In December 2003, a group of Mill Creek Station employees were inspired to start the new year on a healthy note. After attending a quarterly safety meeting where guest speaker Tanya Levine, Corporate Health and Safety Coordinator, spoke to employees about the Company's wellness program and lifestyle changes, a group of employees decided to make a difference in their lives.

In an effort to kick off 2004 focused on healthy living, the group started eating healthier and exercising. They even took it a step further by training for Louisville's Triple Crown running series and the Kentucky Derby Festival's Mini Marathon. For many of these employees, this was their first time running in a competition. They trained together, running during their lunch hour.

"It was the first time I ever ran in a 5K, and it was a great experience," said Tim Gant, Maintenance Leader. "I appreciate the help with my training from my running partners at Mill Creek."

Impressed with their determination, Mill Creek General Manager Mike Kirkland paid for the runners' registration fees for each race and provided them with shirts.

"I really appreciate Mike Kirkland and Mill Creek Station sponsoring us for the Triple Crown and Mini-Marathon races," said Bruce Heichelbech, Training Consultant, Power Generation. "Not only was it a kind gesture, but it demonstrated the Company's support and commitment to employees to strive to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle."

It even became a family affair for employee Jeff Simpson, Senior Mechanical Engineer. He and wife Becky ran in all four races, while son, Thomas, age 12, ran the Triple Crown races and son Clayton, 10, ran the first two legs of the Triple Crown.

The employees who trained together have kept up the momentum, as they continue to run during their lunch hour. Mill Creek continues to feature a variety of wellness topics during its quarterly safety meetings, encouraging employees to be pro-active about their health. High employee participation at Mill Creek's recent WellFairs demonstrated employees' continued commitment to wellness.

The following employees participated in the four races:

Anthem 5K Fitness Classic (March 13):
Bob Bennett
Doug Chin
Joe Didelot
Tim Gant
Steve Goldsmith
Sherman Richards
Bruce Heichelbech
Jeff Simpson

10K Rodes City Run (March 27):
Doug Chin
Joe Didelot
Steve Goldsmith
Sherman Richards
Bruce Heichelbech
Jeff Simpson

Papa John's 10 Miler Race (April 8):
Joe Didelot
Steve Goldsmith
Jeff Simpson

Kentucky Derby Mini Marathon (April 22):
Bob Bennett
Joe Didelot
Bruce Heichelbech
Jeff Simpson