West Side

SK Siltron CSS earned accolades in 2022 for pay, benefits, and work-life balance. Human Resources Manager Tiffany Kukla says the award shows the firm is an employer of choice in the region. (Photo courtesy of SK Siltron CSS)

Employee happiness is serious business at SK Siltron CSS in Bay County

Human Resources Manger Tiffany Kukla is proud of the award-winning policies and pay at the semiconductor manufacturing firm. SK Siltron CSS has invested millions in two Bay County facilities and now employs more than 200 people.  

Bryan Draves, at right, says he's found the job of a lifetime at SK Siltron CSS. Here, he poses with co-workers Earl Lewis (left), a Production Engineer, and Dave Cronk (center), a Material Scheduler. 
Lifelong Bay Cityan – with deep roots in the community – finds his forever job at SK Siltron CSS

Bryan Draves says he's found the job of a lifetime at SK Siltron CSS. It lets him be part of a cutting-edge industry while staying close to extended family.  

In March, about 40 people attended a Mental Health First Aid training, learning how to listen to teens as they discuss difficulties. (Photo courtesy of the Great Lakes Bay Regional Alliance)
Mental Health First Aid turns adults into allies for teens facing tough times

About 40 people participated in the first Mental Health First Aid training in March. Organizers are looking for funding to offer additional trainings, both for adults and teens.  

Mode's Tavern opened in 2020 and quickly became a staple for live music and fundraising. In April, a fire destroyed the business. But Matt and Jill Nemode say they'll open Mode's Tavern again.
Q&A with Matt Nemode from Mode’s Tavern

An April 4 fire raced through the building that housed Mode’s Tavern, JR’s All-Star Haircuts for Men, and two apartments. Within hours, nearby businesses were organizing fundraisers to help people affected by the fire. Matt and Jill Nemode are grateful for the support from the community and say they expect to bring Mode’s back.

Tim Marciniak, center, retires from Bay City Central at the end of this school year. He'll be back next year, though, as the parent of a high school freshman.
Tim Marciniak retires after 31 years of making memories with Bay City schools students and staff

During his 31-year career with Bay City Public Schools, Timothy Marciniak has worked as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal. He's been at the helm of Bay City Central for 18 years.

Blue and silver pinwheels at area businesses serve as a reminder that April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. (Photo courtesy of the CAN Council)
CAN Council recognizes Child Abuse Prevention Month and its volunteers for making a difference

The CAN Council is trying to raise awareness and recruit volunteers during April's Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Edward Sanchez brings decades of experience in research and development of silicon carbide wafers to the SK Siltron CSS plant that opened recently in Bay County. (Photo courtesy of SK Siltron CSS)
Research scientist devotes career to silicon carbide industry and creating sustainable energy

Edward Sanchez has spent more than a quarter-century in the research and development of silicon carbide wafers used to power electric vehicles and other technology. He now serves as Vice President of Operations and Technology at Bay County’s SK Siltron CSS, a silicon carbide wafer manufacturer.  

Eric Moore, center, is one of hundreds of people working at SK Siltron CSS facilities in Bay County. From left are employees Victoria DeRuiter, Brandon Bedtelyon, Moore, Steve Sherlock and Tanner DuFresne. (Photo courtesy of SK SIltron CSS)
For Eric Moore, working at SK Siltron CSS is all about professional growth

Eric Moore's job is to grow the crystals that go into the silicon chips at SK Siltron CSS. The lifelong Bay County residents is excited about the manufacturer's ability to grow more jobs for the community.

Photo courtesy of the Bay City State Park
Bay City State Park celebrates a century of memories

As Bay City State Park nears its 100-year anniversary, the local DNR team prepares for exciting renovations and family events. Park Manager Rich Fenner and Lead Ranger Mike Barker share some park history and future plans.  

Dr. Danny E. Grieg and other providers at MyMichigan’s Emergency Department in Bay City have reduced wait times through the building's design, staff experience, and technology such as online check-in. (Photo courtesy of My Michigan Health)
With short wait times and quality care, MyMichigan Emergency Department marks 1 year in Bay County

With high-quality, efficient care the new Emergency Department in Bay City surpassed its five-year projected volume in the first five months of being open, showing that it is filling a longstanding need in the community. Now in its second year, the Emergency Department is looking forward to continuing to serve area residents.  

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