Michigan-based Chrysler LLC has announced it will eliminate 1,000 salaried workers by Sept. 30, more than 5 percent of its salaried work force. Bloomberg.com reports that the announcement comes after the company saw its first-half U.S. sales fall 22 percent. The company has operations in Kokomo and a joint venture with Getrag in Tipton.

Delphi plans layoffs in Kokomo

Michigan-based Delphi Corp. has announced more permanent layoffs at its Electronics and Safety Division in Kokomo . The Kokomo Tribune reports 81 workers will be let go as the company vacates three areas of its Kokomo plant as part of a consolidation plan. The company said the layoffs will be based on seniority.

ChaCha receives Frost & Sullivan Award

Indiana-based ChaCha is the winner of the 2008 Frost & Sullivan North American Product Innovation Award. ChaCha was selected from 25 companies in the mobile search and advertising arenas. Frost & Sullivan evaluators said ChaCha's service offers a highly effective solution to mobile subscribers' search requirements. ChaCha is a free mobile answers service that allows users to call or text questions to ChaCha and receive answers within minutes.

Indiana sites make Alcoa's top suppliers list

Two Indiana businesses have been named to Pennsylvania-based Alcoa's top ten scrap processors for 2008. Omnisource Corp. in Fort Wayne and Newco Metals Inc. in Pendleton were recognized for criteria including scrap volume, quality, timely delivery and environmental compliance. Alcoa said the honored suppliers allowed the company to increase its scrap purchases by more than 10 percent annually for the last three years.

Ivy Tech names development coordinator

Ivy Tech Community College has named Adam Lamb Project Coordinator for Workforce and Economic Development for the school. His main responsibilities include setting project priorities, coordinating staff and associated project management duties. Lamb will serve as the link between the project consultant, the client and the student.

Hillenbrand announces repurchase program

The board of directors for Hillenbrand Inc. has approved a plan to repurchase up to $100 million in outstanding common shares. The company said the amount of repurchase activity will depend on factors such as the level of cash generated from operations, repayment of debt and current stock market price. The program may be modified or terminated by the board of directors at any time.

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