The Newburgh Volunteer Fire Department has been awarded two federal grant packages totaling $74,202.00. The grants are through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFG) and the Fire Prevention & Safety Grant Program (FP&S). Both grants were applied for in 2012 and were awarded last Friday.

The AFG grant totals $54,000.00 and will be used to update the department’s personal protective equipment (PPE) used by firefighters. Under National Fire Protection Association standards, a firefighter’s turnout gear has a lifespan of ten years before it is deemed to be unsafe by applicable standards and safety practices. The department is currently operating with fire gear that is no longer compliant with the NFPA and other safety standards. The approximate cost for just a new coat and pants is between $1,900 and $2,500 per firefighter.

A Boonville woman is among the 2013 Excellence in Nursing Award winners at St. Mary's Medical Center.

Melanie Lutz is the “Nurses and the Community Award” winner, recognized for her success in improving patient outcomes by developing strong partnerships with community organizations. Lutz is a member of the Emergency Department Practice Council and Safe Kids, among others. She has worked in the St. Mary’s Emergency Department since 2006. Lutz received her bachelor’s degree in engineering from the University of Evansville and her associate degree in nursing from Ivy Tech Community College.

WARRICK CO., IN (WFIE)- One business owner who lost it all in the Sharon Place fire has reopened at a new location in Newburgh.