Full lineup, passes and single tickets available at marquee-arts.org/cinetopia.
Issues of the Environment: Economic and community benefit part of the Washtenaw County data center debate
About Phil Santer Phil Santer is the Chief Operating Officer for Ann Arbor SPARK, overseeing day-to-day operations and leading execution of the organization’s strategic plan. Phil has more than 15 years of experience in economic development at both the practitioner and policy levels. Before joining SPARK, he held roles at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and at a research center at George Mason University in Washington, DC.
Washtenaw United: Housing discrimination remains a problem in Washtenaw County and the region
ABOUT KRISTEN CUHRAN: Kristen J. Cuhran is the Executive Director of the Fair Housing Center of Southeast & Mid Michigan. She’s been with the organization since 2005, serving in every capacity from investigator to administrator. Kristen has dedicated her career to upholding the fair housing rights of the residents of Southeast and Mid Michigan.
New Director of the Washtenaw County Office of Aging Services moving forward with Older Persons Millage mission
RESOURCES: Washtenaw County Older Persons Millage Washtenaw County Office of Aging Services Shannon Effler TRANSCRIPTION: David Fair: This is 89.1 WEMU, and I'm David Fair and I want to share a quote with you. It comes from Former President Hubert Humphrey. He said, "The ultimate moral test of any government is the manner in which it treats those who are in the dawn of life, our children, and those who are in twilight of life our elderly." How do you think we're doing?
Cinema Chat: A preview of Cinetopia 2026, plus 'Fantasy Life' and 'Mother Mary' open in Ann Arbor
CINETOPIA RETURNS MAY 13 – 17 Back for it’s 11th year, Cinetopia brings audiences and filmmakers together to celebrate bold cinema, independent voices, and films you cannot see anywhere else. Featuring 18 curated films from around the world, designed by people who love film as much as you do. Cinetopia is your chance to discover unforgettable stories from filmmakers with unique perspectives and true creative vision. Full lineup, passes and single tickets available at marquee-arts.org/cinetopia.
Issues of the Environment: An Earth Day conversation on the complex matter of dams in the Huron River watershed and Michigan waterways
About Rebecca Esselman Rebecca started at HRWC as a watershed planner, leading HRWC’s work in climate adaptation and water conservation and began in her role as Executive Director in 2019. Prior to joining HRWC, Rebecca spent ten years with the Nature Conservancy working in conservation planning and knowledge sharing.
Washtenaw United: Gift of Life Michigan marks National Donate Life Month
ABOUT DORRIE DILS: Dorrie Dils was named president and CEO of Gift of Life Michigan in 2016. As the leader of the nation’s 11th-largest organ and tissue program, Dils oversees a staff of more than 400 professionals who work statewide to help fulfill the decisions of organ and tissue donors and their families. In June of 2024, Dils became the President of the Association of Organ Procurement Organizations which represents 48 of the nation’s 56 organ donor programs throughout the United States.
Issues of the Environment: Willow Run Airport receives state grant to remove PFAS contamination
Resources EGLE awards $9 million in PFAS response grants to 19 Michigan airports Eric Larson Transcription David Fair: This is 89.1 WEMU. And it's been a while, but today, we're going to return our attention to PFAS contamination. This time around, it's in the realm of aviation operations. I'm David Fair, and welcome to this week's edition of Issues of the Environment.
Washtenaw United: Ele's Place supports young people and families navigating grief
ABOUT OLIVIA WILDER: "I am an LLMSW (a limited license Master of Social Work) from the University of Michigan. I have also earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology and social work from Eastern Michigan University. I have had the honor of working with other populations such as in OBGYN behavioral health, children on the autism spectrum and people returning from jail and prison.
Washtenaw Business Lens: Challenging times for businesses and the banking industry
ABOUT ERIK BAKKER: Erik is Executive Vice President, Chief Commercial Loan Officer of Bank of Ann Arbor, a locally owned and operated full-service community bank with eight locations serving Michiganders throughout southeast Michigan. Erik joined Bank of Ann Arbor in June 2016 as the Executive Vice President and Manager of the Trust and Investment Management Group. He assumed the role of Birmingham Chief Lending Officer in September 2017. He became Chief Lending Officer of the Bank in April 2022.
Issues of the Environment: The Pear Street Collective's ongoing maple sugaring project
About Jennie Williams Jennie Williams is an Ann Arbor resident and longtime member of the Pear Street Collective. Transcription David Fair: This is 89.1 WEMU, and we have a naturally sweet conversation for you today. It's about a community project focused on maple syrup. I'm David Fair, and welcome to Issues of the Environment. There's a group in Ann Arbor called the Pear Street Collective.
Washtenaw United: Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan taking on modern challenges
ABOUT BRENNA WEST: Brenna West is the Chief Communications Officer at Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan, where she leads marketing, customer service, and the contact center with a strategic mind and a storyteller’s heart. A lifelong Girl Scout and a passionate youth development advocate, Brenna has spent the last eight years crafting the messages that help girls discover their confidence, courage, and power to create change.
1st Friday Focus on the Environment: Former Michigan Gov. and U.S. Energy Secretary on data centers and energy future
ABOUT JENNIFER GRANHOLM: Jennifer M. Granholm was sworn in as the 16th Secretary of Energy on February 25, 2021. Secretary Granholm led DOE's work to advance the cutting-edge clean energy technologies that helped America achieve President Biden’s goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 while creating millions of good-paying union clean energy jobs and building an equitable economy.
Cinema Chat: 'The Super Mario Galaxy Movie' opens nationwide, 'The Drama' and 'A Hard Day's Night' open in Ann Arbor!
OPENING THIS WEEK "The Super Mario Galaxy Movie" — NOW PLAYING AT THE MULTIPLEX Mario ventures into space, exploring cosmic worlds and tackling galactic challenges far from the familiar Mushroom Kingdom. Starring Chris Pratt, Charlie Day, Jack Black, Anya Taylor-Joy, Brie Larson, Donald Glover, Benny Safdie and Keegan-Michael Key. "The Drama" — OPENS TODAY AT THE STATE A happily engaged couple is put to the test when an unexpected turn sends their wedding week off the rails.
Issues of the Environment: Preserving the Sibley Prairie in Brownstown Township
Resources Michigan Botanical Society Michigan Botanical Society — Huron Valley Chapter Sibley Prairie Transcription David Fair: This is 89.1 WEMU, and we're going to explore a rather ambitious effort at significant land and ecosystem preservation today. I'm David Fair, and welcome to Issues of the Environment. Now, have you heard of the Sibley Prairie? The 440-acre site in Wayne County is the largest and highest quality lake plain prairie in all of Michigan.
Safehouse Center in Ann Arbor spreads the word, April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month
Resources: SafeHouse Center SafeHouse Center on Facebook SafeHouse Center on LinkedIn SafeHouse Center on Instagram Transcription: David Fair: This is 89.1 WEMU, and here's something to take in and stew over: State reports indicate over 11,000 sexual assaults take place in Michigan each year. That's among the highest rates per capita anywhere in the nation. Women in the workplace experience sexual harassment at an alarming rate. One in four college-aged women will experience a sexual assault.
Washtenaw United: The Ann Arbor District Library as part of the literacy solution
RESOURCES: Ann Arbor District Library (AADL) AADL on Facebook AADL on Instagram AADL on Bluesky AADL on YouTube TRANSCRIPTION: David Fair: This is 89.1 WEMU and today we want to take a look at literacy and opportunity and libraries. I'm David Fair and welcome to this week's edition of Washtenaw United. When it comes to reading, Michigan currently ranks 44th out of the 50 states on the National Assessment of Educational Progress. It's often referred to as the nation's report card.
Cinema Chat: 64th Ann Arbor Festival continues at the historic Michigan Theater
Michigan Theater Balcony ANN ARBOR FILM FESTIVAL RETURNS - March 24th – 29th at the Michigan Theater The Ann Arbor Film Festival is the oldest avant-garde and experimental film festival in North America, founded in 1963. Internationally recognized as a premiere forum for independent filmmakers and artists, each year's festival engages audiences with remarkable cinematic experiences.
Issues of the Environment: Ann Arbor Mayor Taylor weighs in on dioxane plume Superfund designation
About Christopher Taylor Mayor Taylor has served as Mayor since November 2014, after serving three terms on Ann Arbor City Council. Mayor Taylor believes that local government's mission is to improve basic services and enhance quality of life. During his tenure, Ann Arbor has worked to accelerate road maintenance, modernize drinking water infrastructure, expand storm water detention, beautify parks and natural areas, and deploy unrelentingly professional police and fire services.
Ready to Go! The 64th Ann Arbor Film Festival
RESOURCES: Ann Arbor Film Festival (AAFF) Leslie Raymond AAFF on Facebook AAFF on X (Twitter) AAFF on YouTube AAFF on Instagram AAFF on Vimeo AAFF Director, Leslie Raymond TRANSCRIPTION: David Fair: This is 89.1 WEMU and I'm happy to say it's that time of year again and the wait is just about over. I'm David Fair and tomorrow marks the beginning of the 64th Ann Arbor Film Festival.
Washtenaw United: Child Care Network navigating through child care crisis
ABOUT ANNETTE SOBICINSKI: Annette Sobocinski serves as Executive Director of Child Care Network, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving access to affordable, high-quality childcare across multiple counties in Eastern and Southeast Michigan. She leads initiatives that support families, strengthen early childhood educators, and build regional coalitions to address childcare shortages.
A celebration of Dick Siegel and his music
RESOURCES: The Ark Celebrating Dick Siegel & His Music Mr. B George Bedard TRANSCRIPTION: David Fair: This is 89.1 WEMU, your community NPR station, and I'm David Fair. Oh, that should sound familiar to you. That's a song written and performed by a national touring artist and local legend, and it's about breakfast at the legendary Ann Arbor restaurant Angelo's. I am, of course, referring to Dick Siegel, a mainstay on area stages for over 40 years.
A musical salute to legendary songwriter Dick Siegel comes to The Ark in Ann Arbor
RESOURCES: The Ark Celebrating Dick Siegel & His Music Mr. B George Bedard TRANSCRIPTION: David Fair: This is 89.1 WEMU, your community NPR station, and I'm David Fair. Oh, that should sound familiar to you. That's a song written and performed by a national touring artist and local legend, and it's about breakfast at the legendary Ann Arbor restaurant Angelo's. I am, of course, referring to Dick Siegel, a mainstay on area stages for over 40 years.
Washtenaw Business Lens: Political and policy impacts on the health of business in Washtenaw County
ABOUT RICHARD CHANG: Chang joined the Blumira executive team with a distinguished professional background in leadership and entrepreneurship. He has co-founded multiple organizations including NewFoundry, a custom software consultancy serving small, medium and corporate clients; Clean Fun, a consumer services business; and Kestrel Medical, a company focused on simplifying the development process for mobile and web apps in compliance-heavy environments like HIPAA.
Dr. James Smith reflects on his 10-years of work as EMU President
RESOURCES: Eastern Michigan University Dr. James Smith TRANSCRIPTION: David Fair: This is 89.1 WEMU, and today, we're going to take a good amount of time to reflect and a little time to look forward as well. I'm David Fair, and it was on July 1st of 2016, Dr. James Smith officially became the president of Eastern Michigan University. A decade later, he's preparing to step away from that role. We asked for another opportunity to talk with Dr. Smith, and I'm glad to say today is that day.
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