Business Examiner

Nov. 20, 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. 20, 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. 19, 2008 at 12:45pm

Green River Bridge closed for at least 6 months

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

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

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

Nov. 19, 2008 at 12:23pm

State revenue forecast continues to fall

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

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

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

Nov. 19, 2008 at 12:22pm

Paychecks got bigger in September

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

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

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

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

Nov. 19, 2008 at 12:21pm

Great American Smokeout set for tomorrow

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

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

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

Nov. 19, 2008 at 12:19pm

Blog Watch: road warriors

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

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Charities/Non-profits, Lakewood, Lewis County, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Military/Security, Olympia, Pierce County, Tacoma, Technology, Thurston County, Tumwater, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 19, 2008 at 12:18pm

COFFEE BREAK: down times

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

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

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

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

Nov. 18, 2008 at 1:49pm

TCC forum questions employers use of networking sites

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

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

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

Nov. 18, 2008 at 1:23pm

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

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

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

Nov. 18, 2008 at 1:06pm

State takes action against South Sound health providers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nov. 18, 2008 at 12:51pm

Strategist urges businesses to compete globally

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

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

Nov. 18, 2008 at 10:34am

Unemployment rate up, jobs down

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

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

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

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

Nov. 18, 2008 at 10:31am

AAA predicts decline in Thanksgiving travel

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

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

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

Nov. 18, 2008 at 10:29am

Construction prices fall but still are high

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

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

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

Nov. 18, 2008 at 10:28am

UTC delays need for new area code

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

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

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

Nov. 18, 2008 at 10:22am

People on the move

Promotions and recognitions

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

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

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

Nov. 17, 2008 at 12:18pm

Heating costs prompt boost in switch to natural gas

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

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

Nov. 17, 2008 at 11:21am

Around the Sound

Business events

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

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

Nov. 17, 2008 at 10:28am

Comcast boosts Internet speeds

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

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

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

Nov. 17, 2008 at 10:27am

Expect sweaters this year

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

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

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

Nov. 17, 2008 at 10:22am

Big news of the year?

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

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

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

Nov. 14, 2008 at 12:34pm

Boeing, SEEPA reach draft deal

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

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

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

Nov. 14, 2008 at 12:22pm

Trident fined for Tacoma spill

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

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

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

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

Nov. 14, 2008 at 12:21pm

Flood waters recede, crews reopen US 12

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

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Lewis County, Mason County, Olympia, Workforce by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

Nov. 14, 2008 at 12:20pm

Financial crisis freezes consumer spending

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

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

Nov. 13, 2008 at 2:54pm

People on the move

Promotions and recognitions

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

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

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

Nov. 13, 2008 at 2:35pm

Remainder of Reverie back on the market

Market troubles have sent another project back to the drawing board, and this time, it's a big one. Reverie, a multi-stage, mixed-use development at 15th Street and Tacoma Avenue in downtown Tacoma, has put two of three large parcels back on the market.

The hope is to find investors who want to buy in to the plans outlined by current owners Vision One LLC, said Pacific Rim Real Estate Group broker Michael Avila. About two-thirds of an amassed four acres of property are listed for $11.5 million. The remaining one third of the property is developed as the Marcato residential property.

Comments (1) | Posted in BE Daily, Building, Tacoma by Paul Schrag | Email Paul

Nov. 13, 2008 at 1:45pm

MultiCare to open Gig Harbor surgery center

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

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

Nov. 13, 2008 at 12:15pm

SBA announces new ways for providing capital

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

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

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

Nov. 13, 2008 at 12:15pm

Bank adds reverse mortgage service

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

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

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

Nov. 13, 2008 at 11:04am

State pulls license of Kent-based moving company

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

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

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

Nov. 13, 2008 at 11:03am

Flood damage tally in the works

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

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

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

Nov. 13, 2008 at 11:02am

Retailers loosen return policies in downturn

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

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

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

Nov. 12, 2008 at 11:42am

Coldwell Banker expands locally

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

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

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

Nov. 12, 2008 at 11:42am

Well Fargo tops in business lending

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

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

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

Nov. 12, 2008 at 11:41am

Olympia restaurant damaged by fire

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

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

Nov. 12, 2008 at 11:40am

Companies worried about employees in current economy

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

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

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

Nov. 12, 2008 at 11:40am

Flow revises OMAX merger

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

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

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

Nov. 12, 2008 at 11:38am

Olympia City Hall site work underway

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

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

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

Nov. 12, 2008 at 11:36am

Blog Watch: taxing time

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

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

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

Nov. 12, 2008 at 11:35am

COFFEE BREAK: worker stress

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

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

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

Nov. 11, 2008 at 12:47pm

O Bee Credit Union expands business services

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

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

Nov. 11, 2008 at 11:17am

Capital Medical Center locked down

Just before 9 a.m. this morning, Capital Medical Center in Olympia was locked down after administrators received information that a man armed with a high-powered automatic rifle was stationed across the street from the hospital.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Health care, Olympia by Hilary Reeves | Email Hilary

Nov. 11, 2008 at 10:56am

State taxes again were less than expected

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

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

Nov. 11, 2008 at 10:55am

State curator starts today

Steve Wyatt, who begins his new job as the first curator for the Washington State Heritage Center today, brings 20 years of experience to this new position.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Human Resources , Olympia, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality by Hilary Reeves | Email Hilary

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. 11, 2008 at 10:52am

California hospital selects Sound to provide inpatient care

Sutter Amador Hospital in Northern California recently selected Tacoma-based Sound Inpatient Physicians to provide inpatient health care for the hospital. The service is scheduled to begin in January.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Health care, Pierce County by Hilary Reeves | Email Hilary

Nov. 11, 2008 at 10:37am

Trufant Foundation aims to tackle dropout issues

Seattle Seahawks cornerback Marcus Trufant and his Trufant Family Foundation, which is located in Tacoma, have announced a partnership with CHOICES Education Group for a second year to help keep teens in school. The two nonprofit organizations will collaborate once again on an NFL season-long campaign to raise public awareness and funding to support CHOICES and the Trufant Family Foundation.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Charities/Non-profits, Education, Tacoma by Breanne Coats | Email Breanne

Nov. 11, 2008 at 10:04am

People on the move

Promotions and recognitions

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

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

Nov. 10, 2008 at 2:04pm

Around the Sound

Business Events in the South Sound

Nov. 11 is Veteran's Day, so many government offices will be closed and businesses will be on reduced hours to honor those in the Armed Services.

The Tacoma Narrows Bridge Citizen Advisory Committee will continue a series of meetings on Thursday, Nov. 13from 5 to 7 p.m. to further discuss toll recommendations for next fiscal year. The meeting will be held at the Inn at Gig Harbor, located at 3211 56th St NW, Gig Harbor.
Another meetings will follow on Nov. 18 at the Inn at Gig Harbor, 3211 56th St NW.

Shelly Schlumpf, executive director of the Sumner Downtown Association, will speak at the Puyallup / Sumner Chamber's luncheon Nov. 14 at the Best Western Park Plaza on South Hill. Cost is $20 each. Call (253) 845-6755.

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

Nov. 10, 2008 at 12:56pm

Tacoma Mission merges with lender group

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

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

Nov. 10, 2008 at 9:43am

Pierce-based effort seeks speed record

A joint effort between American and Canadian engineers, called North American Eagle, is set to test its 50,000-horsepower F-104 jet car in an attempt to travel more than 800 mph to bring the land speed record back to the United States. The title is currently held by an English team. North American Eagle is based in a hangar at Shady Acres Airport near Spanaway.

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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 9:40am

Kreidler launches anti-fraud Web site

Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler is using his office's Web site to help fight insurance fraud.

In an effort to protect consumers, the fraud section of the site has been expanded to educate people on how to recognize and avoid fraud, and to make reporting easier. It also features facts about fraud and examples of real cases.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Health care, Law and Legislation, Olympia, 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 2:36pm

ING Direct CEO recommends saving

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

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

Nov. 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

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. 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

Retail traffic slows to 2004 levels

Cargo volume at the nation's major retail container ports fell again in October, and 2008 is now expected to be the slowest year since 2004 as the downturn in the nation's economy continues, according to the monthly Port Tracker report released by the National Retail Federation and IHS Global Insight.

Volume is projected to total 15.3 million containers for the year, compared with 16.5 million units in 2007. That would be a decline of 7.1 percent and the lowest total since 2004, when 14 million containers moved through the ports. The estimate is down from the 15.43 million projected a month ago, which would have been a 6.5 percent decline from 2007 and the lowest number since 2005's 15.4 million container.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Law and Legislation, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Tourism, Retail and Hospitality 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. 7, 2008 at 10:12am

Tank maker moves to Satsop

When the Satsop Development Park was first conceived as a way to reuse the mothballed and unfinished nuclear power plant in Grays Harbor, community leaders believed the park's former Turbine Building some day would be home to a special company with the vision to see opportunity reflected in the facility's unique, super-sized assets.

That day has finally come, said Satop officials now that Brown-Minneapolis Tank Co. has signed a 15-year lease with seven, extension options, with the Grays Harbor Public Development Authority for the complex and 10 acres of surrounding property.

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

Nov. 7, 2008 at 10:11am

Nonresidential construction jobs fall

The nation's nonresidential building construction job market declined for the second month, losing 4,100 jobs in October, according to the employment report released by the U.S. Labor Department.

"Any observer who was unconvinced that the U.S. economy has entered a period of recession will undoubtedly be persuaded by the October job numbers, which fell well short of already lowered expectations," said Anirban Basu, Associated Builders and Contractors Chief Economist. "The national economy is now feeling the full force of the financial crisis that peaked in September, and is now causing collateral damage in every region of the nation and in virtually every industry."

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Nov. 7, 2008 at 10:11am

Contractors call for boost in infrastructure to save economy

Associated General Contractors of America is calling on the federal government to pass a second stimulus package that would fund highway, bridge and other infrastructure work around the nation as a way to boost construction jobs.

"Construction had � by far � the highest unemployment rate of any industry and the largest increase, up from 6.1 percent a year ago," said AGC chief economist Ken Simonson. "The industry accounted for nearly half of the million-plus jobs lost throughout the economy in the past 12 months. This is a great time for both public agencies and private owners to go ahead with construction. Many materials costs have tumbled since last summer, and there are plenty of skilled contractors ready to bid for work."

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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 12:03pm

McKenna cracks down on 'erotic services'

Attorney General Rob McKenna today announced an agreement in which the online classified site Craigslist.org will deter and crack down on inappropriate content and illegal activity in its "erotic services" section.

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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 11:56am

Sound Financial reports quarterly earnings

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

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Nov. 6, 2008 at 11:52am

November rains are coming

The leaves are falling and heavy rains are approaching. The City of Tacoma is urging its residents to help prevent surface water flooding from affecting streets, businesses and homes in their neighborhood by taking a moment to make sure they're prepared for the rainy season.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Tacoma 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.

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Nov. 6, 2008 at 11:38am

St. Joseph adds Neuro Intensive Care Unit

St. Joseph Medical Center has opened a special intensive care unit for patients who are being treated for stroke and other disorders of the brain, spinal cord and nervous system. Called the Neuro Intensive Care Unit, the eight-bed unit is located within the medical center's Critical Care Unit.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Health care, Tacoma by Hilary Reeves | Email Hilary

Nov. 6, 2008 at 11:20am

People on the move

Promotions and recognitions

Despite fierce competition and all the economic uncertainties, Tacoma's own Chuckals Office Products is enjoying one of its best years ever and adding new sales and customer service staff to bring its unique "small business service with big business prices" proposition to a growing number of businesses in the Tacoma market.

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

Nov. 5, 2008 at 12:26pm

COFFEE BREAK: Election trickle down

The Business Examiner would like to know your thoughts of the year to come now that local, state and national elections have been held and winners have been declared.

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

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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 12:08pm

TSA approves Tacoma firm's security measures

The Transportation Security Administration has approved four biometric readers from Sagem Morpho for use in critical pilot tests of the Transportation Worker Identification Credential program at U.S. port operations in Los Angeles, New York and Long Beach. The selection by TSA puts the Tacoma technology firm among the elite developers of biometric security devices whose technologies will define future TWIC specifications.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Pierce County, Tacoma, Technology, Workforce 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

Rainier Connect moves to Brewery District

Rainier Connect, a telecommunications provider serving Pierce and Lewis Counties, today moved to the Tacoma Historic Brewery District. An anchor tenant in this historic district, Rainier Connect has purchased the buildings that were formerly home to the Pacific Brewery and Malting Company in order to accommodate the company's recent and projected growth.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Pierce County, Tacoma, Technology 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 12:05pm

Justice, McKenna persuade search engine ad changes

Attorney General Rob McKenna today announced that Yahoo! Inc. and Google Inc. have abandoned their proposed advertising agreement after being informed that the United States Department of Justice, joined by several states, would bring an antitrust lawsuit to block the deal. Fifteen states participated in the investigation, which was led by Washington, California, New York and Texas.

"Google and Yahoo compete aggressively for online search advertising and for search syndication deals with partner sites," said McKenna. "After a detailed investigation, state and federal antitrust enforcers concluded that the pact between these online giants would harm competition and innovation."

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Law and Legislation, Technology 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 12:51pm

Chefs' Night Out highlights local culinary talent

The Puyallup/Sumner Chamber hosted its first Chefs' Night Out event Saturday. The sold out event that featured 13 local chefs cooking for different tables made the chamber about $28,000.

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

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. 4, 2008 at 10:21am

Economic Forecast predicts clouds ahead

The state's Economic and Revenue Forecast Council predicts the state and national economy will get worse before it gets better, according to the council's most recent forecast.

The preliminary forecast for November is based on a modified version of Global Insight's October 2008 Control forecast for the U.S. economy at a time when third quarter real Gross Domestic Product declined by 0.3 percent. Real final sales were even weaker, declining at a 0.8 percent rate, while real consumer spending plummeted at a 3.1 percent rate. This was the first such decline since 1992 and the largest since 1980.

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

Nov. 4, 2008 at 10:20am

PSE completes Jackson Prairie expansion

Puget Sound Energy has finished a $44 million, 18-month expansion effort at the Pacific Northwest's largest natural gas storage reservoir, enabling the Lewis County facility to now meet one-fourth of the region's peak wintertime demand for natural gas.

The project's completion allows the Jackson Prairie Underground Natural Gas Storage Facility to accommodate the peak daily natural gas demand of 1.2 million homes across the Northwest. That represents a 35 percent increase in the facility's natural gas-withdrawal capacity � from 850 million cubic feet of natural gas per day to 1.15 billion cubic feet per day.

Comments (0) | Posted in BE Daily, Lewis County, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation, Retirement and Investing, 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 2:53pm

Chuckals launches audio division

Tacoma-based Chuckals Office Products has launched a new audiovisual division, adding LCD projectors, security systems and similar products to a mix that already includes office furniture, printing and cleaning and breakroom products in addition to its traditional office supplies business.

Joining the firm to help spearhead the new division will be Mike Hall, an AV specialist from Abolins, a Tacoma-based audiovisual products reseller that closed earlier this year.

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

Nov. 3, 2008 at 11:10am

Party goers trash Olympia

Olympia police officers were dispatched to a crowd of some 50 marchers all dressed in costumes traveling Westbound on the 400 Block of East Fourth Avenue in downtown during the weekend.

Officers reported the sound of glass breakage and discovered several windows had been broken at US Bank located at 402 S. Capitol Way and Starbucks, 550 Capitol Way S.


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