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July is wrapping up, so let's swing on over to your favorite movie house! WEMU's Mat Hopson and Marquee Arts' own Nick Alderink meet up once again to chat the new films opening this weekend and to give a taste of Ann Arbor's next batch of special screenings!

A recent study from Washtenaw Optimal Wellness is shedding new light on a long-standing reality in Ypsilanti: where residents live, the opportunities available to them and the color of their skin can all influence how long they are expected to live. Jeff Tritten, the President of Washtenaw Optimal Wellness, authored the study. He joined Lee Van Roth to discuss it in detail and what can be done to improve the lives of all Ypsilanti residents.

An outbreak in cyclosporiasis recently spread all over Michigan, and a large number of cases were identified here in Washtenaw County. Kristen Schweighoefer, Director of the Washtenaw County Health Department's environmental health division, joined Rebekah Warren to discuss the source of the outbreak and what precautions residents should take to prevent another.

When a child is hospitalized, the strain on the family can be overwhelming. It can be even more overwhelming when these families are struggling financially. Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of Ann Arbor provides these families with temporary food and housing while their children receive medical treatment. RMHC's Director of Development, Dr. Douglas F. Manigault III, joined Decky Alexander to talk more about the house's continuing work for the community.

Those reentering society after incarceration face numerous challenges, including addressing their own health. Yet, access to quality health care, housing, and other necessities can be exceedingly difficult. In response to this, Packard Health has partnered with the Washtenaw County Sheriff's Department to create the "Beyond Incarceration" program. Lee Van Roth talked all about this amazing initiative with Packard Health reentry coach Jessica Slone.

The expansion of Washtenaw County's Border-To-Border Trail continues, and the next piece of the puzzle is the "Dexter Connection." This stretch of the trail will connect hikers and bikers to downtown Dexter and is expected to be completed this fall. Roy Townsend serves as Project Manager for the Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission. He spoke to Rebekah Warren about the expansion's current progress and how it may impact Washtenaw County's overall environment and infrastructure.

"Students have a right to learn—no matter what." That is the motto of the Ypsilanti-based Student Advocacy Center of Michigan. The center stands up for K-12 students who deal with suspensions, face racial barriers, and get denied access to special education. Decky Alexander shared more about the center's ongoing work with its Co-Executive Director, Anell Eccleston.

A number of Ann Arbor businesses have started to phase out using single-use plastics. Not only has this lowered their operational costs, it's beneficial to many local environmental initiatives. Phillis Engelbert, owner/operator of Detroit Filling Station in Ann Arbor, is among these entrepreneurs leading the way in working towards zero waste. She talks more about her actions and how others can follow her example with Rebekah Warren.

University Musical Society (UMS) is returning to Ypsilanti's historic Freighthouse this fall with another season of performances and community events. This year's residency brings back some familiar Freighthouse favorites, while also introducing some new experiences with the hopes of, once again, creating a very welcoming musical atmosphere for folks in and around the Ypsi community. Lee Van Roth gave us a preview of the upcoming season with UMS Vice President of Learning and Engagement, Cayenne Harris.

Ann Arbor Pride, where the LGBTQ community gathers in Ann Arbor to celebrate its identity and unity, is coming this August. And it's all made possible by the Jim Toy Community Center, led by its executive director, Joe Halsch. Halsch joined Decky Alexander to talk about the center's ongoing mission and what to expect for this year's Pride festivities.