NIPSCO, a leading energy provider in Indiana, recently announced the winners of its 2024 Environmental Action Grant, totaling $78,700 to support various nonprofit organizations in their projects and education efforts. In celebration of Earth Day, 21 organizations were selected to receive grants ranging from $500 to $5,000.
Some of the grant recipients include The Nature Conservancy in Indiana, Festival de la Monarcha, and the Indiana Audubon Society. These organizations will use the funding to support projects such as habitat restoration, youth programming, and sustainability outreach.
In other news, troopers from the Lowell District state police post were honored at the annual Indiana State Police Awards Ceremony. Trooper Joshua M. Luckey received the District DUI Award for his outstanding performance in OWI arrests, while Trooper Dennis L. Griffin was recognized as the Trooper of the Year. Additionally, Cpl. Kimberly M. Zelnis and Cpl. Bobbie (Butch) J. Crowder received Lifesaving Awards for their quick actions in administering CPR and NARCAN to an unconscious individual.
Furthermore, Ivy Tech Community College honored Heather M. Clark and Chris Ward with the President’s Award for Excellence in Instruction. Clark, a full-time faculty member, has been with Ivy Tech for nearly two decades, while Ward, an adjunct professor, has been teaching in the Human Services program for 4 1/2 years.
Lastly, Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana donated $500,000 to Lake Ridge New Tech Schools for the renovation of their gymnasium and other high-need projects. The donation will fund improvements such as new bleachers, gymnasium floor resurfacing, and updated audio systems, benefiting both students and teachers in the Lake Ridge community.