State Treasurer Richard Mourdock will officially launch Indiana's Employee Stock Ownership Program Initiative today. Mourdock will encourage Indiana businesses to become ESOP companies and release details about the program this morning.

Life sciences company to add jobs

DCL Medical Laboratories says it plans to expand its headquarters and clinical laboratory in Indianapolis and create 125 new jobs. The company says it will invest more than $4.7 million and add more than 20,000 square feet of space. The company is hiring pathologists, clinical lab professionals, IT workers and service personnel.

Steel shot manufacturer begins production

Steel shot manufacturer Indiana Metal Products in Columbia City has started production and is planning to add jobs. The company was established when six partners bought the assets of the former Eagle Metal Abrasives. The company now has eight employees and plans to grow to 15 workers this summer.

Art dedication set for Saxony

A 750-acre mixed-use development in Hamilton County has a new attraction. A dedication ceremony will take place today for the sculpture, called Rolling Rhythm. Indiana sculptor Dale Enochs won a contest to place his work at the development straddling Interstate 69, north of Indianapolis. Republic Development Corp. President Richard Arnos says the artwork compliments Saxony's moniker, "Where Life is Rhythm." He says Saxony continues to grow. Arnos says they are just about to announce a new apartment project and Clarian Health Partners will break ground later this year on a 95-acre campus.

The 21st annual Business Expo will take place today at the Grand Wayne Convention Center in Fort Wayne. The event is sponsored by the Greater Fort Wayne Business Weekly. Former National Football League referee Jerry Markbreit will be keynote speaker at the Expo luncheon. He will discuss "Teamwork for Success." Markbreit also worked as trade and barter manager for the 3M Co.

Irwin Financial focuses on small business

Columbus-based Irwin Financial Corp. has suspended its home equity loan operations, including the issuing of second mortgages. Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Will Miller says the corporation is refocusing on core banking services to small business customers. The move comes as Irwin announces a first quarter loss of $22.2 million.