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We’re about to enter a new year, and Michigan and Washtenaw County are looking to grow environmental sector jobs. In November, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed into law the Clean Energy and Jobs Act. Supporters say it puts Michigan on a path for quicker buildout of renewable energy, like wind and solar. And that could mean significant job growth. Washtenaw County Commissioner Yousef Rabhi is a proponent of such measures and advocated for such legislation when serving as a state representative. He joined WEMU's David Fair to take a look at what growth we might see in Washtenaw County in 2024.

It is safe to say future successes require most, if not, all of us to have a competency in writing. Creative writing, self-expression and the ability to connect through the written word are life skills that make a difference. Fostering these skills in students in Ypsilanti, Ann Arbor and Detroit is the mission of 826michigan. Executive director Megan Shuchman joined WEMU's David Fair to share the process of "writing a better future, one story at a time."

The cost of living continues to rise, and affordable, quality childcare is at a premium. Now, imagine trying to create a better life by going to college, working a job and having to find the kind of care your child deserves on a limited budget. Alleviating some of that stress is the mission behind The Collaborative: Ypsilanti YMCA Child Development Center. WEMU's David Fair talked with center liaison Kaitlyn Savage about the difference it’s making and what more needs to be done.

Christmas is almost here, so are you ready for more movies? WEMU's David Fair and Michigan Theater Foundation executive director Russ Collins will tell you all about the new films and special holiday screenings coming your way in these last few days before Christmas!

Underground and not listed on concert calendars, Johnny’s Speakeasy has hosted bands in a little venue down the road since the late 1990’s. That is, until last year, when a fire destroyed both the venue and Johnny Williams’ home. Hear how and why local musicians have launched a campaign to "Save Johnny’s Speakeasy" when Johnny joins host Deb Polich on this edition of 89.1 WEMU’s "creative:impact."

These are rather exciting times in the Ypsilanti Community Schools. The state is forgiving the combined debt created when the district merged with the Willow Run Schools. It has received a significant grant to invest in and expand STEAM and STEM programs. And the district will reopen a shuttered school building. WEMU's David Fair discussed these issues and more with district superintendent, Dr. Alena Zachery-Ross.

We'll be talking movies as we always do on Thursday, but with a slight twist. Russ Collins is taking a couple of weeks away, so the Michigan Theater Foundation's cinema programming manager, Nick Alderink, will sit in his Cinema Chat chair. Nick will bring all the movie news you expect to discuss with WEMU's David Fair.

What cinematic excitement will 2024 bring to Ann Arbor? Well, for starters, you have a chance to see the College Football Playoff National Championship Game between Michigan and Washington at Ann Arbor's Michigan Theater! WEMU's David Fair and Michigan Theater Foundation executive director Russ Collins will tell you all about that, as well as the upcoming special screenings and new movie openings.

2024 will be a special year in Ann Arbor, as the city celebrates its bicentennial. When it comes to diversity, equity and inclusion, how far has Ann Arbor come in 200 years? What is the work that needs to be done in the new year and for future generations? WEMU's David Fair went to Ann Arbor city administrator Milton Dohoney Jr. for answers.

Governor Whitmer has signed measures into law to require all children be tested for lead exposure. Additionally, a new law requires installation of lead water filters in all schools and childcare centers. It is progress, but there is still a lot of work to be done. WEMU's David Fair discusses its impacts with lead policy expert Mary Sue Schottenfels.