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

Embracing Hope: Kalamazoo community leaders reflect on 2024

"The fact that many organizations continued to grow in the last few years in spite of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, just shows the resilience and determination of the people here, and that gives enormous hope for what’s to come." 

Online portal is open for new housing projects in Kalamazoo County

A  five-story, affordable residential development for seniors that will have four residential floors with parking on the ground level is quickly going up in the 500 block of South Rose Street.

Supportive housing is planned for those struggling to overcome addictions in Kalamazoo

Kal Recovery, a supportive recovery housing development that involves the construction of 48 apartments is getting closer to becoming a reality. The project will include three buildings on a little less than seven acres of a 12-acre site between Alcott and Reed streets.

Hot Dog! More living spaces are coming to downtown Kalamazoo

Reconstruction and renovation work on the second- through fourth-floors of the 266 E. Michigan Ave. building, best known for the Coney Island Kalamazoo hot dog restaurant on its street level, is set to begin soon. The space, which has been unused for many years, will house 12 new loft-style apartments, including four affordable units.

Derek Jeter, Cal Ripken Jr. dedicate $5M Kalamazoo Central H.S. ballfields

Fulfilling dreams takes work and patience. Ask Derek Jeter, baseball Hall of Famer and Kalamazoo Central High School graduate. He worked hard to become a shortstop for the Yankees — and to give his alma mater top-tier baseball and softball fields. For the Kalamazoo community, the fields are also a dream come true.

Portage works with Habitat for Humanity to build affordable homes

It's been a while, but now Habitat for Humanity is working in Portage to put up houses as the county works to improve the affordable housing situation. 

Dr. Grace Lubwama reflects on new role as Kalamazoo Community Foundation leader

Philanthropy doesn't mean you have to have a lot of money, says Dr. Grace Lubwama, new CEO and President of the Kalamazoo Community Foundation. Every person can leave a legacy. "But if you have a heart of charity, and care about this community, and want to see this community thrive," she says, "the community foundation is your partner on that journey."

A key housing organization says Kalamazoo POD community will not happen in time for winter

HRI has evaluated many locations in Kalamazoo County where a POD (Place of Dignity) Community could be placed, but so far, none proved feasible. The small modular homes will remain in storage this coming winter as the search continues.

BlackWellness Network helps Black patients find clinicians

There are three components to BlackWellness Network: Bridging the gap in the level of care provided to African-American; breaking the negative stigma that has traditionally been attached to seeking mental health services, and building stronger Black and Brown communities.

Girls Build Kalamazoo inspires do-it-yourself building and technical confidence in young Black girls

Girls Build Kalamazoo em-powers Black girls by teaching them to use drills, electric saws, sanders, and hand tools. The nonprofit, founded by Twala Lockett-Jones, realtor and author, also introduces principles of design and elements of construction — to build confidence in areas where women are often underrepresented.

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