Great day for Bay: A great place for outsiders

 The Bay off Y street is a nonprofit for troubled kids. Mike Smith, a local who loves to skate, created the Bay in 2010 as a place for people to gather and enjoy what they love. The Bay may just be one building but it holds so much -- an indoor skate park, musical venue, Goldenrod Café and art programs.

The Bay provides classes for digital art and skating, which cover every level of skill. In the past they have been involved with camps with an emphasis on music and fashion.

Community and service are incredibly important at the Bay and to Mike Smith. Along with the camps, the Bay is also connected to the Food Bank of Lincoln, which meets the needs of families who are food insecure. The Bay is one of the donation and distribution locations for Lincoln.

The Bay prides itself for being a place that was created by misfits for everyone, with a focus on disadvantaged youths. In just one year, the Bay was able to serve over 250 meals to kids, host 151 events, and provide over 3,000 hours of volunteer hours for community service. In total, 7,000 people were served through the food bank.

Coming up is an Art+Thrift Pop up where local venders will sell and show off their art. Food trucks will also be there showing their support. This event takes place on a monthly basis,  with the next event coming up on December 3.

The Bay is a place for people who do not fit in. That is what Mike Smith wanted when he started it. It would be a place for misfits, punks and those on the outskirts. The Bay is special because it creates a community and males lonely people feel companionship. 

By TJ Pittenger