Good morning, Bay City.

Bay City will see major work in 2026 as a consolidated health center in Uptown is set to open in fall, demolition for a new affordable housing project in the former YMCA and County Market area nears completion, and contractors install new foundations for Lafayette Bridge.

In 2025, Bay County saw many business changes as new spots, including Michigan’s first swim-up bar and a drive-thru lemonade shop in Bay City, opened while longstanding restaurants and shops closed after decades of service.

The shifts — featuring fresh concepts and consumer tastes — highlight a dynamic mid-Michigan economy.

A photo gallery shows impactful moments from 2025 in mid-Michigan.

It captures local celebrations at festivals and proms, community vigils for lost loved ones, and responses to environmental challenges in areas including Bay City.

The Mid-Michigan Children’s Museum hosted its annual New Year’s Eve Countdown Blast yesterday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on its campus, featuring crafts, a DJ dance party, penguin bowling, cookie decorating, and model trains by the local club — the next event, Pirates and Princesses, is on Jan. 24 with $3 admission.

Jefferson Middle School's TechnoHuskies robotics team showcased its skills on Dec.

31 — they will compete nationally in April.

The new One Big Beautiful Bill raises SNAP work rules, requiring 80 hours of work-related activities a month nationwide (Bay City recipients are exempt) and expands age guidelines to include 18–64-year-olds; families missing the three-month standard risk losing benefits.

The Coast Guard will activate a safety zone in Saginaw Bay during winter months to protect waterway users from icy hazards.

The zone extends from the Port Austin Reef Lighthouse to the Tawas Point Lighthouse, and vessels must call Sector Detroit (833-388-8724) 72 hours in advance.

Flu season worsened in mid-Michigan as an ER doctor at Covenant HealthCare — who reported the worst spike in Influenza A cases in years — advised residents to get vaccinated and stay home if they feel sick; the flu vaccine can help reduce severe symptoms.

Winter Preschool Storytime

10:15-10:45 a.m. — Auburn Area Branch Library — Registration required — Enjoy engaging stories tailored for preschoolers during this lively session.

Baby Storytime

10:15-10:45 a.m. — Auburn Area Branch Library — Free — Engage your little ones with delightful stories during this interactive baby storytime session.

Preschool Storytime at Auburn Library

10:15-10:45 a.m. — Auburn Area Branch Library — Free entry — Engage young minds with fun stories and activities during this delightful winter storytime session.

Baby Storytime at Auburn Library

10:15-10:45 a.m. — Auburn Area Branch Library — Free entry — Engage your little ones in stories and songs in a cozy environment.

Bookmobile Stop at Montessori Children's House

10:30-11:30 a.m. — Montessori Children's House of Bay City — Free access — Explore a mobile library and sign up for a library card while discovering books for all ages.

Todd Michael x Johnny Guest Concert

8 PM — Stables — Enjoy great food and drink specials — Rock out to a night of country music with Todd Michael and Johnny Guest.