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 10:35am

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 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 10:07am

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 10:40am

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 10:34am

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 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

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 2:21pm

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 2:18pm

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. 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. 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 1:06pm

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 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. 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 11:38am

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. 11, 2008 at 12:47pm

O Bee Credit Union expands business services

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

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

Nov. 11, 2008 at 10:52am

DOR to decide how horse farms should be taxed

Save Our Farms Coalition is urging horse farmers, horse owners, trainers and all who work in horse-related businesses, as well as supporters of open spaces to attend a Department of Revenue hearing on Thursday. The hearing will decide whether horse farms will be classified as farm and agriculture for tax purposes.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Olympia, Thurston County by Hilary Reeves | Email Hilary

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 10:15am

State disciplines South Sound health care providers

The Washington State Department of Health has taken disciplinary actions or withdrawn charges against health care providers in the South Sound.

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

Nov. 6, 2008 at 1:37pm

Next few months crucial for economic outlook

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

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

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

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

Nov. 6, 2008 at 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. 5, 2008 at 12:24pm

Blog Watch: chitter, chatter

Tech blogger Andrew Fry has a note about the fate of daily newspapers and mentions some details about TNT blogmeister Mark Briggs, who is leaving the Tacoma daily for work in the private sectors. He will be the CEO of Serra Media, a provider of Web solutions for media companies.

A Federal Way blog has a mention about the planned closure of the Circuit City.

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

Nov. 5, 2008 at 12:07pm

South Sound banks accept federal dollars

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

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

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

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

Nov. 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 2:02pm

Liquor board, city want McCabes closed

The Washington State Liquor Control Board does not plan to renew McCabes American Music Cafe's liquor license. The decision comes after reviewing information submitted by the City of Tacoma as part of its objection to the renewal.

Liquor licenses are renewed yearly, and state law gives local authorities, such as a city or county, the opportunity to submit an objection to a renewal. Tacoma opposed the renewal because of what city officials call "chronic, illegal activity."

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Law and Legislation, Olympia, Pierce County, Startups/Minority Businesses, Tacoma, Thurston County, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 4, 2008 at 12:29pm

Oly grocer gets facelift

The Olympia TOP Food & Drug, which has been under renovations for the last few months is set to reopen next week.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Olympia, Thurston County, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality 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 3:11pm

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 8:19am

Around the Sound

Business-related events

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

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

Oct. 31, 2008 at 11:35am

State to study land swap

The State Department of Natural Resources is seeking comment on a plan to exchange state land with Port Blakely Tree Farms L.P.

The deal would see the state trading some 8,579 acres of trust land for some 8,579 acres of forestland of equal value owned by Port Blakely. All of the land is located in Grays Harbor, Lewis and Thurston counties.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Law and Legislation, Lewis County, Mason County, Olympia, Thurston County 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. 27, 2008 at 11:15am

Correction: Heritage financial report

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

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

Oct. 24, 2008 at 1:08pm

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. 24, 2008 at 1:03pm

Heritage earnings down

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

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

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

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

Oct. 24, 2008 at 12:59pm

Columbia loss linked to Fannie, Freddie

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

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

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

Oct. 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. 21, 2008 at 10:45am

Unemployment rate down in September

The unemployment rate in Washington took a dip in September to 5.8 percent, down from 6 percent in August. Some 186,810 people (not seasonally adjusted) were unemployed and seeking work in Washington last month.

Year over year, Washington has added 28,100 nonfarm jobs from September 2007 to September 2008, a growth rate of 1 percent. By comparison, the number of jobs nationwide declined by 0.7 percent in the same time period, as it did for the month of September in Washington state.

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

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. 15, 2008 at 12:00pm

AG settles case on foreclosure aid company

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

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

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

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

Oct. 15, 2008 at 11:59am

COFFEE BREAK: matter of debate

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

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

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

Oct. 15, 2008 at 11:57am

Blog Watch: healthy hotels

The AWB's blog has a look at the national debate about health care with a bank of links to research that report on the issue, which is likely going to be brought up during tonight's presidential debate.

Thurston County businessman Ken Balsey gives his reasons for how he is voting in November.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Lacey, Pierce County, Tacoma, Thurston County, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality, Workforce 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 1:50pm

State tax collections continued slide in September

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

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

Oct. 13, 2008 at 11:22am

In this issue of the Business Examiner

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

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

Oct. 13, 2008 at 9:46am

Providence Centralia opens sleep center

Providence Centralia Hospital has opened its sleep center today, featuring two, private sleeping suites located next to Providence Centralia Hospital.

The Centralia Sleep Center is located in the Providence Professional Center, 1010 S. Scheuber Road. It is part of the Providence Southwest Washington Sleep Center, with locations in Centralia and Olympia. It is the second sleep center in Washington to be awarded accreditation by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Health care, Thurston County 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. 10, 2008 at 10:57am

State disciplines local health care providers

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

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

Oct. 10, 2008 at 10:56am

COFFEE BREAK RESPONSE: bail out or life line?

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

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

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

Oct. 9, 2008 at 2:21pm

South Sound Bank posts strong quarter

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

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

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

Oct. 9, 2008 at 1:28pm

Gregoire appoints South Sounders to boards

Gov. Chris Gregoire has announced South Sound appointments to the following boards and commissions:

Marc Gaspard of Puyallup has been reappointed to a term on the Pierce College Board of Trustees for Community College District 11. Gaspard is president of the Washington Financial League and administrative director of the Washington Mortgage Lenders Association. A former state senator, he is a member of the board of directors for Good Samaritan Hospital and the Association for the Developmentally Disabled.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Education, Pierce County, Thurston County, Workforce 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 12:51pm

Gregoire plans for $330 million in savings

Gov. Chris Gregoire announced today actions that will save $330 million in the current budget, increasing the budget surplus for the biennium that ends June 30, 2009, to more than $850 million.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Law and Legislation, Olympia, Thurston County, 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 10:26am

Tacoma Goodwill gets grant boost

Officials at Tacoma Goodwill Industries have received word that the organization will receive a $1.6 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education to provide job-training and placement for people with disabilities. Goodwill is one of just three organizations in the state to receive the grant, which comes during the 20th National Disability Employment Awareness Month and the state's first Disability History Month.

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

Oct. 7, 2008 at 10:25am

Showcase set for day of business networking

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

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

Oct. 7, 2008 at 10:24am

Port berths set for cleanup

The Washington Department of Ecology and the Port of Olympia are entering an agreement to remove a portion of dioxin-contaminated sediment from two shipping berths later this year.

Ecology officials consider this cleanup an interim step that will improve the environment, while also aiding the port's efforts in maintaining the appropriate depths of its berths.

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

Oct. 3, 2008 at 11:20am

AG sues Republican Party

The Attorney General's Office today filed a lawsuit against the Washington State Republican Party for alleged violations of the state's campaign finance disclosure law.

The suit stems from a complaint filed with the Public Disclosure Commission alleging that the party misused funds from its exempt account for three mailings in support of its gubernatorial candidate, Dino Rossi.

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


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