A new report issued by the Association of Washington Business (AWB) and its nonprofit AWB Institute underscores the value of the industry to the state’s economy while highlighting several key competitiveness concerns.

The report, “Challenges & Opportunities for Manufacturers in Washington State,” features the findings from a three-month, six-city tour conducted by the business group, talking with Washington state manufacturers about key issues affecting employment and the general business climate. Between August and October of 2011, AWB representatives met with 70 small, medium and large manufacturers representing approximately 5,000 employees in Everett, Mount Vernon, Moses Lake, Pasco, Spokane and Vancouver. read more »

As Congress and state legislatures struggle with the sluggish economy, high unemployment and growing deficits, it may seem that a solution is out of reach.

That’s not the case. In fact, you and I can make a real difference with the choices we make every day.

The realization that consumers control the marketplace is fueling a burgeoning movement to “Buy American.” When consumers choose American-manufactured products, they support American jobs — the more products purchased, the more jobs created. read more »

Harmony Hill will present a creative and dynamic teacher of Tai Ji, Master Teacher Chugliang Al Huang Jan. 30 - Feb. 1 at its campus in Union. He is regarded as one of the foremost authorities of Tai Ji, Taoism and related disciplines. He is a best-selling author of books on mind/body/spirit integration and a highly regarded artist and performer, having performed and collaborated with Sammy Davis, Jr. and Bruce Lee.

“We are thrilled to be able to offer this again to the local community,” said Cindy Shank, program manager for Harmony Hill. “Master Huang’s style of teaching is immediately accessible to people of all ages and experience levels. This workshop promises to be inspirational.” read more »

Former federal prosecutor and Attorney General Candidate Reagan Dunn condemned efforts by Democratic legislators to strip the Office of Washington State Attorney General of its independent authority. Dunn sent a letter to Senator Adam Kline, prime sponsor of the measure, voicing his concern for the effect of the bill.

“This is obviously retaliation from partisans who are upset about Attorney General McKenna joining the federal health care lawsuit,” said Dunn. “Those legislators should be very careful not to go too far. The people of the State of Washington count on having an independent Attorney General to protect their rights. This is bad public policy and bad for the people of Washington State.” read more »

The American Red Cross urges Puget Sound residents to remain vigilant about winter weather. Excessive snow and icy conditions can trap people inside their homes or vehicles or cause power outages. The Red Cross offers these tips to stay safe: read more »

Coldwell Banker Bain, Suite 1, Sedgwick Professional Park, Suite 2 (for lease), and Fisher Distinctive Dentistry, Suite 3, cordially invite you to visit its newly remodeled building, located at 2021 SE Sedgewick Rd — across from Fred Meyer on Thursday, Jan. 26 from 5-8 p.m. Refreshments will be served and a drawing for door prizes will be offered in each Suite. Complimentary chair massage will be provided by Harborview Massage and Wellness in Suite 2.

At a press conference in Olympia, on Tuesday, Jan. 24 at 2:30 p.m., Washington Policy Center (WPC) and small business owners will present lawmakers with practical ways they can improve Washington’s small business climate and spur economic recovery in the state. The press conference will take place in the John A. Cherberg Conference Room at the state capitol.

The National Federation of Independent Business and the Association of Washington Business will join Washington Policy Center to host the press conference. Senate Minority Leader Mike Hewitt and Sen. Janéa Holmquist Newbry, ranking member on the Labor, Commerce & Consumer Protection Committee, will speak at the event, along with a group of concerned small business owners. read more »

The start of the new year marks the start for many to rededicate themselves to a personal fitness routine. Sears, already the nation’s largest fitness retailer, has reinforced its industry leadership role with a series of innovations that integrate in-store and online fitness retailing to help consumers achieve their fitness goals.

“Whether just starting a new workout routine or a longtime fitness enthusiast, customers want a complete solution,” said Hugo Malan, SVP and president, Fitness, Sporting Goods and Toys at Sears Holdings. “Sears sells more fitness equipment than anyone else and we believe in continually improving our offering, so we have built an online fitness community and developed new destinations that attract customers both in-store and online.” read more »

The Washington Supreme Court upheld a challenge to state water law, affirming the state’s position that groundwater used for stock-watering purposes is exempt from the requirement to apply for a water permit.

The case stemmed from a dispute over whether Easterday Ranches in Franklin County was required to obtain a permit to withdraw water from a well to operate a cattle feedlot serving roughly 30,000 head of cattle.

Mary Sue Wilson, ecology division chief for the Attorney General’s office, argued on behalf of the state that state law clearly exempts this type of activity from water right permitting requirements. In its 6-3 decision, the state Supreme Court agreed, “Under the plain language of the statute, withdrawals of groundwater for stock-watering purposes are not limited to any particular quantity.” read more »