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The opioid epidemic is growing worse, nationally and here at home in Washtenaw County. In the first six months of this year, 36 people have died of overdoses. That follows a 28% increase in such deaths in 2021. Washtenaw County is investing in comprehensive ways to address the problem that has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Washtenaw County Health Officer Jimena Loveluck joins WEMU's David Fair for a look at the problem and the manner in which it is being addressed.

Sometimes, a small grant can launch a public service group or organization to new levels of community impact. That’s the mission behind the United Way of Washtenaw County’s Opportunity Fund—to be an incubator of sorts. And it's working. WEMU's David Fair checked in with UWWC president and CEO, Pam Smith, to gain better understanding of how the fund has impacted Washtenaw County so far, with an eye towards $200,000 more investment in the 2023 grant cycle.

As we move towards a more sustainable energy and transportation future, one of the methodologies is an increased focus on hydrogen. The University of Michigan has created a hydrogen roadmap meant to help the state's response to new funding opportunities because of Michigan's climate action plan. WEMU's David Fair takes a look at what that means now and moving forward with the director for the Center of Sustainable Studies in the U-M's School for Environment and Sustainability, Greg Keoleian.

When the state Legislature reconvenes in January, Democrats will be in control of both chambers for the first time in 40 years. Democrats have a laundry list of priorities in the new legislative session. We’re going to take an initial look at what environmental priorities are on that list in the final edition of 1st Friday for 2022. WEMU’s David Fair and Michigan League of Conservation Voters executive director, Lisa Wozniak, went straight to the top of the incoming leadership ladder. Detroit Democrat, Joe Tate, will discuss environmental priorities as he prepares to become the next Speaker of the House in Lansing.

The bipartisan Michigan Board of State Canvassers meets today to certify the results of November elections. We have more from Rick Pluta.

It's officially December! The holiday season has begun, and there are plenty of movies along for the ride! WEMU's David Fair is joined by Nick Alderink from the Michigan Theater, who's filling in for Russ Collins. They met in the WEMU studio to talk about the newest films and special screenings heading your way.

You may have noticed that winters in Michigan are changing. That will continue. WEMU's David Fair spoke with University of Michigan professor of Climate and Space Sciences and Engineering, Dr. Richard Rood, about our climate future and the need for greater emphasis on adaptation.

The pandemic continues to cause greater housing and food insecurity and the impact on area veterans is only growing. Derrick Miller is a former Marine and now heads the Ann Arbor-based Community Action Network. He says the nonprofit service organization is being put to the test by increased demand. Mr. Miller joined WEMU's David Fair to discuss the increasingly creative means necessary to provide basic needs and a foundation of support for greater quality of life.

Partial recounts of ballots cast in the November election begin Wednesday — but with no realistic possibility of changing the results that added new abortion rights and voting rights amendments to the Michigan Constitution. Rick Pluta reports.

Raising children is difficult no matter what. Now, imagine trying to do it without secure housing, food or educational resources. Imagine further trying to find assistance in a system that has historically been culturally biased. WEMU's David Fair is joined by Icshia Leatherwood. She is a member of "Trusted Parent Advisors," who are working to empower people of color to access available resources and become greater advocates for themselves and their children.