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 12:19pm

Saint Martin's paving the way for professional teachers

Saint Martin's University will host information sessions on its Secondary Teacher Alternate Route Program at 7 p.m. Dec. 8, Jan. 21 and Feb. 4 at the university's Norman Worthington Conference Center, located at 5300 Pacific Ave. SE. Saint Martin's STAR Program provides working professionals with an intensive alternative route to becoming a secondary school teacher in Washington.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Education, Lacey by Hilary Reeves | Email Hilary

Dec. 1, 2008 at 11:48am

Construction spending dips in October

Private nonresidential construction spending decreased 0.7 percent in October compared to September, according to today's release by the U.S. Census Bureau. Total nonresidential construction spending rose 8.3 percent since last year and remained fairly flat in October – down 0.1 percent to $725.7 billion, while private nonresidential construction put in place rose 9.1 percent during the year to reach $417.7 billion.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building by Hilary Reeves | Email Hilary

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 10:36am

Boeing union contracts set for Monday vote

The outcome of union contracts covering nearly 20,400 engineers and technical workers at The Boeing Company will be decided on Monday, when the Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace counts member ballots.

Two contracts are involved in the negotiations. The first covers 13,898 engineers in the SPEEA Professional Bargaining Unit. The second contract covers 6,576 technical workers in the union's Technical Bargaining Unit. While the majority of workers are in the Puget Sound region, the contracts cover employees in Oregon, Utah and California. Both contracts expire Dec. 1.

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

Nov. 28, 2008 at 10:35am

Port wants plans for East Bay

Port of Olympia officials have issued a request for qualifications from development firms and potential end users for mixed-use development of six parcels in the East Bay District, the downtown Olympia waterfront property adjacent to State Avenue.

"Given the location of these parcels, particularly with their close proximity to the planned public plaza, expanded children's museum, and LOTT's educational facilities, we are pleased to be placing the remaining East Bay District properties on the market to ultimately determine the interest and capabilities within the development community to advance the redevelopment program," said Commission President Bill McGregor.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Law and Legislation, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Olympia, Thurston County, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 28, 2008 at 10:34am

Discounts on electronics, toys bring early shoppers

Consumers looking for the best deals of the year braved the elements this morning, forming lines outside their favorite stores hours before doors even opened. Anxious to entice shoppers with bargains and deep discounts, some retailers opened their doors as early as midnight, though most stuck to 4 or 5 a.m. openings.

"When it comes to offering deals to bring customers into stores this weekend, retailers are holding up their end of the bargain," said National Retail Federation President and CEO Tracy Mullin. "The deep discounts on the hottest holiday items may have been just enough to get the attention of those consumers who were on the fence about braving the crowds and the cold."

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Charities/Non-profits, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality 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 2:15pm

Point Ruston, DNR to begin removing waterfront pilings

Mike Cohen of Point Ruston, LLC and Commissioner of Public Lands Doug Sutherland signed an agreement today to remove three creosote-laden docks located on the frontage of the waterfront development along Commencement Bay. The large docks contain more than 2,300 pilings and almost two acres of over-water coverage.

This agreement is a partnership that includes support from DNR's Creosote Removal Program and the developer, who purchased the former Asarco smelter site for long-term development of a mixed-use neighborhood overlooking Puget Sound.

"Our mission for state-owned aquatic lands includes cleanup and protection of essential habitat, and public access to the state's waters wherever possible," said Sutherland. "This project ultimately will do just that as the creosote structures are removed and the promenade along the water is extended into this area. This great partnership helps pool and leverage limited funding to get big jobs like this done, and saves public dollars."

A preliminary evaluation will be done to find the best ways to address the removal of the docks without harming the marine environment, resulting in a finalized budget to complete the job in 2009.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Law and Legislation, Pierce County, Tacoma by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 26, 2008 at 11:57am

Maersk shuffle to mean fewer ships to Tacoma

Maersk Line has announced an agreement with France-based CMA-CGA that would mean by as early as this spring some of the vessels currently docking in Tacoma will be headed to Seattle instead.

Maersk is currently a customer of APM Terminals, which leases land from Port of Tacoma.

The recent agreement means that Maersk's cargo volumes currently handled at that terminal will begin moving through the Seattle waters instead, since that is where CMA-CGM currently calls. This shift is expected to happen in mid-2009.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Law and Legislation, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Pierce County, Tacoma, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 26, 2008 at 11:26am

WACE releases labor report, state budget forecast

The Washington Alliance for a Competitive Economy has published its report on the labor-related expenses of operating a business in Washington compared to other states.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Charities/Non-profits, Lakewood, 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

Nov. 26, 2008 at 10:14am

Pierce budget punches new holes for belt tightening

The core functions of Pierce County government will stay largely intact in a 2009 budget that reflects the current economic downturn and drop in tax revenue to fund those services.

The County Council unanimously approved its version of the $854.5 million plan last night.

"Our core services - public safety, criminal justice and transportation - were left whole in this budget," said Council Chair Terry Lee, who noted that road improvements scheduled for next year will continue as planned. "Unfortunately, that meant that our other departments and programs had to take a more serious cut."

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Charities/Non-profits, Education, Health care, Human Resources , Law and Legislation, Pierce County, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 26, 2008 at 10:12am

Investigation steps up in bar holdup

Lakewood police detectives are looking for two men who robbed Oh! Gallagher's Sports Pub at gunpoint on Nov. 14. The crime was recorded on the tavern's surveillance system.

The two men were wearing ski masks when they entered the bar at the corner of Lakewood Drive and 74th Street at about 7:15 p.m. One of the men demanded that the bar patrons stand against the wall, where he then searched them for valuables to take. The second gunman pointed a sub machine gun pistol at the bartender's head and demanded that she open the cash register.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Lakewood, Law and Legislation, Pierce County, Tacoma, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 26, 2008 at 10:11am

Flow gains minority ownership in Chinese firm

Flow International Corp., a Kent-based developer and manufacturer of industrial waterjet machines for cutting and cleaning applications, announced today that it has agreed to purchase a $2 million minority ownership position in Dardi International Corporation, China's leading waterjet manufacturer.

Dardi is a waterjet supplier for the "economy" segment of the market, and the largest volume producer of waterjets in Asia with three factories located near Nanjing, China. In September, Flow introduced the privately held company as the new supplier of its economy segment product line. By establishing a minority equity position with Dardi, Flow gains further access to Dardi's low cost factories as well as its extensive distribution network in China.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, South King County, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 26, 2008 at 10:09am

Nursing shortage continues in South Sound

When the economy is struggling and unemployment is on the rise, there is still one profession that is actively recruiting.

The Washington State Department of Labor reports that there are nearly 5,000 Registered Nurse vacancies today, and this could grow to 30,000, if nothing changes by the year 2020. There simply are not enough nurses to care for the growing number of patients. This shortage is only predicted to worsen in the coming decades. Locally, there are 241 Registered Nurse vacancies in Pierce County alone.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Health care, Human Resources , Law and Legislation, Pierce County, 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. 25, 2008 at 11:53am

Workshop set for employee health insurance

Comments (1) | Posted in BE Daily, Health care, Lacey, Law and Legislation, Olympia, Thurston County, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 25, 2008 at 10:44am

Recovery from floods still a long time away

While the initial recovery from the flooding that hit areas of the South Sound a year ago is over, the impact of the damage the water created is still very present in Lewis County.

"On the surface, everything appears to be OK," Lewis County Sheriff Steve Mansfield said. "There are still things that have to be done here. The flood is still with us."

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Law and Legislation, Lewis County, Mason County, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 25, 2008 at 10:42am

State marks 10th anniversary of tobacco settlement

State officials gathered in Tumwater to mark the 10th anniversary of the national tobacco settlement that brought millions of dollars to the state for tobacco prevention and cessation programs in Washington state.

"So much dedication went into fighting the tobacco industry, and now 10 years later we are seeing the results of that remarkable settlement," said Gov. Chris Gregoire. "In Washington state, we have seen tremendous results — youth smoking is down by half and adult smoking is down 25 percent."

As a national leader in tobacco prevention and control, Washington has used funds from the Master Settlement Agreement to establish a program to prevent kids from smoking and help adults quit. Washington has the sixth lowest smoking rate in the nation at 16.5 percent. Before the tobacco program began in 2000, the state was ranked 20th.

Comments (1) | Posted in BE Daily, Health care, Law and Legislation by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 25, 2008 at 10:41am

State fares well in competitive ranking

State economists released the latest Economic Climate Study for Washington and concluded that the state is doing well on key economic indicators used to determine the business climate in the state.

The study provides information about Washington's competitive standing in relation to the other U.S. states. It is based on the premise that, while improving productivity is primarily the domain of Washington's business sector, appropriate state and local policies, particularly those relating to education, public safety, infrastructure, cost of doing business and the environment, are essential to promoting higher standards of living.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Law and Legislation, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 25, 2008 at 10:40am

Unemployment program extended

The state's unemployed got some good news from the "other Washington" as President Bush signed legislation to extend emergency unemployment compensation benefits.

"There's never a good time to be unemployed, but job conditions are especially difficult right now. I applaud Congress for moving so quickly to approve this additional income assistance for our unemployed workers," said Gov. Chris Gregoire.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Law and Legislation, Lewis County, Mason County, Olympia, Pierce County, South King County, Tacoma, Thurston County, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 25, 2008 at 10:40am

State disciplines South Sound health providers

The Washington State Department of Health has taken disciplinary actions or withdrawn charges against health care providers in the South Sound.

In Mason County, the Nursing Assistant Program charged Michael Abrams with unprofessional conduct. He allegedly failed to respond to department inquiries regarding a complaint filed against him. The Office of Emergency Medical Services and Trauma System charged paramedic Barbara J. Bodin with unprofessional conduct. She allegedly worked as a paramedic on an expired license for three years.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Health care, Law and Legislation, Mason County, Pierce County, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 25, 2008 at 10:34am

People on the move

Promotions and recognitions

The American College of Physicians has named MultiCare Health System's David Chen, MD, as one of the nation's top hospitalists. Chen was one of 10 physicians nationally to receive the honor. He was nominated for the award by his peers in the MultiCare Inpatient Service, a group of physician hospitalists. Chen serves as the medical director of the Tacoma General Allenmore Hospitalist Group.

Masa Comida Mexicana on Tacoma's Sixth Avenue is now hosting "Masa House Blend Thursdays-Music for Charity" as a way to fight childhood obesity. Every Thursday, Masa hosts an evening of music and dancing to benefit the Mary Bridge Childhood Obesity Clinic. Masa waives the cover charge and instead encourages people to donate $5 to the obesity clinic. So far, the restaurant has raised enough to help with the startup of the childhood obesity program.

Windermere Professional Partners has announced the addition of Scott Harthorn. Harthorn was born in Tacoma and raised in Gig Harbor where he has been a Realtor since 2004. He has consistently remained a Top Producer in both the Tacoma and Gig Harbor markets due to his high level of customer service and dedication to his clients. He currently resides with his wife and two children in Gig Harbor, and has been a baseball coach at Gig Harbor High School for the last six years.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Olympia, Pierce County, Tacoma, Thurston County, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Tumwater, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 24, 2008 at 2:52pm

TPU refunds $15 million to customers

Tacoma Public Utility will return some $15 million to its Tacoma Power customers after receiving a refund from the Bonneville Power Administration for overpayment.

Tacoma Power will base the refund amounts on 2007 electrical use and will credit the money on current customers' bills. The utility anticipates that the credit will start showing up on customers' bills no earlier than February.

"Calculating customer usage and then putting the refunds in place, unfortunately, takes a lot of time," said Tacoma Public Utilities Director Bill Gaines. "We will conduct this process as expediently as possible, but will need our customers to show patience while we work out the details."

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Law and Legislation, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Pierce County, Tacoma by News Room | Email News

Nov. 24, 2008 at 12:15pm

State launches video to help businesses with tax planning

Washington State has launched a multi-agency streaming video that gives new and small businesses easy-to-understand basics on how to plan for, prepare and pay state business taxes and insurance premiums.

The video guides business owners through the process as they face their tax reports. It answers basic questions, such as: which taxes, and what rate, businesses will have to pay; how and when to file state taxes; and what steps business owners should take to plan ahead.

"Small businesses play a critical role in growing our state's economy," Gov. Chris Gregoire said. "We need to provide Washington's small business owners with as much information as possible so they can successfully develop and build their companies — and this video helps achieve that. A strong business climate will keep Washingtonians employed, and contribute to our state's growth."

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Law and Legislation, Olympia, Pierce County, Technology, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

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. 24, 2008 at 12:13pm

Shelton bowling alley damaged by fire

A weekend fire at the Timber Bowl in downtown Shelton destroyed the only remaining bowling alley in Mason County.

Also destroyed in the fire was the alley's cafe, the Lucky Strike. The fire was first reported around 1 a.m. Saturday, shortly after the business had closed down for the night. The fire had apparently started in the attic, but firefighters concentrated their efforts on saving nearby buildings.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Law and Legislation, Mason County, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 24, 2008 at 12:13pm

Cash is king during down economy

In a day when credit card debt is at an all-time high and paying with "plastic" is as common as driving a car or checking e-mail, Americans are renewing their affinity for cash.

The new Coinstar National Currency Poll on economic trends reveals that nearly a quarter of Americans report using cash more often to pay for purchases than they did just one year ago. Reasons cited include helping to manage budgets and control credit card debt. In addition, more than 60 percent of Americans polled said they will be changing their financial plans for 2009 due to difficult economic times.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Lewis County, Mason County, Olympia, Pierce County, South King County, Thurston County, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 24, 2008 at 12:12pm

Home elevation grants news release

Residential building owners around Chehalis and the Deschutes River might be able to receive flood preparation grants. There will be a special meeting to highlight Thurston County's Flood Elevation Grant Program for homeowners in flood-prown areas that suffered damage during last year's flood.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Law and Legislation, Lewis County, Mason County, Pierce County, Thurston County, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 21, 2008 at 2:22pm

Technology is about innovation, UWT conference told

The ninth annual South Sound Technology Conference was held at the William W. Philip Hall on the University of Washington, Tacoma campus and offered a host of views on the state of technology, particularly in the South Sound.

"Technology is such an important part of this economy," said UWT Vice Chancellor Beth Rushing, noting that the university and its Institute of Technology feed into that growing industry by providing local businesses with well-trained workers. "We definitely see education as a driver of economic development."

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Technology, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 21, 2008 at 2:21pm

Saint Martin’s names new president

Ken F. Parsons, chairman of the board of trustees of Saint Martin's University announced today that Roy F. Heynderickx, Ph.D., will be the university's new president.

Heynderickx succeeds Bryan M. Johnston, J.D. who died in June just prior to assuming his role as president replacing Douglas M. Astolfi, Ph.D.

"Heynderickx's ability and skills, honed from his extensive senior level management experience in Catholic higher education, will make him an effective leader for Saint Martin's," said Parsons. "The board of trustees is confident that Heynderickx will set a positive tone and build collegiality within the Saint Martin's community."

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Education, Thurston County, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 21, 2008 at 2:20pm

AG says federal used car rule needs a tune-up

The federal "Used Car Rule" needs a tune-up. Almost two dozen attorneys general are asking the Federal Trade Commission to add additional disclosures about a vehicle's history to the "Buyer's Guide" notice displayed on cars available for purchase from dealers.

"Laws are like cars, they need regular maintenance to make sure they're operating effectively," Attorney General Rob McKenna said. "The federal 'Used Car Rule' is rusty and needs tuning to perform properly for consumers."

The current rule requires that Buyer's Guide notices be posted on used vehicles offered for sale at dealerships. The notices indicate whether a car is covered by a warranty or sold "as-is."

But the law doesn't require additional information about a vehicle's history to be printed on the guide, such as whether cars have been assigned titles that would indicate damage from a flood or crash or if the car was repurchased by a manufacturer under a state's Lemon Law.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Lakewood, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 21, 2008 at 2:18pm

Storm damages reach $7.2 million

As flood waters recede, the process of damage assessment has begun for the Veterans Day storm. To date governmental costs and damages have reached $7.2 million in Pierce County. This includes roads and levees that were damaged, as well as costs incurred by jurisdictions responding to the floods. Six private residences reported a total damage loss of $45,000.

Pierce County is encouraging all jurisdictions and citizens to report flood damage. A presidential disaster declaration and FEMA assistance may be available if Washington State meets a total of $7.8 million in allowable disaster damages.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Law and Legislation, Military/Security, Pierce County, Thurston County, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 21, 2008 at 2:18pm

Filing unemployment taxes is easier than ever

A new online tool is available that gives Washington employers more flexibility for filing their unemployment taxes and managing their accounts.

The Employer Account Management Service was developed by the state Employment Security Department.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Law and Legislation, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 21, 2008 at 2:17pm

UWT adds commercial real estate program

The University of Washington Tacoma Continuing Education program offers three courses designed for commercial and residential real estate professionals, as well as bank and loan officers, mortgage brokers, architects, builders and public officials. Participants who successfully complete all three non-credit courses earn a certificate in commercial real estate.

The award-winning program is designed to help experienced professionals understand the complex processes involved in the commercial real estate industry. It covers specialized subjects such as property values, insurance, risk management and real estate law. Accomplished experts in the field of commercial real estate teach the courses.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Education, Tacoma 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. 20, 2008 at 12:56pm

TRCVB event highlighted local efforts

The Tacoma Regional Convention and Visitor Bureau elected new board members and announced the winners of its first STARS of tourism competition this morning at its annual meeting.

First-year Executive Director Tammy Blount said 2008 has been a truly exciting year and the bureau is well positioned to make an even bigger impact in the years to come.

The STARS of tourism winners included:

The Community Unity award went to Jon Graef of Tacoma-Pierce County Sports Commission.
The Tourism Professional of the Year award went to Jeff Bowe of Hotel Murano.
The Tourism Visionary award went to outgoing Pierce County Executive John Ladenburg for his work to create Chambers Bay.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Pierce County, Tacoma, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality by Breanne Coats | Email Breanne

Nov. 20, 2008 at 11:51am

State takes action against local health care providers

The Washington State Department of Health has taken action in the cases of several health care workers in the South Sound.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Health care, Law and Legislation, Pierce County, Thurston County by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 20, 2008 at 11:48am

People on the move

Promotions and recognitions

Tacoma was recently named Port of the Year for its hosting of this summer's Tall Ships Tacoma Festival in July. This is the second time that Tacoma has received this honor from the American Sail Training Association. Tacoma was also named Port of the Year after the 2005 festival. To win the award, Tacoma beat larger host cities participating in the Pacific Coast Tall Ships CHALLENGE, including San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego.
The Port of the Year Award is awarded to a city that demonstrates significant success in supporting ASTA's Tall Ships CHALLENGE race. It is based on overall performance of a host city and award criteria include services provided to the ships and crews, community involvement, volunteer participation and overall operations. A significant portion of the award is based on voting by the captains and crews of the participating ships.
While the 2008 festival resulted in a deficit of roughly $500,000, the award highlights many of the organization's achievements, including: more than $19.2 million in economic impact to the local economy, 300,000 visitors to the Foss Waterway, More than $1.5 million in permanent improvements to the Foss Waterway and more than 2,000 volunteers who donated more than $800,000 worth of time.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Education, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Pierce County, Tacoma, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 19, 2008 at 12:45pm

Green River Bridge closed for at least 6 months

The Washington State Department of Transportation closed last night the 80-year-old State Route 169 Green River Bridge for at least six months due to concerns for public safety. The Kummer Bridge is vital to the communities of Black Diamond and Enumclaw. It carries an estimated 9000 trips each day including emergency services and law enforcement.

"I can't emphasize enough that this closure is about safety," said Paula Hammond, Secretary of Transportation. "We will do what is necessary to keep the public safe and preserve the bridge."

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, South King County by Breanne Coats | Email Breanne

Nov. 19, 2008 at 12:23pm

State revenue forecast continues to fall

Economic conditions in both the nation and the state have deteriorated sharply since the last Revenue Forecast in September, according to the state Economic and Revenue Forecast Council.

"The credit crunch has knocked the wind out of an already weakening national economy," an economic forecast released today stated. "Consumer and business spending have stalled as access to credit has been choked off, and confidence has worsened."

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Lacey, Lakewood, Lewis County, Mason County, Olympia, Tacoma, Thurston County, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 19, 2008 at 12:22pm

Paychecks got bigger in September

Real average weekly earnings rose by 1.4 percent from September to October, after seasonal adjustment, according to preliminary data released today by the Bureau of Labor Statistics of the U.S. Department of Labor.

The jump stemmed from a 0.2 percent increase in average hourly earnings combined with a 1.2 percent decrease in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers. Average weekly hours were unchanged.

Before adjustment for seasonal change and inflation, average weekly earnings were $612.19 in October 2008, compared with $594.88 a year earlier.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Law and Legislation, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Mason County, Pierce County, Tacoma, Thurston County, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 19, 2008 at 12:21pm

Great American Smokeout set for tomorrow

Tobacco Quit Line (1-800-QUIT-NOW)

Tomorrow is the 33rd annual Great American Smokeout as a way to provide an opportunity for people to take the first step toward quitting smoking and improving their health.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Health care, Lakewood, Law and Legislation, Lewis County, Mason County, Olympia, Tacoma, Technology, Thurston County, Tumwater, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 19, 2008 at 12:19pm

Blog Watch: road warriors

The RAMP blog has an item about the state's congestion map that charts congestion around the South Sound bottlenecks. The map isn't pretty.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Charities/Non-profits, Lakewood, Lewis County, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Military/Security, Olympia, Pierce County, Tacoma, Technology, Thurston County, Tumwater, Workforce 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 1:49pm

TCC forum questions employers use of networking sites

Tacoma Community College's Center for Ethical Development kicked off a forum series today that examines business issues to promote ethical decisions in the workplace with a program titled "Internet Privacy? Ethical Implications of Social Networking."

Connecting with people on the Internet has exploded through social and business networking sites in the past few years. This event focused on the ethical implications involved in posting information, altering or creating identities or examining social networking information to influence life decisions like hiring or student screening for college admission.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Education, Human Resources , Tacoma, Technology by Breanne Coats | Email Breanne

Nov. 18, 2008 at 1:23pm

Health care, transportation, green 'fads' top WPC watch list

The Washington Policy Center held its Pierce County 2008 Small Business Issue Forum this morning in Tacoma in partnership with the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Health care, Law and Legislation, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Pierce County, Tacoma, Technology by Hilary Reeves | Email Hilary

Nov. 18, 2008 at 1:06pm

State takes action against South Sound health providers

The state Department of Health has taken action in several cases involving health care providers in the South Sound.

In Pierce County, the Nursing Commission indefinitely suspended the license of licensed practical nurse Wendy E. Arneson. Arneson charted she changed wound dressings when she did not. She also removed a five-day supply of antibiotics from a supply cabinet without permission and gave a patient incorrect medication.

The Health Care Assistant Program suspended the credential of Cheri A. Hackworth. Hackworth wrote fraudulent prescriptions for herself.

The Medical Commission indefinitely suspended the license of Norma V. Kouklis. Kouklis failed to respond to inquiries from the commission.

The Registered Counselor Program reinstated the credential of Doddie A. Moore. She must comply with terms and conditions. Moore's credential was suspended in September 2008 because she failed to comply with previous terms set against her credential.

The Nursing Commission and the Massage Program permanently revoked the credentials of registered nurse and massage therapist Dale A. Neel. Neel had sexual contact with three clients while giving them massages.

The Registered Counselor Program revoked the credential of Camellia O. Ricks. Ricks entered into a romantic relationship with a patient.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Health care, Law and Legislation, Pierce County, Thurston County, 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 10:34am

Unemployment rate up, jobs down

The nation's economic woes continued to be felt in Washington in October, where the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased to 6.3 percent from September's rate of 5.8 percent, according to the state Employment Security Department.

At the same time, the roughly 24,000 aerospace jobs that were on strike in October contributed to a net loss of 23,200 non-agricultural jobs. Without the strike, jobs in Washington increased by about 800.

"The employment losses look dramatic, but we recouped all of them and then some when the Boeing strikers returned to work in November," said Mary Ayala, chief economist for Employment Security.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Law and Legislation, Lewis County, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Mason County, Olympia, Pierce County, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 18, 2008 at 10:31am

AAA predicts decline in Thanksgiving travel

AAA forecasts a small decline in the number of Americans traveling during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. Some 41 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home this Thanksgiving holiday, a decrease of 600,000 travelers from last year's total of 41.6 million. This is the first decline in Thanksgiving holiday travel since 2002 and is the fourth consecutive travel holiday this year with a year-to-year decline in the number of travelers.

"The overall state of the economy continues to present real challenges for some Americans looking to travel this Thanksgiving," said AAA Washington's spokesperson, Jennifer Cook. "However, the desire to spend time with family, combined with significantly lower gasoline prices than earlier this year, will provide strong motivation for many Americans to travel this holiday."

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 18, 2008 at 10:29am

Construction prices fall but still are high

Construction input prices fell 2.8 percent in October – the largest one-month decrease since July 1986 – according to the Producer Price Index report by the U.S. Labor Department. Despite the dramatic decline, construction input prices remain 10 percent higher than in October of last year.

Prices for fabricated structural metal products dropped by 0.6 percent in October, but are still 15.1 percent higher than one year ago. Plumbing fixtures and fittings prices dropped slightly in October by 0.1 percent, however, they are up a relatively modest 4.1 percent from October 2007. Nonferrous wire and cable prices dropped 7.7 percent – the largest monthly decline since 1949. The decrease brings the year-over-year change down 5.4 percent from October 2007.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 18, 2008 at 10:28am

UTC delays need for new area code

Washington telecommunication companies will have at least four more years to assign customers phone numbers using the 360 area code, the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission said today. As a result, Western Washington phone customers will avoid the need for a new area code and mandatory10-digit local dialing.

Because of the increased demand for new telephone numbers, the Federal Communications Commission earlier estimated that a new area code would have to be added in 2010 in the territory currently using the 360 area code.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Pierce County, South King County, Technology, Thurston County by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

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 12:18pm

Heating costs prompt boost in switch to natural gas

Puget Sound Energy announced that customer inquiries regarding natural gas conversions have accelerated in recent months as colder winter weather approaches, due largely to concerns about heating costs. Since mid-year, actual orders for natural gas service as a result of those inquiries are higher than PSE has seen in recent years due to the company's rebates, contractor referrals and distribution line availability.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Law and Legislation, Lewis County, Mason County, Pierce County, South King County, Tacoma 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 10:28am

Comcast boosts Internet speeds

Comcast announced it is launching a new generation of Internet and download speeds for business and residential customers in Washington.

With the new service, the communications company will offer download speeds of up to 50 megabytes per second. Wideband will also enable customers to double speeds at no additional cost.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Pierce County, Tacoma, Technology, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, 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 12:34pm

Boeing, SEEPA reach draft deal

Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace union negotiators and Boeing Co. officials have announced that they have reached tentative contracts that would cover some 21,000 engineers and technical workers around Puget Sound as well as in Oregon, Utah and California.

SEEPA leaders will announced later today if they plan to endorse the contract for approval by union members. The current contract is set to expire Dec. 1.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Pierce County, South King County, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 14, 2008 at 12:22pm

Trident fined for Tacoma spill

Washington Department of Ecology has fined Seattle-based Trident Seafoods $30,500 for an oil spill last December that sent almost 500 gallons of fuel into the Hylebos Waterway in Tacoma's Commencement Bay.

"Trident Seafoods deeply regrets this spill," said Bob Nelson, spokesperson for the company, "We understand the importance of being a good environmental steward and believe any spill – regardless of its size – is unacceptable."

The spill happened while the company's tender vessel Bowfin was tied up at Trident Seafoods' dock in Tacoma. A Trident engineer began transferring diesel fuel between two tanks onboard the Bowfin. It appears a small fuel line became plugged, causing diesel to run out of a tank vent, across the deck and overboard. The company found the spill the evening of Dec. 10 after a diesel smell was traced back to the Bowfin.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Law and Legislation, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Pierce County, Tacoma by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 14, 2008 at 12:21pm

Flood waters recede, crews reopen US 12

Flood waters have receded enough to allow road crews to reopen US 12 near Randle in Lewis County. The road was closed late Wednesday because of flood waters from nearby Davis Creek and the Cowlitz River. As the water receded, crews surveyed the condition of the road, revealing no damage.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Lewis County, Mason County, Olympia, Workforce 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 1:45pm

MultiCare to open Gig Harbor surgery center

MultiCare Health System announced today that it will open a ambulatory surgery center at the MultiCare Gig Harbor Medical Park on Point Fosdick Drive in the Uptown Gig Harbor Shopping Center.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Health care, Pierce County 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. 13, 2008 at 11:04am

State pulls license of Kent-based moving company

Citing what investigators called deceptive business practices and numerous violations of state rules, state regulators have cancelled the operating permit for All My Sons, a Kent-based residential moving company.

The company is no longer authorized to move residential customers' property within the state.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Law and Legislation, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, South King County by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 13, 2008 at 11:03am

Flood damage tally in the works

Pierce County's Emergency Operations Center is collecting damage information from home and business owners affected by the recent floods. People reporting damage should call the Department of Emergency Management Damage call center at 1-866-798-6363.

Callers should have the following information available: name and address of affected property, type of insurance on the property, a description of the damage, even if uninsured, a personal estimate of uninsured losses and an estimate of the fair market value of the damaged home or business.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Law and Legislation, Pierce County by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 13, 2008 at 11:02am

Retailers loosen return policies in downturn

Retailers around the nation are loosening their return policies this holiday season as a way to provide better customer service and increase sales.

A National Retail Federation report on return fraud survey suggests that fraud prevention is taking a back seat to boosting initial sales since more than half of retailers in the survey said their holiday return policies will be more lenient than the policy for the rest of the year, up from 35 percent who said so in 2007.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 12, 2008 at 11:42am

Coldwell Banker expands locally

As real estate firms across the country shrink daily, closing offices and letting Realtors go, a Federal Way-based office is beating the downward trend. Coldwell Banker Danforth & Associates, Inc., the largest single Coldwell Banker office in the nation, recently announced its acquisition of Coldwell Banker Del Bianco Realty, Inc.

Phyllis Danforth, CBDA's president, has survived many of the market's highs and lows during her more than 35 years in the real estate business. As one of the first women to own an office, the industry pioneer says her company's continued growth is directly tied to her office's ability to offer real estate agents the best value proposition in the industry.

Comments (1) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, South King County, Workforce 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 11:41am

Olympia restaurant damaged by fire

The Olympia Fire Department responded to a two-alarm fire at King Solomon's Reef Restaurant in downtown Olympia today. The restaurant staff reported that they saw smoke and fire from a cooking appliance and pulled a manual fire alarm station and initiated evacuation.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Olympia, Thurston County, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality 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. 12, 2008 at 11:40am

Flow revises OMAX merger

Flow International Corp., a Kent-based developer and manufacturer of industrial waterjet machines for cutting and cleaning applications, has announced that Flow and OMAX Corp. have entered into an agreement amending the terms of their merger. The revised terms reduce the initial cash and stock payment, including option payments already made, from $105 million to $75 million.

The previous terms included $71.5 million in cash and a $3.5 million note, with the remainder in stock trued up to $30 million based on a Flow stock price of not less than $8 per share. These amounts have now been reduced to $62.5 million in cash, an $8.5 million note and $4 million in stock with the number of shares determined based upon the stock price at closing. As in the prior transaction, OMAX debt of approximately $6 million will be assumed by Flow.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, South King County by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 12, 2008 at 11:38am

Olympia City Hall site work underway

Work has started this week to remove underground storage tanks on the site of Olympia's new City Hall in the 600 Block of East Fourth Avenue.

DMSL Construction, Inc., of Arlington, was awarded the contract in the amount of $44,064.60. Work is expected to be finished by the end of November, depending on the weather. Up to six underground storage tanks located throughout the site will be removed.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Law and Legislation, Olympia, Thurston County by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 12, 2008 at 11:36am

Blog Watch: taxing time

A lesson learned about California's business tax structure on manufacturers is outlined in an AWB item. It is an interesting lesson on what non-business owners do to raise taxes when they never had to sign the front of a paycheck.

Exit133.com notes that it is Tacoma's 133th birthday today.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Law and Legislation, Tacoma by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 12, 2008 at 11:35am

COFFEE BREAK: worker stress

The Business Examiner would like to know what sorts of concerns your workers have about the state of the economy and if those concerns are finding themselves in the workplace discussions more often than in previous months.

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 BE Daily, Human Resources , Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Workforce 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.


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