CRANBERRY TWP — Westinghouse Electric said this past week that it will apply to the U.S. Department of Energy for investment funds worth up to $452 million.

These funds were authorized by Congress to promote the rapid development of small modular nuclear reactor technologies. The DOE plans to consider applications that incorporate passive safety features and that can be licensed quickly, achieving a commercial operation at a domestic site by 2022.

According to Aris Candris, Westinghouse president and chief executive officer in a news release, “Westinghouse will apply for the DOE's small modular reactor investment funds with a consortium of utilities.

“This federal support will provide the potential to expand the nation's options for nuclear power as well as to further the nation's competitive edge in the global clean energy race.”

PENN TWP — The VNA Hospice will host its seventh Friendship Luncheon at 11 a.m. April 5 at the Butler Country Club.The lunch is a benefit for the inpatient hospice, the patients and their families.It will include lunch and basket raffles. Cost is $35 per person.For information or to register, call Tammie Cramer at 724-431-3213.

FRANKLIN TWP — The 18th annual Employee Appreciation Day Luncheon will be at 11:30 a.m. April 18 at The Atrium.The luncheon, which includes a mini-business expo, basket raffles and door prizes, features the presentation of the 2012 Employee of the Year for Butler County, an award sponsored by Butler Health System.Nomination forms are available at www.butlercountychamber.com.For information about the mini-expo or the luncheon, call 724-283-2222 or send e-mail to jennifer@butlercountychamber.com.The event is sponsored by the Butler County Chamber of Commerce.

ELLWOOD CITY — Jennifer and Jamie Russell of Bridgeville are the winners of a new $26,000 ultra lite travel trailer given away by recreational vehicle dealer Clem’s RV and Trailer Sales, along with manufacturer Keystone RV.