I&M submits energy generation plans

Indiana Michigan Power on Friday announced that it has filed plans with state regulators for additional energy generation resources.

The plans submitted to the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission include Indiana Michigan Power utilizing Lawrenceburg Natural Gas, Hoosier Line Solar, Elkhart County Solar and Meadow Lake IV Wind. Combined, they have the capacity to generate nearly 1,000 megawatts.

“I&M’s commitment to developing a robust, diverse energy portfolio highlights our focus to appropriately balance reliability, environmental sustainability and affordability while allowing us to best fulfill the needs of our customers,” said Steve Baker, I&M president and chief operating officer , in a press release.

The company will purchase the power from the independently operated wind and solar facilities. It will purchase the capacity from the existing natural gas facility near Lawrenceburg.

The plans are part of Indiana Michigan Power’s effort to retire its coal-fueled facility in Rockport in 2028.

Celebrating Cash

Penn Township Public Library has announced the retirement of librarian Brenda Cash.

Cash’s last day at the library will be Thursday. She has been the librarian for 17 years.

An open house to celebrate Cash’s career is scheduled for 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 29 at Pennville Community Center, 210 S. Union St.

Facility unveiled

Ball State University recently unveiled its new Betsy M. Ross Sports Link Studio.

Part of the College of Communication, Information and Media, the studio will be part of the Sports Link program. It is named for Ross, who graduated from BSU and went on to work as a weekend anchor for ESPN’s “SportsCenter” as well as at the South Bend Tribune and WLWT TV in Cincinnati before launching GameDay Communications.

“Through her professional and civic accomplishments, Betsy has illustrated what we desire for all of our students: that the excellent education they have received at Ball State will prepare them to have fulfilling careers and to lead meaningful lives,” said Ball State president Geoffrey S. Mearns in a press release. “Betsy, you are a role model for our students. Today we honor your many accomplishments, and we express our gratitude to you for all the ways in which your contributions have made an impact on our University.”

Paxton purchases

Paxton Media Group last week announced the purchase of the Kernersville News.

The company purchased the paper, also known as Carter Publishing Company, It now owns 15 daily publications in North Carolina.

Paxton, which is based in Kentucky, owns 14 daily newspapers in Indiana, including The Courier-Times (New Castle), The Chronicle-Tribune (Marion), the Huntington Herald Press and the Connersville News-Examiner.

IDDC awarded

The Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals recently awarded Indiana Destination Development Corporation with a Gold VIDDY Award for its Home Again IN Indiana campaign.

The awards (formerly the Videographer Awards) recognize outstanding achievements in video and digital production. Indiana Destination Development Corporation, in partnership with Indiana Association of Realtors, earned its award from a field of more than 2,500 entries.

"The success of the Home Again IN Indiana campaign highlights the strong connection Hoosiers have with their roots," said Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch in a press release. "We are incredibly proud of this achievement and are thrilled to have welcomed these Hoosiers back home."

Courses offered

Indiana Chamber of Commerce will offer a pair of OSHA general compliance courses in August.

A 10-hour course will be held Aug. 20 and 21. A 30-hour course will run Aug. 20 through 23. The courses will result in two to four credits toward Safety Compliance Specialist Certificates.

The chamber is also offering a Safety Leadership Principles seminar Sept. 19 and 20 in Indianapolis. The seminar will focus on helping attendees improve their skills related to worksite analysis, accident investigation, the impact of stress on safety, key performance indicators and employee involvement.

For more information, call or email (800) 824-6885 or [email protected].

New meal

McDonald’s has added a $5 Meal Deal to its menu.

The new menu item features a McDouble or McChicken sandwich, small fry, four-piece Chicken McNuggets and small drink for $5.

“We heard our fans loud and clear — they’re looking for even more great value from us, and this summer that’s exactly what they’ll get,” said Joe Erlinger, president of McDonald’s USA, in a press release. “Value has always been part of our DNA. We’re focused on living up to that legacy and offering delicious, affordable options customers can enjoy any time they walk through our doors, go through our drive thru or place an order through our app.”

McDonald’s is also offering a free medium fry on Fridays with a minimum $1 purchase and will be giving away free fries Saturday, July 13, for National French Fry Day.

Named SVP

Dollar General Corporation last week announced Tony Rogers as its new senior vice president and chief marketing officer.

Rogers most recently served as chief marketing officer for Signet Jewelers. He previously worked as chief marketing officer for Walmart.

“I am excited to welcome Tony to Dollar General,” said Emily Taylor, Dollar General executive vice president and chief merchandising officer, in a press release. “His proven ability to drive innovative personalized marketing strategies that enhance brand positioning, connect with consumers, and drive growth will elevate our customer engagement and support our key initiatives here at Dollar General.”