The slow economy is hitting the health care sector. Sturgis Medical Group is closing a clinic in LaGrange County and two others in Michigan. The company says 15 workers will be laid off in Indiana. Our partners at WSBT-TV in South Bend also report the group will lay off 30 workers at its Sturgis Hospital in Michigan.

Airport board to continue Indy service

The St. Joseph County Airport Authority Board has voted to renew the agreement for Indianapolis air service though May 31. Executive Director John Schalliol says passenger counts on the service between South Bend, Evansville and Indianapolis are growing. The service is provided by Cape Air. The approval is contingent on approval by the Board of the Evansville Regional Airport.

Tourist attractions recognized for longevity

Nine Milestone Awards have been handed out to tourism-related attractions celebrating 75 years or more in operation. This year's recipients include the Columbian Park Zoo in Lafayette, Marengo Cave in Crawford County and the town of Corydon, which is celebrating 200 years.

Ethanol plant to open in April

POET has scheduled a grand opening for its $115 million ethanol production facility in Alexandria. POET Biorefining-Alexandria will be the 23rd POET production facility. The April 17 grand opening will include addresses from Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman and State Agriculture Director Andy Miller. The facility will provide about 40 jobs and an annual payroll of about $2 million.

Kernan to speak on government reform

Former Gov. Joe Kernan will speak about the need for local government restructuring as part of a conference on regional development in Indianapolis. The April 16 event is sponsored by the Purdue University Center for Regional Development.