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

Filmmakers are creating a documentary about the Coreyon Reef restoration and hope to enter it into several Great Lakes film festivals. They also expect to show it in local theaters. The Conservation Fund

The Railtrail system passes through a range of terrains including rivers and streams. Shelley Gotschling

The Bay City-based group Perceptions leads the charge to build understanding and tolerance in communities throughout the Thumb and Mid-Michigan. Perceptions

Cashman's is a comic book store first, but it also carries action figures and gaming items. Adam J. Salgat

Ashley Hoffman

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

Phil Eich

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

The Railtrail system passes through a range of terrains including rivers and streams. Shelley Gotschling

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

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

At 85 years old, Don Rose still serves as a football referee for a few games every year. Ashley Brown

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