Business Examiner

Dec. 1, 2008 at 2:24pm

Former WaMu employees eligible for assistance

Washington Mutual employees who are receiving layoff notices from JPMorgan Chase are also receiving information from state and local layoff-response officials about unemployment benefits and job-search assistance that are available to them.

Leaders from the state Employment Security Department's mass-layoff unit and the Seattle-King County rapid-response team met recently with JPMorgan officials to plan informational sessions that will supplement the company's own severance and employee-assistance efforts.

A series of one-hour sessions will be held on Dec. 12 for Washington Mutual employees who are being laid off in the next few months.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Human Resources , Lacey, Lakewood, Lewis County, Mason County, Olympia, Pierce County, South King County, Tacoma, Thurston County, Tumwater, Workforce by Breanne Coats | Email Breanne

Dec. 1, 2008 at 12:23pm

Russell lookalike site violated state law

A California man's mirror-image version of Russell Investments' site violated the state's anti-phishing law, said the Washington Attorney General's Office.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Law and Legislation, Tacoma, Technology by Breanne Coats | Email Breanne

Dec. 1, 2008 at 10:30am

Around the Sound

Business-related events

Business owners not previously able to afford health insurance for their employees have a new tool available to them – government subsidies for employee health insurance. The state's Health Insurance Partnership combines public and private resources to help small employers and their employees purchase health insurance in the marketplace. A free educational workshop on HIP is being offered Thursday between 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. at the Phoenix Inn Suites in Olympia. Employers eligible for the subsidies are those: not currently offering health insurance; have between two and 50 employees; and have workforces that have half of their workers earning less than $10 an hour. The workshop is being sponsored by the Thurston County Chamber affiliated Chamber Benefit Services Fund, a leader in small business health insurance solutions. The event is held in cooperation with the Washington Health Care Authority and Choice Regional Health Network. Reservations are requested at (360) 357-3362 or www.ThurstonChamber.com.

The Lakewood Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring its annual Holly-Jolly Christmas Auction on Thursday between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. at the Great American Casino. For $20 admission, guests can enjoy a lovely plated lunch, visit with Santa, enjoy holiday music, as well as take advantage of shopping for family, friends, co-workers and employees in a casual setting. Reservations are required, call (253) 582-9400.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, BE on the road, Building, Charities/Non-profits, Education, Health care, Human Resources , Lacey, Lakewood, Law and Legislation, Lewis County, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Mason County, Military/Security, Pierce County, Retirement and Investing, South King County, Startups/Minority Businesses, Tacoma, Technology, Thurston County, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Tumwater, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Dec. 1, 2008 at 10:18am

BE part of the conversation

Comment about the news

Visit BusinessExaminer.com and voice your thoughts on today's news and read comments from other people in the South Sound's business community. The BE blog also offers RSS functions so you can see only the local or industry business news that you want, as it happens.

Comments (1) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, BE on the road, Building, Charities/Non-profits, Education, Health care, Human Resources , Lacey, Lakewood, Law and Legislation, Lewis County, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Mason County, Military/Security, Olympia, Pierce County, Retirement and Investing, South King County, Startups/Minority Businesses, Tacoma, Technology, Thurston County, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Tumwater, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 28, 2008 at 8:30am

Business school is now in session at BE

Streaming video covers business topics

The Business Examiner has added a feature to its Web site that features expert advice from the PBS show Small Business School as well as links to gain free access to full shows featuring a range of business topics. New tips will be added each business day.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Building, Charities/Non-profits, Education, Health care, Lacey, Lakewood, Law and Legislation, Lewis County, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Mason County, Military/Security, Olympia, Pierce County, Retirement and Investing, South King County, Startups/Minority Businesses, Tacoma, Technology, Thurston County, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Tumwater, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 26, 2008 at 10:07am

Blog Watch: road warriors

Tacoma's downtown blog has an item about the Dome District's thoughts about Sound Transit's plans for the train extension through the area. It makes for interesting reading about this changing neighborhood.

Kevin Freitas writes about the filming of the Toyota Commercial in downtown Tacoma last week. He also has pictures of the filming.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, BE on the road, Building, Charities/Non-profits, Education, Health care, Human Resources , Lacey, Lakewood, Law and Legislation, Lewis County, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Mason County, Military/Security, Olympia, Pierce County, Retirement and Investing, South King County, Startups/Minority Businesses, Tacoma, Technology, Thurston County, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Tumwater, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 26, 2008 at 10:06am

COFFEE BREAK: Holiday blessings or worries

The Business Examiner would like to know your thoughts about the upcoming holiday season. Are your primed for the deep discounts you will likely find in stores or are you wondering if you will have a paycheck by the time the credit card bill comes due? Are you trimming back on gift giving this year?

Nov. 24, 2008 at 12:14pm

Columbia, Heritage complete Treasury deals

Tacoma-based Columbia Banking System, Inc. and Lacey-based Heritage Bank announced separately that they had completed federal transactions with the Department of the Treasury.

Columbia raised $76.9 million in capital by issuing 76,898 shares of Series A preferred stock for $1,000 per share to the U.S. Department of Treasury as a voluntary participant in the federal government's Capital Purchase Program.

"We are pleased to have been selected as one of the first regional banks to participate in the Treasury's program, further affirming our financial strength," said Melanie Dressel, president and chief executive officer. "The additional equity bolsters our already strong capital levels, enhances our ability to lend and increases our flexibility to pursue strategic opportunities which may arise. We believe this additional measure of strength will be well received by our employees, customers and shareholders."

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Lacey, Law and Legislation, Pierce County, Thurston County, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 20, 2008 at 1:15pm

Venture posts $27 million loss

DuPont-based Venture Financial Group, the parent company of Venture Bank, was hit hard by the federalization of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae earlier this year. The move essentially caused the bank's investment in those preferred stocks to plummet and created the bulk of the banks $27 million loss for the quarter.

The loss compares to a profit of $3.2 million for the same period last year. Had the bank not seen its preferred stock in the government-chartered mortgage firms and had to add to its loan provision, Venture would have seen a $4.8 million profit. Even as the 30-year-old bank's worst quarterly report, bank officials point out that the financial hole could have been even deeper. The bank had projected the loss could have been as high as $40 million in filings just two months ago.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Olympia, Pierce County, Tacoma, Tumwater by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 19, 2008 at 12:18pm

COFFEE BREAK: down times

The weather is bad. The news about the local, state and national economy is bad. Retirement accounts are lighter.

The Business Examiner would like to know how you are feeling about your job and what you are doing to ease the stresses in your life.

To reply to the poll, send an e-mail to news@BusinessExaminer.com. Poll results will be published in Friday's BE Daily.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, BE on the road, Building, Charities/Non-profits, Education, Health care, Human Resources , Lacey, Lakewood, Law and Legislation, Lewis County, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Mason County, Military/Security, Olympia, Pierce County, Retirement and Investing, South King County, Startups/Minority Businesses, Tacoma, Technology, Thurston County, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Tumwater, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 18, 2008 at 12:51pm

Strategist urges businesses to compete globally

Bruce McCain, chief investment strategist and research director for Cleveland-based Key Private Bank, spoke to Pierce County clients last night in Tacoma after meeting with reporters to offer his thoughts on the changing economy.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Pierce County by Hilary Reeves | Email Hilary

Nov. 18, 2008 at 10:22am

People on the move

Promotions and recognitions

New Tacoma Cemeteries and Funeral Home announced Kristin Bate joined the organization as pet services advisor for the newly opened Chambers Creek Pet Memorial Park. Bate brings extensive experience to her position, having worked for more than 20 years throughout Thurston County in all phases of funeral and cemetery services. She also serves as a Rotarian and has been actively involved in local chamber of commerce programs and activities. In addition, her previous community involvement includes public speaking engagements on funeral planning and volunteering in the career mentorship program of her local school district.

The Bates Technical College Foundation honored Sen. Rosa Franklin, MultiCare and alumnus Tony Lewis at its Heart of Bates awards dinner at the Fircrest Golf Club. Franklin was given the Vision Award which recognizes individuals whose efforts contribute to the growth of the college and the community. Franklin is a tireless advocate for the college and is a longtime member of the Bates Technical College General Advisory Committee.
The Alliance Award is given to a business or an organization that has helped forge relationships between the college and the community. This year's recipient, MultiCare, plays an integral part in partnering with the college to provide licensed practical nursing and childbirth education students on-the-job education and assistance with job placement.
The Luminary Award recognizes outstanding alumnus/alumna whose accomplishments serve as a shining example for future graduates. This year's recipient, Lewis, graduated from Bates in 1978. Lewis was an instructor at the college and currently serves as the training director at the Southwest Washington Electrical Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Building, Education, Olympia, Pierce County, South King County, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 17, 2008 at 11:21am

Around the Sound

Business events

Washington Policy Center's research staff will be the guests of honor at a Good Morning! Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber Small Business Forum breakfast. Business owners and managers can ask the research staff questions and voice concerns about small business issues in the state at the 7:30 a.m. Nov. 18 event held at La Quinta Inn and Suites Conference Center, 1425 East 27th St. Cost is $15 or $25 for nonmembers. Call (253) 627.2175.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Building, Pierce County, South King County, Technology, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 17, 2008 at 10:27am

Expect sweaters this year

Traditional winter apparel, as well as inexpensive items like DVDs, CDs, clothing and books, will be the first things shoppers seek as they begin their holiday shopping.

"Americans may be hesitant to purchase expensive gifts this holiday season, but personal and practical gifts will resonate most with shoppers this year," said National Retail Federation President and CEO Tracy Mullin. "Though many companies have already been featuring substantial sales and discounts, retailers may still have a few tricks up their sleeves to attract and entice holiday shoppers."

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 17, 2008 at 10:22am

Big news of the year?

There has been a lot of big news stories this year, particularly in the last few weeks.

The Business Examiner would like to know what were the biggest news stories in your world this year.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Building, Health care, Lacey, Lakewood, Pierce County, Tumwater by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 14, 2008 at 12:20pm

Financial crisis freezes consumer spending

As expected, consumers put their wallets into hibernation as the full scope of the financial crisis took hold in October. The National Retail Federation reports that retail sales for October decreased 0.5 percent from September.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Pierce County, Retirement and Investing, South King County, Startups/Minority Businesses, Tacoma, Technology, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 13, 2008 at 2:54pm

People on the move

Promotions and recognitions

Washington State Tourism Commission has elected Kimberly Bennett, CEO of the Southwest Washington Convention and Visitors Bureau, to serve as co-chair of the commission. She takes over the role from Kris Watkins of the Tri-Cities Visitor and Convention Bureau. Washington State Tourism Commission co-chairs are elected to serve for one-year.

The Museum of Glass is the recipient of the Art Alliance for Contemporary Glass Annual Award for 2008. The award was presented to Museum of Glass Director Timothy Close at the Sculpture Objects and Functional Art exposition in Chicago. AACG is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to further the development and appreciation of art made from glass.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Charities/Non-profits, Education, Olympia, Pierce County, Tacoma, Technology, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 13, 2008 at 12:15pm

SBA announces new ways for providing capital

In response to the current credit crunch, the Small Business Administration's Acting Administrator Sandy K. Baruah has announced loan program changes to help the agency's lending partners increase access to capital for small businesses.

First off, new SBA loans can now be made with an alternative base interest rate, the one month LIBOR rate London Interbank Offered Rate, in addition to the prime rate, which was previously allowed. In the past 60 days, both the prime and LIBOR rates have not yet returned to their historical relationship — of roughly 300 basis points between the two rates. The mismatch between the rates is squeezing SBA lenders out of the lending market, since their costs are based on the LIBOR rate.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Law and Legislation by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 13, 2008 at 12:15pm

Bank adds reverse mortgage service

Through a partnership with Security Reverse Mortgage Co. of Gig Harbor, Kitsap Bank is now offering reverse mortgages.

These mortgages are federally backed, regulated and insured by the Federal Housing Administration. They allow consumers who are 62 and older, own their own home and have equity in their home to turn the value of their home into cash in the form of a lump sum, line of credit, or monthly cash advance. Those who take advantage of a reverse mortgage typically do not have to pay anything until they sell or permanently move out of their home.

Comments (1) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 12, 2008 at 11:42am

Well Fargo tops in business lending

The latest federal Community Reinvestment Act data, showed that Wells Fargo loaned $650 million to Washington small business owners last year. It also loaned more than $26 million in Small Business Administration financing to businesses in the state, making it the second-ranked SBA lender in the state.

"As the number one small business lender in Washington, according to CRA data, Wells Fargo remains committed to helping our customers access resources and capital critical to the financial health of their businesses," said Patrick Yalung, regional president for Wells Fargo. "We know today's economy is challenging for small businesses. At Wells Fargo, our priority is, as always, helping our customers succeed financially."

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Lewis County, Mason County, Olympia, Pierce County, South King County, Tacoma, Thurston County, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 12, 2008 at 11:40am

Companies worried about employees in current economy

The recent economic downturn has increased stress levels across the country, and U.S. employers are taking notice.

According to a new poll by Free & Clear, a national leader in healthy behavior change, 86 percent of companies are concerned about the level of stress among their employees, and 88 percent of employers believe the tough economy has had a negative effect on workers' stress levels.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Building, Law and Legislation, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Military/Security, Olympia, Pierce County, South King County, Startups/Minority Businesses, Tacoma, Technology, Thurston County by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 11, 2008 at 12:47pm

O Bee Credit Union expands business services

O Bee Credit Union of Tumwater has opened a new business department, offering services designed to meet various business banking needs, from deposit accounts to commercial real estate loans.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Thurston County, Tumwater by Breanne Coats | Email Breanne

Nov. 11, 2008 at 10:56am

State taxes again were less than expected

Taxes paid to the state between the Oct. 11 and Nov. 10 collection period once again fell short of the September forecast.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Building, Olympia, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality by Hilary Reeves | Email Hilary

Nov. 11, 2008 at 10:04am

People on the move

Promotions and recognitions

Diane Bingaman has joined Landes Mertz & Co. as a tax manager. Bingaman has a broad base of compliance experience, including federal and multi-state individual and small business returns. Her specialized area of interest is not-for-profit organizations. She is a member of the Washington Society of Certified Public Accountants, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and Capital Centennial Rotary Club. She is a 2008 graduate of LEAD Thurston County and currently serves as the treasurer for South Puget Sound Habitat for Humanity.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Charities/Non-profits, Health care, Human Resources , Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Military/Security, Olympia, Tacoma by Hilary Reeves | Email Hilary

Nov. 10, 2008 at 12:56pm

Tacoma Mission merges with lender group

Tacoma Rescue Mission has announced it has merged with Need-A-Break Services, a Tacoma-based nonprofit that helps low-income clients cover expenses associated with home repair, auto repair, household needs and living supplies. Need-A-Break will become an operating unit of the Tacoma Rescue Mission, resulting in operating efficiencies and expanded services to the poor.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Building, Charities/Non-profits, Pierce County, Tacoma by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 7, 2008 at 2:36pm

ING Direct CEO recommends saving

Arkadi Kuhlmann, the founding CEO of United States' division of ING Direct, spent the day speaking with reporters prior to his book signing engagement tonight at Elliot Bay Books in Seattle.

Comments (1) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily by Hilary Reeves | Email Hilary

Nov. 6, 2008 at 1:37pm

Next few months crucial for economic outlook

The Labor Market and Economic Analysis branch of the Washington State Employment Security Department held its 14th annual Economic Symposium today at Saint Martin's University.

The day-long event included employment pattern discussions, anticipations in growth in the state's "green economy," as well as local forecasts for the business and labor climate in the days to come. The fact that the room was filled with people was not lost on Employment Security Commissioner Karen Lee.

"Unfortunately we are living in interesting economic times," she said.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Education, Law and Legislation, Mason County, Olympia, Pierce County, Thurston County, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 6, 2008 at 11:56am

Sound Financial reports quarterly earnings

Sound Financial Inc., holding company for Sound Community Bank, today
announced a net income of $223,000 for the quarter that ended Sept. 30. This represents a 259 percent increase above earnings reported in the previous quarter, and an increase of 210 percent above third quarter 2007 earnings of $72,000.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily by Hilary Reeves | Email Hilary

Nov. 5, 2008 at 12:07pm

South Sound banks accept federal dollars

Columbia Banking System, Inc. and Heritage Financial Corp. have announced that they received preliminary approval from the U.S. Department of the Treasury to receive capital by participating in the Treasury's Capital Purchase Program.

As a participant in the program, Columbia could issue up to $76.9 million in senior preferred shares and related warrants to the U.S. Treasury. Receipt of the funding is subject to Columbia's acceptance of the terms of the agreement, satisfaction of closing conditions and registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

"We are pleased that our approval to participate in this voluntary program further affirms both our financial strength and our successful business model," said Melanie Dressel, president and Chief Executive Officer. "This additional equity would bolster our already strong capital levels enhancing our flexibility to pursue strategic opportunities as they arise."

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Law and Legislation, Olympia, Pierce County, Retirement and Investing, Tacoma, Thurston County by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 4, 2008 at 11:59am

People on the move

Promotions and recognitions

Venture Bank recently hired Tasha Wilkinson as a customer service representative at the bank's Eatonville Financial Center. Venture Bank also hired Jennifer Stanley as a customer service representative at the bank's Fircrest Financial Center.

Washington State University entomologist and eco-toxicologist John Stark has been named the new director of the WSU Puyallup Research and Extension Center. Stark succeeds Jon Newkirk who has been director of the center for the past four years. Newkirk recently resigned as director at the historic Puyallup facility but will continue his affiliation with WSU as director of the WSU Extension Western Center for Risk Management Education in Spokane. WSU Dean of the College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences Dan Bernardo praised Newkirk for helping to set a new course for the 21st century at the facility that was established in 1894.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Building, Education, Health care, Human Resources , Lacey, Lakewood, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Olympia, Pierce County, South King County, Startups/Minority Businesses, Tacoma, Technology, Thurston County, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 3, 2008 at 3:13pm

October credit index reports trouble in loans

The Credit Manager's Index for October revealed an increasing sense of doom among the participants, mirroring conditions in the rest of the economy, said Daniel North, chief economist for credit insurer Euler Hermes ACI, who analyzes the data and prepares the CMI report for the National Association of Credit Management.

The index fell 2.6 percent to a record low of 44.8 percent. Eight of the 10 components fell, nine are now below the 50 level, indicating economic contraction, and eight set record lows.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Pierce County, Retirement and Investing, South King County, Startups/Minority Businesses, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 3, 2008 at 8:19am

Around the Sound

Business-related events

The idea that most National Guard personnel served "one weekend a month, two weeks a year" lost much of its relevance since the breakup of the Soviet Union a generation ago. The current face of the National Guard has Washington State's Guard troops now serving in 13 countries. Maj. Gen. Timothy J. Lowenberg, adjutant general of the State of Washington will talk about the metamorphosis that has led the National Guard into current partnerships with 63 countries to defend the nation and its interests all over the globe. Lowenberg will also discuss the many adjustments the troops and their families have had to make and address the Guard's wide-ranging roles and responsibilities. His presentation will be at 6 p.m. Nov. 5 at Wheelock Student Center Rotunda, University of Puget Sound, 1500 N. Warner Street, Tacoma. City Club of Tacoma is hosting the event. Tickets at $23 for members and $30 for guests. RSVP by today at (253) 272-9561 or www.cityclubtacoma.org.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Charities/Non-profits, Education, Olympia, Tacoma, Thurston County by Hilary Reeves | Email Hilary

Oct. 31, 2008 at 11:36am

Hotel robbery suspect charged

Prosecutors have charged a man in connection with a string of hotel robberies in the South Sound.

The robber hit hotels in SeaTac, Federal Way, Tacoma and Fife. The robber would reportedly enter the hotel lobby, get behind the counter before stealing the available cash from the clerks and registers and escaping in a nearby car.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Law and Legislation, Pierce County, South King County, Tacoma, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 29, 2008 at 11:58am

Retailers want slice of stimulus pie

With consumer confidence at a record low and retailers expecting the weakest holiday season in six years, National Retail Federation officials asked a congressional committee considering possible economic stimulus initiatives to include a second round of tax rebate checks or other direct relief for consumers.

"With most economists predicting a weak economy into 2009 and consumer spending at record lows, NRF believes additional congressional action would help the economy and soften the negative impact on the American people," said NRF Vice President and Tax Counsel Rachelle Bernstein. "We believe an immediate stimulus that will put money into the pockets of consumers where it can have a ripple effect throughout the economy is needed. That stimulus could be accomplished in a number of different ways including more rebate checks, a nationwide sales tax holiday, a payroll tax holiday or other alternatives."

Comments (1) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Law and Legislation, Retirement and Investing, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 29, 2008 at 11:58am

Reservist loan program extended

Recent Legislative changes will make a U.S. Small Business Administration loan program more accessible to small businesses facing financial loss when the owner or essential employee is called to active military duty by extending the application period, increasing the unsecured loan threshold and raising the maximum loan limit.

Changes to the Military Reservist Economic Injury Disaster Loan program became effective yesterday.

"The SBA is proud to be able to support the men and women who serve in America's military services," said SBA Acting Administrator Sandy K. Baruah. "Their service is not only honorable and selfless, but it makes them more talented and resourceful employees when they return home. That makes it doubly important that the small businesses they left when they were called to active duty are still operating when they come home."

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Law and Legislation, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Military/Security, Pierce County, South King County, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 29, 2008 at 11:55am

Blog Watch: street talk

The BIA blog for downtown Tacoma has a string about a national movement for "complete streets" that are designed for all types of users of all ages and abilities, pedestrians, cyclists, transit, trucks, cars, wheelchairs, skateboarders and other users. The post has specific examples of proposed changes for main streets around the city.

Crosscut.com has a chart of newspaper endorsements from around the state about key issues on the Nov. 4 ballot.

Olyblog.net has an ongoing roster of places to eat around the city.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Building, Charities/Non-profits, Education, Health care, Human Resources , Lacey, Lakewood, Law and Legislation, Lewis County, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Mason County, Military/Security, Olympia, Pierce County, Retirement and Investing, South King County, Startups/Minority Businesses, Tacoma, Technology, Thurston County, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Tumwater, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 29, 2008 at 11:53am

COFFEE BREAK: Key election issue

The election is almost here. Many people have already voted thanks to the expansion of vote-by-mail programs. The Business Examiner would like to know what issue drove you to vote the way you did this election?

To reply to the poll, send an e-mail to news@BusinessExaminer.com. Poll results will be published in Friday's BE Daily.

Oct. 28, 2008 at 11:02am

Commencement partners with Summit Financial

Tacoma-based Commencement Bank announced today that it has established a strategic relationship with the Summit Financial Group based in Gig Harbor. Summit is a financial services company that specializes in managing investments and providing wealth management to individuals and companies.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Pierce County, Tacoma by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 28, 2008 at 10:27am

People on the move

Promotions and recognitions

Mary Bridge Children's Hospital and Health Center's Vice President and Administrator Mady Murrey is the 2008 recipient of the VHA West Coast Passion Award. Nominated by a colleague, Murrey was awarded for setting high goals, motivating members of a multi-disciplinary team and being visionary, innovative, caring and optimistic with staff and patients. Murrey first came to Mary Bridge in 1991 as a trauma nurse and in 2004, she became administrator. Since then, she has added important new services to Mary Bridge, including a new technology called Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation, which provides cardiac and respiratory oxygen to patients with decreased cardiovascular function. She worked collaboratively with multiple departments and community leaders to assure this lifesaving technology was available to children. Also under her leadership, the outpatient clinics in Puyallup, Olympia, Silverdale, Covington and Gig Harbor have made specialized pediatric care more available to children across the region.

Local community partners and members of Washington Women's Employment & Education's Director's Circle celebrated the accomplishments of successful participant, LeAnn Brinkman, last week at the organization's annual Benefactor Appreciation Event at The Tacoma Club. Upon sharing her story of domestic violence and near homelessness, LeAnn received a standing ovation from WWEE's guests. Key Bank, Purcell Advisory Services and Brown & Brown Insurance were sponsors of the event.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Building, Law and Legislation, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Mason County, Military/Security, Pierce County, South King County, Tacoma, Thurston County, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 28, 2008 at 10:26am

ABA calls for more small business credit

The American Bankers Association today urged Congress to exercise care when seeking solutions to the current financial turmoil, so as not to enact policies or regulations that will unintentionally restrict the availability of credit, particularly for small businesses.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Law and Legislation, Olympia, Pierce County, Retirement and Investing by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 28, 2008 at 10:05am

Equipment leasing index shows growth

The Equipment Leasing and Finance Association's Monthly Leasing and Finance Index, which reports economic activity for the nation's $650 billion equipment finance sector, showed overall new business volume for September decreased 2.4 percent when compared to the same period in 2007. When comparing third quarter numbers for 2007 to 2008, new business volume was down 0.1 percent. However, cumulative year-to-date new business volumes show an increase of 1.9 percent compared to 2007.

"It should be no surprise that the turmoil in the financial markets has spilled over into the commercial finance sector and general economy," said ELFA President Kenneth E. Bentsen, Jr. "Even so, amidst all the bad news, the commercial equipment finance market seemed to hold up in September."

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Retirement and Investing, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 27, 2008 at 11:15am

Correction: Heritage financial report

In Friday's BE Daily, it was mistakenly reported that Heritage Financial Corp.'s total assets had dropped significantly from one year ago. The correct figure is $500,000, much less than the amount mentioned in the news item.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Lacey, Lakewood, Mason County, Olympia, Pierce County, South King County, Tacoma, Thurston County, Tumwater by Hilary Reeves | Email Hilary

Oct. 24, 2008 at 1:03pm

Heritage earnings down

CORRECTION: It was mistakenly reported that Heritage Financial Corp.'s total assets are down $500 million from one year ago. The correct figure is $500,000.

Though the financial crisis headlines started late in September, quarterly earnings announcements from community banks in the South Sound document challenges that began far earlier in the year.

Heritage Financial Corp., parent to Heritage Bank and Central Valley Bank of Ellensburg, reports net income for the third quarter ending Sept. 30 fell 29 percent below that reported in the same three-month period last year. Year-to-date net income is off $1.388 million to $6,545,000 this year, a drop of 17.5 percent. This drop includes a $1.26 million loss related to investments in an ultra short mortgage fund.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Olympia, Retirement and Investing, Thurston County by Jeff Rounce | Email Jeff

Oct. 24, 2008 at 12:59pm

Columbia loss linked to Fannie, Freddie

An $18.5-million charge against earnings for lost value in preferred shares of federally backed home mortgage lenders Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae pulled down Columbia Banking System third quarter results into a net loss of $8.8 million, compared with net income of $9.3 million in the same quarter last year.

"Our core operations remain profitable," said Melanie Dressel, president and CEO of Columbia Bank's financial parent. "The fundamentals of our business remain sound during this challenging economic environment."

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Pierce County, Tacoma, Thurston County by Jeff Rounce | Email Jeff

Oct. 22, 2008 at 10:30am

Boeing income reflects strike

Boeing's third-quarter net income declined 38 percent to $695 million, reflecting an ongoing machinists' strike and supplier production challenges on customer-furnished galleys for certain wide-body airplanes. Those items reduced third-quarter commercial airplane deliveries by approximately 35 units. Revenues for the quarter declined 7 percent to $15.3 billion.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation by Hilary Reeves | Email Hilary

Oct. 22, 2008 at 9:44am

Coffee Break: The home stretch

With just two weeks remaining in the election season, politicians across the board are stepping up their efforts to get your vote. Both the federal and local races are heating up, particularly surrounding issues that affect the nation's business communities.

The Business Examiner wants to know who you're voting for and why. Which county council, gubernatorial and presidential candidate would best represent you and your business?

Oct. 20, 2008 at 2:32pm

SBA asks lenders to offer loan relief

In response to the financial crisis, the U.S. Small Business Administration today announced it is strongly encouraging its participating 7(a) lenders and Certified Development companies to work with business borrowers to provide them with the flexibility they need to keep their businesses running during these difficult economic times.

As access to credit and capital has tightened, many businesses face increased challenges in meeting their financial obligations. This is especially true of small businesses hit hard by the recent economic slowdown that are now unable to make payroll, or purchase essential inventory.

SBA is reminding participating lenders they have the authority on a case-by-case basis to extend temporary payment relief for qualifying borrowers with 7(a) and 504 loans who are struggling to make their payments.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, Building, Law and Legislation, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 16, 2008 at 11:35am

Russell extends headquarters decision

Russell Investments announced today that it is extending its timeline for making a final headquarters location decision.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Retirement and Investing, Tacoma by Hilary Reeves | Email Hilary

Oct. 15, 2008 at 12:00pm

AG settles case on foreclosure aid company

A Florida-based company calling itself "United Home Savers" pledged to help homeowners facing foreclosure keep their homes, but the Attorney General's Office is alleging the firm actually preyed on Washington residents.

"United Home Savers is a misnomer," Attorney General Rob McKenna said. "The company promised to rescue homeowners from foreclosure while looting the emergency change jars of families already at high risk of losing their homes."

The Attorney General's Office accused United Home Savers, LLP, of Clearwater, Fla., and owners Stephanie and Darin Dietschy, of Belleair Beach, Fla., of violating Washington's Consumer Protection Act, Credit Services Organization Act and Commercial Telephone Solicitation Act.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Building, Law and Legislation, Retirement and Investing, Thurston County by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 15, 2008 at 11:59am

COFFEE BREAK: matter of debate

The last scheduled debate between the presidential candidates between Barack Obama and John McCain is scheduled for this evening and will center on domestic issues. Much of that debate will involve plans to aid the economy.

The Business Examiner would like to know which plans you prefer and if the debates affected your position on any of the issues.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Health care, Law and Legislation, Lewis County, Mason County, Olympia, Pierce County, South King County, Tacoma, Thurston County, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Tumwater, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 14, 2008 at 10:25am

Navy Federal opens McChord branch

Navy Federal Credit Union recently opened its newest branch in Lakewood – its fifth branch in the state. The McChord Branch has the potential to serve more than 100,000 Department of Defense personnel and their families assigned to McChord Air Force Base and Fort Lewis.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Lakewood, Military/Security by Hilary Reeves | Email Hilary

Oct. 13, 2008 at 1:50pm

State tax collections continued slide in September

Tax collection numbers for the General Fund-State tax payments in the mid-September to mid-October collection period returned to the pattern of weakness seen in the July and August collection reports, the state Economic and Revenue Forecast Council reported today. Receipts for the month were $48.3 million, 4.8 percent, lower than expected, due mainly to a $43.5 million shortfall in Revenue Act receipts. All other revenue categories except for cigarette taxes also came in below their forecasts.

Comments (1) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Law and Legislation, Lewis County, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Mason County, Olympia, Pierce County, Tacoma, Thurston County, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 13, 2008 at 11:22am

In this issue of the Business Examiner

The latest print edition of the Business Examiner is now in mail boxes and newsstands around the South Sound.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Building, Charities/Non-profits, Education, Health care, Human Resources , Lacey, Lakewood, Law and Legislation, Lewis County, Mason County, Military/Security, Olympia, Pierce County, Retirement and Investing, South King County, Startups/Minority Businesses, Tacoma, Technology, Thurston County, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Tumwater, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 10, 2008 at 10:56am

COFFEE BREAK RESPONSE: bail out or life line?

The Business Examiner asked readers Wednesday for their thoughts on the $700 billion package that is now law for the government to buy "toxic debt" as a way to free up financial markets.

We received a few unsigned comments, but most of them followed the vein of these thoughts by Olympia CPA Bill Puckett:

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Olympia, Retirement and Investing, Thurston County, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 9, 2008 at 3:03pm

Taxable retail sales decline 2.4 percent

Taxable retail sales declined 2.4 percent to $29.1 billion during the second quarter of 2008, the Washington State Department of Revenue reported today.

Despite the decline over second quarter 2007, sales still were 5.4 percent higher than the $27.6 billion in sales reported for the second quarter of 2006.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, Building, Law and Legislation, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Retirement and Investing, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 9, 2008 at 2:21pm

South Sound Bank posts strong quarter

Even though there are unprecedented changes happening in the financial markets across the nation and many countries, locally-owned South Sound Bank reported a strong quarter.

"Sub-prime lending and investments in the national mortgage associations known as Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have taken a serious toll on many banks. We did not get involved in either of those activities," said Dan Yerrington, CEO and president of the Olympia bank in his quarterly letter to the stockholders. "Our investment portfolio is conservative and low risk, and our loan portfolio very clean with less than a 1 percent delinquency total. Capital is king in these times, and we have always been in what's called a 'well-capitalized' position as determined by the FDIC."

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Olympia, Thurston County by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 9, 2008 at 11:33am

People on the move

Promotions and recognitions

Marylin Ball-Brown, president and CEO of Generations Credit Union in Olympia, has received the Washington Credit Union Foundation's Distinguished Professional of the Year award for 2008.

Heritage Bank has announced as service that makes managing finances easier for online banking users. FinanceWorks, an online financial management solution, powered by Quicken, gives customers an illustration of where their money is going, helps with budgeting and tracks future transactions. It also gives the availability of viewing other deposits, loan and credit card accounts from more than 5,000 financial institutions.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Building, Olympia, Pierce County, Retirement and Investing, Tacoma, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 8, 2008 at 6:05am

Are you a Fastest Growing Company?

Nominations are now being accepted online for the South Sound's annual Fastest Growing Companies recognition program.

Fastest Growing Companies are defined as having strong growth in revenue and wage expense from fiscal years 2005 through 2007. Results are collected, calculated and verified confidentially by Moss Adams, the 12th largest accounting and consulting firm in the United States.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Building, Education, Human Resources , Lacey, Lakewood, Lewis County, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Mason County, Military/Security, Olympia, Pierce County, Retirement and Investing, South King County, Tacoma, Technology, Thurston County, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Tumwater, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 7, 2008 at 10:25am

Showcase set for day of business networking

Thurston County Chamber's Business Showcase set for tomorrow is ready to offer South Sound businesses with the opportunity to network with each other, learn about products in the marketplace and attend sessions on ways to improve their operations.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Building, Charities/Non-profits, Education, Human Resources , Lacey, Law and Legislation, Military/Security, Olympia, Pierce County, South King County, Tacoma, Thurston County, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Tumwater, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 6, 2008 at 2:06pm

State forecast dims outlook

Washington payroll employment declined at a 0.5 percent annual rate in the second quarter of 2008, following a 2.9 percent increase in the first quarter, according to a recent Economic and Revenue Forecast Council report. Manufacturing employment declined at a 0.7 percent rate in spite of a 3.5 percent increase in aerospace employment. Manufacturing employment other than aerospace declined at a 2.3 percent rate.

Construction employment fell at a 6.6 percent rate in the second quarter. Residential building and related special trades employment plunged at a 13.9 percent rate while all other construction employment edged up at a 0.1 percent rate. Natural resources and mining employment, while small, fell at an 8.2 percent rate in the second quarter as both logging and mining declined.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Building, Education, Health care, Law and Legislation, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Retirement and Investing, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 6, 2008 at 11:07am

Washington homeowners will get aid from settlement

Attorney General Rob McKenna has announced a settlement brokered by Washington and other states requiring sub-prime lender Countrywide Financial Corp. to provide loan modifications for up to 395,000 borrowers nationwide. As a result, nearly 10,000 Washington homeowners will receive about $200 million in payment relief.

After months of negotiation, requiring several trips to Chicago, McKenna and attorneys general representing several states reached agreement with Bank of America late Friday. Bank of America acquired Countrywide Financial on July 1.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Building, Law and Legislation, Retirement and Investing by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 3, 2008 at 9:58am

Small biz outlook darkens

The SurePayroll Small Business Scorecard of small business confidence was at almost 80 percent in August. That sunny view has dimmed greatly in the index for September.

Small businesses surveyed are much less optimistic, with only 44 percent of small business owners seeing good times ahead. That's the first time the index has ever shown small business owner optimism drop below the 50 percent mark

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, Tacoma, Thurston County, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 3, 2008 at 9:57am

Consumer late payments on the rise

Despite continued economic stress, consumer loan delinquencies rose only slightly during the second quarter of 2008, according to the American Bankers Association's Consumer Credit Delinquency Bulletin.

ABA Chief Economist James Chessen noted that the federal economic stimulus payments helped to keep delinquencies in check, but those days are nearing an end.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Retirement and Investing, Startups/Minority Businesses, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 3, 2008 at 8:31am

Speak up: BE wants your opinion

The Business Examiner would like you to take five minutes out of your day to help us grow and improve our BE Daily service.

It is our goal to provide timely and relevant news coverage, while making the BE Daily interesting and valuable for our readers and advertisers. The information you provide in the survey link below is invaluable in helping us reach that goal.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, BE on the road, Building, Charities/Non-profits, Education, Health care, Human Resources , Lacey, Lakewood, Law and Legislation, Lewis County, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Mason County, Military/Security, Olympia, Pierce County, Retirement and Investing, South King County, Startups/Minority Businesses, Tacoma, Technology, Thurston County, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Tumwater, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 2, 2008 at 1:31pm

Main Street grows worried about Wall Street

More business leaders expect the impact of the recent Wall Street troubles to impact them personally rather than their department and/or organization, according to a recent national survey.

The majority, 68 percent, of senior executives and managers expect the personal impact of the recent Wall Street troubles to be significant, according to a worldwide survey of 186 senior executives and managers conducted by NFI Research.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Retirement and Investing, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 2, 2008 at 1:19pm

People on the move

Promotions and recognitions

Marc Gaspard and Don Meyer will take over duties as chairman and vice-chairman of the Pierce College Board of Trustees. Gaspard was first appointed to the board by Gov. Chris Gregoire in 2006. Gaspard is president of the Washington Financial League and administrative director of the Washington Mortgage Lenders Association. He is a former majority leader for the state Senate and worked seven years as the executive director of the Higher Education Coordinating Board. Meyer has been serving on the board since his appointment in 2002, and served as board chairman in 2005. He is the executive director of Foss Waterway Development Authority and a member of several public service organizations, including the Executive Council of Greater Tacoma, the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce and the Metropolitan Development Council.

The Pacific West Region of the Society for Human Resource Management has recognized the South Puget Sound Chapter from Tacoma, as one of only two Washington chapters successfully increasing their professional membership up to 9 percent. The Pacific Northwest Region of SHRM includes Chapters in Alaska, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon and Wyoming.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Mason County, Olympia, Pierce County, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 1, 2008 at 11:55am

COFFEE BREAK: bail out

The Business Examiner would like to know what you think about the bailout proposal currently under debate and what its passage – or failure – means to small businesses.

To reply to the poll, send an e-mail to news@BusinessExaminer.com. Poll results will be published in Friday's BE Daily.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Building, Lakewood, Lewis County, Mason County, Pierce County, Retirement and Investing, Thurston County, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 1, 2008 at 11:19am

Construction dipped in August

Private nonresidential construction spending around the nation dropped a bit in August, according to a report by the U.S. Department of Commerce.

Spending totaled $415.95 billion in August, which despite the decline in July, was still 13 percent higher than the level of construction recorded in August 2007. Overall, total nonresidential construction spending reached $720,459 billion, or a 10.7 percent increase from last year. Of the 16 subsectors that comprise total nonresidential construction, 12 produced year-over-year gains, including manufacturing, lodging and public safety. In terms of gains from July 2008 to August 2008, highway and street spending led the way and lodging increased.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Building, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Sep. 30, 2008 at 10:48am

Small biz owners fear credit freeze

At a time when many of the nation's largest companies are struggling to survive, a growing number of small businesses are also feeling the stress that comes from making and saving money in a tough economy, according to the results of a new survey conducted by Harris Interactive for ING DIRECT's ShareBuilder 401k.

"A lot of small businesses are struggling to cover their monthly expenses and still have something left to put into savings," said Stuart Robertson, general manager of ShareBuilder 401k. "Before this down economy set-in, the number of small businesses making regular contributions to their savings plan was actually on the rise. Today we're beginning to see a step backwards."

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Lacey, Lakewood, Lewis County, Mason County, Olympia, Pierce County, Retirement and Investing, Startups/Minority Businesses, Tacoma, Thurston County, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Sep. 29, 2008 at 11:47am

House rejects bailout plan

The United States House of Representatives has rejected a proposed $700 billion economic recovery plan, 228 votes to 205.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Law and Legislation by Hilary Reeves | Email Hilary

Sep. 29, 2008 at 10:16am

Small biz index plummets

The Small Business Research Board's Small Business Confidence Index decreased to 30 points in the second quarter of 2008, a downturn of nearly 14 points, or 31 percent, from the previous quarter, according to a report issued today.

The greatest decrease in confidence is among businesses in the Western states, where the index decreased to 27.7 from the 59 points recorded in the previous study, according to the report co-sponsored by International Profit Associates. Businesses in the Western states reported they are most pessimistic about the improvement of the overall economy.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Building, Charities/Non-profits, Health care, Lewis County, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Mason County, Olympia, Pierce County, South King County, Startups/Minority Businesses, Tacoma, Technology, Thurston County, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Tumwater, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Sep. 29, 2008 at 10:06am

Gregoire laments WaMu sale

Gov. Chris Gregoire has voiced her feelings on the sale of Washington Mutual's banking operations after forming and growing in Puget Sound to be one of the largest thrifts in the nation until it imploded under the weight of bad debt brought on by the falling housing market.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Building, Law and Legislation, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Mason County, Pierce County, Retirement and Investing, South King County, Thurston County, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Sep. 29, 2008 at 9:12am

SBA exec urges passage of bailout bill

U.S. Small Business Administration Acting Administrator Sandy Baruah today urged federal lawmakers to pass President George Bush's economic rescue plan.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Law and Legislation by Hilary Reeves | Email Hilary

Sep. 26, 2008 at 10:25am

State gets $28 million to stabilize foreclosures

U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Steve Preston today allocated a total of $3.92 billion to all states and particularly hard-hit areas trying to respond to the effects of high foreclosures. The state of Washington will receive an allocation of $28,159,293, while Alaska, Idaho and Oregon will each receive allocations of $19.6 million.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial Services, BE Daily, Building, Lacey, Lakewood, Lewis County, Mason County, Olympia, Pierce County, South King County, Tacoma, Thurston County, Tumwater by Hilary Reeves | Email Hilary

Sep. 25, 2008 at 10:58am

Women of Influence event held

View pictures from the BE's event

The Business Examiner celebrated its sixth annual Women of Influence class last night at Clover Park Technical College's Sharon McGavick Student and Conference Center. The program recognized outstanding female leaders in the South Puget Sound.

Pictures of the event can be viewed here if you missed the event or want to relive it. The recognition program will also be the subject of next month's South Sound Business Report broadcast, which airs on a number of channels throughout the South Sound.

Comments (0) | Posted in Banking/Financial S


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