United Way grant opens doors for students to study at Studio 23 and the Family Y
Local partnerships help Bay-Arenac Community High School students earn art and physical education credits.
Kathy Backus's Latest Articles
Northwoods Wholesale Outlet: From kayaks and crossbows to birdseed and boots
Northwoods Wholesale Outlet in Pinconning is more than just a store. The eclectic collection of sports and outdoor recreation equipment, groceries, and clothing make it a one-stop shop for locals and a traditional stop for families driving Up North from Metro Detroit.
Latest ALICE Report highlights the financial hardships facing nearly half of Bay County families
The 2024 ALICE Report includes a special section on families with children. Children growing up in homes facing financial difficulties often don’t have the stability needed for healthy development.
Teen scientists are learning STEM skills today as they prepare for the jobs of tomorrow
The Chief Science Officer program, originating in Arizona and now implemented at SVSU and CMU, aims to increase interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) among middle and high school students. Through hands-on experiences, the program equips students with essential skills for STEM careers.
The waters of the Saginaw Bay Watershed fuel Michigan’s outdoor economy
Representatives from three businesses – Northwoods Wholesale Outlet, Nor’East Outdoors, and Dietrich’s Sportfishing Charters – explain their unique connections to Michigan's waterways. Experts estimate that Michigan's lakes, bays, rivers, and streams collectively have a $26 billion impact on the state’s economy.
Bay Area Chamber of Commerce to host Civics Bee
The Bay Area Chamber of Commerce is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to host a nonpartisan civics competition next spring. Local students in 6th, 7th and 8th grades will have the chance to enter the competition.
Pinecrest Farms: Over 150 Years of evolving care and Community support
Pinecrest Farms, Midland's 60-bed assisted living facility, has evolved since 1865, offering care for residents with diverse needs. Supported by taxpayer funds, it provides long-term care in a beautiful, nature-filled environment.
From pageant newcomer to state crown, Miss Bay County is the reigning Miss Michigan
Jenae Lodewyk, a Bangor John Glenn High School graduate and the reigning Miss Michigan, uses the pageant platform to empower women.
Youth Advisory Committee empowers teens to change their community for the better
Members of the Youth Advisory Committee – a program of the Bay Area Community Foundation – have identified adolescent mental health and first aid awareness as priority areas for funding. For 30 years, YAC has helped teens fund programs to help their peers.
United Way of Bay County announces its 2024-26 impact partners
After considering the needs of the community, the United Way of Bay County has announced its partners for its next funding cycle. The two-year cycle begins now and ends in 2026.
