Arts and Culture

United Way and Bay County work together to remove transportation barriers for seniors

The United Way of Bay County and the Bay County Department on Aging launched a pilot program called "Ride Forward," to provide non-emergency transportation.

Latest in Arts and Culture
Dow Gardens features a yearlong outdoor ceramic exhibit

Dow Gardens presents "Nature, Energy & Reflection", a yearlong ceramic exhibit by artist Helen Hierta, combining sculpture, mindfulness, and seasonal experiences.

Diners of all backgrounds will join together for a meal during the United Way of Bay County's Longest Table event in September. The 2025 event takes place in Uptown Bay City. (Photo courtesy of the United Way of Bay County)
You – and 200 or so of your newest friends – are invited to join the United Way for dinner

Since 2022, the United Way of Bay County has hosted The Longest Table. The annual event brings people together from all walks of life, inviting them to sit down together and talk over a meal.

Discover secret gardens inside the Kantzler Memorial Arboretum

Escape the late summer heat and find tranquility at the Kantzler Memorial Arboretum, a 12-acre botanical garden near the Saginaw River. Paved paths wind past gardens and trees, filled with birds, butterflies, and squirrels.

Sanilac County CMH CEO Wilbert Morris presents iPad to Sanilac County Sheriff Paul Rich
Meeting rural Michiganders’ mental health care needs

Michigan’s rural residents face different challenges when accessing mental health care than residents of urban areas. Transportation issues, loneliness, and limited group therapy options can compound their mental health needs. To address these challenges, community mental health (CMH) agencies like Sanilac County Community Mental Health innovate community-based solutions that meet their populations where they are at.   

The Loons are operated by the Michigan Baseball Foundation
Beyond the diamond: The Loons’ role in building Midland’s community

The Great Lakes Loons bring more than baseball to Midland, supporting community programs, youth initiatives, and local causes through events like Foodie Fridays and the 50/50 raffle.

Dennis Pilaske and Kevin LaDuke
Rooted in nature: Dennis Pilaske reflects on a life of outdoor learning and community connection

Dennis Pilaske, Executive Director of Chippewa Nature Center, shares his journey from camp counselor to leader, blending nature, education, and music into lifelong community impact.

Lunchtime Concerts continue each Wednesday through Aug. 27
Midland’s August lineup: Garden explorations, County Fair, and tournaments

Midland’s August calendar is packed with events, including Dow Gardens programs, the Midland County Fair, live concerts, storytime sessions, and major sports tournaments.

One donor’s strategic giving multiplies impact for Give Local Bay beneficiaries

Kylie Knieper split her donation between eight different organizations during Give Local Bay in May, allowing her to spread her financial support across a diverse range of community programs.  

Monica Smith, Yevgenia Gazman, and Christine Sauvé, MIRC Detroit Office.
Ataques a las familias inmigrantes y lo que eso significa para la educación temprana

En 2024, los educadores de la primera infancia en el suroeste de Detroit observaron una caída significativa en la inscripción preescolar tras el aumento de la actividad de control de inmigración. Aunque el descenso no fue documentado oficialmente en ese momento, las organizaciones comunitarias informan que aproximadamente el 15% de los estudiantes fueron retirados de los programas preescolares del área en cuestión de semanas.  

Our Partners

Midland County

Common Ground Is Brewing

Support local stories and receive our signature roast straight to your door when you join at the Standard level (or above).

Drink Better, Read Local

Close the CTA

Don't miss out!

Everything Great Lakes Bay region, in your inbox every week.

Close the CTA

Already a subscriber? Enter your email to hide this popup in the future.