New Energy Corp., an ethanol plant on South Bend's southwest side, makes for a dramatic scene etched against a spring sunset. Tribune Photo/SANTIAGO FLORES
New Energy Corp., an ethanol plant on South Bend's southwest side, makes for a dramatic scene etched against a spring sunset. Tribune Photo/SANTIAGO FLORES
By PAUL DODSON, South Bend Tribune Staff Writer

SOUTH BEND -- When the New Energy ethanol plant began operations here in October 1984, it was touted as a futuristic marvel that could help America achieve energy independence.

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