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

Photo essay: Black Lives Matters opens discussions on what is important

“We were having a conversation about how love and peace are significant and important,” says Deveta Gardner. The Black Lives Matter artwork in downtown Kalamazoo inspires such conversations.

The role of police in schools is being debated in Kalamazoo

Do police officers have a role in Kalamazoo Public Schools? The question is up for debate as a grassroots organization demands that officers must go.

Some boys hear more than others about our threatening world

When raising a houseful of five young men means you have to prepare them so they can survive.

‘Virtual’ and live events are planned to celebrate Juneteenth in Kalamazoo

The Kalamazoo Valley Museum is partnering with Soul Artistry LLC to host a live digital event, “Juneteenth: Celebration of Freedom,” from 1 to 5 p.m. to commemorate the history of Juneteenth.

Focus of Kalamazoo distillery shifts from hand-sanitizer back to cocktails

For Green Door Distilling Co. the coronavirus journey has been from spirits to sanitizer and back again. Right now they are working on getting social distancing right so they can get back to serving spirits.

Bridal shop learned to adapt during COVID-19 shutdown

Michigan retail shops are allowed to open but only for a limited number of customers at any one time. They're ready at Memories Bridal & Evening Wear.

Quintessential Kalamazoo bar/restaurant looks forward to the post-COVID era

Louie's Trophy House in Kalamazoo will be ready when restaurants reopen on June 8—subject to capacity limits.

Kalamazoo group works to preserve area adjacent to the Kleinstuck Preserve

The Stewards of Kleinstuck have launched a campaign to purchase undeveloped woodland next to the preserve.

Healthcare industry leans on telemedicine for routine care

The use of technology expands to allow doctors to ‘see’ stay-at-home patients. Various physician offices in the area, as well as Bronson Healthcare, say COVID-19 speeded up a gradual switch to telehealth.

Partnership makes $5,000 grants available to the smallest Kalamazoo businesses hit by COVID-19

The smallest businesses affected by the coronavirus shut down are the focus of the Kalamazoo Micro-Enterprise Grants. Businesses are now being invited to apply.

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