89.1 WEMU: Issues of the Environment
151 episodes - English - Latest episode: 6 days ago -Find Issues of the Environment each week on 89.1 WEMU.
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Issues of the Environment: The debate over nuclear power in Michigan
April 24, 2024 11:46 - 11 minutes - 13 MBIt appears the state of Michigan plans to add more nuclear power to its energy portfolio. It is certainly cleaner energy than fossil fuels, but the threat to the environment and public health is much greater, should something go wrong. WEMU's David Fair was joined by the president and CEO of the Michigan Environmental Council, Conan Smith, to look at the future of nuclear energy in Michigan.
Issues of the Environment: The Ecology Center pushes for tougher plastics regulations in Michigan
April 17, 2024 12:02 - 14 minutes - 14.8 MBEarth Day 2024 is right around the corner, and this year’s theme is “Planet vs. Plastics.” Advocates are calling for a global reduction of 60% in plastics manufacturing to protect the environment and human health. The Ann Arbor-based Ecology Center has been advocating for the introduction and passage of five bills in Michigan that will add teeth to plastic regulation in several important areas. Ecology Center director Mike Garfield joined WEMU's David Fair to discuss our future with plastics.
Issues of the Environment: Assessing the challenges of building out solar energy infrastructure in Washtenaw County
April 10, 2024 10:12 - 10 minutes - 11.6 MBThe idea of solar farms is somewhat controversial as people argue over state control, local community determination and individual property rights. Those arguments are playing out right here in Washtenaw County. WEMU's David Fair talked through the issues with Madeleine Krol from the Graham Sustainability Institute's Center for Empowering Communities at the University of Michigan.
Issues of the Environment: Meeting the challenges of maintaining Ann Arbor's municipal golf courses in eco-friendly ways
April 03, 2024 11:01 - 11 minutes - 12 MBGolf courses take up a lot of land, and the well-manicured grasses require a lot of maintenance and have traditionally been treated with materials detrimental to the health of the environment. Yet, efforts to reduce environmental impacts have taken great strides. The City of Ann Arbor owns two golf courses, and WEMU's David Fair talked with parks manager Josh Landefeld about where it’s come and where it’s headed.
Issues of the Environment: Ypsilanti Township seeks remediation of environmental and health hazard
March 27, 2024 11:12 - 11 minutes - 11.1 MBYpsilanti Township is continuing legal action against a local, interstate materials hauling company. Last summer, a massive pile of a black, coal-like substance appeared on the property owned by OKD Transport. Since then, nearby testing has turned up toxic carcinogens. The property owner says independent testing has proven the substance to be non-hazardous. WEMU's David Fair talked with Ypsilanti Township attorney Douglas Winters about the ongoing issues and concerns.
Issues of the Environment: A University of Michigan study of Urban Agriculture stirs controversy
March 20, 2024 12:02 - 11 minutes - 11.4 MBThere are a great number of positives when people operate and work on urban farms and community gardens: access to fresh and healthy foods, community building and reduced transportation needs in areas known as food deserts. A new study from the University of Michigan discovered some areas where improvement is needed with some urban farms and gardens creating a carbon footprint much greater than conventionally grown produce. WEMU's David Fair checked in with Benjamin Goldstein to learn more ab...
Issues of the Environment: Ann Arbor leads the way in eco-friendly procurement policies
February 28, 2024 12:42 - 10 minutes - 10.5 MBDid you know that state and local governments collectively spend about $1.3 trillion each year in procurement? That’s products like furnishings, computers, vehicles and pens and staplers. Many of these products are harmful to the environment, and so now, there is a movement towards sustainable procurement policies. It turns out Ann Arbor is leading the way and being used as a model around the country. WEMU's David Fair talks sustainable procurement with Matt Naud. He was the first ever enviro...
Issues of the Environment: UM-led research project looks to nature to find alternatives to hazardous road salt and chemical deicers
February 21, 2024 12:46 - 11 minutes - 12.2 MBIcy roads are synonymous with Michigan winter, and the Washtenaw County Road Commission uses about 18,000 tons of salt in an average year to keep the roads safe. It is the most cost-effective way to treat the roads, but it is horrible for the environment. A new University of Michigan-led research project seeks to find solutions in the natural environment. WEMU's David Fair was joined by Anish Tuteja. He is a professor of materials science and engineering at the University of Michigan and is s...
Issues of the Environment: City of Ann Arbor's moving to transition away from natural gas
February 14, 2024 12:46 - 11 minutes - 11.7 MBThe City of Ann Arbor wants to move away from natural gas. In 2020, the city declared a climate emergency and noted the need to get off of fossil fuels. For the most part, that means a shift to more electric appliances, including the manner in which we heat the spaces where we live and work. Is it possible to make the transition? Some say yes. Some say no. John Mirsky is a member of the Ann Arbor Energy Commission,. He says it is absolutely possible and, in fact, has done it at his own home. ...
Issues of the Environment: State Senator Jeff Irwin looks to advance more environmental legislation and policy in 2024
February 07, 2024 12:46 - 11 minutes - 11.2 MBFurther investing in environmental sustainability will be a part of Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s budget for the 2025 fiscal year. The governor is to formally introduce her budget proposal today at 11 AM. WEMU's David Fair invited State Senator Jeff Irwin (D-Ann Arbor) to discuss some of what lay ahead in 2024 when it comes to environmental legislation and policy.
Issues of the Environment: 2023 was the warmest year on record and could set new record in 2024
January 31, 2024 12:48 - 11 minutes - 11.1 MBScientists are both astounded and alarmed. 2023 was the warmest year ever recorded, and it’s not even close. Human-spawned greenhouse gas emissions coupled with a strong El Nino spiked global temperatures. What are the implications and repercussions? And what will 2024 bring? WEMU's David Fair talked it over with the dean of the School for Environment and Sustainability at the University of Michigan, Dr. Jonathan Overpeck.
Issues of the Environment: Washtenaw County's weatherization program receives bigger budget and is ready to serve more residents
January 24, 2024 12:49 - 11 minutes - 11.9 MBWe’ve experienced some bitter cold of late. That probably means your furnace is running 24 hours a day, and if you aren’t properly insulated, you are going to have a rather high heating bill. Energy efficiency and proper weatherization can make a huge difference, and Washtenaw County has an assistance program that can make an assessment and do the repairs completely free for qualified residents. WEMU's David Fair talked it over with Washtenaw County Housing Program Supervisor Aaron Kraft.
Issues of the Environment: Improving home and community sustainability efforts in Washtenaw County
January 17, 2024 12:50 - 11 minutes - 11.1 MBAmong the many resolutions people make to start a new year is to find ways to better protect the planet. Shelie Miller studies these things as a professor in sustainable systems at the U of M’s School for Environment and Sustainability. She joined WEMU's David Fair to discuss how to improve our efforts at home and community sustainability.
Issues of the Environment: Proposed "pocket forest" may be planted in Ann Arbor's Buhr Park
January 10, 2024 12:45 - 11 minutes - 10.9 MBAnn Arbor’s Buhr Park could become home to a new "pocket forest” in 2024. What is a pocket forest? We weren't sure either, so we went right to the source to find out more. Barbara Lucas is a volunteer for the project. She joined WEMU's David Fair to explain what it is, why it is so ecologically valuable and why this is likely just the start of a much bigger local environmental movement.
Issues of the Environment: New Michigan laws advance lead poisoning protections
January 03, 2024 13:16 - 11 minutes - 12.1 MBGovernor 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.
Issues of the Environment: Growing the clean energy jobs sector in Washtenaw County
December 27, 2023 12:46 - 10 minutes - 10.6 MBWe’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...
Issues of the Environment: Reducing and managing holiday waste in Ann Arbor and Washtenaw County
December 20, 2023 12:46 - 11 minutes - 11.2 MB‘Tis the season! Family, friends, gift-giving and good food. It also means an inordinate amount of waste is generated. There are ways to enjoy all of our favorite holiday traditions while minimizing our environmental impact. WEMU's David Fair gained some insight on best practices from zerowaste.org co-founder, Lydia McMullen-Laird.
Issues of the Environment: Gains for people and the environment in the UAW contracts with the Detroit Three
December 13, 2023 12:48 - 11 minutes - 11.1 MBThe United Auto Workers strike against the Detroit Three ended with the union claiming significant gains over past contracts. Among those that supported the union through the strike was the Ann Arbor-based Ecology Center. In addition to gains for workers, it says the contracts are important for our future environmental health. WEMU's David Fair took a look ahead and practical impacts of the deals with the Ecology Center’s Climate and Energy Program Director, Charles Griffith.
Issues of the Environment: Managing the deer population in Michigan
December 06, 2023 12:46 - 10 minutes - 11.2 MBDeer populations in Michigan are already overpopulated in some areas. Managing the herds and the damage they can cause is difficult. As some in Ann Arbor will attest, a large deer can have a dramatic impact on the health of the overall ecology of the environment and on the pocketbook. WEMU's David Fair talked with Michigan Department of Natural Resources game management specialist, Chad Stewart about the present and future of deer management.
Issues of the Environment: Michigan Clean Water Corps works to keep Washtenaw County's water clean and safe
November 29, 2023 12:48 - 11 minutes - 11.7 MBThey say, “It takes a village.” Usually, it references the process of raising a child, but it also applies when talking about protecting and stewarding a watershed. Keeping the waters in Washtenaw County clean and safe is quite an undertaking, and it takes a variety of community organizations and volunteers to be effective. WEMU's David Fair is joined by Washtenaw County Water Resources Commission Evan Pratt to discuss the Michigan Clean Water Corps and others that contribute to improving the...
Issues of the Environment: Washtenaw County expands its program to properly dispose of toxic household materials
November 22, 2023 12:49 - 11 minutes - 12.3 MBWithout thinking about it too much, we tend to accumulate a good amount of toxic chemicals in homes—cleaning products, batteries, gas and oil...all sorts of things. If improperly thrown away, these are all materials that can dramatically harm the environment, wildlife and human beings. That’s why there is an expanding home toxics disposal program in Washtenaw County. Learn all about it when WEMU's David Fair speaks to Washtenaw County Public Works Manager, Theo Eggermont.
Issues of the Environment: Safety a key issue in growing environmentally-friendly cycling community in Ann Arbor and Washtenaw County
November 15, 2023 12:51 - 11 minutes - 12.6 MBBicycling culture in Ann Arbor and Washtenaw County is growing. As such, there is an increased chance of car versus bike crashes in the area. WEMU's David Fair talked with Ann Arbor Bicycle Touring Society member Craig Stephann about overcoming safety hurdles as non-motorized transportation is key to sustainability efforts.
Issues of the Environment: PFAS contamination bringing end to family farm in Brighton
November 08, 2023 12:23 - 11 minutes - 12.5 MBThe repercussions of PFAS contamination continue to grow. Not only has it impacted fishing and recreation on the Huron River, it's affecting farmers and agriculture. Jason Grostic is owner of Grostic Cattle Company in Livingston County. His operations have been shut down because his cows tested positive for PFAS. As such, he’s gone nearly two years without a source of income and is now suing the source of the contamination, Wixom-based Tribar Manufacturing. He's also pushing state lawmakers t...
Issues of the Environment: Ann Arbor fighting MDOT plans to fence off Amtrak rail corridor
November 01, 2023 14:53 - 11 minutes - 12.3 MBThe Michigan Department of Transportation intends to build fencing along the Amtrak railroad tracks passing through Ann Arbor along the Huron River Corridor. MDOT says it will protect pedestrians and wildlife, but city residents are unhappy, contending it will cut off parts of the Border-to-Border Trail and adversely impact deer and other wildlife. Ann Arbor City Council has passed a resolution opposing the MDOT plans. 5th Ward councilperson Erica Briggs joined WEMU's David Fair with the late...
Issues of the Environment: Zoning the future of Ann Arbor
October 25, 2023 10:47 - 11 minutes - 11.9 MBThe City of Ann Arbor is changing, and there are development priorities for the short and longer-term future. Much of it is dependent on zoning. Zoning decisions can change the complexion of the city. Understanding how it works is the focus on today's conversation between WEMU's David Fair and Ellie Abrons. Ellie is an Associate Professor of Architecture at the University of Michigan and a planning commissioner for the City of Ann Arbor.
Issues of the Environment: City of Ann Arbor shares new dashboard to track greenhouse gas emissions
October 18, 2023 11:09 - 10 minutes - 11.3 MBThe City of Ann Arbor continues the march toward carbon neutrality, spending millions in the effort to get there. But, since declaring a climate emergency in 2019, reductions in greenhouse gas emissions have decreased only slightly. Now, in an effort to make the public more aware of the issue, the city has launched an emissions dashboard. WEMU's David Fair spoke with Ann Arbor Senior Energy Analyst, Thea Yagerlener to see if the city is on track to hit its targets.
Issues of the Environment: 'Trash Talk Tour' returns to Ann Arbor this Sunday
October 11, 2023 10:58 - 10 minutes - 11.2 MBLet’s talk some trash! The 3rd annual Trash Talk Tour is right around the corner, and we’re going to find out how much fun there is in learning about how we deal with waste in Ann Arbor. The Trash Talk Tour is the brainchild of Dan Ezekiel. He is a retired science teacher, a local environmentalist and former chair of the Huron Valley Group of the Sierra Club. He joined WEMU's David Fair to fill us on how the family-friendly event educates us about the circular economy and how to live a zero-w...
Issues of the Environment: Grassroots group of Ann Arbor Township residents take up against gravel mining operators as a number of water wells run dry
October 04, 2023 11:17 - 11 minutes - 13 MBAnn Arbor Township residents are concerned a mining operation is drying up their water wells. There is evidence to support those concerns, and some are frustrated with the gravel mining company that has already been found in violation of some state regulations and local ordinances. WEMU's David Fair gets the latest in a conversation with grassroots organizer and township resident, Amy Olszewski.
Issues of the Environment: Environmental Education Program in Ann Arbor Schools teaches students in and out of the classroom
September 20, 2023 10:25 - 11 minutes - 12.1 MBEnvironmental stewardship is certainly important now. With a changing climate, growing population and greater need for adaptation, it will only become more important. That’s why educating today’s K-12 students is vitally important. The Ann Arbor Public School District has its Environmental Education program, and it’s not only teaching in-class, it provides hands-on experience in nature. The program has been growing and will touch even more students this year. Find out more in a conversation b...
Issues of the Environment: Tracking and mapping rain gardens in Washtenaw County and measuring beneficial impacts
September 13, 2023 11:01 - 11 minutes - 11.2 MBResidential rain gardens may seem like a small component of environmental sustainability. We’re learning just how big of an impact they make in Washtenaw County and Southeast Michigan. A brand new, interactive mapping tool shows where many of the residential rain gardens are and the amount of stormwater they collectively capture. Learn more in this conversation with WEMU's David Fair and Susan Bryan, the Rain Garden Coordinator for the Washtenaw County Water Resources Office.
Issues of the Environment: Takeaways from Washtenaw County's '500-year, 3-hour storm'
September 06, 2023 11:14 - 11 minutes - 11.8 MBSome areas of Washtenaw County received nearly five inches of rain in a short, three-hour period on Wednesday, August 23rd. The aftermath is still being assessed and addressed. In some areas, it could take months. Washtenaw County Water Resources Commissioner Evan Pratt joined WEMU's David Fair to discuss storm response and what was learned.
Issues of the Environment: Ann Arbor Area Board of Realtors make case against mandated home-sale energy score assessments
August 30, 2023 12:54 - 11 minutes - 12.3 MBWhen Ann Arbor City Council next meets, it is expected to pass an ordinance that will require home sellers to acquire an energy score report from a qualified assessor before listing the property for sale. Tom Renkert is Chief Executive Officer of the Ann Arbor Area Board of Realtors, and while the organization fully supports the city's A2Zero carbon neutrality goals, it doesn't believe this ordinance should be a part of the plan. He joined WEMU’s David Fair to explain why.
Issues of the Environment: Lyme disease on the increase in Washtenaw County
August 23, 2023 16:09 - 11 minutes - 16 MBThe number of cases of Lyme disease cases locally is on the rise. Washtenaw County epidemiologist Laura Bauman joined WEMU's David Fair with the latest information and advice on how to best protect yourself.
Issues of the Environment: City of Ann Arbor contracts zerowaste.org to educate and engage community in lasting reduction efforts
August 16, 2023 10:50 - 10 minutes - 12.5 MBTo achieve environmental and sustainability goals, it's going to take contributions from everyone. The city of Ann Arbor has contracted with zerowaste.org to educate and engage the public in a variety of ways, including a 'neighborhood swap' program. Zerowaste.org executive director, Samuel McMullen, joined WEMU's David Fair to discuss the effort and its intended impacts.
Issues of the Environment: State Senator Jeff Irwin of Ann Arbor addressing use of toxic chemicals
August 10, 2023 13:36 - 11 minutes - 12 MBThe number of people camping has exploded since the onset of the pandemic. And, there are numerous benefits to getting out in nature. However, sleeping in your tent isn’t one of them. Tents are covered with cancer-causing, fire-retardant chemicals. Ann Arbor Democrat Jeff Irwin has successfully pushed a measure through the Michigan Senate to make it legal to sell tents without that toxic coating. He joined WEMU's David Fair to discuss that issue and the ongoing fight to get a better legislati...
Issues of the Environment: 'Resilient Washtenaw' climate action plan getting ready for launch
February 02, 2022 12:01 - 11 minutesWashtenaw County is launching its "Resilient Washtenaw" climate action plan. The goal is to get county operations to carbon neutrality by 2030 and communitywide carbon neutrality by 2035. Washtenaw County director of strategic planning, Andrew DeLeeuw, joined WEMU’s David Fair to cover what will happen in 2022 and what it will take to achieve these ambitious goals.
Issues of the Environment: Planning Ann Arbor’s water future
October 20, 2021 11:59 - 8 minutesThere a number of threats to the health and safety of drinking water in Ann Arbor, and there are some major decisions to be made in the near future. The discussions center on whether to keep the city’s water autonomous and invest in local facilities or create the infrastructure needed to get water from the Detroit system. Either way, there will be a hefty price tag. WEMU’s David Fair looked at where it is stands and where it’s headed with Brian Steglitz, the manager of Water Treatment Service...
Issues of the Environment: Re-imagining Sugarbrook Park in Ypsilanti
October 13, 2021 11:54 - 10 minutesNestled on the eastern side of Ypsilanti Township is a neighborhood park that is largely grass-covered and is an underutilized resource. That is changing. Tajalli Hodge is an elected member of the Ypsilanti Township Parks Commission and has taken initial steps to make the park a community gathering place that also enhances the area’s environmental health. WEMU’s David Fair spoke with Hodge about the present and future of Sugarbrook Park.
Issues Of The Environment: Monarch Butterfly Population Declines Because Of Human Actions
October 06, 2021 12:08 - 11 minutesFor many, Monarch butterflies symbolize some of nature's beauty. Yet, you may have noticed fewer of them around in recent years. Erin Zylstra is a postdoctoral researcher in Michigan State University's department of integrative biology. She joined WEMU's David Fair to discuss the human impact that has put the monarch on a path toward extinction.
Issues Of The Environment: Enhancing Non-Motorized Transportation In Washtenaw County
September 29, 2021 11:51 - 10 minutesMany Washtenaw County residents prefer their bicycles instead of cars as a means for transportation. In fact, the popularity of non-motorized transportation continues to grow. Larry Deck is on the board of the Washtenaw Bicycling and Walking Coalition. He joined WEMU's David Fair to discuss work being done on the Border-to-Border Trail and the Campus-to-Campus path.
Issues Of The Environment: Washtenaw County Advancing Climate Action Plan
September 22, 2021 12:22 - 10 minutesWashtenaw County had already declared an official climate emergency, and it has set a goal of getting the entire county carbon neutral by the year 2035. The "Climate Action Planning Team" has been formed, and the next steps are being taken. Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners chair Sue Shink joined WEMU's David Fair to discuss the work ahead.
Issues Of The Environment: 'Trash Talk Tour' Seeks To Inspire Zero Waste Culture In Ann Arbor
September 15, 2021 12:40 - 10 minutesWhen it comes to environmental protection and sustainability, getting a better handle on America’s “throw away culture" is important. That's the motivation behind the upcoming "Trash Talk" tour in Ann Arbor. WEMU’s David Fair checked in with Dan Ezekiel from the Washtenaw Zero Waste Coalition to learn more about the tour, what it offers those who participate, and why this is expected to become an annual event.
Issues Of The Environment: New Study Links Common Herbicide To Risk Of Premature Birth
August 25, 2021 13:13 - 10 minutesGlyphosate, which is usually found in stores as the product Roundup, is the most frequently used herbicide in the world. While it is effective in killing weeds, it is also harmful to health. A recent study out of the University of Michigan links exposure to pre-term births. WEMU's David Fair spoke with the study's senior author, Dr. John Meeker, about the findings and where the research goes from here.
Issues Of The Environment: State Rep. From Ann Arbor Aims To Ban Toxic Chemicals From Food Packaging
August 18, 2021 12:14 - 11 minutesWhether you frequent fast food restaurants or only stop by occasionally, the wrappers your food comes in may be doing harm to your health. Recent studies have found PFAs and other harmful chemicals in food packaging. State Representative Yousef Rabhi of Ann Arbor has introduced legislation to ban the use of such chemicals in food packaging. He joined WEMU's David Fair to further discuss the legislation on "Issues of the Environment."
Issues Of The Environment: Ann Arbor To Consider Climate Tax To Reach A2Zero Goals
August 11, 2021 11:51 - 11 minutesThe City of Ann Arbor has set an ambitious goal of achieving communtiy-wide carbon neutrality by 2030. The steps are set forth in the city's A2Zero plan. It is likely, however, that, to meet the target, taxpayers will have to help. Mayor Christopher Taylor recently presented a one-mill, 20-year, property tax plan to make it possible. He joined WEMU's David Fair to discuss the proposal and more.
Issues Of The Environment: Making Environmental Justice A Policy Priority In Washtenaw County
August 04, 2021 12:00 - 11 minutesFor many in Washtenaw County, environmental justice is lacking. Low income residents and people of color often find themselves subjected to environmental hazards, while the more affluent do not. Washtenaw County Commissioner Justin Hodge has made environmental justice a priority and discusses the successes and challenges that remain with WEMU's David Fair.
Issues Of The Environment: Does Michigan Need A Statewide Code For Septic Systems?
July 28, 2021 10:21 - 10 minutesFlooding, pollution, and overall water quality have dominated the news lately. While municipal water systems cover the majority of state residents, 35% operate on a septic system. Regulations and code varies from place to place, and many of the systems are aging and in deteriorating shape. WEMU's David Fair checked in with Washtenaw County environmental health director Kristen Schweighoefer to discuss whether more uniform codes and standards are needed.
Issues Of The Environment: The Push For Michigan To Produce More Electric Passenger Vehicles
July 21, 2021 12:48 - 10 minutesThe buses and heavy trucks that travel our towns and highway system contribute a significant part of the emissions causing climate change. We are in the midst of transition, as manufacturers are moving more toward electric vehicle production. WEMU's David Fair and Charles Griffith, the director of the Ann Arbor-based Ecology Center's climate and energy program, discussed the push for Michigan to join others in a commitment to zero out emissions from heavy vehicles by 2050.
Issues Of The Environment: Washtenaw Community College Joins With DTE To Achieve Carbon Neutrality
July 14, 2021 12:00 - 15 minutesWashtenaw Community College has announced it plans to run 100% on renewable energies by the year 2029. In part, it plans to get there by signing on to DTE Energy's MIGreenPower program. The utility's renewable solutions director, Brian Calka, joined WEMU's David Fair to discuss the agreement with WCC, the program itself, and DTE's plans for a more sustainable, renewable energy future.
Issues Of The Environment: Addressing Energy Poverty And Finding Sustainable Solutions
July 07, 2021 12:03 - 11 minutesEnergy poverty is a problem all too many low-income households have to contend with. While more affluent households leave a bigger carbon footprint, it is usually people of color that suffer the most economic and health consequences. University of Michigan assistant professor and Urban Energy Justice Lab director Dr. Tony Reames explores the issues and needed solutions in this conversation with WEMU's David Fair.