Ball State University says it will name its new communication and media building after late-night television host and graduate David Letterman. The university Board of Trustees approved the action. Letterman and his mother, Dorothy Mengering, are expected to attend the formal dedication ceremonies for the building Sept. 7.

IU breaks patent, business record

Indiana University says faculty and staff filed a record 116 patent applications in fiscal year 2007. The IU Research and Technology Corp. says it received 216 invention disclosures, issued 70 licenses and helped form five new businesses through the Emerging Technologies Center.

Vectren withdraws from Duke Energy venture

Evansville-based Vectren Corp. says it will not partner with Duke Energy to build a $2 billion coal gasification plant in southwest Indiana. Officials say Vectren's expected demand for energy could be met through other alternatives. The proposed plant would be located in Edwardsport in Knox County. Vectren says it still supports Duke's plans to build the facility.

Economic development group launches Web site

The east central Indiana economic development organization Energize-ECI Inc., is launching a new Web site it says will show the world that the region is serious about attracting businesses. The site can be translated into six languages with the click of a mouse. It will be used as a global marketing tool to enhance economic development and job-creation opportunities. ECI serves counties including Blackford, Delaware, Grant and Wayne.

Indiana House Republicans unveil tax relief plan

Indiana House Republican leaders are proposing a $200 million plan to resolve the current property tax crisis and are calling for a special session to enact it. The plan would include converting the planned rebate check to a credit on the fall 2007 installment of taxes, granting counties the ability to apply the credit to the areas hit hardest, and appropriating another $100 million in state funds toward immediate residential property tax relief.

Pet food manufacturer to make new product

Mars Petcare USA says it will expand its pet food production in east central Indiana in Portland and double its work force, creating 51 new jobs. The company, which manufactures dog biscuits and horse treats at the Jay County facility, will invest $12 million in the plant to add production lines to manufacture and package dry pet products.

Zimmer to defend Biomet lawsuit

A spokesman for Zimmer U.S. Inc. says the company will fight a lawsuit filed against the company by rival orthopedic products manufacturer Biomet, Inc. Zimmer Director of Public Affairs Brad Bishop said the company disagrees with Biomet's assertions.

TI Automotive to expand operations

TI Automotive Systems says it plans to expand its operations in Ashley, creating 64 new jobs. The U.K.-based company will invest $1.7 million to add to its brake and fuel line manufacturing operation. The company says the expansion will increase employment by more than 30 percent.