Features

Development News Art Dept. list

Bay City natives open art gallery and custom services workshop on Midland Street

Four Bay City Western High School graduates opened a new art gallery and workshop in Bay City's Midland Street entertainment district.   

Feature Story Pride at Home list

Great Lakes Bay Pride looks to 2021 as a year filled with growth and change

Great Lakes Bay Pride is focusing on four areas – developing a referral system, improving access to programs, creating a physical space, and restoring programs canceled in 2020.

 


Feature Story Crazy Quarters list

Pinball wizards are re-opening an arcade in Downtown Bay City

An arcade featuring classic and current pinball games is opening once again in Downtown Bay City.

Feature Story Reading to baby

Focusing on early childhood education is the secret to success in the Great Lakes Bay Region

Bay-Arenac and Midland Great Start Collaborative agencies offer a wealth of resources for parents, caregivers, and business owners. To learn more, you’re invited to a free, virtual screening and panel discussion of “Starting at Zero,” a film highlighting the importance of early childhood education.

Feature Story ChippRiverList

Stakeholders across Mid-Michigan collaborate on strategic plan to develop Chippewa River Water Trail

A wide variety of stakeholders have come together to collaborate on a strategic plan to develop the Chippewa River Water Trail – a project that many hope will promote regional and statewide awareness of the opportunities the river has to offer, as well as inspire enhanced sustainability efforts along the river corridor.

Feature Story Madison Elliot dances to “Hallelujah,” by Leonard Cohen, while Joshua James Sharrard sings and plays piano.

The Great Lakes Bay Region releases its first-ever holiday album

Upon realizing the Great Lakes Bay Region didn’t have its own holiday video album, Avram Golden set out to create one — featuring local talent, local venues, and local nonprofits. “It truly is like the holiday spirit of generosity and kindness, and sharing the gifts that you have with others,” says Samantha McKenzie of Hidden Harvest.

Feature Story YMCA Food List Image

Bay City-area agencies are offering resources for food during the holidays

Local agencies say the COVID-19 pandemic has increased the number of people who need help, so they will continue to serve meals and distribute food baskets throughout the December holidays.

Feature Story Heath Lamb list

COVID-19 vaccines arrive at McLaren Bay Region

McLaren Bay Region has begun vaccinating its employees against COVID-19.

Feature Story Sundays in the City list

Tours of light displays and cross-country skiing trips add socially-distant fun to the holidays

Outdoor light displays and sing-alongs help make the holidays festive while still following health departments guidelines for slowing the spread of COVID-19.


Development News City Market list image

Bay City businessman gives away thousands of dollars in groceries to those in need

A Bay City businessman bought $10,000 worth of groceries for 250 people at City Market this week. It marks the second time this month he's reached out to help people facing financial hardships during the pandemic.

Feature Story Quarantined student list

New United Way of Bay County program offers financial help to quarantined families of young students

Parents forced to miss work when a child is out of school due to COVID-19 may be eligible for help from a new Quarantined Student Assistance program.


Feature Story LuLu B's list image

Consignment store owner finds opportunity in Bay City in the midst of a global pandemic

A former dental assistant turned business owner says enjoying outdoor dining and walking through parks in Downtown Bay City inspired her to open her store in the area.


Development News Third Wind list

Bay City craft distillery launches inaugural run of flagship straight bourbon whiskey

Third Wind Distilling Co., which was founded in Bay City in 2018, launched its first straight bourbon whiskey this holiday season.

Development News Buy BC List

Consumers Energy doubles down on the popular Buy Local Buy BC gift card program

Bay County businesses and shoppers are getting help from the Bay Area Chamber of Commerce, Bay Future, and Consumers Energy.

Feature Story Hopevale Church list

Hopevale Church partnering with Bay City agencies to address food insecurity

The new campus pastor at Hopevale Church in Bay City is working with other agencies to help solve what he sees as one of the community's biggest problems - food poverty.  

Feature Story Fred Reif list

Music history played out in Bay City bars and clubs during the early days of rock and roll

Musician Fred Reif is working on his third book about the history of music and bands in the Great Lakes Bay Region.

Feature Story Virtual Career Fair list image

Virtual college fair connects high school students with services they need now to get ready for fall

The Bay Area Community Foundation partnered with the Bay-Arenac ISD to provide a Dec. 15 virtual career and college fair for high school juniors and seniors.  


Feature Story Midland Street list image

Historic Midland Street retains its 19th century character

A century ago, West Bay City was a bustling business district. Today, it’s a thriving entertainment district. Sam Fitzpatrick takes you on a walking tour of five of the historic buildings in the district.


Development News Railtrail List Image

Online survey allows area residents to influence region’s non-motorized transportation plans

If you use the paved trails in the community, then the Bay City Area Transportation Study would like to talk to you. The group is considering updates to pathways provided for non-motorized transportation such as walking, bicycling, and kayaking.

Feature Story Family Y list image

Blog: The Dow Bay Area Family YMCA steps up when the community needs it most

When the pandemic forced the Dow Bay Area Family YMCA to shut down its building, the staff stepped up its efforts to feed the community, provide childcare, and offer virtual fitness classes.


Community Calendar

If you have an event you would like to appear on our community calendar you can submit a request here