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Washtenaw County Clerk and Register of Deeds Larry Kestenbaum moonlights in the creative world as photographer, illustrator, and the master sleuth behind "The Political Graveyard," the most comprehensive single free source for American political biographies, including how politicians died and where they are buried. Join Deb Polich on this edition of "creative:impact" when Larry tells her about his obsession with political history.

A "Community Baby Shower" continues through the end of May in Washtenaw County. We know there is a local and national shortage of baby formula, but there are a number new moms in our community that need a more than that. That's the idea behind the month-long event: to raise needed supplies to be distributed to give mother and child a hand-up as they begin their journey together. WEMU's David Fair was joined by the Vice President of Development of the United Way of Washtenaw County, Susan Smith, to discuss how serious the needs are and what we can collectively do to help in our community.

Journalists quickly become subject experts on the stories they cover. Ann Arborite Michael Hodges spent 30 years at The Detroit News. No doubt his research and storytelling skills positioned him well to become an author. Join Deb Polich on this edition of "creative:impact" to meet journalist turned author, Michael Hodges. They talk about his career and his recent book about famed architect Albert Kahn.

There are a number of firsts this year in the United Way of Washtenaw County's Justice Fund allocations. The aim is to put money in the hands of more nonprofits and organizations that are working most closely with those in need—particularly Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). WEMU's David Fair is joined by Bridget Herrmann, UWWC's vice president for community impact and advocacy, to discuss the refocused lens being used to shape community investment moving forward.

There is a huge community of television and movie watchers that have become engrossed in the lives of the Crawley family and their servants in the family's Edwardian country house. The next chapter is here! "Downton Abbey: A New Era" is playing at The Michigan Theater in downtown Ann Arbor and opens at movie theaters nationwide on Friday, May 20th. WEMU's David Fair and Michigan Theater Foundation executive director and CEO, Russ Collins, have a full preview for you and a rundown of your other film choices this week.

We are moving closer to the day when the defunct Peninsular Paper Dam will be removed from the Huron River. The plan has been in the works for some time, while plans continue to preserve an historic Ypsilanti building and create a public gathering space. Huron River Watershed Council executive director, Rebecca Esselman, joined WEMU's David Fair to discuss progress and next steps on dam removal and the restoration of natural flow in that part of the river.

It's an extra-long weekend, so why not fill it up with a trip to the movie house? WEMU's David Fair and Michigan Theater Foundation executive director Russ Collins meet up to chat about the latest films and special screenings coming your way this Memorial Day weekend.

The perennial blossoming of the University of Michigan’s Peony Garden is a sure sign of spring. Perennial, yes, but this year, there is something extra to celebrate. The Peony Garden marks its 100th anniversary. Join Deb Polich on this edition of "creative:impact" to meet Doug Conley, garden coordinator at the University of Michigan’s Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum. They talk about the art of public gardens and learn what's planned for the celebration.

May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. In 2021, hate crimes against members of the AAPI community in the U.S. increased 339%. WEMU's David Fair sat down with local artist, graphic recorder, and BIPOC advocate, Yen Azzaro, to discuss her personal journey and how it informs the work she does to build equity and understanding.

A visual artist creates images to help us see the world. A poet uses words to do the same. Both have the power to link us to our hearts and souls. Keith Taylor is an award-winning poet who has published thousands of lines of poetry. Join Deb Polich on this edition of "creative impact" to meet Keith and hear how and why he turns words into expression.