Valparaiso's first business acceleration program broke ground on its new facility this afternoon. Entech Innovation Center will be located in Eastport Centre for Business near the Porter County Airport. The Center's 15,000 square-foot building for emerging technology companies is expected to be open by the end of the year. Former Valparaiso Economic Development Director Charlie McGill is directing the program.

Moratorium issued on policy cancellations

Insurance companies doing business in Indiana are being called on to implement a 60-day moratorium on the cancellation of any policy for late payment by policyholders who live in counties impacted by the recent severe weather. Indiana Insurance Commissioner Jim Atterholt has issued a Bulletin outlining the moratorium. It also asks for a waiver of any penalties or late fees during the 60 days.

Flooding could hurt final wheat production

A Purdue University Cooperative Extension agricultural economist Chris Hurt said recent flooding could impact final production of Indiana's wheat crop. But Hurt said any loss could be made up by the crop's value, which is expected to be the highest ever. He says when it comes to acres planted, it is the largest wheat crop in the state since 1998.

Wind power conference underway at Purdue

A conference to raise awareness of wind power opportunities in Indiana is at Purdue today. WIndiana 2008 is examining several topics including the benefits of establishing wind farms. Participants will tour several wind facilities tomorrow. That includes a visit to the Benton County Wind Farm. Once completed this year, the project will have 135 operating towers and annual lease payments of $500,000 will be divided among 70 landowners.

Indiana Companies Converge on BIO 2008

Indiana companies are already trying to make their mark at the 2008 BIO International Convention in San Diego. Indianapolis-based Sentry Logistic Solutions is highlighting its temperature-controlled labeling, packaging and kitting services for the bio-pharmaceutical industry. The technology could help protect pharma companies from the $2.5 billion annual cost of pharmaceutical recalls.

Indiana Wesleyan to house adult learning center

Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) has been chosen as the home for an international center to study adult learning. The institution has started a national search for an executive director for the Research Center in Adult Learning, which will be a joint effort between IWU and the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities.

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