Author

Kathy Roberts

Kathy Roberts

Kathy Roberts, a graduate of Central Michigan University, moved to Bay City in 1987 to start a career in the newspaper industry. She was a reporter and editor at the Bay City Times for 15 years before leaving to work at the Bay Area Chamber of Commerce, Covenant HealthCare, and Ohno Design. From 2019 to 2025, she returned to her storytelling roots while serving as the Managing Editor of Route Bay City. Today, she’s a regular contributor to Confluence Great Lakes Bay. When she’s not editing or writing stories, you can find her reading books, knitting, or visiting the bars of Bay County. You can reach Kathy at kathypetersenroberts@gmail.com

Kathy Roberts's Latest Articles

Michigan Sugar Company President and CEO Neil Juhnke addresses grower-owners from the cooperative's East District during a Tool Shed meeting held in April 2023 at Maple Grove Acres in Ruth. (Photo courtesy of Michigan Sugar)
A behind-the-scenes look at Bay Future’s economic development playbook

Natural resources, strong local colleges, easy access to other markets, and other factors all play a role when Bay Future seeks to attract and retain businesses in Bay County.  

Since the beginning, Bay City Bridge Partners has pledged to be an active member of the community.
Navigating Bay City’s toll bridges: Q&A with Kevin Bischel

Bay City is now home to two toll bridges. While that has many drivers planning ways to get around town without paying the tolls, General Manager Kevin Bischel says the bridges are helping our economy and community.  

Bangor Township Superintendent Matt Schmidt wins state honors for growth, closing achievement gaps

As 2024 winds down, Route Bay City asked leaders from local schools to answer questions about recent progress and what's next. This week, we feature Matt Schmidt, Superintendent of Bangor Township Schools.  

Downtown Bay City kicked off its annual Sundays in the City program with the lighting of this Christmas tree, flanked by classic toy soldiers.
Holiday cheer, lights, and decorations keep Downtown Bay City merry and bright

Stores and restaurants are celebrating the holidays and jingling all the way through December. Head into any local business district and you're sure to find decorations and special sales for a few more days.  

Horse-drawn carriage rides are offered for a few hours on Sundays between now and Christmas.
Local light shows and events keep December in Bay County merry and bright

From brilliant light shows and awe-inspiring music to sales and visits with Santa, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this month in the Great Lakes Bay Region.  

Justin Ralston, Essexville-Hampton Public Schools Superintendent
Essexville-Hampton Schools Superintendent shares the district’s vision for the future

As 2024 winds down, Route Bay City asked leaders from local schools to answer questions about recent progress and what's next. This week, we feature Justin Ralston, Superintendent of Essexville-Hampton Public Schools.

New Career Center Principal aims to strengthen the school’s connection to the community

As 2024 winds down, Route Bay City asked leaders from local schools to answer questions about recent progress and what's next. This week, we feature Josh Little, Principal and Director of Career and Technical Education for the Bay-Arenac ISD Career Center.

Lodewyk was crowned Miss Bay County in 2023, Miss Michigan in 2024, and will vie for the 2025 Miss America crown.
Bay County cheers as one of its own, Miss Michigan Jenae Lodewyk, heads to the Miss America Pageant

Jenae Lodewyk, Miss Michigan 2024 and Miss Bay County 2023, receives hometown support as she prepares to compete for Miss America 2025. No matter what crown she wears, Lodewyk remains passionate about serving her hometown.

The Pinconning schools booster club purchased a large scoreboard for the football stadium that the superintendent says is the talk of the town.
Pinconning superintendent says the district stands ready to equip students for the future

As 2024 winds down, Route Bay City asked leaders from our schools to answer questions about recent progress and what's next. This week, we feature Andy Kowalczyk, Superintendent of the Pinconning Area School District.  

Eastern High School focuses on helping students succeed after they've hit academic roadblocks at traditional high schools.
Eastern High School challenges the alternative school stereotypes

Eastern High School, an alternative high school within Bay City Public Schools, offers a unique educational experience for students who have fallen behind academically.

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