Gov. Mitch Daniels has honored Anton Insurance Agency Inc. of Chesterton for its longevity and community service with a Half Century Business Award.

Daniels presented Anton Insurance with that award at a ceremony in Indianapolis on Wednesday.

Anton Insurance was originally founded as Logan Insurance Agency in 1957 when John and Annabel Logan opened an insurance sales office on the front porch of their home in Chesterton. The company grew and expanded over the past 50 years yet has remained headquartered in town. In the past 18 years, however, it has experienced significant growth and now has 18 associates with locations in both Chesterton and Valparaiso.

Also presented with awards were Home Mountain Publishing Company Inc. of Valparaiso, with a Century Award; and Doelling Paints Wallpaper Inc., also of Valparaiso, with a Half Century Award.

“These companies are the foundation of economic growth for our state,” Daniels said. “Home-grown Indiana companies like these provide the stability and long-standing community involvement that typifies our traditional Hoosier values.”

The Governor’s Century and Half Century Business awards honor Indiana businesses which have remained in operation for 100 or 50 years and have also demonstrated a history of community service. More than 1,000 companies from across Indiana have been recognized during the 17-year history of the awards.

Companies may be nominated by individuals or organizations within the same community.

Posted 11/15/2007