Vice President, Human Resources & Chief Diversity Officer
Mike Strohl
Senior Vice President, Chief Customer Officer
John Lucas
Vice President, Information Technology
Curtis Popp
Vice President, Customer Operations
COMPANY VISION:
Enhance the well-being of our customers, communities, and employees by providing unparalleled service now and for generations to come.
COMPANY MISSION:
We fulfill the Promise of the Trust to provide essential utility services for our customers and communities, maintain the lowest possible rates with sound financial management, and create the greatest long-term benefit through a unique business structure.
ENGAUGE
Engauge is published by Citizens Energy Group, Corporate and Public Affairs Department, under the direction of Shannon Stahley, Director of Corporate and Public Affairs. It is distributed to the company’s employees and retirees, and to other interested parties upon request. The Corporate and Public Affairs Department welcomes any ideas, comments, or suggestions from readers on how this publication might better serve you. Please email the Corporate and Public Affairs Department at alowe@citizensenergygroup.com or call 317.927.4336.
Editor: Adam Lowe
Contributors:
Adrianne Bowers
Doug Buffington II
Mark Gray
Susan Harris
Laura O’Brien
Rich Willsey, Terri Zaichek
Graphic Arts:
Wayne Stohs
Joel Bustamante
Lab Services Receives Perfect Score
Citizens Energy Group’s Lab Services department recently participated in an annual performance test to retain their drinking water laboratory certification. Environmental Resource Associates (ERA), an independent third-party performance test provider, provided Citizens with single blind samples, which were analyzed on 137 individual parameters. ERA evaluates or grades those results and provides Citizens (and our Indiana State Department of Health Laboratory Certification Officer) with the results. Results of this performance test indicate that Lab Services staff successfully passed all 137 individual parameters for a perfect score! Congratulations to the Lab Services team on this achievement: Mark Gray, Erica Duncan, Kim Brokering, Janet Shivers, Jodian Stevens, Julie Summers, Christina Tucker, Mckenzie Wiseman, Jeffrey Stock, Michael Watson, Charles Butterfield, Holly Henderson, Michael Jones, Don Oliver, Stacey Olvey, and Mark Ringham
PLACEHOLDER
Citizens Health and Safety Department prepares to make June a Slam Dunk for Safety.
Health and Safety Department Implements
Citizens Energy Group’s Health and Safety Department has launched a new field guide, Preventing Serious Injury & Fatalities (SIF), to help employees recognize hazards that can be life-threatening, and to implement essential controls that are crucial for fulfilling job requirements and ensuring sufficient capacity for safe recovery in the event of an incident.
The SIF prevention framework builds upon The Energy Wheel, a tool designed to help industrial workers identify safety hazards they can encounter at work (colloquially known as Stuff That Kills You or STKY). It helps workers with their cognitive biases about situations they may consider safe or unsafe, helping to eliminate emotion-based fight-or-flight responses to hazardous situations and evening the playing field with a more objective look at all hazards they could face.
The SIF field guide walks Citizens employees through identifying job hazards, conducting pre-job safety briefings, recognizing when to stop work and subsequently resume it, and leveraging essential controls that directly target hazards and prevent injury. The guide also identifies how to compensate for human error, and how to promote strong situational awareness.
Citizens is firmly committed to practicing and demonstrating exceptional safety measures for all employees. The priority of personal safety and the safety of others is one of the Citizens core values; this perspective influences the choices and actions we undertake in the workplace, at home, and within the community. Preventing incidents requires discipline and consistency from all participants, as well as consistently executing every task in a safe and healthy manner. From the initial planning stages to daily hazard assessments and controls to postactivity evaluations, we must continuously observe the work environment and be prepared to address new hazards as conditions change.
For more information on the Preventing Serious Injury & Fatalities (SIF) field guide, or with questions on safety trainings available to you, please email Rich Willsey at rwillsey@citizensenergygroup.com
Preventing Serious Injury & Fatalities (SIF)
The Health and Safety Department INJURY PREVENTION FIELD GUIDE
OUR VISION
We will fulfill the promise of the Trust by providing training and tools to maintain a safe and healthy workplace for all employees to be in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. We will promote a positive attitude towards safety and establish proactive safety objectives for all employees and contractors.
OUR MISSION
The Health and Safety Department educates customers (employees) to identify hazards related to work being performed and empower them to act to eliminate or reduce exposure to the hazard.
OUR VALUES
Collaboration: We work as a team ensuring all employees understand they have an obligation to stop a job/task to prevent an unsafe incident from occurring and to report unsafe incidents or near misses.
Communication: We are dedicated to communicating across departments new regulations, policies and processes within Health and Safety to ensure the most accurate information is relayed to all employees.
Training: Provide safety training to employees ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge and resources to perform their jobs safely, reduce injuries, accidents, environmental impact and ensure compliance.
Timeliness: Assure timely and thorough reporting and investigation of all incidents and the identification of corrective actions.
Confidentiality: We maintain the highest level of confidentiality with respect to information we encounter.
Our Health and Safety Team
Doug Buffington Director, Health & Safety 317-710-0242 Darren
Scott Griffith
Safety Specialist
Areas of Support: Water, Wastewater, Westfield, Above Ground Assets/Plants 317-850-2011
Lance
Safety Specialist Areas of Support: Shared Field Services, and Designated Employer Representative 317-418-3799
Albert “Jerome” Mayden Safety Specialist
Areas of Support: Corporate Support Services, Steam, Chilled Water 317-727-1817
Rich Willsey Safety Specialist Areas of Support: Gas, Water, Wastewater, Underground Assets 317-517-1151
MEET
Danni Kmucha and Casey Hruskovich EARLY INTERVENTION SPECIALISTS
Danni Kmucha and Casey Hruskovich have been with Citizens Energy Group since July 2024. Danni graduated from Wilmington College in Wilmington, Ohio, with a master’s degree in athletic training; she is the first in her family to complete college. Casey has more than 15 years of experience in sports and family medicine and was certified as an EMT from 2018 through 2024. Both Danni and Casey work for ATI Physical Therapy and are service providers in the Health and Safety Department.
Tell us about your team/department, and what you are responsible for at Citizens.
Our primary focus is preventing workplace injuries through comprehensive education, ergonomic solutions, and proactive safety initiatives. Additionally, we assist employees in recovering from both workplace and nonwork-related injuries, helping them return to full capacity and continue performing at their best. We work on injury prevention and learning new ways to keep employees safe throughout their day so they can go home the way they came to work each day.
What do you enjoy about your job?
Danni: The biggest thing I enjoy is getting to know all the employees at Citizens and helping them out when they need something. I love having a great support system with my coworker Casey and the entire Safety team.
Casey: I enjoy visiting different sites and interacting with people. The variety each day keeps things exciting, and I appreciate the unpredictability of never knowing exactly what the day will hold.
How do you spend your time outside of work?
Casey: I enjoy spending time with my husband, Cole, and our son, Chase, and our dogs Frank and Clark! Frank came to the employee appreciation luncheon at Langsdale last year.
Danni: I’m a huge soccer fan and love to go out and play with my friends when I visit home, or they come visit me in Indy. I’m also busy with my new one-year-old puppy named Remy, a black lab pit mix; my boyfriend Griffin and I rescued Remy when she was four months old.
What are some ways we can do our part to create a safer workplace?
Danni: The biggest thing that can keep the workplace safe is communication! Nothing is too small or embarrassing to let your supervisor know, and then come see us so we can help you before things get worse. From slipping on ice to twisting your ankle in a hole you didn’t see, we can help you. Another thing is wearing proper safety equipment and using the right tools for the job. For those working at desks, that also means getting an ergonomic evaluation to make sure everything is set up to keep you comfortable and healthy.
Casey: Creating a safer workplace starts with a collective effort from everyone. We can each do our part by staying vigilant and aware of potential hazards, following safety protocols, and reporting any unsafe conditions or behaviors.
Casey Hruskovich
Danni Kmucha
Warm Heart Warm Home Summer Bash: July 25
Celebrating Citizens Warm Heart Warm Home Foundation™, this inaugural event focuses on raising awareness, building connections, and inspiring action. While some activities will help support our foundation financially, the heart of the event is about coming together, learning about our foundation, and having fun. More details and registration information will be made available on iTrust.
For More Information, Email Leo Sparks: lsparks@citizensenergygroup.com
Citizens Energy Group Night at Indy Eleven: August 2
As part of our ongoing partnership with the Indy Eleven, Citizens employees are invited to register to win tickets to see the Indy Eleven take on the Tampa Bay Rowdies on Saturday, August 2 at 7:00 pm. Registration for the chance to win free tickets will be posted on iTrust.
For More Information, Email Shannon Frederick: sfrederick@citizensenergygroup.com
Citizens Clay Classic: August 5
The inaugural Citizens Clay Classic benefitting the Warm Heart Warm Home Foundation™ will be held at the Indiana Gun Club on August 5. More details including registration information, volunteer opportunities, and sponsorships will be made available on iTrust.
For More Information, Email Shannon Frederick: sfrederick@citizensenergygroup.com
CITIZENS FOR GOOD: VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Our volunteer spotlight is a chance to meet a Citizens Energy Group employee who is making a big impact in the community outside of their job. Citizens employees are encouraged to volunteer at Citizens-sponsored events, or at community organizations of their choice.
Meet Tracey Black, Engineer II
Tracey Black has been part of the Citizens team since 2013 and has been involved in a number of complex engineering projects, including tunnel development, near surface consolidation projects, and lift stations. Today she manages sewer and manhole rehabilitation projects in the Underground Engineering & Construction group. Tracey is a 2020 winner of the Jefferson Award.
When Tracey was a small child, she and her mother, Dixie Harnishfeger, were attacked by their neighbors’ dogs, which instilled a fear of dogs in Tracey. Dixie knew she needed to help Tracey overcome her fears, so she enrolled her in the 4-H Dog Club. Now Tracey is giving back to the program that not only helped her overcome her fear but also helped her become a leader and role model. She has been volunteering with the Happy Heelers 4-H Dog Club for 17 years.
To honor Tracey’s legacy of giving back, the club created The Hoosier Award, named after her first Labrador retriever. It is given to members who go the extra mile and participate in volunteer work.
What has been your most rewarding experience volunteering for the 4-H Dog Club?
The most rewarding experience every year is seeing all the kids compete at the fair with their dogs in each discipline (obedience, agility, and showmanship). Their hard work pays off at the fair. Some of them have obstacles that they really need to work on, whether it’s their dog not allowing me to touch them at the beginning of the year or a jump that their dog won’t go over. A lot of them get very frustrated at some of the first classes, but after a few practices, they really start to have fun and realize that their dogs are making progress.
You’ve volunteered for Citizens-sponsored events. What has been your favorite?
I always enjoy it when I can volunteer at Sharing the Dream. It’s so neat to see a space completely renovated within just a few days. Of course, one of my other favorite events is the Yvonne Perkins Legacy Fund Golf Outing. For both events, a lot of people come together to make a big impact.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering alongside your Citizens coworkers?
It’s nice to get together with coworkers and talk about something other than work. I’m always learning something new about them at volunteer events. It’s a great way to build relationships and get to know each other better.
The Happy Heelers 4-H Dog Club helps 4-H members train their dogs in three disciplines (obedience, showmanship and agility). Members are taught commands to use in obedience that will help them behave better and help create a positive relationship between the 4-H member, their family, and neighbors/public. The goal of the club is to build the relationship between the member and their dog in a positive way, and to teach the parents what we are doing so they can follow through at home.
Happy Heelers’ greatest need is fundraising and recruiting volunteers who can help with obedience training. There are several different levels of obedience that require handling the dog in different ways. Having enough volunteers to learn just one exercise and teach the child that exercise every night makes a big difference in the progress of the 4-H member and dog.
Dixie Harnishfeger shared her thoughts on Tracey: “One of the things I like most about her is her relationship with the members. She can identify a problem they may be having with their dog, and she takes the time to help them work it out. Tracey gives them ideas to work on at home, and you see a big difference in the relationship between the 4-H member and their dog after her help.”
Happy
EMPLOYEES VOLUNTEER for Spring Events
Mini Marathon Pit Station
May 3
On Saturday, May 3, more than 40 employees, retirees, and their families got up early to volunteer their time for the 500 Festival Mini-Marathon inside turn one of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The Citizens team was a well-oiled machine setting up and tearing down the pit station for the event, but more importantly they encouraged more than 20,000 runners with real Citizens spirit in their race to the finish line. This has quickly turned into a favorite event for the Citizens team, whether it’s first-timers, veteran volunteers, or families creating new traditions. Thank you to each of our volunteers for making our community a place where we all want to live, work, and serve.
White River Cleanup
April 26
As a sponsor of the annual downtown White River Cleanup, Citizens Energy Group helps recruit volunteers to remove litter and illegally dumped debris from the banks of the White River. This year we had 71 total volunteers, 16 from Citizens Energy Group. An estimated 115 tons of trash were removed during the cleanup. The Indianapolis Department of Public Works (“DPW”) provided a front-end loader and a boom truck with operators to remove large debris. Keep Indianapolis Beautiful, Inc. provided three 40-yard dumpsters and a packer truck with a DPW operator to facilitate trash removal.
Friends of the White River is hosting several other small cleanups throughout the rest of this year. More information can be found at their website: https://friendsofwhiteriver.org/events/.
May 16-18
As the newest event in the Citizens suite of charitable outings benefitting the Warm Heart Warm Home Foundation™, The Greatest Spectacle in Pickleball is a three-day pickleball tournament extravaganza. The event hosted 479 players in 45 different events from nine different states, and it was supported by a team of more than 60 volunteers, including five Citizens employees.
Citizens Employees Volunteer at Westminster Neighborhood Services
A baker’s dozen Citizens Energy Group employees representing the Information Technology department and IT Business Relationship Management team volunteered on March 13 to support Westminster Neighborhood Services. The volunteers distributed food and basic hygiene items through guided shopping at the organization’s community food pantry. Alongside the IT team, James No, Senior Accountant and long-time Westminster volunteer, joined the project.
Westminster Neighborhood Services is a nonprofit organization that supports the Near Eastside with services such as a food pantry, a soup kitchen, and an after-school program for children ages 6-14. A lean operation with a staff of seven, many activities are run with the help of volunteers. Stacy Caldwell, IT Business Relationship Consultant III and fellowship board member of Westminster, coordinated the event with support from Kim Rogers, IT Manager of Business Relationships.
Stacy shared, “I am proud to work for a company and department that not only supports but actively encourages employees to volunteer in the community. This commitment to service was one of the main reasons I chose to join Citizens.”
Citizens is a proud supporter of Westminster Neighborhood Services and is a sponsor of their annual Food Fight fundraiser. The event, which serves as a showcase of the work Westminster is doing in the Near Eastside, partners with local high school culinary students who utilize common foods found in the Westminster food pantry in a Chopped-style cooking competition. The winner, chosen by a panel of judges, leaves the event with the title of Master Chef. Kenya McMillin, Community Stakeholder & Engagement Manager, also serves on the board for Westminster.
Support for community volunteerism is often highlighted as one of the most appreciated aspects of working for Citizens. “I am grateful for the opportunity to volunteer and contribute to meaningful causes through Citizens. It has been a rewarding experience that has enriched my life in countless ways. I appreciate the support and encouragement from Citizens, which values and recognizes the importance of giving back and fostering a culture of compassion and service,” shared Nathan Jeffrey, IT Business Relationship Consultant I.
Celebrating 2024 Employee Volunteerism
Citizens Energy Group encourages all employees and retirees to volunteer their time to support nonprofits in our community.
Through the Citizens for Good volunteer support program, employees and retirees can earn a $250 grant per calendar year for a nonprofit organization at which they volunteer. Employees must volunteer at least
for the organization to be eligible for the grant.
Thank you to the employees listed below for making a positive impact in their communities last year. They each earned a $250 grant for a nonprofit organization.
Debi Bardhan
Akala: Julian Center
Michelle Bennington
Ronald McDonald House
Tracey Black
Happy Heelers Dog Obedience Club
Shannon Frederick
Circle City Curling Club
Susan Harris Engineers without Borders
John Havard
Castleton Community Church
Olivia Hawbaker VanDuyn
Coburn Place
Daniel Koiro Civil Air Patrol
Jennifer Mentink
Martindale Brightwood
James No
Westminster Neighborhood Services
Beth Noel
Learning Trails & TheraTails
Ann Shutters
Premier Dance Academy
Nick Smallwood Whiteland Youth Baseball
Shannon Stahley
Crossroads of America Council - Scouting America
Derek Sutton Carmel Dad’s Club
Interested individuals can sign up to volunteer at Westminster here:
Back row: Nathan Jeffrey, Abby Robbins, Mark Little, Michelle Dinkins, Tracye George, Mary Anderson. Middle row: Gillian Marks, George Reners, Tracy Andrews, Kenya Perkins. Front row: James No, Stacy Caldwell, Kim Rogers.
Mary Anderson helping guest at food pantry
Olivia Hawbaker VanDuyn Named to IBJ 40 Under 40
The Indianapolis Business Journal recently named Olivia Hawbaker VanDuyn, Manager Engineering, Capital Programs & Engineering, to its 2025 40 Under 40 list.
This annual recognition honors Central Indiana business and professional leaders who have achieved career success and demonstrated strong leadership skills inside and outside the workplace before the age of 40.
Olivia joined Citizens Energy Group in 2013 as an Engineer I in CP&E, where she focused on DigIndy and Consent Decree implementation. In her current role, she manages capital planning for Water Distribution and Wastewater Collection, overseeing master planning for capital needs over the next 20+ years, program planning for risk-based project prioritization, and project planning for individual project needs. She also manages the system renewal program for sanitary sewer and manhole rehabilitation and emergency repairs, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and coordinating with federal and state agencies.
Olivia’s leadership at Citizens extends beyond her technical expertise. She has been instrumental in developing and leading EMPOWER, a team designed to support early-career professionals. Her dedication to fostering a supportive and collaborative environment is evident in her work and in her interactions with her team.
Service winner in 2018.
Outside of work, Olivia is a board member at Coburn Place Safe Haven, Girl Scouts of Central Indiana, the Yvonne Perkins Legacy Fund, and Common Ground Christian Church. Her dedication to service was celebrated when she was named Citizens Jefferson Award for
Olivia earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Purdue University and is licensed as a Professional Engineer in the state of Indiana. Outside of work, she enjoys volunteering, traveling, and spending time with her husband, Justin, and friends and family. Olivia and Justin are expecting their first child at the end of June.
Citizens Sponsors 34th Annual ROSE Awards
On May 1, Citizens Energy Group sponsored the 34th Annual ROSE Awards, an event dedicated to honoring non-managerial hospitality employees and volunteers for their exceptional customer service. ROSE, which stands for Recognition of Service Excellence, highlights individuals who exceed job expectations and create lasting impressions on Indianapolis visitors.
Citizens Energy Group nominated two employees who attended the awards: Robert “Tommy” Reese, Contact Center Supervisor, and Wilmon Alvies, Wastewater Warehouse Technician. Both Tommy and Wilmon truly exemplify what it means to provide excellent customer service and care for the
Public
Firefighters, Police & Deputy Sheriffs HONORED AT ANNUAL LUNCHEON
Citizens Energy Group served as the title sponsor of the 57th Annual Fire, Police & Deputy Sheriff’s Community Recognition Luncheon on April 22, continuing a tradition of honoring Indy’s bravest, now for more than a half-century. Nearly 40 local public safety professionals were recognized for their dedication and service to central Indiana throughout 2024.
A true community event, more than 40 local businesses and organizations sponsored the awards ceremony. Citizens has served as host for the past twelve years, continuing the tradition that was established by the former Indianapolis Water Company in 1968. Citizens President and CEO Jeffrey Harrison welcomed guests to the event. He was joined in recognizing honorees by Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department Chief Christopher Bailey, Indianapolis Fire Department Chief Ernest Malone, Marion County Chief Deputy Reggie Roney, and members of the City-County Council.
In addition to being the title sponsor of the event, Citizens sponsors the Firefighter of the Year Award. Paul Dicken, Director of Water Distribution, presented the award to IFD Private Adam Gaudin. Private Gaudin was recognized for his valiant rescue attempt resulting in an individual surviving a fire, his 8th such rescue in his 10-year career at IFD. Gaudin was named the recipient of the Firefighter of the Year award in 2022 and Rescue Firefighter of the Year in 2019.
Dicken shared, “Our partnership with IFD is very valuable. One of our top priorities is to make sure that all our hydrants are operable so IFD can do their job and provide public safety. We interact with the fire fighters daily, so for us to be involved with the selection process for the awards luncheon is truly an honor. It is very rewarding to hear the stories of their heroic efforts that happen daily to protect the community.”
IMPD Detective Garland Cooper was recognized with the Police Officer of the Year Award for his work in dismantling a violent group of individuals who posed a threat to citizens of Indianapolis, coupled with exceptional cross-agency collaboration and the recovery of tens of thousands of dollars’ worth of drugs, guns, and currency.
Representing the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Major David Roberts was named Sheriff’s Deputy of the Year. Major Roberts is steadfastly dedicated to the training and development of incoming officers, and he collaborates throughout the agency to enhance professional development opportunities for officers at the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. Roberts was recognized for his “leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to advancing law enforcement training”.
As the title sponsor of the luncheon, Citizens Energy Group manages logistics, planning, script writing, and graphic design support. Special thanks to Jennifer Mentink, Wayne Stohs, Joel Bustamante and Adam Lowe for their work on the luncheon. We would also like to thank our employee volunteers who assisted throughout the event: Crit Crabtree, Ben Easley, Shannon Frederick, Rosemary Meagher, Laura O’Brien, Anne Payne, Lavashia Primus and Terri Williams
Benefits Corner
Did you know our medical insurance includes access to virtual care?
With Anthem, you can use LiveHealth Online to have virtual visits that often cost less than traditional office visits. You can connect via live video with board-certified doctors, therapists, psychiatrists, lactation consultants, and sleep specialists—right from your smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera.
LiveHealth Online also offers 24/7 urgent care visits where board-certified doctors can evaluate your symptoms and provide a treatment plan, including prescriptions sent directly to your pharmacy if needed.
If you’re using a Citizens-issued device, you can now log in to your Lively HSA/FSA account quickly and securely—no password required!
Just follow these easy steps:
• Visit https://secure.livelyme.com/login, or navigate to the “Benefit Resources” tab on iTrust and click on “Lively.”
• Enter your Citizens Energy Group email address.
• Click “Log in with Citizens Energy Group SSO”—no need to enter a password!
• You’ll be able to access your HSA account using your existing work credentials, making it easier and faster than ever.
Benefits Corner
"Recently, I took advantage of the telehealth service available to Citizens employees through Anthem. I am sharing my experience to help spread the word and to remind everyone that we have this benefit available to us.
Several weeks ago, I was experiencing a sinus infection that would not go away. I knew it was a sinus infection because of my past experience. I initially treated my symptoms with over-the-counter medications. But I continued to feel worse.
My schedule was very full and I was finding it difficult to find the time to go to urgent care or to my primary care physician. Then I remembered that our Anthem health insurance coverage includes the Sydney app. I opened the Sydney app, followed the prompts, and requested a telehealth appointment. Within a matter of minutes, I had an electronic appointment with a doctor. The doctor quickly diagnosed my sinus infection and sent a prescription to a pharmacy near my home. Less than 30 minutes had passed since I opened the Sydney app. I will note there is an out-of-pocket fee to use this service, but the fee is comparable to going to urgent care.
I picked up the prescription from the pharmacy later the same day. The prescription successfully treated the sinus infection.
Arranging a telehealth appointment through the Sydney app was a very good option for me. It was convenient and efficient. I encourage others to take advantage of this benefit the next time you find yourself dealing with a minor illness and you have limited available time to go to urgent care or your own doctor."
— JOSEPH PERKINS, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT AND GENERAL COUNSEL
Where Should I Go? How to Decide Where to Go for Medical Care
∞ Staffed by registered nurses
NURSE HELPLINE
TELEMEDICINE
PRIMARY CARE
CONVENIENCE/ AFTER HOURS CLINIC
URGENT CARE CLINIC
EMERGENCY ROOM
∞ Resource for guidance during natural catastrophes or health outbreakes
∞ Generally available 24/7
∞ Convenient, low cost option for treating common, non-urgent health concerns
∞ A doctor will diagnose the issue over the phone and write a prescription, if necessary
∞ Generally available 24/7
∞ Care or treatment of a wide range of health issues
∞ Because of established relationship, can treat based on knowledge of medical history
∞ Generally limited hours
∞ Care for minor health conditions when your primary care office is closed
∞ Staffed by nurse practitioners and physician assistants
∞ Generally open evenings and weekends
∞ Treatment of non-life-threatening injuries or illnesses
∞ Staffed by physicians
∞ Genearlly open night and weekends; some open 24/7
∞ Immediate treatment for serious, lifethreatening conditions
∞ Ready to treat any critical situation
∞ Can be hospital-based or freestanding
∞ Available 24/7, 365 days a year
∞ Answer general questions like "how long should I ice my sprained ankle?"
∞ Give advice/referrals of where to go for treatment e.g. ER or primary care doctor
∞ Acne
∞ Allergies
∞ Cough/sore throat
∞ Diarrhea
∞ Insect bites
∞ Pink eye
∞ Rash
∞ Annual Checkup
∞ Immunizations
∞ Minor injuries, such as sprains
∞ Illnesses
∞ Management of chronic conditions
∞ Acute illnesses or injuries that are not urgent
∞ Sore throat
∞ Vomiting
∞ Minor cuts and burns
∞ Cold and flu symptoms
∞ Minor accidents or falls
∞ Minor sprains or fractures
∞ Minor cuts and burns
∞ Vomiting, diarrhea
∞ Chest pain
∞ Difficulty breathing
∞ Severe abdominal pain
∞ Broken bones
∞ Head injuries
∞ Uncontrolled bleeding
∞ Seizures
$
$$
$$
$$$
∞ Coughing or vomiting blood $$$
Employees and spouses can stay up to date on benefit changes, deadlines, and more with Citizens Connect. Scan the QR code to create your own account. Go to Settings and add your phone number or email address to get started.
Did You Know: Mental Health First Aid
Did you know that two of our Citizens Employees are certified in Mental Health First Aid?
Last year, Rachel Hubble, Benefits Administrator, and Angela Guynn, Payroll Specialist, gained their Mental Health First Aid certification. During the full-day training session, they learned how to identify and respond to various mental health scenarios. They also gained insight into recognizing behavioral signs and understanding when and how to engage someone who may be experiencing a mental health crisis.
The training covered a range of situations—from supporting someone dealing with grief to responding to someone experiencing thoughts of suicide. Participants were provided with helpful resources and guidance on how to respond appropriately, as well as information to share with individuals seeking additional help.
Rachel shared, “It was a valuable learning experience, and having the opportunity to practice and work through different scenarios alongside peers and professionals made it even more impactful.”
If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide or a mental health or substance use crisis, dial 988. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline will directly connect you with compassionate, accessible care and support. If you need immediate emergency assistance, dial 911.
Citizens Hosts Real Conversations: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for All
With Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs being rolled back nationwide, many people are questioning what DEI is, who it benefits, and what role it should play in organizations. On May 1, Citizens hosted a Real Conversations lunch-and-learn to discuss this topic.
The 60-minute session featured insights from Todd Hillman, Senior Vice President and Chief Customer Officer of External Affairs from MISO (the electric grid operator for the central US), as well as Jeff Willman, Vice President of Water Operations at Citizens. The conversation was moderated by Jodi Whitney, Vice President of Human Resources and Chief People Officer, and highlighted not just the importance of having honest and transparent conversations about the DEI landscape, but how it has evolved generationally and why remaining responsive to the conversation is so vital. Zoya Barker, Culture & Inclusion Specialist, coordinated the event, leading the charge on recruiting speakers and creating discussion topics in recognition of Celebrate Diversity Month.
In 2023, Citizens refreshed its vision, mission, and values. At that time, the previously stated value of diversity evolved into inclusion; the value now reads, “We foster a diverse culture where everyone is respected, valued, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and talents. We actively listen and adapt to ensure that our services are accessible, equitable, and responsive to the needs of the communities we serve.”
At the March Leadership Forum, Joseph Perkins, Senior Vice President and General Counsel, reaffirmed “Citizens has operated as a Public Trust for nearly 138 years. In our long history, we have endured many periods of uncertainty, but we have never wavered in our commitment to inclusion and diversity for our customers, our community, and our employees. That has not changed. There will be more to come as conversations continue to evolve.”
If employees have further questions about Citizens commitment to inclusion, they are encouraged to reach out to Tamiko Kendrick, Director Inclusion and Talent Development, or Zoya Barker
Angela Guynn
Rachel Hubble
VOICES of the CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE
Owning the customer experience is a cornerstone of Citizens success and is vital to fulfilling our promise as a Public Charitable Trust. We are thrilled to offer this new column, Voices of the Customer Experience, dedicated to shining the spotlight on employees who strive to ensure our customers – both external and internal – receive the best experience possible. Their commitment, hard work, and passion for excellence not only drive our business forward but also create a positive and lasting impact on everyone they interact with. Join us in celebrating these outstanding individuals who truly embody the spirit of Citizens!
Alex Haberfield COORDINATOR PUBLIC OUTREACH
“Alex, I want to recognize you for your on-going communication with customer relations. You have been keeping us in the loop with LSLR updates and other projects which helps us to brace for call volume, anticipated questions, and reinforce our training. I really appreciate that you take time to include us in your communication.”
– CSA Impression for Communication from Stephen Mader, Training Development Specialist
Catherine Parsons ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST III
Nathanial Berg ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST II
“An IDEM Air inspector contacted Catherine for an unannounced inspection and was already at the gate to White River Treatment Plant. Catherine immediately contacted me and coordinated internally to meet with the inspector. She dropped everything to address the situation. Nathanial was able to travel to White River Treatment Plant to meet the inspector. Both acted with urgency to make sure the visit was handled properly. Thank you.”
– CSA Impressions for Act With Urgency from Cheryl Carlson, Manager Environmental Compliance Programs
Danny Granger UTILITY SERVICE SPECIALIST
“Our technician was wonderful. He was kind when I explained what the issue was and that it may not be an issue at all (sound from gas meter). He explained things well and was confident and knowledgeable. In the end he alleviated my concerns.”
– Feedback submitted by a Citizens customer
Terri Zaichek COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS SPECIALIST
“I just wanted to tell you all what you already know: Terri Zaichek is just an awesome employee. She embodies everything we profess about customer focus at Citizens and does it with such a great disposition. We need 100 more of her! She recently helped me work through an issue with my daughter’s insurance coverage and just made it all so pleasant and ensured she will maintain much-needed coverage. I’m grateful for employees like Terri.” – Email from Mike Strohl, Senior Vice President and Chief Customer Officer
FIFTEEN EMPLOYEES INDUCTED INTO QUARTER CENTURY CLUB
Congratulations to our Quarter Century Club Class of 2024
As part of the 83rd Annual Quarter Century Club Awards, 15 Citizens Energy Group employees were honored for their years of service to the utility.
The group of employees and recent retirees were honored at a special dinner on April 8 at the Skyline Club in Indianapolis. This induction ceremony dinner will be followed up by the annual Quarter Century Club reception on June 10 at the Scottish Rite Cathedral. The following individuals reached their 25th year of service at Citizens in 2024 and were inducted into our most prestigious club: Jeremy Barnes, Lance Davidson McIver, Allen Mitterling, David Naku, Nicholas
, Director Gas Transmission & Distribution, attended the event to celebrate alongside his employees who reached their 25-year milestone. He shared, “I want to say thank you for all the personal touchpoints throughout the evening. Events like this provide employees talking points during their career and workdays. The conversations they have in the future will begin with ‘Remember when…’”.
Allen Mitterling
The entire Quarter Century Club membership is invited to the annual reception on June 10 at the Scottish Rite Cathedral.
Water Production Millwright Water Production & Distribution
David Naku
Utility Service Specialist Customer Support Services
Nicholas Polley District Supervisor Gas Operations
Director Environmental Stewardship
Environmental Stewardship Administration
Stephanie Tuvell Technical Specialist VII Gas Capital Programs & Engineering
Troy Unland Valve & Regulator Mechanic Gas Operations
Donald Vaughn
Ground Water Treatment Plant Operator Water Production & Distribution
Walter Wynn
District Supervisor
Gas Operations
Quality Corner
CLASS Belt Certifications
YELLOW BELT
USS Route Optimization
• Project Leader: Joe Anthis (Shared Field Services)
• Executive Sponsor: Melissa Lawson
• Team Members: Gary Young
• Joe’s project developed a process for determining the best shift/area/job when new USS positions are created. Analyzing various zones within the Citizens service territory by size and activity levels will help determine to which zones new USSs should be assigned.
• Benefits: Reduced open orders from 10,781 in September to 7,906 in March. Increased on-time appointments from 93.3% to 96.3%. Reduced emergency response time from 25.7 minutes to 23.1.
• Dwight’s project developed a solution that reduces the time spent disconnecting the condensate drain blow-off valves connected to downtown Indianapolis’ combined sewer system. These blow-off valves release steam and condensate into the combined sewer system. The Wastewater Collections department was unaware of the locations where Thermal’s condensate blow-off valves connect to the combined sewer system. When working on the combined sewer system, this presented significant safety and maintenance risks.
• Benefits: Before this project, it would take approximately four to five hours for Collections to have Thermal disconnect (i.e., turn off) a valve. After this project was completed, it took Collections approximately 110 minutes to have Thermal disconnect a valve, resulting in 130 minutes saved per event (six per year). The other benefit is getting a completed map showing the correct valve locations.
ADVANCED YELLOW BELT
Timekeeping Process
• Project Leader: Joe Nagy (Wastewater Collections)
• Executive Sponsor: Roger Hanas
• Team Members: Kevin Hackett, Bill Price
• Joe’s project created a new timekeeping process for Wastewater Operations. This process had previously been a manual punch clock time for Bargaining employees, which was managed and entered into Oracle EBS by a Wastewater Clerk. This manual timekeeping process would utilize approximately 75 percent of the Wastewater Clerk’s time. The Wastewater Clerk retired on February 14. The new process moved to the Bargaining staff entering their own time into Oracle EBS, eliminating the need for the manual entry by a clerk.
• Benefits: The change in time entry for the Wastewater Collections Bargaining employees has resulted in a direct budget savings from an allocated percentage of the salary of the Wastewater Clerk, who was not replaced.
Above Ground Split
• Project Leader: Madison Russo (Energy Distribution Engineering)
• Executive Sponsor: Mike Sullivan
• Team Members: Krista Sinclair, Dashanda Henson, Alana Gessert
• Madison’s project streamlined the current process of sending gas applications with existing service lines to CURI for tracking, which created unnecessary work for the Gas Tech Specialist II, as these applications only need to be sent to the District Supervisor and their large piping crew. This resulted in redundant tracking steps and inefficiencies.
• Benefits: Removed five unnecessary steps, resulting in a time savings of approximately two business days for construction. Tickets are now received the same day the application is processed, eliminating the duplication of tickets and the wait time from notification of the split to receiving the physical ticket.
Quality Corner
Replacing EFV with Curb Box
• Project Leader: Madison Russo (Energy Distribution Engineering)
• Executive Sponsor: Mike Sullivan
• Team Members: Krista Sinclair, Dashanda Henson, Alana Gessert
• Madison’s project developed a process for customers requesting to increase their gas load when adding new natural gas appliances if their current load cannot accommodate them. For services with an excessive flow valve (EFV), which restricts gas delivery, a larger line is needed to overcome the EFV’s limitations. The larger the line, the more BTUs (British Thermal Units – a unit of measurement for natural gas heating value) the EFV will allow. Currently, there is a 10-to-12-week wait for a new service installation, weather permitting.
• Benefits: Developed criteria for when an EFV needs to be installed and when a curb box can be used instead. For those eligible for a curb box, this has reduced the wait time from 10 to 12 weeks to two weeks, as a full installation of a new gas line is not required.
• Greg’s project developed and implemented a process to reduce the time needed to identify the Maintenance Relief Operators (MROs) who need to work a shift at a facility. Prior to the project, researching the running 12-month schedule was very time consuming, and the diffiuculties of that process resulted in having to retrain MROs at various facilities on three separate occasions.
• Benefits: The MRO Last Plant Worked tab was first utilized the week of April 14 and immediately reduced the amount of time it takes the scheduler to research shifts worked over the past twelve months from 10 to 15 minutes, or 13 hours per year, to a matter of seconds. This also eliminates the need for retraining, saving an additional 120 hours a year.
Tank Rehab Prioritization
• Project Leader: Joe Turnquist (Water Quality)
• Executive Sponsor: Dan Moran
• Team Members: Breann Cooper, Robert Cross, Justin Redman
• Joe’s project created a process that properly prioritizes the condition of finished water storage tanks to allow for effective capital planning. The Tank Asset Prioritization Program (TAPP) spreadsheet was created to score tanks based on conditions assessed during their inspections and cleanings. The TAPP spreadsheet will be updated semi-annually following each season of tank inspections.
• Benefits: No prioritization previously existed, and tanks were only rehabbed at the end of their useful life. Now tanks are identified and included in the capital plan when the criticality shows they need rehabbed. Using the new TAPP, $279,600 in savings was demonstrated on a single asset.
Recently Completed Just Do It (JDI) Projects
Just Do It projects are a great way to continuously improve something where the solution is already known. This doesn’t mean it necessarily has to be a quick or simple project, it just doesn’t go through the DMAIC process. But Just Do It projects can make a big impact in efficiency and savings. All completed Just Do It projects can be found on Quality’s CI Activities and Completed Projects page.
• Employee Leave Process – Rachel Hubble (Human Resources)
• Reducing Time to Transfer SCADA Data to Hach – Richard Hedge (Wastewater Operations)
• Traveling Screens – Chris Barron (Water Production)
• STEP Program GIS Data Improvements – Celia Whisler (Underground Engineering & Construction)
• SP Channel Air Blower – Monty Sawyers (Wastewater Operations)
• LS 101 Pumps Call-Ins – Joni Staten (Wastewater Operations)
• Redesign Steam Demand Budget Model – Christina Clark (Accounting)
• Reduce steps and error during invoice entry – Sara Smith (Treasury)
• Centrifuge Camera – Fred Hedges (Westfield)
• Eliminate Filing Westfield LOC Renewals – Jennifer Bailey (Treasury)
March Yellow Belt Training
Alex Valle, Brendan Crabtree, Scott Killion, Jason Burton, Logan Huskey, Tony Isenberger, George Reners, Zach McHone, Nathan Jeffery, Kenya McMillin, Jose Lopez, Tevin Robinson, Alex Brunt, Adrianne Bowers
Citizens Energy Group Bass Tournaments – Spring Recap, Fall Signup
Congratulations to the winners of the Citizens Energy Group 2025 Spring Bass Tournament at West Boggs Lake!
1st Place: Todd Lawson and Donnie Vaughn (6 fish total weight of 15.315 pounds)
2nd Place: Ron Sanders and Brad Hostetler (5 fish total weight of 11.595 pounds)
3rd Place: Doug Buffington II and Brad Lady (4 fish total weight of 7.995 pounds)
Big Bass: Donnie Vaughn with a 5.61-pound largemouth bass. Brad Hostetler came in 2nd place with a 3.53-pound bass.
Current and former Citizens employees are invited to join the 2025 Fall Bass Tournament on Saturday, September 27 at Lake Lemon in Unionville. Tournament fees are $60 per boat, inclusive of a $10 Big Bass entry. Tournament fees must be paid in advance. Fifty percent of the proceeds will be donated to Riley Children’s Hospital.
• Check-in: 6:30 a.m. to 7:00 a.m.
• Pre-tournament meeting: 7:00 a.m. at ramp
• Tournament: 7:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
• Food and drinks to be provided after awards. Contacts:
• Larry Cox, 317-445-6279
• Chris Barron, 317-750-5019
• Douglas Buffington, 812-583-5439
In Memoriam
We are saddened to report the recent passing of two retirees.
Jean Richcreek on May 17, 2025. Jean retired 2015, after 24 years of service.
Wayne Zellers on May 26, 2025. Wayne retired on June 1, 1994, after 30 years of service.
NEW EMPLOYEES
Dustin Allen Chilled Water
Sophia Basto Corporate Support Services
Autumn Bracey-Stevens Corporate Support Services
Jayden Doll Corporate Support Services
Iesha Greene Corporate Support Services
Carlos Gonzalez Corporate Support Services
Aiden Halstead Corporate Support Services
Ryan Haskins Corporate Support Services
Kyle Hewitt Corporate Support Services
Dailyn Van Horn-Lander Corporate Support Services
Joshua Howell Corporate Support Services
Kylie Jackson Corporate Support Services
Kyle Jarrels Corporate Support Services
Kyle Jent Corporate Support Services
Corey Jones Corporate Support Services
Tiffany Jones Corporate Support Services
Andrew Keeler Gas
Joshua Konrad Wastewater
Tyler Leopold Corporate Support Services
Carmen Mann-Lynch Corporate Support Services
Erika Maldonado Corporate Support Services
Cameron Martin Wastewater
Robria Miller Corporate Support Services
Jenice Oropeza Corporate Support Services
Joseph Pappenheim Water
Maria Pernisola Corporate Support Services
Thawng Pi Corporate Support Services
Mohammad Saghir Corporate Support Services
Jeremiah Taylor Corporate Support Services
3rd Place: Doug Buffington II and Brad Lady
1st Place: Todd Lawson and Donnie Vaughn
Donnie Vaughn and Todd Lawson: Big Bass 5.610 lb (far left)
