Good morning, Bay City.

Bay City veteran Bob Hayhurst recounted his fierce escape from captivity in Vietnam before departing with Mid-Michigan Honor Flight to visit Washington, D.C. war memorials today – he described his capture during the Tet Offensive and a risky river escape that saved his life.

Beth Thieme stepped down as president of Amigo Mobility after 50 years so her son, Jordan Thieme, took over daily operations at their Bridgeport Township headquarters on Sept.

1—Beth will remain as part-time CEO.

This Friday, Bay City Boat Rental at 1201 Evergreen Drive will offer a self-serve kayak rental service for residents and visitors.

Customers will reserve online — sign a waiver, get a lock-code, and unlock a kayak for full or multi-day rentals.

The Michigan Department of Treasury warned residents today about a new text scam that asks for payment information for tax refunds—officials say not to reply or click any links and to call the Treasury with any questions.

Retired merchant mariner Jeff Letzkus, who finished a 28-year career in April, will share his maritime stories on September 20 at 6:30 p.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church—hosted by the Saginaw River Marine Historical Society, the free event will feature light refreshments.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development released a report showing that federal tariffs have raised food prices and lowered agricultural exports, hurting local farming that supports over 800,000 jobs.

The report said that tariffs have also increased costs for food packaging—this may lead to higher prices for consumers.

Unleaded gas prices have risen to about $3.20 today after a week of prices below $3 — petroleum analyst Patrick De Haan from GasBuddy said this cycle will soon bring lower prices as stations adjust over the coming days.

He noted that filling up when prices hit the two seventies to eighties is the best choice as the cycle continues.

The 2025 Kids Count report shows Michigan children have better health outcomes—like fewer teen births and lower infant deaths—but face dropped school skills and rising child care costs, with a 9.7% decline in third-grade reading and an 18.6% drop in eighth-grade math.

Lawmakers are warned that new federal rules and reduced educational funding may worsen these challenges, and the report calls for policy changes to protect children’s well-being.

Downtown Bay City Wine Walk

5:30-9:30 p.m. — Downtown Bay City — Cost not specified — Enjoy fine wine, appetizers, and live music at the annual Wine Walk celebration.

Hell's Half Mile Film & Music Festival

Various times — State Theatre — Tickets vary — Celebrate independent films and live music in Bay City's vibrant downtown.

Conflict De-Escalation Techniques Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Duncan's Outdoor Shop — Registration required — Learn valuable skills to calm conflicts before they escalate.

Bay City State Park Fall Harvest Festival

5:30-6:30 p.m. — Bay City State Park — Cost varies — Celebrate autumn with camping, decorations, and a family-friendly Trick-or-Treating event.