INSIDE INDIANA BUSINESS: British Blogger says Indy 'spectacular' Super Bowl host

A marketing lecturer at Indiana University says Indianapolis has an opportunity during Super Bowl week to change its global reputation. Kim Donahue believes the city has trouble attracting visitors and businesses because some still regard it as a "sleepy town." But, Donahue says when they visit Indianapolis, the feedback is normally very positive. Her comments follow a glowing report from Sky Sports blogger Simon Veness.

County Rolls Out Wage and Benefit Survey

The Noble County Economic Development Corp. is launching its first countywide survey of employers' wages and benefits. The report will contain starting, average and maximum wage rates for more than 100 positions.

FDA Approves Lilly Diabetes Drug

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a diabetes drug developed by Eli Lilly and Co. The drugmaker says Jentadueto combines two blood sugar treatments into one pill.

Indy Musicians to Perform on 'Late Night'

The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra says 14 of its musicians will perform on Late Night With Jimmy Fallon this week. The violinists, trombonists and cellists will be featured on Wednesday's and Sunday's shows.

NFL Confirms Anthem Singer

The National Football League has confirmed Kelly Clarkson will sing the National Anthem before Sunday's Super Bowl at Lucas Oil Stadium. Country music stars Blake Shelton and Miranda Lambert will perform "America The Beautiful."

State Seeds Conservation Fund

Lieutenant Governor Becky Skillman has officially launched the Bicentennial Nature Trust. The $20 million fund will be used for conservation projects in every region of the state. Governor Mitch Daniels announced the initiative during this year's State of the State Address.

IndyGo Reports Spike in Ridership, Web Visits

Super Bowl events appear to be generating more interest in public transportation throughout Indianapolis. IndyGo reports a 28 percent overall increase in ridership for last Thursday, Friday and Saturday. It is also reporting a 407 percent increase in website visits over the same period.

Publication Ranks Top Hoosier Hotels

A national publication has ranked the West Baden Springs Hotel in Orange County as the top hotel in Indiana. U.S. News & World Report has released a national list, which includes Indiana properties. The Conrad, JW Marriott and The Canterbury in Indianapolis are in the Indiana top 10.

Airport Canopy Repairs Complete

Just in time for the Super Bowl rush, crews have wrapped up final repairs to Indianapolis International Airport's parking garage canopy. It was damaged last winter by heavy snow and ice.

Super Bowl Event Finder Tool Launches

Indianapolis–based iGoDigital is partnering with the Indianapolis Super Bowl Host Committee to launch the Super Bowl XLVI Event Finder. The free online and mobile tool helps guide people to attractions throughout the city.

Cummins Names New VP

A former top official in the U.S. Department of Commerce has joined Columbus–based Cummins Inc. Sharon Barner has been named vice president – general counsel. She previously served as deputy director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

For more Indiana business news, visit www.insideindianabusiness.com .