Author

Denyse Shannon

As a feature writer and freelance journalist, Denyse Shannon has written professionally for over two and a half decades. She has worked as a contractor for daily and weekly newspapers, national and local magazines, and taught introductory media writing at her alma mater – Central Michigan University. She also holds a Master of Arts in journalism from Michigan State University. She and her husband live in Bangor Township and enjoy sailing on the Bay, and are avid cyclists.

Denyse Shannon's Latest Articles

Photo courtesy of Michigan Sugar
New Michigan Sugar CEO sees a bright future for his family and his company in the region

Neil C. Juhnke started his Michigan Sugar career in April. Since then, he’s met grower-owners, employees, and started enjoying Michigan’s recreational opportunities including fishing, hunting, and golfing.  

Michael Gavin, Delta College President, and George Grant Jr., Saginaw Valley State University President, shake hands after signing a new partnership agreement.
Bay City Central High School is picking up the tab for Associate’s Degrees or apprenticeships

This fall, Bay City Central debuts an Early Middle College program. Over five years, students will have the chance to earn high school diplomas, Associate’s Degrees, or complete apprenticeships in the skilled trades. The district foots the bill for everything from tuition and books to transportation and food.  

The first year of a new style of teaching is wrapping up at T.L. Handy Middle School. (Photo courtesy of Bay City Public Schools)
Handy Middle School sixth graders are studying real-world issues to learn academic skills

A new learning model at Handy Middle School calls for students to study real-world issues as they learn reading, writing, arithmetic, and more  

Baskin-Robbins and its promise of 31 flavors is open again on Euclid Avenue. New owners recently bought the shop and opened it in mid-May.
Baskin-Robbins Ice Cream opens again, just in time to scoop out summer treats

The Baskin-Robbins ice cream parlor in Bay City closed late in 2022, but re-opened under new owners just before Mother’s Day  

On Tues., May 9, Self Love Beauty asks everyone to practice using affirming statements for internal and external dialogue. (Photo courtesy of Self Love Beauty)
Positive vibes only on May 9

Self Love Beauty encourages the Great Lakes Bay Region to celebrate Affirmation Day by spreading positive messages on Tues., May 9  

In March, about 40 people attended a Mental Health First Aid training, learning how to listen to teens as they discuss difficulties. (Photo courtesy of the Great Lakes Bay Regional Alliance)
Mental Health First Aid turns adults into allies for teens facing tough times

About 40 people participated in the first Mental Health First Aid training in March. Organizers are looking for funding to offer additional trainings, both for adults and teens.  

Blue and silver pinwheels at area businesses serve as a reminder that April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. (Photo courtesy of the CAN Council)
CAN Council recognizes Child Abuse Prevention Month and its volunteers for making a difference

The CAN Council is trying to raise awareness and recruit volunteers during April's Child Abuse Prevention Month.

A.J. Malenfant, who owns Major Skate, offers lessons inside the park.
Avid skateboarder and veteran brings indoor skate park to Bay City’s West Side

A skateboard shop and indoor park is now open on Bay City's West Side. The shop offers equipment and lessons. The park offers opportunities for beginning and experienced skateboarders.

The Bay City Antiques Center was once home to one of the city's finest and busiest hotels.
An insider’s guide to Bay City’s antique shops

Hard-to-finds and one-of-a-kinds make Bay City an antique collector's dream destination.

Since the coffee and tea shop is open in the evenings, it's a popular stop for live music.
Afternoons and evenings were made for coffee, if you ask the owners of LoLoBee’s Lounge

Don’t stop at LoLoBee’s Lounge for your morning  java. Lauren Williams and fiancé, Benjamin Paul, built their coffee shop as a place for friends to end the night.

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