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 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 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 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 10:11am

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 10:07am

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 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. 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. 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 12:18pm

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 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. 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 12:20pm

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 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. 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 11:40am

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. 10, 2008 at 9:42am

Boeing employee harvest 2 million meals

Three area food distributors recently accepted donations of nearly $400,000 from The Boeing Co., Boeing employees and the Employees Community Fund of Boeing Puget Sound.

The three distributors accepted the contributions during the annual Boeing employees' Food & Essentials drive. The donations will generate nearly 2 million meals for the region or enough to feed about 5,600 families of four for a month.

Boeing representatives announced the results during a celebration event at Northwest Harvest's warehouse in Kent. Food Lifeline, Northwest Harvest and the Emergency Food Network, all of which distribute resources to Puget Sound food banks, accepted the checks.

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

Nov. 10, 2008 at 8:27am

In this issue of the Business Examiner

Check out the stand locations near you

The current issue of the Business Examiner is in newstands now, if you do not have a subscription sent to your home or office. In this issue, you will find:

-- One Business, One vote
-- Belay wins Olympia's city hall contest
-- Rainier Connect links to new home, new era
-- Owners: restaurant giveaway is no laughing matter

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Lacey, Lakewood, Lewis County, Mason County, Olympia, Pierce County, South King County, Tacoma, Thurston County by Breanne Coats | Email Breanne

Nov. 7, 2008 at 10:28am

Forecast: 'Worst recession since 1982'

Upside: 'USA is best for ability to recover'

Lynn Michaelis, chief economist for Weyerhaeuser Co., told selected members of Tacoma Pierce County Chamber this morning that the U.S. is entering into the worst recession it has seen since 1982, and it may develop unemployment rates of between 8.5 and 9 percent, possibly even higher before it's over.

"We are not anywhere near the bottom of this recession," he said.

On the other hand, the 35-year veteran of Federal Way's corporate timber giant encouraged business leaders not to lose hope.

"The United States is one of the best economies in the world for its ability to recover from this kind of situation," Michaelis added.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Olympia, Pierce County, South King County, Tacoma by Jeff Rounce | Email Jeff

Nov. 7, 2008 at 10:15am

Shellfish harvest approved along King waters

An area of south King County has been approved for commercial geoduck harvest for the first time since the state began monitoring shellfish areas in the 1960s. The Department of Health approved the harvest area, which is located two miles between Des Moines and Federal Way. The area covers some 138 acres.

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

Nov. 7, 2008 at 10:13am

South Sound pesticide handlers hit with EPA fines

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has reached settlements with two companies for violations alleged by pesticide handlers in the South Sound.

Among EPA's latest actions:

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

Nov. 6, 2008 at 12:00pm

October housing: disappointing, but not unexpected

Housing activity for Northwest Multiple Listing Service members was disappointing last month, but not surprising, according to one industry executive. He and other representatives of the Northwest's largest MLS believe the situation is improving.

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

Nov. 6, 2008 at 11:48am

Reed issues post-election statement

Secretary of State Sam Reed has released a post-election statement to the state's voting public:

"Washington's voters were the big winners in this truly memorable watershed election. Following on the heels of the first-ever running of our voter-approved Top 2 Primary this summer, voters were fired up for the main event. They shattered the record for voter registrations, many signing up online for the first time, and then turned out in huge, possibly unprecedented numbers. They helped pick a president, voted their favorites in the closely watched rematch for governor and chose their new congressmen, legislators, judges and local elected officials who will deal with the critical issues facing our state and nation. I couldn't be prouder of our thoughtful and engaged voters, who endured a seemingly endless campaign season with good humor and great intelligence.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Lacey, Lakewood, Law and Legislation, Lewis County, Mason County, Olympia, Pierce County, South King County, Tacoma, Thurston County, Tumwater by Hilary Reeves | Email Hilary

Nov. 6, 2008 at 11:42am

Report: retail vacancies up

Grubb & Ellis Co. has compiled a third-quarter research report that shows the South Sound retail market posted increases in both vacancy and price-per-square-foot as it continues to be challenged by a slowing economy.

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

Nov. 5, 2008 at 12:06pm

Puget Energy reports third-quarter financials

Puget Energy today reported a net loss of $8.2 million, or six cents per diluted share, for the third quarter, compared to a net income of $11.4 million, or 10 cents per share, in the third quarter of 2007. For the first nine months of 2008, Puget Energy reported net income of $105.2 million, or 81 cents per share, as compared to $129.1 million, or $1.10 per share, for the same period of 2007.

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

Nov. 5, 2008 at 12:03pm

Election highlights

Here is a round up of yesterday's election: Democrat Barack Obama easily carried Washington's 11 electoral votes with 57.5 percent of the vote. Gov. Chris Gregoire has retained her seat after a tight race that Republican challenger Dino Rossi conceded before noon today.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Law and Legislation, Olympia, Pierce County, South King County, 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 3:11pm

Survey looks at small biz hiring

Small businesses are the Rocky Balboa of the economic world. Beat them to a pulp and they keep on fighting. Despite all the economic problems in October, U.S. small businesses still managed to grow in size by 0.28 percent. The SurePayroll Hiring Index ended the month at 11,219, which is 31 points higher than where the index stood in September. Year to date, small business hiring is up 3 percent nationwide.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Lewis County, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Mason County, Olympia, Pierce County, South King County, Tacoma, Thurston County, Tumwater, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 3, 2008 at 11:09am

Boeing machinists returned to work

Striking Boeing machinists in Washington, Oregon and Kansas voted to ratify a new four-year contract that includes excellent wages and an industry-leading pension. About 27,000 employees represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) began returning to work with the third shift Nov. 2, ending a 58-day walkout.

"We're looking forward to having our team back together to resume the work of building airplanes for our customers," said Scott Carson, Boeing Commercial Airplanes president and CEO. "This new contract addresses the union's job security issues while enabling Boeing to retain the flexibility needed to run the business. It rewards employees for their contribution to our success with industry-leading pay and benefits and allows us to remain competitive."

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

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. 31, 2008 at 11:34am

Weyerhaeuser reports quarterly earnings

Weyerhaeuser Co. reported today net earnings of $280 million for the third quarter, or $1.33 per diluted share, on net sales of $2.6 billion. This compares with net earnings of $101 million, or 47 cents per diluted share, on sales of $4.1 billion for the same period last year.

The report comes as the company shed some of its mill and production facilities as it prepares for a continued slowdown in demand for its forest products.

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

Oct. 31, 2008 at 11:32am

Daylight Savings should come with caution

Washington State Department of Transportation officials are reminding motorists and pedestrians to pay extra attention to pedestrian safety not only because of children out gathering Halloween candy tonight, but because Sunday, Nov. 2 marks the end of Daylight Savings Time and begins the most difficult time of year for drivers to see walkers and bikers during commute times.

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

Oct. 29, 2008 at 12:36pm

Puget Sound bucks national employment trend

Unemployment rates were higher in September than a year earlier in 349 of the 369 metropolitan areas, lower in 14 areas and unchanged in 6 areas, the Bureau of Labor Statistics of the U.S. Department of Labor reported today. Ten areas recorded jobless rates of at least 10 percent, while nine areas registered rates below 3 percent. The national unemployment rate in September was 6 percent, not seasonally adjusted, up from 4.5 percent a year earlier.

The greater Puget Sound region topped the list among the nation's urban areas for the largest over-the-year percentage increase in employment with a 2 percent increase in jobs. The Tacoma market specifically fell a bit lower than that at 1.5 percent growth, but it was still enough job creation to put it among the top urban areas of the nation.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Pierce County, South King County, Tacoma, 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 11:57am

Police seek South Sound hotel robber

Police agencies around the South Sound have linked a robber to as many as 10 hotel heists.

The robber hit hotels in SeaTac, Federal Way, Tacoma and Fife.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Law and Legislation, Pierce County, South King County, Tacoma, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, 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 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

Boeing, machinists reach tentative deal

Boeing and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers reached a tentative agreement last night on a new four-year contract covering 27,000 employees in Washington, Oregon and Kansas. Union leadership is recommending that employees vote to ratify the contract.

The company retained the flexibility necessary to manage its business, while making changes to the contract language to address the union's issues on job security, pay and benefits. The offer provides general wage increases every year and increases pension benefits. In addition, Boeing is proposing no changes to the cost share employees currently pay for a selection of outstanding health care plans.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Law and Legislation, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Pierce County, South King County, 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. 27, 2008 at 10:18am

Boeing, engineers to start talks

The main negotiations for new, three-year contracts that cover some 20,300 engineers and technical workers at The Boeing Co. are set to start tomorrow in SeaTac.

Negotiations between the Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace, IFPTE Local 2001, and Boeing start after eight months of disappointing preliminary talks. The first meaningful discussion only recently took place, said SPEEA Executive Director Ray Goforth. Union leaders started advising members in May to save money for a possible strike.

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

Oct. 24, 2008 at 1:38pm

Election results pouring in

As of this morning, the Secretary of State's Office is reporting that ballots received in the seven Washington counties that show counts online total roughly 298,000 so far. Those counties – King, Pierce, Snohomish, Spokane, Clark, Yakima and Kittitas – represent 65 percent of all the voters in the state.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Lakewood, Law and Legislation, Pierce County, South King County, Tacoma by Hilary Reeves | Email Hilary

Oct. 24, 2008 at 1:08pm

Thurston donors favor Gregoire

A report issued this morning by Washington's Public Disclosure Commission shows Thurston, King and Pacific Counties the only three areas of the state where more donations have gone to the election campaign of Gov. Chris Gregoire than to her GOP challenger Dino Rossi. Despite the regional differences, Gregoire has reported about $1.5 million more than Rossi in actual contributions.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Pierce County, South King County, Thurston County by Jeff Rounce | Email Jeff

Oct. 23, 2008 at 11:12am

Businesses eligible for upgrade reimbursement

Puget Sound Energy's residential and business customers can now take advantage of more than 80 money-saving, energy-efficiency rebate and grant programs.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Lacey, Lakewood, Law and Legislation, Lewis County, Mason County, Olympia, Pierce County, South King County, Tacoma, Thurston County, Tumwater by Hilary Reeves | Email Hilary

Oct. 22, 2008 at 1:28pm

Economy hurts Puget Sound office market

The Puget Sound office market has begun to feel the effects of the declining national economy, with vacancy increasing 60 basis points to 10.5 percent and average asking rates declining across the region, according to a report released by Grubb & Ellis Company.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Lewis County, Mason County, Pierce County, South King County, Thurston County by Breanne Coats | Email Breanne

Oct. 22, 2008 at 10:27am

State sets voter record

With the election two weeks away, Washington has just surpassed the 3.6 million mark for registered voters for the first time in state history, according to David Ammons, communications director for the Office of the Secretary of State.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Lacey, Lakewood, Law and Legislation, Lewis County, Mason County, Olympia, Pierce County, South King County, Tacoma, Technology, Thurston County, Tumwater by Hilary Reeves | Email Hilary

Oct. 22, 2008 at 10:23am

Papa Murphy's awarded 'Best Pizza Chain in America'

Vancouver-based Papa Murphy's Take 'N' Bake Pizza has been named the "Best Pizza Chain in America," according to consumers.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Lacey, Lakewood, Lewis County, Mason County, Olympia, Pierce County, South King County, Startups/Minority Businesses, Tacoma, Thurston County, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Tumwater by Hilary Reeves | Email Hilary

Oct. 22, 2008 at 9:59am

Blog Watch: Political roundup

The Association of Washington Business' Olympia Business Watch explains the reasoning behind the AWB's myriad endorsements.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Lacey, Lakewood, Law and Legislation, Lewis County, Olympia, Pierce County, South King County, Tacoma, Technology, Thurston County 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 10:57am

Oak Harbor Freight target of radio protests

The Teamsters Union has launched a nationwide radio ad on Air America as part of its negotiations with Auburn-based freight hauler Oak Harbor Freight Lines. The radio campaign condemns clothing retailer the Gap Inc. for using Oak Harbor Freight Lines to move its merchandise on the West Coast. The retailer is Oak Harbor's largest customer, according to a release.

Some 600 Oak Harbor Freight Lines workers in Oregon, Washington and Idaho walked off the job and into picket lines Sept. 22 in protest of what they call the freight company's violations of U.S. labor laws and hostile efforts by company representatives to intimidate workers.

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

Oct. 20, 2008 at 10:56am

Multi-unit housing market remains good, study suggests

Grubb & Ellis Co., a real estate services and investment firm concentrated in the Puget Sound, announced today in a third quarter 2008 research report that the area's multi-unit housing market posted increases in both rents and vacancy, yet still generated $436 million in sales for the quarter.

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

Oct. 17, 2008 at 11:24am

Weyerhaeuser declares dividend

Weyerhaeuser Co. has declared a dividend of 60 cents per share on common stock.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Retirement and Investing, South King County, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 16, 2008 at 12:04pm

Kent salon fights to keep fish pedicures

The state Deparment of Licensing banned fish pedicures from all licensed salons at the beginning of the month. One Kent Station business, Peridot Nail Salon, was hand-delivered a notice of the ban, since it was the only one known to offer the service. The salon's owner, Tuyet "Tweety" Bui, mailed in a hearing request to the department because she said the state needs to take a closer look at the pedicure practice before banning it completely.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Law and Legislation, South King County, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality by Breanne Coats | Email Breanne

Oct. 16, 2008 at 11:56am

People on the move

Promotions and recognitions

Rick Porso, Sr., public health manager at Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department, received the Tom Drummey Memorial Award at the Washington State Public Health Association's Annual Joint Conference on Oct. 8. It is the highest award presented by the Association in recognition of the achievements and accomplishments of an individual who has demonstrated continuing interest in, and support of, WSPHA activities.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Health care, Pierce County, South King County, Tacoma by Breanne Coats | Email Breanne

Oct. 15, 2008 at 12:02pm

PPI dips further, Labor report states

The Producer Price Index for Finished Goods, the price manufacturers pay for their raw materials, decreased 0.4 percent in September, seasonally adjusted, the Bureau of Labor Statistics of the U.S. Department of Labor reported today. This decline followed a 0.9 percent drop in August and a 1.2 percent increase in July.

At the earlier stages of processing, prices received by producers of intermediate goods fell 1.2 percent after decreasing 1 percent a month earlier, and the decline in the crude goods index slowed to 7.9 percent in September from 11.9 percent in the preceding month. The slower rate of decline in finished goods prices was led by the index for energy goods, which decreased 2.9 percent after falling 4.6 percent in August. Price advances for finished goods grew to 0.4 percent from 0.2 percent a month earlier. Conversely, the rise in the index for finished consumer foods slowed to 0.2 percent in September, from 0.3 percent in the prior month.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Law and Legislation, Lewis County, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Mason County, Olympia, Pierce County, South King County, Tacoma, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Workforce 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. 15, 2008 at 10:26am

Transportation Commission to discuss SR 167 tolling

The Washington State Transportation Commission will hear about the status of tolling operations on Washington's highways, on the State Route 167 high-occupancy toll lanes and tolling scenarios for the SR 520 Bridge.

The meeting starts at 9 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 22, at the Transportation Building, Commission Boardroom, 310 Maple Park Ave. SE, in Olympia.

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

Oct. 15, 2008 at 10:25am

Federal Way complex changes hands

Puget Sound region residential property is still in demand apparently with S. Lew & Associates' purchasing The Park at Dashpoint apartment complex from BRE, a San Francisco-based REIT. The sale's price was $30 million or $107,143 per unit.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Retirement and Investing, South King County by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Oct. 14, 2008 at 10:25am

Boeing talks collapse

Boeing officials announced the second round of mediated talks with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers have ended without a contract and that no new talks are scheduled.

Comments (1) | Posted in BE Daily, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Pierce County, South King County, Technology, Thurston County, 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 10:59am

Weyerhaeuser sells commercial construction business

Weyerhaeuser Co. officials have signed a non-binding letter of intent to sell the Federal Way company's Trus Joist Commercial division to Greenwich, Conn.-based Atlas Holdings.

The proposed transaction will include four manufacturing plants located in Chino, Calif.; Hillsboro, Ore.; Delaware, Ohio and Stayton, Ore. and 13 sales and engineering offices. About 428 employees concentrated in the Northwest, Southwest and East serve the business.

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

Oct. 9, 2008 at 11:36am

Gregoire addresses strength of state’s aerospace industry

Gov. Chris Gregoire reaffirmed her commitment to help Washington's aerospace industry grow and strengthen while speaking at the 2nd Annual Governor's Aerospace Summit.

"I want all Washingtonians to know there isn't a day that goes by that I don't think about what we need to do to keep Washington's aerospace industry healthy and growing," Gregoire said. "During this national economic downturn, our state is extremely fortunate to have a strong aerospace sector — one that provides thousands of jobs and puts billions of dollars into our economy."

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

Oct. 8, 2008 at 1:31pm

Natural gas rates increase

As the result of actions by state regulators today, electricity rates for Pacific Power and Puget Sound residential customers will increase.

Pacific Power's customers will see an increase of about $4 a month, so the typical residential customer will see his or her monthly bill increase next month to $89. Electricity bills for Puget Sound Energy residential customers will drop by 3 percent, while natural gas bills will rise by 5 percent.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Law and Legislation, Lewis County, Mason County, Pierce County, South King County, Thurston County by Breanne Coats | Email Breanne

Oct. 8, 2008 at 12:52pm

Kent Center sells naming rights to ShoWare

Kent officials today agreed to terms for a facility naming rights partnership with ShoWare by VisionOne. ShoWare will also be the exclusive ticketing service for the new home of the Seattle Thunderbirds and the Puget Sound region's newest, and the nation's first "green" entertainment venue.

"This opportunity allows VisionOne to showcase our innovative ticketing service – ShoWare – in an emerging entertainment environment like Kent," said VisionOne Senior Partner Ralph Fasi. "Our partnership with the City of Kent will provide a firm foothold for ShoWare in the ticketing market for larger venues and sports teams in the region and throughout the United States."

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, South King County, Technology, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, 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 10:27am

St. Francis names new chief

Tony McLean is the new chief operating officer at St. Francis Hospital in Federal Way. Yesterday was his first day on the job as the top administrator at the 110-bed, acute-care facility.

"Franciscan Health System is renowned for its quality care and commitment to putting the patient first," said McLean. "I'm thrilled to become a part of this organization, and to be able to further its mission to create healthier communities, particularly here at St. Francis Hospital."

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Health care, South King County 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. 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 1:27pm

State takes action in local health worker cases

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

In Grays Harbor County, the Nursing Commission charged licensed practical nurse Phyllis S. Stephenson with unprofessional conduct. She allegedly failed to comply with a medical assessment for a patient and documented that a patient refused medication when there was not an attempt to administer the medication.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Health care, Law and Legislation,


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