I&M submits 20-year energy plan

Indiana Michigan Power submitted its 2024 Integrated Resource Plan to the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission last week outlining its plans for meeting the energy needs of its customers.

I&M’s plan, which lays out a 20-year projection, calls for continuing to target more renewable and natural gas resources to meet energy needs as well as relicensing hydroelectric facilities in Elkhart and Mottville. It also recommends relicensing a nuclear facility in Bridgman, Michigan, and looking at opportunities involving small modular reactor nuclear technology.

“I&M has an opportunity to make a significant impact on the communities we serve by adapting to meet customers’ evolving energy needs now and into the future,” said Steve Baker, I&M president and chief operating officer, in a press release. “By diversifying our generation mix with a portfolio of resources that can be available around the clock, our customers can trust that we are Future Ready to serve their homes, businesses and factories 24/7.”

Hospital recognized

Indiana Hospital Association recently recognized Adams Memorial Hospital as a Hospital of Distinction for Maternal and Infant Health.

The honor recognizes the hospital for its “commitment to implementing best practices that support the health and well-being of mothers and infants in their care.” Adams Memorial was highlighted for its efforts in infant safe sleep practices, breastfeeding support, perinatal substance use care, addressing social drivers of health, obstetric hemorrhage prevention and management, and maternal hypertension management.

"As always, we remain committed to delivering the highest standard of care for mothers and babies in our community,” said Adams Memorial chief operating and nursing officer Chris Butler in a press release. “Congratulations and gratitude are extended to our dedicated OB staff and providers at Adams Memorial Hospital for their exceptional efforts in advancing maternal and infant health."

Hosting drive

Menards stores are holding a pet supplies drive through the end of May.

Supplies needed include food, treats, feeders, collars and beds. Items collected will be donated to local humane associations.

Donation boxes will be near the next doors at Menards locations, including in Muncie, Richmond and Celina, Ohio.

Surgeon joins

Bluffton Regional Medical Center announced the hiring of Dr. Michael Thorpe on Thursday.

Thorpe will be on the surgical staff and treat conditions affecting the breast, colon, skin, soft tissues, digestive tract and vascular system. He also specializes in minimally invasive surgery of the abdomen.

“We are pleased to announce that Thorpe has joined our team at Bluffton Regional Medical Center,” said Bluffton Regional Medical Center chief administrative officer Julie Thompson in a press release. “His exceptional level of care will significantly benefit our patients and reinforce our commitment to delivering quality healthcare in Bluffton.”

Thorpe is a graduate of the University of Toledo and served his residency at St. Louis University Hospital.

Nominate

Nominations are open for the Indiana Manufacturers Association 2025 Manufacturing Excellence Awards.

The awards honor Indiana companies and individuals for their contributions to the manufacturing industry. They are open to all manufacturers in Indiana.

Anyone can make a nomination by visiting indianamfg.com/2025-manufacturing-excellence-awards. The deadline is Sunday, Aug. 31.

Applications sought

Tyson Ventures, a branch of Tyson Foods, is seeking applications for Tyson Demo Day 2025.

The event will focus on advancing artificial intelligence in food technology, emphasizing brand engagement, innovation in research and development and reimagining product development processes. There will be a focus on artificial intelligence this year.

“This year, we’re spotlighting the transformative potential of AI to enhance how we connect with customers and consumers, design innovative products, and deliver exceptional experiences,” said Doug Kulka, Tyson Foods chief information and technology officer, in a press release.

Firms that are selected will pitch their innovations at Tyson Demo Day in July.  

Nomination opens

The state is now accepting nominations for the Governor’s Century and Half Century Business Awards.

The awards honor businesses that have been in operation for at least 50 years and have “demonstrated a commitment to serving the community.”

Criteria for the award includes:

Continuous operations in Indiana for 100 or 50 years by Dec. 31, 2024.

Participation in the same line of work for the duration of its operations.

Having its base in Indiana since it was founded.

Applications are available at iedc.in.gov/program/century-and-half-century-awards. The deadline is Friday, May 30.

Dean appointed

Ball State University appointed Kristen McCauliff last week as dean of its College of Communication, Information and Media.

McCauliff had served as interim dean since July. She has been a faculty member at BSU since 2009 and previously served as associate provost for faculty affairs and professional development.

“McCauliff is a thoughtful and effective leader who exemplifies our University’s enduring values,” said Ball State president Geoffrey S. Mearns in a press release. “She brings to this role a deep understanding of our campus community, a strong record of academic and administrative leadership, and an unwavering commitment to student success. I look forward to her continued impact in guiding CCIM’s innovative programs that provide our students with distinctive experiences and prepare them for fulfilling careers and meaningful lives.”

Device developed

Indiana University researchers have developed a device to preserve a patient’s hair during cranial surgeries.

The disposable, single-use device prevents hair from getting tangled with medical tools during operations without the need to shave any hair. Dr. Jignesh Taylor, who developed the tool with Steven Wakeman, recently filed a patent application.

“Often during cranial surgeries, hair strands from the patient will get in the way of the incision and the drills used to perform the operation,” Tailor said in a press release. “However, shaving a patient’s hair can be emotionally challenging and negatively impact the patient’s mental well-being as they recover from their surgery.”

Conference set

The Indiana District Export Council will host the Doing Business with North America conference from 11:15 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, May 8, at Newfields Art Museum in Indianapolis.

Speakers for the event include the General Consuls for Canada and Mexico and leaders from Eli Lilly, Greater Indianapolis Foreign Trade Zone (INzone) and Indiana University.

Tickets are available at indianadec.org.

Training offered

ServSafe training will be available at John Jay Center for Learning in Portland.

The next session is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, April 29.

Additional sessions are scheduled for May 20 and June 24.

The certification course is open to all food service employees and emphasizes safe food- and beverage-handling practices to minimize the risk of food-borne illnesses.

For more information, or to register, call (260) 729-5525.

Conference set

Indiana Chamber of Commerce will host its 2025 Indiana Workers’ Compensation Conference April 23.

The event, which will include tips on handling claims, controlling insurance costs and mental health, will run from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Ritz Charles in Carmel. There are in-person and virtual options available.

For more information, or to register, visit indianachamber.com.