by Kimberly Viers | Sep 17, 2020 | Culture
Both Ken and Cassie Paul’s first jobs involved pizza, but years later they never imagined they would run their own mobile pizza company. “It’s ironic because both Cassie and I worked in pizza,” said Ken. “Her first job was working in a pizzeria convenience store, and...
by Kimberly Viers | Sep 16, 2020 | Leadership
Our region’s future is bright thanks to the strong leaders who are navigating change and cultivating successful teams today. These leaders are not only a catalyst for the change that is happening right now, but they are molding and shaping the leaders of future...
by Kimberly Viers | Sep 15, 2020 | Culture
Tucked into the southeast corner of Kalamazoo, Milwood neighborhood boasts the largest neighborhood size and the second-highest population in our home city with 8,000 residents and several businesses calling it home. With accessibility to multiple schools and three...
by Kimberly Viers | Sep 15, 2020 | Culture
While some claim that pumpkin season is already here, we’re holding off on celebrating the big orange guy to recognize a small purple friend—the raisin. Today is National Cinnamon Raisin Bread day, and what better time to indulge in a slice of sweet and healthy...
by Kimberly Viers | Sep 15, 2020 | Leadership
OPINION We have all heard the saying: “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” The harsh reality is that people often do judge a book, a leader, or an organization based on outward appearances. I am not saying, at all, that you have to be a runway model to be a great...
by Kimberly Viers | Sep 14, 2020 | Business
We’re honking our horns this week to celebrate National Truck Driver Appreciation week! Truck drivers are a staple to our economy, powering the flow of goods that keep retail shelves stocked, food on the table, manufacturing processes running, and keep America moving...
by Kimberly Viers | Sep 14, 2020 | Leadership
Our region’s future is bright thanks to the strong leaders who are navigating change and cultivating successful teams today. These leaders are not only a catalyst for the change that is happening right now, but they are molding and shaping the leaders of future...
by Kimberly Viers | Sep 11, 2020 | Business
New awards bring total of loans to $9 million, along with $10 million in grants already awarded through the program Low-interest loans intended to support businesses facing drastic reductions in cash flow and the continued support of their workforce in the face of...
by Kimberly Viers | Sep 11, 2020 | Leadership
Overcoming the obstacles to virtual learning is easier when the community rallies its support for students and families. Here in Kalamazoo, several community partners are launching four Community Learning Hubs for students this fall that will be geographically based...
by Kimberly Viers | Sep 11, 2020 | Leadership
Our region’s future is bright thanks to the strong leaders who are navigating change and cultivating successful teams today. These leaders are not only a catalyst for the change that is happening right now, but they are molding and shaping the leaders of future...
by Kimberly Viers | Sep 11, 2020 | Culture
With the U.S. Open in full swing, you may be itching to serve some of your own aces out on the tennis court. It spin a long time since you’ve been able to watch many live sports, and we get it—you just want to get your game on. Tennis is a great sport to stay socially...
by Kimberly Viers | Sep 8, 2020 | Business
Southwest Michigan First, the regional economic development catalyst based in Kalamazoo, Michigan, today announced 1,434 small business recipients are receiving average grant awards of $5,000 each as part of the state’s Michigan Small Business Restart Program. Grants...
