Author

Al Jones

Al Jones

Al Jones is a freelance writer who has worked for many years as a reporter, editor, and columnist. He is the Project Editor for On the Ground Kalamazoo.

Al Jones's Latest Articles

A few things they don’t tell you about recovering from COVID-19

When Al Jones caught COVID-19 he wasn't ready to believe that's what it was. Till he could feel it in his lungs. 

COVID-canceled 40th class reunion replaced by fund-raising challenge to support Maroon Giant seniors

Kalamazoo Central class of 1980 may not have been able to gather for their 40th reunion, but they are rallying around a cause as they hope to establish a legacy gift that will help seniors overcome financial barriers to graduation.

Kalamazoo City Commission earmarks $100,000 to support gun violence reduction efforts

As shootings across Kalamazoo neighborhoods continue, the City Commission votes to take a step to join with local groups combatting gun violence, among other measures.

City of Kalamazoo gets set for first-ever Civil Rights Board

Seven members of the City of Kalamazoo's Civil Rights Board Local will hear complaints that are to be investigated by the Kalamazoo city attorney or his designee. 

COVID will halt 230,000 more human service connections in Greater Kalamazoo this year, survey finds

The organizations serving the Kalamazoo area's most vulnerable are vulnerable themselves as COVID-19 exacts a toll on physical and financial resources. A new survey shows what that toll is.

Event to highlight new research on Alzheimer’s, launch next phase of fundraising for learning center

Those who live or work with people with memory loss will have an early opportunity to advance their knowledge as Heritage Community in Kalamazoo hosts a virtual education event titled “State of Alzheimer’s and Related Dementias Research.”

The spirit of Reycraft Drive: Good neighbors make the neighborhood great in Kalamazoo’s Milwood

Don Solesbee's neighbors say he is "the guy who does." His backyard is a social hub and he cuts the lawns and snowblows the walks of those around him. He's the one who keeps his neighbors on Reycraft connected. Some call him Mr. Milwood.

Extra officers and proactive efforts are Kalamazoo’s strategy for potentially tense election day

What will the Nov. 3 general election day look like? The Kalamazoo City  Clerk's office and Kalamazoo Public Safety are working together to prepare for it.

The Milwood U-Pick Garden: One woman’s way to engage neighbors and spread the creative spirit

During its first season, the Milwood U-Pick Herb Garden offered neighbors a variety of herbs growing in the wide curb lawn.

YWCA’s 24-hour childhood learning center pushes ahead in Kalamazoo’s Edison Neighborhood

YWCA is continuing to plan for the opening of the YWCA Edison Children’s Center, a 24-hour drop-in center that will provide affordable child care for infants to 3-year-olds as well as second- and third-shift childcare for children up to age 12.

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