New pastor looks to bring church spirit to young people in Kalamazoo, inspire positive social change

“I want to be a part of a larger movement – of interfaith dialogue and conversation,” says the new pastor of Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church, Rev. Millard Southern III.

Four-year-old Heritage Fund fosters an accurate appreciation for Native Americans and their history

The Native American Heritage Fund is becoming a model that the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi would like to see being used to promote positive relationships for more Native American Tribes.

Jim Lee, vice president of data policy and analytics at the Michigan Health and Hospital Association.
Data sharing among health providers boosts Michigan’s pandemic response

Beyond the color-coded counties and line graphs we've all seen, data sharing has helped Michigan's many health providers better understand and respond to the pandemic.

An attempt to flee 2020 with a 556-mile roundtrip bike ride into the woods

A bicycle ride through 90-degree weather, over dirt roads, through sand pits, up and down hills, hills, hills, and more hills. While towing a Burley Coho trailer with a Surly Troll loaded with camping gear. It doesn't get more 2020 than this.

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. 

BCCF
Battle Creek Community Foundation launches initiative to help nonprofits continue their work

The Battle Creek Community Foundation has a COVID-19 strategy that will increase the flexibility and responsiveness of BCCF and provide two additional opportunities for funding.

Albion becomes one of the first in the state to get neighborhood COVID-19 testing site

Albion has been working with the state since April to set up COVID-19 testing for city residents.

‘Let’s Get Real’ series of conversations begins between Black community members and B.C. officials

Some conversations need to be shared. Leaders of Battle Creek's Black community brought together city officials to share concerns and aspirations.

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.

Battle Creek coalition Milk Like Mine helps mothers of color succeed with breastfeeding

When learning how to breastfeed a baby a lactation consultant who looks like you can be an important resource. 

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