Bay County

From Bay City’s South End, the Broadway Family Grill serves up hope

Restaurant owner Hank Ryan isn’t just serving food, he’s serving the community. The Broadway Family Grill offers meals to those who can’t afford them, cold-weather clothing for those who need it, and jobs for people who want to build new skills.  

Local partnerships help Bay-Arenac Community High School students earn art and physical education credits.
United Way grant opens doors for students to study at Studio 23 and the Family Y

Local partnerships help Bay-Arenac Community High School students earn art and physical education credits.  

The Ability Social Club, which opened in December inside the former Dunlop Pontiac, aims to provide a social setting for adults 21 and over. The center hopes to foster a sense of community for people with a wide range of abilities.
Bay City’s Ability Social Club creates a welcoming space for all

A new Bay City nonprofit, the Ability Social Club, fosters community and creativity for adults 21 and up. This inclusive welcoming center in Downtown Bay City is especially designed for folks living with a range of abilities.  

Restoration work on the Frank N. Anderson Nature Trail removed tree branches that had pushed bumps into the paved pathway.
Local philanthropic organizations invest in the future, shaping Bay County

Local foundations are vital engines of growth and development in Bay County, channeling millions of dollars into critical community initiatives. From supporting educational opportunities for students of all ages to funding the creation of parks, trails, and cultural institutions, these organizations play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life.

Purtell's Restaurant and Ice Cream Shoppe opened as a dairy in 1925. Today, it's best known for scratch-made soups and hearty comfort foods.
Purtell’s Restaurant and Ice Cream Shoppe serves up homemade goodness for 100 years

Purtell’s Restaurant and Ice Cream Shoppe opened in 1925 as a dairy. Over the last century, Purtell’s has evolved. Today, the menu includes scratch-made soups, pies, and abundant comfort foods.  

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.  

Northwoods Wholesale Outlet in Pinconning is a must-stop for countless families and outdoor enthusiasts as they travel Up North on I-75.
Northwoods Wholesale Outlet: From kayaks and crossbows to birdseed and boots

Northwoods Wholesale Outlet in Pinconning is more than just a store. The eclectic collection of sports and outdoor recreation equipment, groceries, and clothing make it a one-stop shop for locals and a traditional stop for families driving Up North from Metro Detroit.

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.  

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.

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.