KALAMAZOO, MI -- Heading into 2020, the world seemed much the same as it had in 2019. Then, a global pandemic brought the world to a standstill.
In March, schoolchildren were sent home, businesses closed and the healthcare system prepared for the worst when the coronavirus arrived in Michigan. Nine months later, Kalamazoo County has confirmed more than 10,000 local residents got the virus, and about 200 have died from it.
Even for those who have not been sick, restrictions intended to slow the spread of COVID-19 impacted daily life for nearly everyone. Those hurdles did not stop MLive and the staff at the Kalamazoo Gazette from covering the most important stories to our community.
Though the coronavirus and its impact overshadowed the year in many respects, there were countless other stories and images that help tell the larger story of an unusual and difficult year for many in and around Kalamazoo. Despite the challenges, there were also stories of community members rallying around one another and others about creative and innovative solutions to new problems the virus created.
Dominating local news this summer was a series of protests and demonstrations held in and around Kalamazoo. Community members gathered on Monday, June 1, for a silent prayer protest for George Floyd and Breonna Taylor after multiple large but peaceful protests were held in downtown Kalamazoo the prior weekend.
Later that evening, after more peaceful protests, chaos ensued in downtown Kalamazoo, where police say 25 businesses and buildings were damaged. Police also deployed tear gas to disperse protesters, leading some city residents to criticize the public safety officers’ handling of the incident.
Many leading protests in Kalamazoo continued demonstrating in the months that followed, with one group gathering once a week throughout the summer months to call for change and recognition of issues of inequality and police brutality.
Later in the summer, on Aug. 15, a group associated with the far-right Proud Boys organization arrived in Kalamazoo and were met by counterprotesters who said they were not welcome here. Violence erupted between the two groups, and city police again faced criticism for not having a presence in the area where the two groups clashed and for arresting multiple counterprotesters, but no members of the Proud Boys group.
Fallout from community reaction to the events of the summer ultimately included the firing of former Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety chief Karianne Thomas, who was succeeded in the leadership role by Chief Vernon Coakley Jr. in October.
From shoreline erosion to the first shipments of the coronavirus vaccine leaving Pfizer’s plant in Portage, below is a collection of images that illustrate the highs and lows of 2020 in Southwest Michigan:
Bob and Helen Curtis-Foster pose for a photo on the foundation of the home that is being demolished in the 2200 block of Lakeshore Drive in Allegan County's Ganges Township on Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2020. Helen and her family decided to demolish the house as the collapsing dune growing closer to the edge of the home. The home has been in the Curtis family since the 1930s and they have owned the property dating back to the late 1800s. (Joel Bissell | MLive.com)Joel Bissell | MLive.com
READ MORE: Home on edge of Lake Michigan bluff demolished to avoid collapse
Kalamazoo native and Harlem Globetrotter Doug "Hawk" Anderson dunks the ball at Wings Event Center in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2020. (Kendall Warner | Mlive.com) Kendall Warner | MLive.com
READ MORE: Watch former NCAA dunk champ throw down with Globetrotters in native Kalamazoo
The sunset behind South Haven Pier seen from North Beach in South Haven, Michigan on Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2020. Joel Bissell | MLive.comJoel Bissell | MLive.com
RELATED: Beaches shrink in Southwest Michigan amid rising water levels
RELATED: Lakes Michigan and Huron set January water level records, could go higher than ever recorded
Melissa Morgan reacts as the jury reads a guilty verdict during the conclusion of her murder trial in Kalamazoo Michigan, Michigan on Thursday, Feb. 13, 2020. The jury found Morgan guilty of first-degree murder and first-degree arson. Morgan set fire to the home of Zachariah John Hayes, 31, killing him in the early morning hours of Feb. 3, 2019.Joel Bissell | MLive.com
READ MORE: Woman found guilty of murder for setting fire that killed Kalamazoo man
Rita Raichoudhuri poses for a portrait outside the Kalamazoo Public Schools Administration Building in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Thursday, May 21, 2020. Raichoudhuri is beginning her role as the superintendent of KPS during the COVID-19 pandemic. (Kendall Warner | MLive.com)Kendall Warner | MLive.com
READ MORE: Meet Rita Raichoudhuri, Kalamazoo Public Schools’ next superintendent
RELATED: New Kalamazoo superintendent faces extraordinary challenge as she steps into role
RELATED: New Kalamazoo school superintendent creates equity task force, voices support for protesters
Participants jump into the pool during the Polar Plunge at Bell's Eccentric Cafe in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2020. (Kendall Warner | Mlive.com) Kendall Warner | MLive.com
READ MORE: Plungers dive in for Special Olympics in Kalamazoo
Local youths prepare to take the oath of enlistment during a ceremony with U.S. Army Colonel and NASA Astronaut Andrew Morgan from the International Space Station at Air Zoo in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020. (Kendall Warner | Mlive.com) Kendall Warner | MLive.com
READ MORE: Astronaut on space station delivers military oath of enlistment to Kalamazoo-area youth
Crews work to clear remnants of the demolished Sisters of St. Joseph motherhouse in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Monday, March. 2, 2020. (Kendall Warner | Mlive.com) Kendall Warner | MLive.com
READ MORE: From icon to rubble: Nazareth motherhouse demolished in Kalamazoo
Large Lake Michigan waves batter the North pier and lighthouses in St. Joseph, Michigan on Friday, March 6, 2020. The National Weather Service issued a warning for North-Northwest winds at 30 to 40 mph, gusting to 50 mph and for the waves to be 15+ feet mid-morning.Joel Bissell
READ MORE: Huge waves batter Lake Michigan shoreline
RELATED: ‘We have to respond’ to Lake Michigan erosion, U.S. senator says
RELATED: Boating season at South Haven marinas in jeopardy amid high-water concerns
READ MORE: Michigan’s shoreline towns struggle to survive Great Lakes high water
Western Michigan Broncos forward Breanna Mobley (10 carries her daughter AuBree Rose onto the court as she is recognized on senior day at Read Fieldhouse on the campus of Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Saturday, March 7, 2020.Joel Bissell
READ MORE: From grad student to record-setting athlete to mom, WMU’s Breanna Mobley does it all
A member of the public speaks Paw Paw during a Paw Paw Publics Schools board meeting to retire the 'Redskins' nickname and logo at Later Elementary School in Paw Paw, Michigan on Monday, March 9, 2020. Joel Bissell
RELATED: Native American tribes applaud mascot change at Paw Paw schools
RELATED: Paw Paw school district officially changes nickname to ‘Red Wolves,’ introduces logo
RELATED: Paw Paw schools awarded $215K grant after replacing controversial ‘Redskins’ mascot
After his daughter Nora, 2, scribbled on his first ballot, Zane Shami re-casts his vote at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Tuesday, March 10, 2020. (Kendall Warner | Mlive.com) Kendall Warner | MLive.com
READ MORE: Election results for Kalamazoo area March 10, 2020
Grace Van Overberghe packs her clothes in preparation to leave campus the day after it was announced in-person classes would be canceled at Western Michigan University amid Coronavirus concerns in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Thursday, March 12, 2020. (Kendall Warner | Mlive.com) Kendall Warner | MLive.com
READ MORE: Students scramble to leave Western Michigan after coronavirus dorm closures
A KKind employee weighs out marijuana flower at a new recreational marijuana provisioning center in Kalamazoo Township, Michigan on Friday, March 13, 2020. Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf and Lt. Gov. John Fetterman on Sept. 3, 2020, called on the Republican-controlled Legislature to expedite the legalization of recreational marijuana, for both economic and social benefits. GOP leaders pushed back on the idea.Joel Bissell file photo | For MLive.com
READ MORE: Kalamazoo’s first recreational marijuana shop opens despite coronavirus
RELATED: Recreational marijuana shop opens between Kalamazoo and South Haven
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Chris O'Neill, Owner of One Well Brewing in Kalamazoo, Michigan poses for a portrait on Wednesday, March 18, 2020. At 3 p.m. Monday, Gov. Whitmer ordered all bars and restaurants to close their doors for dine-in service. Joel Bissell
READ MORE: Brewery owner will match donations for staff laid off during coronavirus closure
From left, sisters Olana Morton, 6, Serenitee Morton, 5, and Zamariah Morton, 9, stand with their bags of free food distributed by Kalamazoo Public Schools at Eastside Neighborhood Association in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Wednesday, March 18, 2020. (Kendall Warner | Mlive.com) Kendall Warner | MLive.com
READ MORE: Where kids can get free meals across Kalamazoo County while school is out
RELATED: Nearly 900K free meals delivered to Kalamazoo-area students during pandemic
Two snowmen, six feet apart, stand in the front yard of the Mack home in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Tuesday, March 24, 2020. 5-year-old twin boys Ricky and Charlie made the snowmen from a small amount of snow that fell overnight on Sunday. (Kendall Warner | Mlive.com) Kendall Warner | MLive.com
READ MORE: Twins build twin snowmen, six feet apart, to promote social distancing
A bicyclist crosses the road at West Michigan Avenue in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Wednesday, March 25, 2020. This is the second day of the "Stay Home, Stay Safe" executive ordered issued by Governor Whitmer. People are still encouraged to workout and get fresh air amid coronavirus concerns. Joel Bissell
READ MORE: All Michigan residents, most businesses ordered to stay home to slow spread of coronavirus
Rita and Rob Swartz celebrate their 48th wedding anniversary through his window at New Friends Memory Care and Assisted Living Facility in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Wednesday, March 25, 2020. (Kendall Warner | Mlive.com) Kendall Warner | MLive.com
READ MORE: Separated by glass, Kalamazoo couple celebrates 48 years of marriage
With her dog Lucy by her side, Kellie Boers makes masks in the living room of her home in Portage, Michigan on Friday, March 27, 2020. (Kendall Warner | Mlive.com) Kendall Warner | MLive.com
READ MORE: Mask-makers in Kalamazoo spend their days sewing to protect others
RELATED: Those that sew asked to create, donate ‘coronavirus masks’
RELATED: 500 hand-sewn masks donated to Kalamazoo County healthcare workers during coronavirus shortage
RELATED: A timeline of coronavirus in the Kalamazoo area
El Sol Academy students Camdyn and Colden Sterling pose for a portrait as they work on a painting a heart on the window of their home in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Thursday, April, 2, 2020. Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued a "Stay Home, Stay Safe" executive order that went into effect on March 24 to help flatten the curve of the coronavirus pandemic sweeping the United States. (Joel Bissell | MLive.com)Joel Bissell
READ MORE: Coronavirus crisis in pictures: How people in West Michigan are battling the outbreak
Brothers Brix, 6, and Arlo Kovatch, 9, play in the snow in the front yard of their home in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Friday, April 17, 2020. (Kendall Warner | MLive.com)Kendall Warner | MLive.com
READ MORE: Mid-April snow blankets a sleepy Kalamazoo amid outbreak
Volunteers unload belongings from a Kalamazoo Gospel Ministries truck in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Thursday, April 16, 2020. Around 75 people made up of several families were moved from the shelter to a local hotel to help with social distancing inside the shelter. (Joel Bissell | MLive.com)Joel Bissell
READ MORE: Homeless families move to Kalamazoo hotel to encourage safety during coronavirus
Employees with the Family Health Center of Kalamazoo collect samples at their "rolling" drive-thru COVID-19 testing lab in the parking lot at Stones Church in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Friday, April 17, 2020. Individuals who are hoping to get tested must first call the center to undergo a pre-test evaluation and assessment to determine whether it is appropriate for them to be tested. If they qualify they will be given an appointment time. All testing will be done for pre-registered individuals only. (Joel Bissell | Mlive.com)Joel Bissell
READ MORE: ‘Rolling’ coronavirus lab tests more than 100 in Kalamazoo; sets new site for next week
RELATED: After Vicksburg, ‘rolling’ COVID-19 test site will return to Kalamazoo next week
Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety responds to a fire at 773 W. Michigan Ave., formerly Rupert’s Brew House in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Monday, April 20, 2020. Crews were dispatched to the fire at 11:06 p.m. Rupert's has been closed since September, 2019. The building was formerly occupied by Oakland Pharmacy, which opened in 1926 and for two decades Boogie Records until 1995. (Joel Bissell | MLive.com)Joel Bissell
READ MORE: Fire damages former home to Boogie Records, Rupert’s Brew House
RELATED: Fire at former home to Rupert’s Brew House ‘determined accidental’
Signs of encouragement amid the coronavirus pandemic around Kalamazoo County, Michigan.
READ MORE: ‘Kzoo loves you:’ Signs of hope spotted across Kalamazoo during pandemic
Ninth grader Wesley Baker receives his Chromebook at Loy Norrix High School in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Wednesday, April 22, 2020. Baker lives a few blocks away so he decided to ride his scooter to pickup his loaner laptop. All Kalamazoo Public Schools high school students had the ability to pick up a loaner Chromebook to help them complete their remote learning. (Joel Bissell | MLive.com)Joel Bissell
READ MORE: Free laptops help Kalamazoo seniors finish school during coronavirus closure
RELATED: Kalamazoo Public Schools to spend $1.2M on new laptops for students
RELATED: Kalamazoo Public Schools outlines plan for remote learning during closure
Feleshia Ellis poses for a portrait in front of the memorial for her sister Anita McClendon in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Wednesday, April 29, 2020. McClendon was the victim of a fatal hit-and-run that occurred Monday, April 27, two days before her 47th birthday, in the 500 block of Ada Street in Kalamazoo's Northside neighborhood. (Kendall Warner | MLive.com)Kendall Warner | MLive.com
READ MORE: Woman, 46, killed in Kalamazoo hit-and-run remembered as ‘charismatic’
RELATED: Charges dismissed against driver accused in hit-and-run death of Kalamazoo woman
A Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety patrol vehicle leaves Lakeside Academy in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Friday, May 1, 2020. (Joel Bissell | MLive.com)Joel Bissell
READ MORE: 16-year-old Lakeside Academy student dead after being restrained by staff
RELATED: Teen’s death comes after pattern of improper restraints at now-closed facility, investigation shows
RELATED: Lakeside Academy student’s death ruled homicide
RELATED: Third former Lakeside employee to stand trial in teen’s death
The Flower Moon rises over Kalamazoo, Michigan on Thursday, May 7, 2020. It was the last "supermoon" of 2020. (Joel Bissell | MLive.com)Joel Bissell
READ MORE: Photos of spring in bloom across West Michigan capture the beauty of nature
Roselda shops for plants at Wedel's Nursery, Florist and Garden Center in Texas Charter Township, Michigan on Saturday, May 2, 2020. (Kendall Warner | MLive.com)Kendall Warner | MLive.com
READ MORE: Gardening resumes at Wedel’s Nursery, Florist and Garden Center
RELATED: Kalamazoo County sets 3-phase plan to reopen business, institutions post-pandemic
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Kalamazoo Christian graduates Alexis and Kaylee Klaassen pose for a portrait behind their home in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Tuesday, May 19, 2020. The twins plan on attending Bethel University in Indiana. (Kendall Warner | MLive.com) Kendall Warner | MLive.com
READ MORE: 8 Kalamazoo-area seniors reflect on graduating in the midst of a pandemic
READ MORE: Remembering the Kalamazoo tornado 40 years after it struck May 13, 1980
Scenes from Gull Lake High School class of 2020 senior parade along M-89 in Richland, Michigan on Thursday, June 4, 2020.Joel Bissell
READ MORE: Hundreds cheer on Gull Lake seniors as they parade through town
RELATED: Mattawan sends off graduating seniors with socially distanced parade
RELATED: Portage Northern honors graduating seniors with ‘sunset parade’
Gazelle Sports Sales Floor Leader, Kathleen VanVaerenbergh, stands behind a six-foot line as she talks to a customer trying on shoes at their location in downtown Kalamazoo, Michigan on Wednesday, May 26, 2020. Each time a shoe is tried on they are sanitized and placed in a quarantined area in the basement for 48 hours. Certain retail businesses were allowed to reopen on May 26 with safety precautions in place and a maximum of ten customers inside a store at a time. Joel Bissell
READ MORE: Retail, auto showrooms reopen by appointment in Kalamazoo area
Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety Officers attempt to diffuse the protests in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Saturday, May 30, 2020. People gathered to speak out about police brutality and demand justice in the recent death of George Floyd who was killed by Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin on May 25, 2020. (Kendall Warner | MLive.com) Kendall Warner | MLive.com
READ MORE: Throngs crowd downtown Kalamazoo from day’s second protest
People lay or kneel on the sidewalk for nine minutes to remember George Floyd during a silent prayer protest outside the Kalamazoo County Courthouse in downtown Kalamazoo, Michigan on Monday, June 1, 2020. Joel Bissell
READ MORE: Silent protesters hold demonstration in Kalamazoo
Police release tear gas on protestors at the intersection of Park and Academy Streets in downtown Kalamazoo, Michigan early Tuesday morning, June 2, 2020. Around 11:30 p.m. protests in downtown Kalamazoo escalated into violence, several buildings and businesses were damaged. Police, mainly in riot gear, cleared the streets by 2:20 a.m. (Joel Bissell | MLive.com)Joel Bissell
READ MORE: Protesters cause chaos overnight in downtown Kalamazoo
RELATED: ‘Outside agitators’ forced officers to deploy tear gas, pepper spray in Kalamazoo, police say
The Radisson Plaza Hotel at Kalamazoo Center is reflected in a broken window of the Kalamazoo Building in downtown Kalamazoo, Michigan on Tuesday morning, June 2, 2020. Several businesses sustained broken windows from vandals early Tuesday morning and now most of the businesses are boarding up there windows as a precaution. Joel Bissell
READ MORE: Volunteers help business owners clean up after night of protests, vandalism in Kalamazoo
Kalamazoo Public Safety Assistant Chief of Operations, Vernon Coakley, tries to leave a public press conference in to what occurred at the protests overnight in downtown Kalamazoo, Michigan on Tuesday, June 2, 2020. A member of the community is pointing to Assistant Chief of Strategic Planning Jeffrey VanderWiere in the background. The city of Kalamazoo imposed a 7 p.m. curfew that will last until 5 a.m. Wednesday, June 3. The Michigan National Guard will be deployed in town to assist local law enforcement. Joel Bissell
READ MORE: Kalamazoo imposes curfew at 7 p.m. today in response to vandalism, protests
Scenes from downtown Kalamazoo, Michigan on Tuesday, June 2, 2020. The Michigan National Guard has joined other police agencies forming a perimeter around the heart of downtown. Many businesses were boarded up or in the process after 25 businesses and buildings were damaged. The City of Kalamazoo and Portage imposed a curfew from 7 p.m. until 5 a.m. on Wednesday, June 3 after late night vandalism the morning before.Joel Bissell
READ MORE: Michigan National Guard deployed in Kalamazoo ahead of curfew
Public Safety Assistant Chief of Operations, Vernon Coakley, tries to reason with protestors to go home after they violated the curfew as they gather in the intersection of Park Street and West Michigan Avenue in downtown Kalamazoo, Michigan on Tuesday, June 2, 2020. The City of Kalamazoo imposed a curfew from 7 p.m. until 5 a.m. on Wednesday, June 3 after late night vandalism the morning before. (Joel Bissell | MLive.com)Joel Bissell
READ MORE: ‘My heart was wrenched with pain,’ assistant chief says of ordering tear gas on protesters
A person dumps water on the face of a fellow protestor after tear gas was released to disperse a crowd in downtown Kalamazoo, Michigan on Tuesday, June 2, 2020. After 35 to 40 minutes of reasoning with the police after violating curfew crowds were dispersed using CS gas and mace pellets. The City of Kalamazoo imposed a curfew from 7 p.m. until 5 a.m. on Wednesday, June 3 after late night vandalism.Joel Bissell
READ MORE: Kalamazoo protesters urge police to join them, are tear-gassed after curfew
RELATED: Letter from the Editor: Journalists record the pain of community protests, and they live it, too
RELATED: Investigator seeks eyewitness accounts and concerns about Kalamazoo police response to protests
Crews battle multiple 'suspicious' structure fires in the 900 block of W. North St in Kalamazoo, Michigan in the early morning hours of Wednesday, June 3, 2020. Kalamazoo had a curfew in place from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. as the Michigan National Guard had troops deployed in the heart of downtown. (Joel Bissell | MLive.com)Joel Bissell
READ MORE: Multiple houses on fire along Kalamazoo street
RELATED: Donors help Kalamazoo woman get back on her feet after fire destroys her home
Black Lives Matter painted on a plywood board along the Kalamazoo Mall in downtown Kalamazoo, Michigan on Monday, June 8, 2020. Several businesses boarded their windows and doors as a precaution after an estimated 25 businesses were damaged the week prior.Joel Bissell
READ MORE: Kalamazoo artists bring color to boarded up downtown businesses
A new street mural in Kalamazoo reads "Black Lives Matter" on Rose Street on Friday, June 19, 2020.Neil Blake | MLive.com
READ MORE: Artists create Black Lives Matter mural on downtown Kalamazoo street
RELATED: Police investigate after Kalamazoo Black Lives Matter mural splattered with white paint
Children look into the window of the Underground Railroad House at 613 E. Cass St. during a Black Lives Matter rally and protest in Schoolcraft, Michigan on Wednesday, July, 8 2020. 613 E. Cass St. is home to the Dr. Nathan Thomas House, one MichiganÕs most active Underground Railroad stops that helped slaves escape to freedom, according to event organizers. It is estimated that between 1,000 and 1,500 fugitives passed through the home on their way to Canada, according to the historical marker in front on the home.Joel Bissell | MLive.com
READ MORE: Activists rally and march in Schoolcraft for Black Lives Matter
A crowd marches through downtown Kalamazoo as part of a Black Lives Matter demonstration on Saturday, July 11, 2020. Retired NBA player Stephen Jackson and Milton "Po Boy" Carney, close friends of George Floyd, were among speakers during the "Let Your Voice Be Heard" rally and march. (Cory Morse | MLive.com)Cory Morse | MLive.com
READ MORE: Former NBA star, George Floyd’s close friend lead rally, march through downtown Kalamazoo
READ MORE: 10 years ago, Kalamazoo River oil spill was ‘an awakening’ in pipeline debate
Kayonna White dances as she walks toward the stage to receive her diploma at Loy Norrix High School in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020. Graduates came in waves in order of their last name to help with over crowding and social distancing. The Knights original graduation ceremony was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Joel Bissell | MLive.com
READ MORE: Loy Norrix class of 2020 celebrates graduation after unusual senior year
Graduates wait in line to receive their diplomas during their graduation ceremony at Kalamazoo Central High School in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Thursday, Aug. 6, 2020. Graduates came to the football field in waves in order of their last name to help with over crowding and social distancing. Graduates were also limited to five members of their family and friends. The Knights original graduation ceremony was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Joel Bissell | MLive.com
READ MORE: Kalamazoo Central seniors celebrate graduation amid coronavirus pandemic
Coaches check players temperatures as they arrive for football practice at Vicksburg High School in Vicksburg, Michigan on Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2020.Joel Bissell | MLive.com
READ MORE: Michigan high school football teams start practice. Is there hope for a season?
Proud Boys march down North Rose Street in downtown Kalamazoo, Michigan on Saturday, Aug. 15, 2020. (Samuel J Robinson | MLive.com)
READ MORE: Rally turns violent as Proud Boys met by counter-protesters in downtown Kalamazoo
RELATED: Charge dropped against MLive reporter, chief apologizes for arrest at Kalamazoo protest
Kalamazoo Public Safety Chief Karianne Thomas stands behind Kalamazoo city flag and an American flag before speaking during a press conference at City Hall in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Sunday, Aug. 16, 2020. The press conference was held after protestors and counter protestors clashed in downtown Kalamazoo on Saturday, Aug. 15. (MLive.com file photo)
READ MORE: Critics continue calls for resignations over Kalamazoo’s response to Proud Boys event
RELATED: Why the Proud Boys visited Kalamazoo
A student checks into her Valley dormitory during freshman move-in day at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Thursday, Aug. 27, 2020.Joel Bissell | MLive.com
READ MORE: Western Michigan University freshmen ‘rolling with the punches’ as they move in during a pandemic
RELATED: Western Michigan University students’ return to campus delayed in January 2021
Kalamazoo Vice Mayor Patrese Griffin and her spouse Ed Genesis who is a community activist pose for a portrait in LaCrone Park in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Thursday, Sept. 3, 2020. Joel Bissell | MLive.com
READ MORE: Vice mayor, activist husband use life experiences to push for systemic change
RELATED: Kalamazoo passes anti-discrimination housing ordinance championed by once-homeless commissioner
VIDEO: City commissioner, community organizer inspire each other to push for change in Kalamazoo
Schoolcraft senior Jett Gott (7) catches a pass for a 89-yard touchdown against Constantine Falcons during the first quarter at Schoolcraft High School in Schoolcraft, Michigan on Friday, Sept. 18, 2020. The season start was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. (Joel Bissell | MLive.com)Joel Bissell | MLive.com
READ MORE: No rust, just championship form for Schoolcraft football in win over Constantine
Kalamazoo Public Safety Chief Karianne Thomas and assistant chief Vernon Coakley during a press conference for the new youth center on the East side of Kalamazoo, Michigan on Thursday, Sept. 3, 2020. The City Life Teen Center at 2528 E. Main St. run by Youth For Christ is expected to open to programming in early 2021.Joel Bissell | MLive.com
READ MORE: Karianne Thomas retires as Kalamazoo Public Safety chief
RELATED: Vernon Coakley sworn in as Kalamazoo Public Safety chief
People listen in as Portage Mayor Patricia Randall speaks during the groundbreaking ceremony for the Charles and Lynn Zhang Portage Community Senior Center in Portage, Michigan on Thursday, Sept. 24, 2020. Joel Bissell | MLive.com
READ MORE: Portage breaks ground on new community senior center
Grand Rapids artist, Jamari Taylor, poses for a portrait in her crown-themed space at the "Make Room" exhibit at the Judy K. Jolliffe Theatre in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. The exhibit by the Black Arts and Cultural Center features 15 "rooms" created by 10 artists. The exhibit openings to the public on Saturday, Oct. 17. The exhibit will run Thursday-Saturday until Dec. 12. Tickets are $10 for adults and free to students K-12. On Thursday's the exhibit will be donation only.Joel Bissell | MLive.com
READ MORE: New art exhibit gives the Black community space to create after a heated summer
Artist Debbie Lorenz of Davison poses for a portrait in front of her new 'LOVE' mural at H&H Farms in Vicksburg, Michigan on Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2020. Joel Bissell | MLive.com
READ MORE: Artist’s mural unveiled on side of grain silo at Kalamazoo County farm
Vicksburg 'Big Red Machine' marching band performs during halftime at Vicksburg High School in Vicksburg, Michigan on Friday, Oct. 30, 2020. Vicksburg defeated Plainwell 17-12 to advance to the second round of the MHSAA playoffs.Joel Bissell | MLive.com
READ MORE: Fast start, tough defense lead Vicksburg football to playoff win over Plainwell
An election official handles absentee ballot envelopes at City Hall in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2020. The envelopes are separated by precinct. (Joel Bissell | MLive.com)Joel Bissell
READ MORE: Kalamazoo County sees record-setting voter turnout in 2020 presidential election
Portage Northern senior Anthony Tyus III (34) looks behind him as he runs for a first half touchdown against Battle Creek Lakeview at Portage Northern High School in Portage, Michigan on Friday, Nov. 6, 2020. Portage Northern defeat Lakeview 28-14. (Joel Bissell | MLive.com)Joel Bissell
READ MORE: Big Ten-bound Anthony Tyus powers Portage Northern to playoff win over Lakeview
RELATED: Signing with Northwestern football ‘a dream come true’ for Portage Northern’s Anthony Tyus
WWII Navy Veteran Robert Johnson, 99, and his wife Mary, 90, pose for a portrait on their 70th wedding anniversary outside their home in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2020. After a socially-distant car parade Robert was also given the award of "Kalamazoo County Veteran of the Year". (Joel Bissell | MLive.com)Joel Bissell | MLive.com
READ MORE: WWII Navy man, 99, honored with parade and Veteran of the Year award
Volunteers load Christmas trees onto a FedEx truck for 'Trees for Troops' at Wahmoff Farms in Gobles, Michigan on Monday, Nov. 30, 2020. 'Trees for Troops' was founded in 2005, and the organization delivers donated Christmas trees to military families each holiday season. (Joel Bissell | MLive.com)Joel Bissell | MLive.com
READ MORE: Michigan farms donate hundreds of Christmas trees to military families
The scene of an alleged shooting in the parking lot of Fish Express at the corner of Riverview Drive and Hoptop Avenue in Kalamazoo, Michigan.Joel Bissell | MLive.com
READ MORE: ‘Gun violence pandemic needs to stop,’ Kalamazoo police chief says
READ MORE: Unlikely relationships forge in battle to end gun violence in Kalamazoo
Western Michigan Broncos punter Nick Mihalic (39) grabs the onside kick against the Toledo Rockets during the fourth quarter at Waldo Stadium on the campus of Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2020. The Broncos would go on to defeat the Rockets 41-38. (Joel Bissell | MLive.com)Joel Bissell | MLive.com
READ MORE: WMU football stuns Toledo with onside kick, trick-play touchdown in final seconds
RELATED: WMU football sends 12 to All-MAC list; Eskridge earns Special Teams Player of the Year
Julia Stanley, owner of Food Dance Restaurant poses for a portrait at her establishment in downtown Kalamazoo, Michigan on Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2020. Michigan Department of Health and Human Services newest order, which goes into effect Wednesday, suspends in-person dining at bars and restaurants across Michigan for three weeks. (Joel Bissell | MLive.com)Joel Bissell | MLive.com
RELATED: 20 bars and restaurants that opened or closed in the Kalamazoo area in 2020
Crews begin to demolish First Reformed Church of Kalamazoo in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2020. In its place, a green space will be developed adjacent to Bronson Park. Future plans will include a 130-foot by 130-foot nature playscape dedicated to serving the needs of the city's youth under the age of 10. (Joel Bissell | MLive.com)Joel Bissell | MLive.com
READ MORE: ‘We tried to save it:’ First Reformed Church of Kalamazoo slowly comes down
A truck carry the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine is loaded at Pfizer Global Supply plant in Portage, Michigan on Sunday, Dec. 13, 2020. (Joel Bissell | MLive.com)Joel Bissell | MLive.com
READ MORE: Trucks carrying Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine depart Michigan facility for distribution
RELATED: As Pfizer prepares to ship COVID-19 vaccine, Michigan manufacturing plant takes center stage
'Shaba', the Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk (817), arrives at the Air Zoo in Portage, Michigan on Friday, Dec. 11, 2020. The stealth aircraft, is one of five F-117, of the 59 operational that were built. It that has flown over 5,000 hours. Shaba has also participated in over 75 sorties and flew in three of the four major campaigns that they were used. It flew in Desert Storm, Just Cause and Iraqi Freedom. (Joel Bissell | MLive.com)Joel Bissell | MLive.com
READ MORE: F-117 Nighthawk ‘Shaba’ arrives for display at Air Zoo in Michigan
Terry Owisan, 87, pets Percy the reindeer from Reindeer Ranch during a visit at Vineyard Assisted Living in Texas Township, Michigan on Monday, Dec. 15, 2020. Percy's handler is Carol Borton the owner of Reindeer Ranch. (Joel Bissell | MLive.com)Joel Bissell | MLive.com
READ MORE: Kalamazoo reindeer brings Christmas cheer to assisted living residents
Louise Thompson administers the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine to Spencer Winters, physician manager of adult critical care unit at Bronson Methodist Hospital in downtown Kalamazoo, Michigan on Thursday, Dec. 17, 2020. (Joel Bissell | MLive.com)Joel Bissell | MLive.com
READ MORE: ‘We trust it,’ say first 11 healthcare workers receiving coronavirus vaccine at Kalamazoo hospital
Also on MLive:
Kalamazoo’s biggest stories of 2019 in photos
20 bars and restaurants that opened or closed in the Kalamazoo area in 2020
Vaccination clinic for police, frontline workers brings ‘joy and hope’ to Kalamazoo
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December 25, 2020 at 07:15PM
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2020 in photos: Stories of conflict, loss and hope in the Kalamazoo area - MLive.com
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