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

Fair housing ordinance passes unanimously in Kalamazoo

"Kalamazoo will be a better city tonight than we were yesterday."  Those supporting changes to the city's housing ordinance that make t is easier to obtain housing for those who previously have been shut out of the housing market by a variety of barriers saw the adoption as a new day for the city. 

Popular North Side restaurant will expand by opening new Creole and soul food spot in Kalamazoo

If you are going to run two restaurants what could be more convenient than having them across the parking lot from one another? Cookie's Five Star Grill plans to spin off its popular Creole and Soul food items into a restaurant of their own, next door.

‘Tiny’ houses are set to be a big deal in Kalamazoo’s Northside Neighborhood

Have you heard about the tiny house initiative? Real brick and mortar affordable housing for people who need it.

Plans to ‘calm’ traffic on Kalamazoo’s North Side are facing a (speed) bump in the road

Residents told city officials their original plan to slow down traffic on North Side streets did not seem feasible. Now speed humps are being considered.

Kalamazoo’s Social District will give customers of restaurants and taverns a chance to be outdoors

During this period of social distancing to slow the spread of COVID-19, people seem to feel more comfortable outdoors. A new Social District, that allows businesses to add outdoor seating to their restaurant or tavern has been put in place to capitalize on that. 

Violent Proud Boys protest gets some not-so-proud reviews, but lessons were learned

Was KDPS positioned to stop a melee that occurred Saturday afternoon? That was one of the central questions counter-protestors had after the Proud Boys came to Kalamazoo.

Prayer vigil set to counter report of a rally by neo-fascist group in downtown Kalamazoo

Whether on not the Proud Boys come to Kalamazoo on Saturday, Aug. 15, the city is planning to send a message that hate is not welcome here.

Northside Association is working to provide neighborhood-based workforce training

A Neighborhood-Based Workforce Career Development Program designed to overcome barriers neighborhood residents face to education is training students for jobs. 

Gun violence in Kalamazoo refuses to take a back seat to COVID-19, BLM or other issues

Since June 1, 23 have been shot and four people have died by gunfire in Kalamazoo. Shootings are up 81percent. It is being called a gun violence crisis. The Group Violence Intervention Coordinator is working on slowing it down.

New project to ‘calm’ traffic on Kalamazoo’s North Side is part of city’s attempt to slow speeders

Have you heard of a chicane? Come out Thursday to LaCrone Park and find out how they could help slow down traffic.

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