The Picton Castle, based in Nova Scotia, is best known for her voyages around the world. Over the past 15 years, the ship has made five voyages around the world. Ashley Brown

The event welcomed 144 golfers and was supported by more than 800 volunteers. Ben Tierney

Since 2010, local business owner Avram Golden has been raising money to line Bay City's streets with American flags in tribute to those who served in the military. Avram Golden

Bay County Animal Control and Care Center has seen a steady increase in its save rate, earning statewide accolades and helping families discover beloved pets. Adam J. Salgat

Kirsten McIlvenna combines her passion for creating jewelry, helping others, sharing stories, and protecting the environment in her business, Delirious Blue Jewelry Luce Photo & Design

The natural playscape park planned in Pinconning will be similar to this nature-based playground at Discovery Preserve in Bay City. Adam J. Salgat

Established in mid-2017, the Vanishing Elephant players offer full-length plays, cabarets, storytelling, and improvisational works.​​​​​​​ Photo courtesy of Vanishing Elephant Players

The founders of BGT Aerospace in Bangor Township say the Great Lakes Bay Region offers unique opportunities for start-up businesses. Ashley Brown

Raising sturgeon has also entered the educational system as nearly 20 schools in Michigan have adopted the Sturgeon in the Classroom program. Alyssa German

The Great Lakes Bay Region provides numerous opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Ben Tierney

“Once we find the mechanism to reach their souls, the magic begins,” says Linda Cassar of the work being done at Do-Art. Ashley Brown

Natalie Slawnyk applies makeup before going on stage as Tanya in the regional production of Mama Mia!, which took the stage Sept. 20-22 and Sept. 27-29. Ben Tierney

Business owners and others are taking steps to transform the Salzburg Avenue area into a destination for people seeking outdoor recreation opportunities. Ashley Brown

Ben Tierney

In 2018, Mel Smith realized his long-time dream of opening a bricks and mortar military museum. Photo courtesy of the Michigan Traveling Military Museum

Local colleges and universities are working to make students aware of the employment opportunities that could await them in the field of cyber security. Gabrielle Haiderer

Over the past several years in Bay City, murals and public art have been popping up throughout the community, garnering attention and excitement. Ashley Brown

Michigan Sugar processes 1.6 million tons of sugar beets each year at its 2600 S. Euclid Ave. location in Bay City. The state is now considering a study on how to use the waste from that processing to de-ice roads. Photo courtesy of Michigan Sugar

Ben Tierney

Korie Lee Blossey, a Bay City Central High School graduate,plays Genie in the traveling production of the hit Broadway musical Aladdin Deen van Meer

Zachary Branigan