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

First Look Bridal Boutique opened earlier this month, giving brides of all sizes access to dresses in all styles.
High school job inspires commitment to beautiful weddings and a new business in Downtown Bay City

First Look Bridal Boutique aspires to be inclusive. The Downtown Bay City bridal shop carries sizes from 6 to 22 in a range of styles.

When Aland Stamps, from River Jordan Inc., talks about the difficulties foster children face after aging out of the system, he speaks from experience. (Photo courtesy of River Jordan Inc.)
Two grassroots organizations are dedicated to helping Bay County foster families overcome challenges

Experienced foster parent Sarah Humerickhouse formed the Foster Families Navigation & Resource Center. Meanwhile, former foster care youth Aland Stamps created River Jordan Inc. to help kids aging out of the system.  

The USS Edson is throwing a 10th anniversary bash to celebrate its first decade in Bay City

The 10th anniversary celebration on Sat., Aug. 27 includes tours of parts of the Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum not normally open to the public.  

The Bay City Morning Rotary Driathlon includes a canoe or kayak race, bike race, and running. A traditional triathlon combines running, biking, and swimming.
By land and river, racers in the Morning Rotary Driathlon compete for fun and to raise money

One 74-year-old competitor who has competed for years in the Bay City Morning Rotary Driathlon calls the event fun and says he appreciates that it raises money for good causes.  

Nicole McKay, who created a mural inside Survival Fitness, is a self-taught artist who specializes in abstract pet portraits. (Photo courtesy of Nicole McKay)
A mural inside a Bay City gym has become a social media star

Survival Fitness asked local artist Nicole McKay to create a mural inside its gym. Now, that mural is a popular backdrop for selfies and group portraits after workouts.  

The Legacy building in Downtown Bay City was vacant for several years before being renovated into a restaurant and condominiums.
Legacy Building in Downtown Bay City earns statewide honors for historic preservation

Developer Jenifer Acosta says she keeps one eye on preservation and another one on community building when she renovates a structure.  

The restaurant name was inspired by Jim Chosay, who dreamed of buying the eatery and turning it into a community gathering spot.
Tipsy Cowboy, a bar and grill in rural Pinconning, celebrates family and friendship

For five years, the Tipsy Cowboy has served up handmade food and worked to build a sense of community camaraderie.  

The owners of two Bay City businesses combined forces to create a company that provides an upscale slumber party experience for girls, boys, and even adults.
Happy Glampin’ Slumber Party puts a new spin on old-fashioned sleepovers

The Happy Glampin' Slumber Party Company offers options for kids as well as adults.  

In May, Kelly Klamer was one of three local cancer survivors featured during the Detroit Tiger’s Pink Out the Park event.
Breast cancer turns a Bay City woman into an advocate for early screening

Thanks to the support of family, friends, and medical professionals, Kelly Klamer felt optimistic and hopeful while facing breast cancer. Now, she wants to extend that hope to others.

South Wenona Avenue is under construction this summer as the city embarks on an ambitious program to rehabilitate roads throughout the community.
Federal COVID-19 relief funds pave the way for roadwork in Bay City

Bay City received $31 million in ARPA funds. The city is using a big part of that money to fix roads and replace lead water service lines.  

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