Narrative Lab – Michael Monroe: My Solution Story
In "Breaking the Cycle: A Story of Resilience," a man shares his journey from a tumultuous childhood, marked by an abusive father and a violent environment, to becoming an advocate for change. He reflects on the impact of his upbringing…
Kalamazoo Public Schools – March 5, 2026 Board of Education Meeting
The School Board highlights student achievements from Parkwood Upjohn, Spring Valley, and Maple Street schools. Financial updates and future construction at Woodward Elementary were discussed. The board celebrated achieving the highest graduation rate in the district's history, with improvements across…
Local Stories – Disability Network: #DWord Bookclub
The Disability Network and the Kalamazoo Public Library partner to provide a book club exploring different literary voices specializing in the disabled space.
Kalamazoo County – Board of Commissioners – March 3, 2026 Meeting
The Kalamazoo County Board discusses the need for additional judgeships as recommended by the State Court Administrator's Office, infrastructure improvements, and community health updates. The board reviews pressing matters such as the emergency replacement of a fingerprinting machine at the…
Kalamazoo County – Committee of the Whole – March 3, 2026 Committee of the Whole Meeting
The board reviewed housing framework updates provided by Housing Director Mary Balkema. Key topics included the progress of the Landing Place shelter, voucher programs, and the development of a data integration system. The meeting also covered the issuance of tax-exempt…
“Maintain a sense of normalcy,” YWCA partners with First Day Shoe Fund for a new shoe closet
National average says it takes eleven attempts for someone to leave a violent relationship, and sometimes they leave with just the clothes on their backs. Helping to ease this transition, First Day Shoe Fund installed its first shoe closet at…
Kalamazoo City Commission – March 2, 2026 Business Meeting
The Commission addressed significant local issues, including public safety and infrastructure projects. The meeting began with roll call and an invocation. The Commission addressed the Howard Street and Merrill intersection safety concerns, with plans to engage with the community for…
Comstock Township – Township Board – March 2, 2026 Meeting
The Board addresses public concerns regarding the fire department's budget and the township's responsiveness to residents. A significant portion of the meeting is dedicated to discussing a liquor license ordinance potentially affecting Supervisor Ben Martin. The board also considers a…
Kalamazoo City Commission – Committee of the Whole – March 2, 2026 Committee of the Whole Meeting
In the Kalamazoo City Commission meeting titled 'Kalamazoo City Economic Development Update,' the commission discusses various initiatives and updates related to economic development within the city. Economic Development Manager Bobby Boyd provides a comprehensive update on the city's economic development…
Narrative Lab – Yafincenio Harris: My Solution Story
In 'A Journey Through the Violence Trade,' Yafincenio recounts their experiences navigating the harsh realities of crime and community outreach. From Elkhart, Indiana, to Kalamazoo, they share poignant stories of violence and redemption, questioning societal perceptions of crime and the…
