07/06/2026
There are some nights you know you'll never forget.
America's 250th Anniversary was one of those nights. Thousands of people gathered along the Saginaw River, families spread out blankets, children looked to the sky in amazement, friends embraced, and for a few beautiful moments we were all simply sharing the same experience together.
As a photographer, I often find myself behind the camera, but nights like this remind me why I picked one up in the first place. Photography preserves more than images. It preserves memories, emotions, and the feeling of being present for history.
Ironically, this celebration became even more unforgettable for me. After leaving the festival and downloading the night's images to begin editing, I was driving home when another driver turned in front of me. There was no time to react. In an instant, my Honda Odyssey was destroyed, the airbags deployed, and I found myself taking an ambulance ride to the hospital instead of heading home.
Thankfully, the scans showed no serious internal injuries, and while I'm sore and bruised, I know how fortunate I am. Cars can be replaced. People can't.
Looking back through these photographs now, they carry a little more meaning. They remind me how quickly life can change and how important it is to appreciate the moments we share with family, friends, and our community.
I'm grateful to the Bay City Police Department, firefighters, paramedics, hospital staff, and everyone who reached out with kind words and concern. Your support has meant more than you know.
Here are a few of my favorite photographs from Bay City's celebration of America's 250th. I hope they bring back the excitement, pride, and joy of an unforgettable evening.
Happy 250th Birthday, America. 🇺🇸🎆
Sincerely,
Avram
Images available for purchase at Golden Gallery & soon on the Golden Gallery website.
