Good morning, Saginaw.

The Bissell Pet Foundation’s Empty the Shelter event offers reduced adoption fees at Genesee County Animal Control and partner shelters through Dec.

15 — freeing up space for more rescues and giving shelter pets a fur-ever home this holiday season.

The Saginaw community spread holiday cheer to children and patients at Covenant Medical Center last night with festive lights, music, and treats; additional lighting events will be held on Dec.

10 and Dec. 17 starting at 5:30 p.m. for music and 6 p.m. for lights.

Bay Co. Toys for Tots is gearing up to address a rising number of toy assistance applications despite lower donations.

The organization is reviewing its support plans to serve local families this season (focusing on increased outreach).

Hundreds of blue lights were displayed during Project Blue Light to honor officers and families, with each light representing a personal story of service.

The display, held recently, brought the community together in remembrance.

The Saginaw Choral Society will host an Irish-themed holiday performance on Saturday, Dec.

6 at Temple Theatre at 7 p.m. featuring Celtic musicians Natalie MacMaster, Donnell Leahy and their seven children with local choirs presenting traditional Christmas tunes blended with Irish music.

Hemlock Public School District announced a new strategic planning initiative—aimed at outlining priorities for teaching, student wellness, facilities, technology, fiscal responsibility, and community partnerships—and will host feedback sessions to gather local input as it reshapes its campus following a $41.9 million bond project approved last year.

Vera Harrison fills the vacant school board seat after longtime member Mattie Thompson died (Nov.

11). She was chosen at a Dec. 3 meeting and will start at the next meeting on Dec. 8, serving until the term ends next year.

A new federal rule requires SNAP recipients to work, train or volunteer 20 hours weekly for benefits and now covers ages 18—64, canceling exemptions for veterans, homeless and foster care alumni.

The law, signed on July 4, is expected to lower recipients by 2.4 million over ten years.

Soo Greyhounds vs Saginaw Spirit

7:05-8:35 p.m. — Dow Event Center — Check the FloHockey broadcast for all the hockey action as the Soo Greyhounds face off against the Saginaw Spirit.

The Nutcracker

7:00 – 8:30 PM — Dow Event Center — Ticket prices start at $78 — Experience the magic of Tchaikovsky's classic ballet as it unfolds in Saginaw.

Oshawa Generals vs Saginaw Spirit

7:05-8:35 p.m. — Dow Event Center — Streaming available on FloHockey — Catch the action as the Oshawa Generals face off against the Saginaw Spirit in this exciting hockey match.

Saginaw Spirit vs. Sarnia Sting

7:05-8:35 p.m. — Dow Event Center — Cost info not provided — Catch the exciting OHL matchup as the Saginaw Spirit take on the Sarnia Sting.