community collaboration

Thousands across Michigan proudly decide to become Girl Scouts. The program is robustly present in Washtenaw County, too. The mission of the organization is to build girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place. Still, scouting has had its fair share of controversies through the years. Brenna West is Chief Communications Officer with the Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan. She talked to WEMU's David Fair about the drive for equity, equality and inclusion and about some of the hurdles in helping girls get to that place.

The Ypsilanti District Library (YDL) has launched a new pilot repair clinic program. It allows residents to use YDL supplies and equipment to repair household items. And it's all for free! Lee Van Roth gets you fully informed through her conversation with librarian Aaron Smith on this week's On the Ground Ypsi!

Ever been to a Friday night fish fry? These are popular events at area churches through Lent. It brings a sense of community to all who attend, regardless of religion. It fosters philanthropy and, in the end, provides some really good food! WEMU's John Stockwell does a frenetic, fish fry fun-run through Washtenaw County and brings you an extended report on the experience.

The Ypsi Performance Space has hosted many community gatherings and musical performances over the years. Now, the venue is more eco-friendly, thanks to the recent installation of new electric vehicle chargers. Lee Van Roth talked all about the chargers and how they’ve created a better connection to the community with Ypsi Performance Space manager Steve Pierce.

Today is what many refer to as “Fat Tuesday” or Paczki Day. These rich, deep-fried Polish doughnuts are traditionally eaten to use up sugar and fat before Lent, and Southeast Michigan celebrates as much or more than any city in the country. The Dingell family has a long history with Paczkis and has created its own traditions around the day. WEMU's David Fair was joined by 6th District Congresswoman Debbie Dingell to talk all about it and caught up on what is going on politically in the nation’s capital.

Officials from Ann Arbor Public Schools and the City of Ann Arbor are looking to strengthen cooperation between the two entities in the year ahead. WEMU’s Ana Longoria has the details.

The City of Ann Arbor is being recognized by the global non-profit CDP for its efforts and progress towards environmental resilience. WEMU’s Ana Longoria has the details.

Ann Arbor’s Neighborhood Watch program is long defunct, but more than 600 signs remain installed. As WEMU's Kevin Meerschaert reports, two City Council members want them to come down.

Patrick Dunn has served as managing editor for Concentrate Media. Now, he has new responsibilities as the digital news magazine’s publisher as well. Patrick joined Lee Van Roth to discuss his new role and what that could mean for the future of “On the Ground Ypsi.”

There is a silver wave underway. The percentage of older adults in Washtenaw County is growing, and forecasts expect that will continue. A good number of our elderly are on fixed incomes or on the low end of the earning spectrum. The costs of goods and services, particularly housing, is going up. How are we going to bridge the gap? That’s a question the Washtenaw Housing Alliance works to answer on a daily basis, including its new Shared Housing program. WEMU's David Fair talked with executive director, Amanda Carlisle about helping our seniors to peacefully age in place.