Commissioners to introduce evening meetings on first Tuesdays

Vancouver, WA – The Board of County Commissioners will hold a 7 p.m. business meeting on the first Tuesday of each month starting April 7.

“This will make it easier for citizens to follow county issues and speak with us on a regular basis,” said Board Chair Marc Boldt. “Working people have asked us to consider holding more meetings in the evening. We are going to give this a try, to help them stay informed and advise us as needed.”

Boldt said the commissioners will continue to hold business meetings at 10 a.m. on those Tuesdays that fall later in the month. The weekly meetings will be open to the public, on the sixth floor of the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., Vancouver.

Please check the county Web site at www.clark.wa.gov for the latest information about the commissioners’ meeting topics and schedules.

Home visiting in Clark County works to prevent child abuse and neglect

Vancouver, WA—A report released today by the Washington chapter of Fight Crime: Invest in Kids raises concerns about rising cases of child abuse and neglect stemming from the flagging economy. With more children at risk, the report also notes that survivors of abuse and neglect are significantly more likely to commit crimes as adults and abuse their own kids.

The report (available at www.fightcrime.org/wa) states that failure to invest now in programs proven to prevent child abuse and neglect puts everyone in Washington at greater risk of becoming a victim of crime. The report cites the national Nurse-Family Partnership as an example of a home visiting program that has been shown to cut abuse and neglect arrests in half among at-risk kids served.

“In tough times when families are stressed, home visiting can provide a sense of order for families, helping them to reach their goals of raising healthy, successful children,” said Kate Ketcham, program manager of Clark County Public Health’s Nurse Family Partnership program.

Home visitors are nurses and other trained professionals who provide regular home visits to educate expectant and new parents about prenatal care, infant care, child development and parenting skills. In hard economic times, home visitors also help families get the help they need, including food stamps, emergency assistance, and medical assistance. Home visitors can also identify family problems such as domestic violence and substance abuse, and provide needed referrals.

In Clark County, a coalition of community partners known as SELF (Support for Early Learning in Families) has increased the local capacity for home visiting. SELF community home visiting programs include:

§ Early Head Start—parents and teachers work together to prepare children for school. Contact Educational Opportunities for Children and Families, (360) 567-2720.

§ Infant Case Management—home visits improve family self-sufficiency during child’s first year life. Contact Clark County Public Health, (360) 397-8000.

§ Early Intervention Program and Early Family Support Services—home visits to families at high risk for child abuse and/or neglect. Contact Clark County Public Health at (360) 397-8000 ext. 7336.

§ Maternity Support Services—home visits by nurses, social workers and nutritionists throughout pregnancy and the first months of a child’s life. Contact Clark County Public Health, (360) 397-8000 or Healthy Steps Women’s and Children’s Center (360) 514-7300.

§ Nurse Family Partnership (NFP)— serves first-time mothers, helping parents provide responsible and competent care for their children. Contact Clark County Public Health, (360) 397-8000.

§ Parents as Teacher (PAT)— family home visits use nationally recognized curriculum and the opportunity to participate in Ready and Play groups. Contact ESD-112 at (360) 750-7500.

§ Welcome Baby at Home—All new moms in Clark County qualify to receive three home visits that offer information, referral and Welcome Baby Bags. Contact Children’s Home Society, (360) 695-1325.

Also in Clark County, the Arthur D. Curtis Children’s Justice Center serves as a nationally accredited children’s advocacy center. It provides a safe space for children and families to address incidents of child abuse in Clark County. For information, contact (360) 397-6002.

Starting April 1, the center and other local partners will be sponsoring special activities in support of National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Please watch for related news and information.

Railroad upgrade to delay Caples Road traffic in Brush Prairie starting March 31

Vancouver, WA – Work to upgrade a railroad crossing on Caples Road will reroute and slow traffic for up to four days beginning March 31. Detours will be in place for using NE 137th Avenue and NE 159th Street as alternative routes.

Construction hours will be from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. each day. There could be temporary road closures. Motorists should expect delays or use detour routes. The crossing will be open for normal traffic after 5 p.m. daily.

“This work is necessary to help achieve our long-term goals for the railroad,” said Fred Abraham, the county’s railroad coordinator. “Unfortunately, it will create an inconvenience for a few days, so we’re asking motorists to please be patient while we look forward to the results.”

Columbia Credit Union Wins Marketing Awards

Vancouver, WA – Columbia Credit Union won three Credit Union National Association (CUNA) awards for outstanding marketing and business development achievements in the credit union industry. Awards were given in 34 categories ranging from advertising to community events and beyond by the CUNA Marketing and Business Development Council. Columbia entered in three categories and won an award in each:

Diamond Award for: Email Marketing – Member Appreciation Certificate Email
Merit Awards for: Branding/Corporate Identity – Going Green campaign and
Electronic Marketing – Smart Car Giveaway Promotional Microsite
“The Diamond Awards recognize the best-of-the-best in credit union marketing, advertising and business development,” said Anne Legg, Council Chair. “It takes hard work, imagination, and perseverance to be selected as a Diamond Award winner from 1,200 entries.” Award winners were recognized at the council’s 16th annual conference. For more information, please visit www.cunamarketingcouncil.org.

For more information about Columbia Credit Union, please visit www.columbiacu.org.

LAID-OFF WORKERS TO RECEIVE FREE TUITION AT OIT, KCC Oregon residents eligible to take classes in a new program called Spring Free for Recently Unemp

KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. – Any Oregonian who was laid off on or after Oct. 1, 2008, may be eligible to take free courses at either Oregon Institute of Technology’s Klamath Falls campus or Klamath Community College during Spring Term 2009.

OIT President Chris Maples along with student services directors put together the “Spring Free for Recently Unemployed Oregonians” program late last week. KCC President Gerald Hamilton enthusiastically embraced the program as well.

In this program, those who recently held full-time jobs would be eligible to take classes on a space-available basis at either KCC or OIT during Spring Term only. Students’ needs will be assessed on a case-by-case basis, and prospective students should be prepared to gather necessary documentation quickly.

“OIT is in the enviable position of being able to offer a hand to people so they can once again stand on their own two feet,” said Maples. “We all know higher education can open doors, so this is our chance to help our fellow Oregonians in these tough times.”

“It is in KCC's mission to work with dislocated workers,” said Hamilton. “We are an open enrollment college, and we are happy to work with OIT to help dislocated workers on their way to learning new skills. There is great cooperation between OIT and KCC.”

Specific information about how to get started is listed below for prospective OIT and KCC students.

How to get started at OIT

Prospective students wishing to take advantage of the Spring Free program need to contact the OIT Admissions staff at (541) 885-1150 to get started. Admissions personnel will guide prospective students through the processes of enrolling, applying for financial aid, arranging for placement tests (if applicable) and providing guidance about course selections. To begin, prospective students will need a brief letter from their last employer as evidence of termination due to lack of work.

There are a few important points prospective students should be aware of: Free tuition and fees are capped 14 credits, prospective students are limited to classes where there is space available, participants will be required to enroll in an Academic Success course and the program is only available for Spring Term 2009. A checklist, eligibility requirements, downloadable forms, FAQs and other resources will be available online at www.oit.edu/springfree.

How to get started at KCC

Prospective students wishing to take advantage of the Spring Free program at KCC need to contact Student Services Representative Sharman Blaustein at (541) 880-2208 or blaustein@klamathcc.edu to begin the application and registration process inclusive of a skills assessment.

Eligibility for KCC’s program will be extended to people who have been laid off from full time, part time or seasonal work. Space is limited to the first 30 new students who have completed the application process.

Eligibility for KCC’s program will be extended to people who have been laid off from full time, part time or seasonal work. Space is limited to the first 30 new students who have completed the application process and free tuition will cover three courses: Psychology 101, Business 101, and College Survival and Success 101. Visit www.kcc.cc.or.us to learn more.

President Obama Recognizes Serious Materials for Green Technology

Monday, March 23, 2009

Vancouver, WA

Joe and Linda Yosso, Owners of Northwest Energy Savers and Northwest Regional Serious Materials’ Dealers, are pleased to announce that lead investor and vice-chairman of Serious Materials’ board, Paul Holland introduced President Obama at a news conference this morning. Serious Materials was mentioned prominently by President Obama as a success story.

“At this moment of necessity, we need you,” said the president. “We need some inventiveness. Your country needs you to create new jobs and lead new industries. Your country needs you to mount a historic effort to end, once and for all, our dependence on foreign oil.”

The president lauded companies that produce energy-efficient windows, reliable solar technology, and microchips and batteries for hybrid cars. And he said that there are jobs to be had through the pursuit of green technology projects.

Serious Materials is the market leader in developing and manufacturing advanced green building products that save energy, save money, improve occupant comfort, and aggressively address climate change.

The company was voted #1 at Cleantech Forum XII , won the first Aspen Institute award for innovation in Energy Conservation. and our EcoRock drywall was awarded Green Product of the Year 2008 by Popular Science.

It has also been recognized by TIME/CNN, Fortune, and Business Week as one of the top green technology companies.

NW Energy Savers is a local provider of energy efficient windows and siding.

Please contact Joe Yosso at: 360-931-6138 / joe@askwindowguy.com

for more information on how you can save money and energy at home and work

with innovative “green technology” products and services.

Also visit: www.nwenergysavers.com.

Visit the following link to see the full text of the President’s comments:

http://www.cbsnews.com/blogs/2009/03/23/politics/politicalhotsheet/entry4885397.shtml

First Independent Hosts Free Paper Shred and Styrofoam Recycling Events to Celebrate Community Banking Week

Vancouver, WA – First Independent is hosting four free paper shred events in April to celebrate Community Banking Week, April 20-24. Free paper shred events will take place on all four Saturdays in April, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., at the following branch locations: Fisher’s Landing, 1408 SE 164th, on April 4; Battle Ground, 601 W Main, on April 11; Stevenson, 167 NW Second, on April 18; and Cascade Park, 11515 E Mill Plain, on April 25. The shred events at Fisher’s Landing and Battle Ground, on April 4 and 11 respectively, also will offer Styrofoam collection.
First Independent promotes shredding of confidential documents as a precautionary measure against identity theft. Large trucks at each event will shred the paper onsite, providing a convenient, secure way for people to dispose of sensitive paper documents.
“As a locally-owned bank about to celebrate 100 years in southwest Washington, we’re focused on providing value-added services that help our community," said Brett Bryant, Executive Vice President and Director of Personal and Business Banking. “Regardless of financial situation, protecting one’s identity is something everyone needs to do. Shredding is just one of the solutions we offer to help people take more control over their financial lives and protect their financial future.”
All events are free and open to the pubic and will include complimentary refreshments, giveaways and a chance to win a Solio solar charger for hand-held devices such as cell phones and MP3 players.

Cap-and-Trade Could Cost Washington as Many as 18,292 Net Jobs, $5.7 Billion in Personal Income Economic research institute finds deficiencies in Wes

Seattle – Specific proposals that several Western states would implement to comply with a proposed cap-and-trade carbon emissions control pact would destroy jobs and erode income, according to a report co-released by a national economics institute and the Washington Policy Center.

In a thorough review of the claims made by the Western Climate Initiative (WCI), the Beacon Hill Institute (BHI) at Suffolk University identified several flaws made by the seven state consortium, calling into question so-called cost savings ranging between $11.4 billion and $23.5 billion. These flaws render WCI’s projections useless in determining the WCI’s cost to state economies.

The authors of the report write, “Using the Western Climate Initiative’s own projections of increases in fuel costs, BHI finds that the policies will decrease employment, investment, personal income and disposable income. While WCI claims the ‘design is also intended to mitigate economic impacts, including impacts on consumers, income, and employment,’ they fail to quantify the impacts.”

Seven states are full participants in WCI: Arizona, California, Montana, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, and Washington. Beacon Hill Institute found that WCI’s policy recommendations “would have substantial negative effects” on the economies of its member states. The WCI has recommended three different cap-and-trade scenarios that consider “narrow” and “broad” market coverage and the use of offsets. Under a scenario in which 25 percent of greenhouse gas emission permits would be auctioned off to emitters in a cap-and-trade scheme, BHI, using their STAMP® (State Tax Analysis Modeling Program) model, determined that the seven states:

· Would lose between 35,177 to 165,397 private sector jobs, while the permit revenue would allow the states to hire up to 19,710 state employees

· Would put investment by firms at serious risk by slowing investment in the region by $1.6 billion to $4.5 billion

· Would diminish total personal income, which would fall by $10.2 billion to $47.71 billion per year

The proposals’ negative economic effects stem from the price and tax increases the states would impose on the energy and transportation sectors. Because a cap on carbon emissions is effectively a tax on energy production that is passed to industry, businesses and consumers, the effect is likely to drive commerce and jobs to other states or countries.

“The cap-and-trade program would increase input costs for producers located within WCI states, placing them at a competitive disadvantage to those outside the areas,” BHI noted. “The pressure would be especially acute for producers that utilize large amounts of energy in the production process, such as manufacturers.”

Beacon Hill found that none of the seven WCI states would escape economic harm should cap-and-trade be imposed. Washington State could lose:

· 18,292 net jobs

· $5.71 billion in personal income

· $302.54 in per capita disposable income

If Washington were to adopt the WCI cap-and-trade proposal based on an auction of 25 percent of emission allowances. The environmental community in Washington have advocated for 100 percent auction of emission allowances.

“Past studies claiming to show cap-and-trade creates new ‘green’ jobs have ignored the costs of those policies,” said Todd Myers, environmental director at the Washington Policy Center in Seattle. “This study shows that increasing taxes and regulations will likely kill jobs and prosperity at a time when we can least afford it.”

iQ CREDIT UNION’S READ WITH ME® PROGRAM AWARDS BOOKS TO 4,000 SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON CHILDREN

VANCOUVER, Wash. – iQ Credit Union has awarded $5,250 in book grants to 38 public and private schools in Southwest Washington as part of its Read With Me® grant program. That equals 4,000 books given away free to children who participate in a school-based reading program.

In a partnership with local businesses, Read to Me takes applications from teachers and administrators looking for contributions to their reading programs. The program has been ongoing for 12 years and has provided funds for more than 48,000 books.

“Few things spark a child’s imagination more than the wonder of a book,” said Jennifer Vera, education partnership coordinator, iQ Credit Union. “With our credit union’s roots in education, we believe that instilling a love of reading today can produce a lifetime of rewards. We are very proud of this program and how it has grown.” Read With Me program recipients for 2009 are:

Clark Juvenile Justice Center
Vancouver Home Connection
Washington Elementary
Eisenhower Elementary
Gaiser Middle School
Woodland Intermediate
Amboy Middle School
Glenwood Heights Primary
Henkle Middle School
Eisenhower Elementary
Endeavour Elementary
Frontier Middle School
Riverview Elementary
Lincoln Elementary
Pleasant Valley Middle School
Eisenhower Elementary
Hearthwood Elementary
Image Elementary
Washington School for the Deaf
J.D. Zellerbach Elementary
Laurin Middle School
Ocean Park Elementary
Illahee Elementary
Yacolt Primary School
Centerville School
Washington Elementary
Lake Shore Elementary
Mill Plain Elementary
La Center Elementary
Audrey Christina
Crestline Elementary
Wy'East Middle School
Mt. View Christian
Skamania School
Hathaway Elementary
Stevenson Elementary
York Elementary
Dallesport Elementary
Fort Vancouver High School

Participating local organizations include Nies Insurance, InterWest Financial Advisors, and SW Washington Retired Teachers Association.

State to recommend water system improvement projects Clark County could receive $1,600,000 for well construction

OLYMPIA – Today the Washington State Department of Health released a draft list of water system projects that it recommends for federal stimulus funds.

The department is overseeing more than $38 million in federal economic stimulus money to be used for water system improvements such as covering or repairing reservoirs to keep water clean and building treatment facilities to improve water quality.

“It is vital that our state makes smart, quick decisions that put the federal stimulus money — and people in need of jobs — to work right away,” Gov. Chris Gregoire said. “Safe drinking water is fundamental to our health. These projects will assure water quality and build our economy by putting people to work in some of our hardest-hit areas.”

The department has published a list recommending funding for 27 projects in 16 counties. The proposed projects must still receive final approval from the state Public Works Board. Criteria for selection include an ability to start the project within 12 months, economic need and public health benefit.

The state received 347 applications for projects totaling nearly $416 million, which is 10 times as much as the total available funding.

“While the $38 million doesn’t cover the full need, it lets us give a boost to much-needed projects that have been held up due to lack of funding,” said Gregg Grunenfelder, assistant secretary for DOH. “Nearly all of the applications we received meet the criteria set by the federal government for this funding. That shows just how much this work is needed.”

Over the next two weeks, DOH will take public comment on the draft proposal list. Projects that can begin by June 16, 2009, receive first consideration. At least half of the funding won’t be repaid — these funds are for communities that cannot afford a loan.

DOH is accepting written comments until 5 p.m., April 6. The Public Works Board will meet April 7 to consider the list of recommended projects and provide final approval. To submit comments, send letters or e-mail to:

Kitty Weisman, Infrastructure Finance Lead
Washington State Department of Health
Office of Drinking Water
P.O. Box 47822
Olympia, WA 98504-7822
E-mail: kitty.weisman@doh.wa.gov

To see the draft list of ranked-order projects, visit: www.doh.wa.gov/ehp/dw/our_main_pages/dwsrf.htm.

SWWDC Requests Proposals for $2 million Summer Youth Employment Program-Bidders' Conference Schedule for March 27.

Up to 800 summer jobs for low-income 14-24 year olds will be created in SW Washington under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA). The Southwest Washington Workforce Development Council expects to receive $2 million and is looking for contactors to run the programs this summer.

The SWWDC is soliciting proposals for three types of services for the SYEP. Proposals are due April 10, 2009. Eligible bidders may be public, private, or non-profit organizations. Services requested include:
1) Participant recruitment, screening, job placement, supervision; (multiple providers expected to be selected)
2) Work readiness skills; (one or more providers expected to be selected); and,
3) Payroll services (one provider expected to be selected for the entire three county area).

Work sites are also needed with local employers. Information for employers interested in serving as job sites is also contained within the RFP.

The RFP can be accessed at www.swwdc.org beginning Tuesday, March 24, 2009. A bidders' conference will be held on Friday, March 27, 8:30 am – 10:30 am at the Oak Tree Restaurant, 1020 Atlantic Ave, Woodland, WA.

For more information, visit www.swwdc.org or email info@swwdc.org.

Iolani School from Honolulu, Hawaii Wins U.S. Department of Energy Real World Design Challenge

WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced that Iolani School from Honolulu, Hawaii is the winner of the DOE’s 2009 Real World Design Challenge. Fifty-four high school students representing 10 states from across the Nation competed in the National Challenge. The finals were held at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum.

“I would like to offer my congratulations to all of the students who competed in the Real World Design Challenge,” U.S. Secretary of Energy Steven Chu said. “Today’s competition shows that U.S. students, when challenged to excel, are able to perform at the highest levels in science, math and engineering. The student team from Iolani School worked together to solve a real-life engineering challenge, with impressive results. Our goal for the Real World Design Challenge is that it will continue to encourage students to study and pursue careers in engineering.”

The Real World Design Challenge (RWDC) is a new annual competition that provides high school students with the opportunity to apply the lessons of the classroom to important energy and environment technical problems currently encountered in the engineering field. The purpose of the RWDC is to ensure the future of our Nation's economic competitiveness by inspiring today’s students to become tomorrow’s engineers. The theme for the 2009 Challenge was “Aviation and Fuel Consumption.”

Members of the winning team include Amy Ko, Adeline Li, Anya Liao, Celia Ou, Jessica Lynn Saylors, Julia Zhang, and coach Carey Inouye. The final competition was judged by seven industry and academic experts: Dave Brant, Cessna Aircraft Company; Mary Cleave, National Aeronautics and Space Administration; Dr. John D. Evans, Lockheed Martin Corporation; Joyce Malyn-Smith, Ed.D., Education Development Center; Robert E. Mansfield, Jr., USAF, Retired; Dr. Donald Senich, National Science Foundation; and John D. Stuart, Parametric Technology Corporation.

The first place team won a contribution of $3,000 to their school’s science/technology department, a Real World Design Challenge Trophy and a model of the Cessna Citation X aircraft, provided by the Cessna Aircraft Company. Each team member also received an iPod Shuffle, courtesy of Parametric Technology Corporation.

Placing second in the Real World Design Challenge was the Newburyport High School from Newburyport, Massachusetts. Team members include Thayer Adsit, Philip Arets, Belle Douglass, Irene Jacqz, Molly Picillo, Travis Souther, Tom Svirsky, and coach Sarah Leadbeater. The team won a contribution of $2,000 to their school’s science/technology department, a Real World Design Challenge Trophy and a model of the Cessna CJ4 aircraft, provided by the Cessna Aircraft Company.

The third place team was Cumberland Valley High School from Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. Team members include Cody Ambrose, Kyle Gochenaur, Vladimir Grinevich, Jeffrey Pope, and coach Michael Flowers. This team won a contribution of $1,000 to their school’s science/technology department, a Real World Design Challenge Trophy and a model of the Cessna Mustang aircraft, provided by the Cessna Aircraft Company.

The other seven teams who qualified for the National Challenge received $500 for their school’s science/technology department.

“The quality of the projects is an indication to me that these students could go to work today at a major engineering firm and make immediate contributions,” said John Stuart, one of the judges. “I was surprised that high school students were capable of working at this level of engineering expertise, but it does give me confidence that our schools can produce U.S. students who will solve some of our major energy and environmental challenges over the coming decades.”

The RWDC first took place at the state level with the Governor’s Challenge. Student teams were asked to redesign an existing aircraft to maximize its fuel efficiency while meeting specific performance capabilities. Students used professional engineering software, donated at no cost by Parametric Technology Corporation, to develop their solutions. Each participating state selected its top team to compete at the RWDC National Challenge, held March 20 – 22, 2009 in Washington, DC. The U.S. Department of Energy provided the 10 winning state teams with expense-paid trips to the national competition.

The National Challenge added several components to the original aviation design challenge. Teams were asked to develop a marketing presentation explaining how and why they arrived at their proposed solution. Presentations were made before an expert panel representing professionals from industry, academia and the federal government. Winners were chosen based on the teams’ design solutions, presentations and project journals.

The Real World Design Challenge is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science, in partnership with Parametric Technology Corporation, Cessna Aircraft Company, the Federal Aviation Administration, and the States of Connecticut, Hawaii, Kansas, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington.

Teams may be interviewed by calling the DOE media contacts.

More information, including the winning presentation by Iolani School, can be found at http://www.scied.science.doe.gov/RWDC/index.html

CLARK COUNTY FOOD SYSTEM COUNCIL

CALENDAR ANNOUNCEMENT

March 20, 2009

Contact: Tricia Mortell, Clark County Public Health
360-397-8000 Ext 7211; tricia.mortell@clark.wa.gov



Event: Clark County Food System Council Presents:

COMMUNITY GROWN: A community forum about creating successful food garden programs in Clark County

When: Wednesday, April 8, 2009

3:00–7:00 PM

Where: First Presbyterian Church

4300 Main St., Vancouver, Washington

Who should come:

Leaders from neighborhoods, churches, schools
and other community groups

RSVP by April 3
Kathy LaFon 397- 8000 Ext 7318

or kathy.lafon@clark.wa.gov

Community Sponsors:
Clark County Public Health
Clark County Sustainability
Vancouver-Clark Parks and Recreation
WSU Clark County Extension
Clark County Solid Waste

Cantwell: Governor Locke is a Solid Pick for Secretary of Commerce

Governor Gary Locke has Experience to Tackle Tough Issues at Department of Commerce

WASHINGTON, DC – As a member of the U.S. Senate Commerce Committee, today, Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) introduced, and heard testimony from, former Washington state Governor Gary Locke during his confirmation hearing to be Secretary of Commerce. President Barack Obama nominated Locke last month to oversee the Commerce Department, which is responsible for promoting job creation and improved living standards for Americans by creating an infrastructure that promotes economic growth, technological competitiveness, and sustainable development. If confirmed, Locke would be the 36th Secretary of Commerce.

“Governor Locke has the global outlook, leadership, and knowledge it’s going to take to lead the Department of Commerce through near-term challenges, while at the same time making the right decisions for the future of this country,” said Cantwell. “As the Governor of Washington, he knows how vital trade is to the strength of U.S. and global economies. He understands the role technology plays in driving innovation and improving the quality of life. And, he’s seen firsthand how complex the issues surrounding fisheries and oceans can be. I know he is ready to roll up his sleeves and get to work, and I know that we couldn’t ask for a better public servant.”

Governor Gary Locke was elected Washington’s 21st governor on November 5, 1996, making him the first Chinese-American governor in U.S. history. On November 7, 2000, Locke was re-elected to a second term. As governor, Locke worked to make Washington a better place to live, work, and raise a family by promoting excellence in education, strengthening the economy, protecting families, enhancing the environment, and modeling responsible government. Prior to being elected governor, Locke served as chief executive of King County in 1993 and took on the issues and challenges facing Washington’s largest city.

The Department of Commerce works to promote trade and to ensure compliance with trade laws and export controls to strengthen the international economic position of the United States; promote progressive domestic business policies and growth; improve comprehension and uses of the physical environment and its oceanic life; ensure effective use and growth of the Nation's scientific and technical resources; acquire , analyze, and disseminate information regarding the nation and the economy to help achieve increased social and economic benefit; and assisting states, communities, and individuals with economic progress.

Cantwell is Chair of the Subcommittee on Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries, and Coast Guard. She has made protecting our waterways from oil spills and recognizing the dangerous effects of climate change and ocean acidification a priority. She has also worked tirelessly to improve fisheries management and promote conservation, while supporting a robust national fishing industry.

How to keep health insurance if you’re laid-off

OLYMPIA, Wash. – Chances are if you lose your job, you’ve also lost your health insurance.

“If you’re facing unemployment, the added stress of losing your employer-sponsored health insurance can be overwhelming,” said Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler. “Call our Insurance Consumer Hotline at 1-800-562-6900. We can help you understand how to keep your coverage or shop for a new health plan.”

In Washington state, the options for continuing your previous health coverage depend on the size of your employer.

If you worked for an employer with 20 or more employees and they’re still in business:

A federal law called COBRA allows you to keep your employer’s health plan for a limited time if you pay the entire premium plus a 2% administrative fee.
A temporary COBRA premium subsidy of 65% is available for nine months under the recently passed American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (the stimulus plan). Workers who were laid-off from their job between Sept. 1, 2008 through Dec. 31, 2009, and their family members who were covered under their employer’s health plan, are eligible for the subsidy.
You have a right to the subsidy even if you didn’t select COBRA initially, as long as you were laid-off between Sept. 1, 2008 and Dec. 31, 2009.
Your former employer must notify you of your option to select COBRA and if you qualify for the new COBRA subsidy. To learn more about COBRA and the new COBRA subsidy, read http://www.insurance.wa.gov/publications/health/yourrightsunderCOBRA.shtml
If your employer is no longer in business, stops offering health insurance or if you worked for a small business with less than 20 employees, you are not eligible for COBRA coverage. Other options for health insurance include:

Adding yourself and/or family members to your spouse’s or domestic partner’s employer-sponsored health plan. Contact their employer as soon as possible to see if you can enroll immediately or if you have to wait for open-enrollment.
Applying for an individual health insurance plan. Keep in mind that some applicants must take a health questionnaire. If you fail the questionnaire, you automatically qualify for coverage from the Washington State Health Insurance Pool (WSHIP). To learn more, call our Insurance Consumer Hotline at 1-800-562-6900. For more information on buying individual health plans and to see sample rates, read: http://www.insurance.wa.gov/publications/health/individual_health_care_coverage.pdf
Some low cost options may be available for you and your children depending on your income. Call our Insurance Consumer Hotline at 1-800-562-6900 to learn more about these programs.

Community Foundation to award over a quarter million dollars in grants

Vancouver, WA – March 17, 2009. The Community Foundation for Southwest Washington will award over a quarter of a million dollars in grants to nonprofit organizations and schools in Clark, Cowlitz and Skamania counties on Thursday, March, 19, 2009 at the Hilton Vancouver, Washington. Local nonprofit leaders, philanthropists and Community Foundation Board and Grants Committee members will attend the Awards Event that will commence at 9:00 a.m.

Twenty-seven nonprofit programs will receive a total of $243,946 from the Community Giving Fund and the Children’s Trust Fund. In addition, the Community Foundation continues to allocate over $30,000 annually for the Principal’s Checkbook Program.

The Community Giving Fund

The Community Giving Fund is a permanent endowment within the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington that supports a broad range of organizations and programs that improve the lives of our community’s residents. Grant award selections are guided by a committee of Board and community members knowledgeable about local needs.

The following organizations are this year’s grant recipients: Affordable Community Environments, Big Brothers Big Sisters Columbia Northwest, CDM Services, Clark County Food Bank, Clark County Safe Kids, Clark County Volunteer Lawyers Program, Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts, Deaf Advocates Foundation, Evergreen Habitat for Humanity, Free Clinic of SW Washington, Friends of the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge, Hough Foundation, Loaves and Fishes Centers, Parks Foundation of Clark County, Val Ogden Center/Janus of Southwest Washington, Vancouver-Clark Parks and Recreation, YW Housing, and YWCA Clark County.


The Children’s Trust Fund

Established in 1989 to support children’s issues, the Children’s Trust Fund is the result of the efforts of a group of women dedicated to raising funds. Nearly $1 million in grants has been awarded to local nonprofits since the Fund was established.

2009 grants are for: The Arthur D. Curtis Children’s Justice Center, Boys and Girls Clubs of SW Washington, comfort items for children who are victims of trauma, Impact Northwest, Infant Layette Program benefitting Healthy Steps Women and Children’s Center and Legacy Salmon Creek Hospital, Reach Out and Read, ROCKSOLID Community Teen Center, Share, Washington State University Foundation/At-Home At-School.

Principal’s Checkbook Program

Funding for the 2008/2009 Principal’s Checkbook Program came from the following sources; the Children’s Trust Fund, Tribe Fund for the Principal’s Checkbook Program, iQ Credit Union, Masco Family Trust, La Center Casinos Charitable Fund, and the community-at-large.

This year, the urgent needs of children and youth from 94 schools in 16 southwest Washington school districts in Clark, Cowlitz and Skamania counties will be supported through this Program.

Upcoming MBA Seminar: Conflict Resolution in the 21st Century, April 28-29, 2009

Portland, Ore.: On April 28 and 29, the MBA, in collaboration with Willamette University College of Law, presents Ken Cloke, Julie Macfarlane, and Len Riskin - three of North America’s greatest teachers in conflict resolution - in a powerful, unique program entitled “Conflict Resolution in the 21st Century.”

This program aims to present the most significant issues, trends and skills in conflict resolution so judges, mediators and lawyers can resolve their cases more effectively.

Details and registration information may be found at www.mbabar.org.

April 28, Julie Macfarlane will conduct a small workshop for 50 lawyers who wish to expand their settlement repertoire beyond the adversarial trial model. The workshop will be based on her important book, The New Lawyer: How Settlement Is Transforming the Practice of Law.

April 29, Ken Cloke and Len Riskin, along with Julie Macfarlane, will explore ways to:

§ Maximize your mediations and settlements to resolve conflict

§ Gain essential knowledge and negotiation skills for the New Lawyer

§ Analyze complex levels of conflict and conflict resolution

§ Use the language of conflict in litigation versus consensus-building

§ Build top negotiation and mediation strategies

§ Understand the neurophysiology of conflict

§ Discover the impact of the Neutral’s presence in achieving resolution.

About the Speakers

Kenneth Cloke, Director, Center for Dispute Resolution, Santa Monica, has served as a mediator, arbitrator, attorney, coach, consultant and trainer. His experience includes the university setting, public, private and nonprofit organizations, both in the US and internationally. He also has served as an Administrative Law Judge, a Judge Pro Tem and has been an arbitrator and mediator for over 27 years. He graduated from the U.C. Berkeley Boalt Law School and received a Ph.D and LL.M. from UCLA.

Julie Macfarlane, University of Windsor, Ontario, Canada, is a widely published author, teacher, speaker and lecturer on dispute resolution. In addition to being a faculty advisor and founder of Mediation Services and a full professor at the Faculty Law of the University of Windsor, her consulting practice offers conflict resolution service, training, facilitation and systems design for a range of public and private sector clients. Over the past 10 years, she has provided mediation training for legal practitioners, law students, civil servants, union and management groups, aboriginal council members, legal aid workers and health care professionals. Her current funded research is an empirical study of the practice of Islamic divorce in North America. She earned a Ph.D. from the University of South Bank and an LL.M. from London University.

Leonard Riskin, Professor, University of Florida, Levin College of Law, has been mediating, writing about mediation and training lawyers and law students for over 25 years. Much of Professor Riskin’s work has centered on mindsets with which lawyers and other dispute resolvers approach their work. He has published numerous articles in academic journals and popular publications and newspapers and books on dispute resolution. He has received awards for his work on the subject. Riskin has practiced mindfulness meditation since 1990 and has completed teacher training at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center. He received a J.D. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and an LL.M. from Yale. In addition to his academic work, he served as a trial attorney and general counsel.

The April 28 workshop will take place at the Standard Insurance Center. The main program on April 29 will take place at The Governor Hotel and include breakfast and lunch.

Largest Number of Coach Couples to Date Completed Training

Vancouver, WA — On March 21, MarriageTeam completed a 24-hour training program for marriage coaches. Twenty-four couples learned how to strengthen marriages through the process of building relationship skills and helping couples clarify issues, identify options, and move to action. Training included how to use the internationally acclaimed PREPARE/ENRICH marriage inventory that facilitates the coaching process.

After their graduation from MarriageTeam's training program, many of these couples will be available to coach other couples who want to improve their marriage. With these new coaches, MarriageTeam anticipates having over 45 coach couples in the Portland and Vancouver areas.

Marriage coaching works for premarital as well as married couples. There are business, leadership, personal, life, and fitness coaches to name just a few and now there are marriage coaches who can empower a couple to create a winning marriage. Coaching is all about helping couples achieve the objectives they want in their marriage. Coaching will be available on a first come, first serve basis.

Coaching can provide an affordable and effective alternative for many couples who want to improve their marriage. Interested individuals can learn more about marriage coaching at www.MarriageTeam.org or call 866 831-4201.

Background

MarriageTeam is a nonprofit based in Vancouver, WA that provides couple coaching as a faith based community service. It is dedicated to empowering couples for winning marriages through coaching and relationship skill building. The organization uses volunteers and donors to provide the staffing and funds needed for operations. Services are provided to couples by trained coach couples. MarriageTeam currently provides:

Premarital coaching for engaged couples,
Enrichment coaching for couples wanting to improve their teamwork,
Coaching for couples who are experiencing significant conflict in their relationship

Coaching is different than counseling because it assumes that couples are healthy and can resolve their issues with the assistance of a trained coach. An analogy helps to explain what happens. We are all born into different teams called our family. As we grow up, we learn the plays that work for our team. Some teams of origin are more functional (winning) than others. As young adults we become free agents and create our own new teams called marriage. The problem is that we bring our old playbook and we do not share it with our new teammate. This creates errors, fumbles, and frustration.

Coaches help marriages create a common playbook so they can work together for a winning marriage.

River Maiden Coffee opens 2nd Location in Downtown Vancouver Rebounding from the Indoor Market closure on 9/30/07, River Maiden officially opens this

(Vancouver, WA March 19, 2009): This Saturday, March 21st, 2009, River Maiden Artisan Coffee will formally open it’s 2nd location at the NE corner of 7th & Main, in Downtown Vancouver. The location is just 2 ½ blocks east of its original downtown location of 7th & Esther (inside the former Indoor Farmers Market which closed 9/30/07). That highly successful original downtown location was closed by the City’s decision not to sign any Vancouver Farmers Market tenants when the Vancouver Farmers Market forfeited it’s obligations to the indoor space at Esther Short Commons.

Opening the same day the Farmers Market begins it’s 2009 season is very significant for River Maiden. River Maiden began on Mother’s Day 2002 as a jewelry booth at Vancouver Farmers Market. In 2005, River Maiden expanded to artisan coffee, opening two locations: September 17th, 2005, at the (now defunct) Indoor Farmers Market and December 6th, 2005, in the ‘Heights’ on Devine Road in central Vancouver. “This will be seven years since we began” stated Melissa Layman, River Maiden’s founder. “With us being ready to open for opening day, it means we only missed the 2008 season because of the City’s displacement. We’re hopeful our new location just 2 ½ blocks east of the original Farmers Market location will allow our former patrons to find and enjoy us again whenever they come to the market”.

Intially, hours at the new River Maiden will be 7AM – 5 PM weekdays, 8AM – 1PM weekends. “Downtown is a challenging business environment, but so is the ‘Heights’. We know we can flourish here again if we stick to what’s made River Maiden successful – The highest quality coffees, great customer care, and the best value possible”.

This will be River Maiden’s second location. It’s flagship coffeehouse on Devine Road in the ‘Heights’ of central Vancouver will still continue to serve it’s customers 7AM – 7PM, seven days a week. The Heights location is the only coffeehouse in the world that features the famous Clover® vacuum press and acclaimed local roaster, Stumptown Coffee.

Murray, Cochran, McCarthy Introduce Major Bi-Partisan Legislation to Help Improve Americans’ Financial Decision Making Skills

For the first time, bi-cameral, bi-partisan bill would make the federal government a major supporter in teaching financial literacy to students and adults

For a summary of the Financial and Economic Literacy Improvement Act of 2009 visit HERE

To view the Financial and Economic Literacy Improvement Act of 2009 visit HERE

To listen to Senator Murray’s speech on the Senate floor introducing the bill visit HERE

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Thad Cochran (R-MS), and Representative Carolyn McCarthy (D-NY 4th) introduced legislation that will make the federal government a major supporter of providing financial literacy education to Americans of all ages in our schools and colleges. The Financial and Economic Literacy Improvement Act of 2009 will provide $250 million in grants annually to states to support teaching financial literacy in K-12 and 2-and 4-year colleges. The bill was introduced today in the Senate and a similar version will be introduced in the House of Representatives.

“We used to say the three ‘R’s’ of school are reading, writing, and arithmetic,” said Senator Murray. “Well, I think we need to add a fourth ‘R’ – resource management. This bill will ensure that the federal government steps up to the plate and becomes a real partner in helping Americans manage their finances and make good decisions about housing, employment, and education. If we are going to avoid many of the mistakes that led to this crisis, we need to focus on giving Americans the skills to understand the fine print and avoid mounting debt. In January, after President Obama took the oath of office he called for an era of personal responsibility. This bill helps Americans to usher in that era.”

“Financial literacy and responsibility should be instilled in our young people early in life so that they have the knowledge and tools they need to make sound financial decisions as adults,” said Senator Cochran. “In my home state, the Mississippi Council on Economic Education is doing a good job of providing a foundation of financial literacy for Mississippi’s youth. I hope the assistance provided through this legislation will allow programs like the Mississippi Council on Economic Education to thrive in other states.”

“Over the past few months, it has become apparent that the lack of education among consumers about financial systems and products is one of the key elements of our nation’s current economic crisis,” said Representative McCarthy. “In many cases, consumers were preyed on by financial institutions and sold into debts that they were not capable of fulfilling. At its root, this has been a defining factor of the current economic crisis.

“This bill seeks to better educate consumers and arm them with the knowledge that will help them navigate the rough waters of our economy. The bill will also teach students in school and college financial literacy, which will help them avoid financial pitfalls in the future. It is more important than ever that Americans become informed consumers in order to prevent our economy from weakening further. I would like to thank Senators Murray and Cochran for their hard work on this bill and I look forward to introducing similar legislation in the House.”

The Financial Literacy Improvement Act seeks to enhance the teaching of economic and personal finance principals across disciplines in K-12 education, and to make practical financial and economic courses more widely available to adults of any age through our higher education system, including 2- and 4-year colleges. This bill will better prepare today’s and tomorrow’s citizens for the numerous individual financial decisions needed to ensure prosperous, healthy, and productive communities.

To do this, the bill authorizes $250 million annually, over the next five years, to be given to states. The funding will be split into $125 million for K-12 education efforts and $125 million for adult financial literacy efforts at 2 and 4-year colleges. The bill also includes a user-friendly clearinghouse of resources, tools, and best practices for financial and economic literacy education.

Senator Murray is a senior member of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) committee that oversees education as well as a member of the Labor, Health and Human Services and Education (LHHS) Appropriations Committee that oversees Education funding. Senator Cochran is also a senior member of the LHHS committee as well as the ranking Republican member of the full Appropriations Committee. Representative McCarthy is a senior member of the House Committee on Education and Labor.

USGBC Conferences & Events Team First in U.S. to Receive Certification for Sustainable Event Management

Washington, DC – (March 19, 2009) U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC) Conferences and Events team today announced certification under BS 8901:2007, the new British standard for planning and managing sustainable events. USGBC is the first organization in North America to receive certification for its Conferences and Events Team under BS 8901:2007, the world’s first certifiable sustainability management system standard for the events industry.

Each year, the USGBC Conferences & Events Team is responsible for over 100 events including the Greenbuild International Conference & Expo, the world's largest conference and expo dedicated to green building, as well as the USGBC Federal Summit, various roundtables and Member Circle events. The third-party verification that is part of the certification process was done by Sustainable Event Certification and included on-site auditing at the Greenbuild 2008 in Boston, Mass. This year’s show will take place November 11-13, 2009 in Phoenix, Ariz.

“At each Greenbuild, our Conferences and Events team works closely with our vendors, host communities, exhibitors and attendees to cut down on natural resource use and reduce carbon emissions, while gaining feedback about ways to continuously improve the show,” said Kimberly Lewis, Vice President of Conferences and Events, USGBC. “Certification under the British standard validates our processing, execution and post-event monitoring and incentivizes us to continue to transform the global meetings industry.”

BS 8901 provides a robust framework through which event organizers, suppliers to the events industry and events themselves can demonstrate their commitment to a more sustainable future and requires organizations to aspire to continually improve their sustainability performance in relation to the management of events. BS 8901 shares common management system principles and processes with the ISO 9001 standard on Quality Management and the ISO 14001 standard on Environmental Management.

Rep. Ed Orcutt's statement on today's revenue forecast

Rep. Ed Orcutt, R-Kalama, member of the state Economic and Revenue Forecast Council, and ranking Republican on the House Finance Committee, released the following statement after today's updated Washington state revenue forecast:

"I sincerely hope this new revenue forecast is an indication that our economy is beginning to stabilize. We may see some small downward trends in upcoming forecasts, but I'm hoping the sharp drop in revenue collections is coming to an end.

"The most important thing to remember about our economy and our revenue collections is this: We are in the midst of a consumer-led recession -- consumers will be the ones to lead us out, not more government spending. We need to put all talk of tax increases to rest. We can -- and we must -- balance the budget without raising taxes on hard-working families.

"We're almost two-thirds of the way through this session yet don't have a true supplemental budget nor an official, published plan of closing our state's multi-billion dollar budget shortfall. Now that we've seen the official March revenue forecast, I hope we can get to work putting our state budget on the path of sustainability, accountability and transparency."

Rep. Jaime Herrera's statement on today's state revenue forecast

"Today's revenue forecast is disappointing, but not unexpected. State lawmakers have known since the first day of the legislative session that the state faced a serious budget shortfall, which makes the inaction of the majority party frustrating.

"Budget proposals are going to be rolled out in the next week and we are going to see different approaches. I support a no-new-taxes approach that restructures state government and prioritizes public safety, education and services for our vulnerable citizens.

"It is also important to keep revenue and spending in perspective. Our state will have more revenue in the upcoming budget cycle than it does in the current one. A lot of people are surprised when they hear that fact, and it illustrates our state's spending problem.

"It is also time for our state to look in the mirror and find ways to improve its budget process. While the economy has played a roll, the size of our budget problem is a result of overspending and a process that allows for it. Our state needs a constitutional spending limit, a balanced budget requirement and a system in which extraordinary revenue generated in good economic times is set side. These are just a few proposals I support that will ensure budget sustainability in the future."

Food System Council seeks members

The Clark County Food System Council, a citizen advisory council whose mission is to increase and preserve access to safe, local and healthy food for Clark County residents, currently has membership openings. Council members share common interests and beliefs related to creating and maintaining a sustainable community food system. Members represent public health, nutrition and education, food security, waste management, resource conservation, agriculture, food distribution and community leaders.

The council meets monthly on the 4th Thursday of each month from 4 to 6 pm at the CASEE Center, 11104 NE 149th St. Brush Prairie, WA 98606.

Applications will be accepted through April 15. For more information and to receive an application, please contact Tricia Mortell at 360-397-8000 ext 7211 or e-mail tricia.mortell@clark.wa.gov.

Recovery Act Funding Loans in Rural Washington

(Spokane, WA), March 17, 2009 – Melissa Cummins, Acting State Executive Director for USDA’s Farm Service Agency announced today that FSA in Washington will fund 36 additional Farm Operating Loans from American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 funds. These loans total $3.9 million in additional capital to help the Washington rural farm economy.

Nationwide, Farm Service Agency staff will immediately use $145 million of the $173 million provided in the Recovery Act for its Direct Operating Farm Loan Program, which will give 2,042 farmers direct loans from the agency. It is notable that almost 50% of these loans are to beginning farmers and 10% are to socially disadvantaged producers.

"These loans will go to work purchasing farm equipment, feed, seed, fuel and other operating expenses. Rural communities and Washington growers can use this help to keep our farms and ranches operating,” said Cummins.

All remaining funding will be allocated through approved loans until all available funds have been expended. Applications are considered on a first come, first served basis with special emphasis placed on beginning and socially disadvantaged applicants. The maximum loan amount is $300,000.

In keeping with the president's goal for the Recovery Act, this loan funding is intended for proper investment into the agricultural sector, to benefit both family farmers and rural economies. The Recovery Act was designed to preserve or create millions of jobs throughout the country and these loans help ensure that recipients remain financially viable and local agri-businesses benefit from direct purchases.

For specific information on direct operating loans and other FSA farm loan programs, please visit your FSA county office or our website at http://www.fsa.usda.gov.

USDA Celebrates National Ag Day

(Brush Prairie, WA), March 17 - American agriculture is responsible for providing the necessities of everyday life ... food, fiber, and even fuel. That's the message of National Ag Day, which is celebrated March 20, 2009. According to Taylor Murray, County Executive Director of USDA’s Farm Service Agency in Brush Prairie, WA producers, agricultural associations, corporations, universities, government agencies and countless others across America will gather to celebrate the abundance provided by agriculture on this first day of spring.
“The National Ag Day program is committed to increasing public awareness about American agriculture,” said County Executive Director, Murray. “As the world population soars, there is even greater demand for the food, fiber and renewable resources that the United States produces.”
The Agriculture Council of America, organizers of National Ag Day, says that every American should understand how food, fiber and renewable resource products are produced and should value the essential role of agriculture in maintaining a strong economy. Consumers should appreciate the role agriculture plays in providing safe, abundant and affordable products. National Ag Day will focus on educating Americans about the industry, so they may also acknowledge and consider career opportunities in the agriculture, food, fiber and renewable resource industry.
“Today's farmer feeds more than 130 people in the United States and abroad,” said County Executive Director, Murray. “In 1960, that number was 25. Today, more than 15 percent of the U.S. population is employed in farm or farm-related jobs.”
Each year, the National Ag Day program gathers members of the agricultural industry in an effort to promote American agriculture. Focused on sharing how agriculture provides almost everything we eat, use and wear on a daily basis, the National Ag Day program helps educate millions of consumers each year. Join this effort to promote American agriculture to everyone during National Ag Week, March 15-21, 2009. For more information contact your local USDA Service Center or the Agriculture Council of America.

Statement from SBA Acting Administrator on Recovery Efforts Announced by President Obama Today

WASHINGTON – The following statement was issued today by Acting Administrator Darryl K. Hairston of the U.S. Small Business Administration following the announcement by President Barack Obama of important steps being taken by the SBA and the U.S. Department of Treasury to address the economic challenges facing small businesses and entrepreneurs across the country.

“U.S. small businesses employ about half our nation’s workers and over the last decade have created about 70 percent of all new jobs. But their access to credit and lending markets has dried up, making it harder every day for small businesses to keep their doors open and their employees working. American small businesses are one of the strongest engines for economic prosperity in the world, and we can’t let this crisis continue to undermine their growth and potential. Today President Obama reiterated his belief that we owe it to America’s small businesses to be the partner they need in the midst of this crisis. At SBA, we couldn’t agree more.

“SBA this week is implementing two key provisions laid out in the Recovery Act – we are temporarily eliminating certain loan fees and raising guarantees on some 7(a) loans up to 90 percent. With these critical steps by SBA, and the Treasury Department’s commitment of up to $15 billion aimed at getting lending markets flowing again, we are standing up with small business owners across this country and telling them how we are going to put much-needed capital in their hands.

“We hope small businesses will take the opportunity to ask their banks about the SBA loans that might be available to them. And, we encourage community banks and other lenders to work with us to reach as many qualified borrowers as we can during these difficult times.”


Beginning today, the SBA will:

· Temporarily raise guarantees to up to 90 percent on SBA’s 7(a) loan program, through calendar year 2009, or until the funds are exhausted. This increase in guarantee levels will help provide banks with the greater confidence they need to extend credit during the current recession, will mean more capital available to small business owners around the country.

· Temporarily eliminate fees for borrowers on SBA 7(a) loans and for both borrowers and lenders on 504 Certified Development Company loans, through calendar year 2009, or until the funds are exhausted. This will mean more capital available to small businesses at a lower cost. The fee elimination is retroactive to February 17, the day the Recovery Act was signed. SBA is developing a mechanism for refunding fees paid on loans since then.

Additionally, the President announced today that the Treasury Department will commit up to $15 billion to help unlock the frozen credit markets by purchasing small business loan securities currently frozen on the secondary market. By purchasing these securities, it will unlock these secondary markets, and in turn, free up more capital to jumpstart lending for small business owners. The SBA has worked closely with the Treasury Department to address the need to unlock these secondary markets for SBA loans.

For more information on the SBA and Treasury initiatives announced today by the President, visit the SBA Web site at www.sba.gov.

Skills Center Students Rip Up Regionals to Move to State

60 students from the Clark County Skills Center will vie for state championships in the SkillsUSA statewide competition next month in Yakima after finishing in the top three in the recent southwest Washington regionals.

Among the twelve regional champions were Mountain View senior Stephen Dirocco and Union junior Valeriy Silanov in Automotive Technology; Justin Roub, a Columbia River junior, and Viktor Slivkov, a Heritage junior in Construction Technology; Evergreen senior Aaron Bruckner, Parkrose senior Sterling Arkills, Camas junior Benjamin Rodriguez and Mountain View senior Steven Nance in Electro-Digital Technologies; and seniors Zack Flatner of Hockinson and Andrea Bunica of Parkrose in Pre-Engineering and Design.

The regional champions in Criminal Justice -- Union juniors Isabella Cruz and Darya Koloyarskaya as well as Evergreen juniors Tyler Rossmiller and Timothy Tite – will not compete in Yakima because there is no statewide competition for Criminal Justice.

The statewide competition runs April 9th through April 11th at the Yakima Convention Center. For more information, please call Skills Center Director Dennis Kampe at (360) 604-1050.

Opened in 1983, the Clark County Skills Center is owned and operated by ten southwest Washington school districts providing technical and professional training programs that prepare Clark County high school and college students for the workforce.

Gov. Gregoire’s statement on P-I Closure

OLYMPIA – Gov. Chris Gregoire today released the following statement on the closure of the Seattle Post-Intelligencer:

“I am saddened at the loss of a great Washington newspaper, the Seattle Post-Intelligencer, and especially saddened that most of the newspaper’s dedicated staff lost their jobs.

“Published since 1863, the P-I has carefully reported the vital news of Seattle and Washington since territorial days. The P-I chronicled everything from the Klondike Gold Rush to the Great Depression, two world wars, state and local politics, and the evolution of our amazing business sector from Boeing to Microsoft. That’s a lot of history, and the P-I’s passing is a sad day for the people of Seattle and of Washington.

“I salute the P-I and its employees. And I wish the Hearst Corporation well in its venture to reinvent the newspaper as an on-line publication.”

Cantwell Statement Following Seattle Post-Intelligencer’s Announcement It Will Cease Publication on Tuesday

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) issued the following statement following news that the Seattle Post-Intelligencer will cease publication tomorrow:

“For nearly 150 years, the Seattle Post-Intelligencer has served as a witness to our history. Today is a sad day for communities across Washington and for the hundreds of talented men and women of the PI. I have gotten to know many of these reporters, columnists, and editorial writers over the years, and I am confident that these hard-working community watchdogs will be able to find promising new careers and new ways to provide the public with the information it needs.”

Parks Foundation Funds Senior Programs

Foundation provides $30,323 in support of programs benefiting Clark County seniors

VANCOUVER, Wash. – The Parks Foundation released more than $30,000 in support of senior programs through Vancouver-Clark Parks and Recreation over the past month. The funds, which were provided through the Theodore Barney Estate Endowment and the generosity of longtime senior advocate Merle Hogg will provide support to programs benefiting Clark County seniors. These programs include aquatics and fitness classes, special events and dances, health-focused seminars and programs, and senior support groups and clubs.

New technology increases access to fresh foods at three local farmers markets

Vancouver, WA— Starting this spring, market shoppers at Battleground, Camas and Vancouver Farmers Markets will be able to use Washington State Basic Food EBT cards (also known as food stamps or QUEST cards) to purchase tokens that can be used to buy fresh produce and other healthy foods. Shoppers will also be able to use their credit and debit cards as part of this wireless technology pilot project, made possible through the state’s recently passed Local Farms-Healthy Kids Initiative.

Twenty-one rural and urban markets from eastern and western Washington were selected through a competitive grant process to participate in the two-year program.

“We are hopeful that this new program, in addition to WIC and Senior Farmers Market Nutrition programs currently in place, will help families with limited resources increase their consumption of farm fresh foods,” said Tricia Mortell, program manager at Clark County Public Health and member of the Clark County Food System Council. The council works to increase and preserve access to safe, local and healthy food for all Clark County residents.

Eligibility for Washington’s Basic Food Program was expanded last October. According to the state Department of Social and Health Services, an estimated 23,756 households in Clark County received food benefits in January. This is a 24 percent increase in households enrolled from June of last year. To learn more about Basic Food Program eligibility or to find an online application, visit the Department of Social and Health Services Web site at www.foodhelp.wa.gov.

Senator Murray to Deliver Floor Speech on Struggling Newspaper Industry as Seattle PI Publishes Its Final Edition

As newspapers, TV, radio, and the jobs they provide nationwide, fall victim to the recession and a changing business environment, Murray will highlight their importance to a strong democracy

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) will deliver a speech on the Senate floor to call attention to the serious threats that newspapers and media organizations face, and their critical role in our democracy. The speech comes as the newspaper industry in particular is facing major cutbacks nationwide. It also comes on the same day that the Seattle Post-Intelligencer ends its 146 year run as a major daily paper in the Seattle metro area.

Murray’s speech will highlight not only the critical role that the PI has played locally in holding elected officials accountable, exposing waste and corruption, and telling the unique stories of communities, but also the same role newspapers all across the country play.



WHO: Senator Patty Murray (D-WA)



WHAT: Senate Floor Speech on Struggling Newspaper Industry



WHEN: Today – Tuesday, March 17, 2009

APPROX – 2-2:15 PM EST/11-11:15 AM PST



WHERE: Senate Floor

In Washington state watch on C-SPAN 2.

MORE THAN 70 PEOPLE ATTEND EVERGREEN HABITAT FOR HUMANITY AND THRIVENT FINANCIAL GROUND BLESSING CEREMONY

Inclement Weather No Deterrent for Those Attending Ceremony Kicking off the Build of Patten Park’s Second Home

VANCOUVER, Wash., Mar. 17, 2009 — For those hardy souls attending the Evergreen Habitat/Thrivent Financial ground-blessing ceremony, the day started out blustery, rainy, and cold. By the time the ceremony ended and the sun came out, the crowd was already warm, fueled by the feeling of goodwill that surrounded the ceremony and the Habitat partner family, Rebecca Cramer and daughters Rachael, Sammi, and Erica.

The ceremony marked the start of the local alliance between Evergreen Habitat for Humanity and Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. Evergreen Habitat for Humanity has been awarded nearly $100,000, or 65 percent of the funds necessary, to build the Cramer home. This home will be built by area volunteers, of whom at least one-half will be Lutheran and one-fourth will be Thrivent Financial members. The Cramers will also invest 500 hours of “sweat equity” helping to build their home.

Board President Russ Chambers started off the ceremony by introducing the Cramers. Rebecca spoke movingly of her hopes for her children; that they will be able to grow up in a healthy environment and to one day achieve the American dream of homeownership. Pastor Jim Stender of St. Andrews Lutheran then offered up several prayers: for the home, the Cramers, and for the safety of the volunteers who will be working on the build. Dane Andersen, the local Thrivent Financial representative, followed and spoke about how proud he was to be part of a company that chooses to put its money back into the local community.

As a surprise finale, Carmen Villarma, president of The Management Group, stepped to the microphone to announce that her company has donated the use of one of its apartments to the Cramer family for the duration of the build. The Cramer children had been suffering health problems due to the condition of their previous apartment, so this generous gesture was well-timed and much appreciated.

As the ceremony drew to a close, the sun broke out from behind the clouds. It seemed a fitting end to a ceremony that marked a new beginning for one more local family.

About Evergreen Habitat for Humanity

Evergreen Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit Christian housing ministry dedicated to building decent, affordable housing in partnership with those in need in Clark and Skamania counties. Since 1991, Evergreen Habitat for Humanity has worked with 17 families to build homes. For more information, visit www.ehfh.org .

About Thrivent Financial for Lutherans

Thrivent Financial for Lutherans is a not-for-profit financial services membership organization helping nearly 3 million members thrive in life. Thrivent Financial and its subsidiaries offer a broad range of financial products and services including life insurance, annuities, mutual funds, disability income insurance, bank products and more. As a not-for-profit organization, Thrivent Financial brings its members together for social, educational and volunteer activities that support congregations, schools, charitable organizations and individuals in need. For more information, visit www.thrivent.com.

For additional information or to schedule an interview with Evergreen Habitat for Humanity, please contact Kristina Aitchison, Executive Director, Evergreen Habitat for Humanity, at 360-737-1759.

SKAMANIA COUNTY PARTICIPATES IN TOURISM DAY 2009 - OLYMPIA

On Monday, March 9, 2009, more than 250 tourism industry professionals from Tacoma, Spokane, Bellingham, Yakima, Vancouver, Seattle and many other communities across Washington, including Skamania and Klickitat counties, converged on the state capitol to tell legislators “Why Tourism Matters”. Local participation from the Columbia River Gorge included Mark Zoller, owner of Zoller’s Outdoor Odysseys in BZ Corners, Jerry Stockwell owner of Husum Highlands Bed and Breakfast in Husum, Dave Griffin and Kristin Wood from Skamania Lodge, Leroy Anderson, owner of Timberlake Campground and RV Park in Home Valley, Mayor Tom Payton and his wife, Lavonne, from North Bonneville and Casey Roeder, Executive Director of the Skamania County Chamber of Commerce.

The effort inaugurated the statewide roll-out of the Why Tourism Matters public outreach and advocacy campaign which will convey the importance of tourism by way of advertising, online content, public relations and cooperative communications. The day’s activities included a press conference on the steps of the Capitol building. Industry professionals also met with their state legislators. The contingency from Skamania and Klickitat counties spent time with Senator Jim Honeyford-R and Representative Bruce Chandler-R. The message received by the elected officials was not to reduce monies for tourism during the budget cutting process.

The campaign website at www.whytourismmatters.com features the latest tourism statistics for the state and many communities, industry news and links to national initiatives. Much of the website is dedicated to profiles of tourism industry professionals, or “tourism ambassadors”, who work on the front lines and serve as the industry’s face of tourism.

The publication of the annual Dean Runyan Associates’ report on Washington State Travel Impacts once again reflects the significant impact that tourism plays in Skamania County. Travel spending rose to $58.7 million in Skamania County in 2007, an increase from $55.9 million in the previous year. Skamania County has realized the largest growth in travel spending over the past 15 years of any county in the state. “Statewide visitors spent $15.7 billion last year and generated $1 billion in state and local taxes. Tourists support nearly 150,000 jobs and generate $4.3 billion in earnings”, reported Katherine Kertzman, president of the Washington State Destination Marketing Organizations (WSDMO).

Washington state’s core of private sector destination marketing organizations competitively market their respective cities, counties and regions to leisure travelers and meeting and convention groups. Largely non-profit economic development agencies, these convention and visitors bureaus and chambers of commerce work in tandem with the Washington State Tourism Commission and Washington State Tourism office to jointly position the state as a premier travel destination. Direct visitor spending benefits hotels, retailers, restaurants, attractions, transportation services and other businesses and supports jobs throughout the state.

March Madness takes backseat to recession among employers, employees

CHICAGO, March 11, 2009 – With the onset of March Madness just a week away, the nation’s employers typically would be bracing for a productivity drain, as workers research teams, fill out office pool brackets and watch live, streaming feeds of the games online. However, companies may have little reason to worry this year, according to one workplace authority.

“In this economy, employees are disinclined to do anything that might put their jobs at higher risk than they already are. Meanwhile, employers have bigger issues to address than whether a few workers are using work time to fill out betting pool brackets or sneaking peeks at games online. Even if this is occurring, companies would be better served by allowing this minor distraction during these stressful, anxiety-producing times,” said John A. Challenger, chief executive officer of global outplacement consultancy Challenger, Gray & Christmas, Inc.

“In light of the fact that employers and employees have more important things to worry about, we feel that any attempt to estimate the impact of March Madness on productivity would be counterproductive and inappropriate. We hope to continue this lighthearted look at the intersection of sports and the workplace once the economy is on surer footing,” said Challenger.

“With worker stress and anxiety on the rise as job security declines, a little distraction could be just what the doctor ordered. The key for companies is finding a way to maximize the positive aspects of March Madness so that they outweigh any perceived negatives,” Challenger noted.

“Companies can use this event as a way to build morale and camaraderie. This could mean putting televisions in the break room, so employees have somewhere to watch the games other than the Internet. Employers could also offset productivity losses by using the Tournament to boost morale. Employers might consider organizing a company-wide pool, which should have no entry fee in order to avoid ethical and/or legal questions,” Challenger suggested.

“In the past, one company we contacted allowed workers to wear their favorite team’s apparel for a small fee, which was then donated to a local charity. Another held a free office pool, which rewarded the top four a free lunch and the overall winner a gift certificate,” said Challenger.

Challenger offered some additional ideas on ways companies can co-opt March Madness excitement to build a loyal and more productive workforce.

Corporate Travel Cuts May Hurt Business Recovery

Business Leader Survey: Companies that Maintain Travel
Spending Could Gain Competitive Advantage

WASHINGTON, D.C. – A new survey of business leaders finds that while corporate travel budgets are often the first target of cost-cutting measures, a majority believe that companies that increase travel budgets during an economic downturn will be better positioned to build competitive advantage.

Nearly three-quarters (72%) of businesses surveyed say that increasing travel while others are cutting back creates an opportunity to build market share and new customer relationships. Half (53%) also believe that companies that reduce their business travel will give an advantage to competitors who maintain their travel commitment.

The findings illustrate the conflict within businesses that are under pressure to quickly identify cost reductions in the economic downturn. When making these reductions businesses may sacrifice longer-term strategic and competitive advantage.

“It’s a classic trade off between short term cost-reductions and long term value,” said Kellogg Business School Professor Daniel Diermeier, a Distinguished Professor of Regulation and Competitive Practice. “During times like these, many companies will go too far, and actually cut back on the activities that would best position them to compete in the future.”

The survey of business executives at companies with more than $50 million in annual sales found that:

82 percent of companies surveyed believe that business travel is important to achieving their business results;
81 percent believe that more client contact is necessary in a slow economy;
A strong majority (59 percent) strongly agree that in-person contact grows their business; and
72 percent of businesses believe that increasing travel while others are cutting back creates an opportunity to build market share and new customer relationships.

“Travel plays an important role in business growth in a down economy, by helping businesses connect with their customers,” said Dr. Suzanne Cook, U.S. Travel’s Senior Vice President of Research. “It’s also clear from our survey results that the old maxim remains true; if you don’t take care of your customers, someone else will.”

The survey was commissioned by the U.S. Travel Association, and conducted by APCO Insight. Telephone and web-based interviews of 401 business executives were conducted from February 3-18, with a margin of error of + 5 percentage points.

Cantwell Moves to Open Airwaves for Community-Based Broadcasting

With Cantwell’s Bill, Local Content and Community Information Could Broadcast Over Scarce Airwaves

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) today introduced bipartisan legislation that would open up the airwaves to additional community-based broadcasting. The “Local Community Radio Act of 2009” would open up the possibility for dozens of new community radio stations to broadcast in Washington state. Senators McCain, Leahy, Durbin, Feingold, and Schumer have signed on as original co-sponsors.

“Low power FM stations can provide communities with a wide range of viewpoints, localized community information, and alternative content,” said Cantwell. “As media consolidation becomes more prevalent, these stations can increase the number of independent and minority-owned stations, and provide listeners with diverse perspectives.”

Low power FM radio stations provide community groups – who might be otherwise unable to obtain expensive full-power radio station licenses – space on a very scarce FM broadcast spectrum. With a maximum broadcast range of about 3.5 miles, community groups can provide listeners with localized content and an alternative broadcast outlet.

Cantwell: Climate Change Isn’t Just About the Environment; It’s About Jobs, Economy

Cantwell Urges Government to Take Commonsense Approach to Global Warming and Plan for the Future; Failure to Act Will Cost Washingtonians $1,250 a year by 2020

WASHINGTON, DC – During a Senate Commerce Committee hearing held today on climate change, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) discussed the devastating effects of climate change and steps government must take to quickly plan for the future. Cantwell also highlighted a symptom of global warming called ocean acidification, which is already taking its toll on industries in the Pacific Northwest that depend on marine resources.

“In fact, if we fail to act, climate change and its effects will cost Washingtonians an additional $1,250 each year by 2020,” said Cantwell. “I am particularly concerned with what many people call climate change’s ‘evil twin,’ ocean acidification. Unless we figure out solutions to address the impact high levels of carbon dioxide are having on our oceans, we could be facing the single greatest disaster when it comes to the ocean environment."

Atmospheric carbon dioxide, which is driving climate change, is responsible for ocean acidification. Emissions of carbon dioxide have increased the global atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration by 35 percent. Over half a trillion tons of carbon dioxide or one third of all CO2 emissions since the start of the industrial revolution have been absorbed by our oceans. Carbon dioxide reacts with seawater to form carbonic acid, and in excess, causes oceans to become more acidic. This hinders the ability of reefs to rebuild and can dissolve the shells of animals such as plankton, scallops, clams, lobsters, and others forming the base of the food chain. Warmer, more acidic oceans can destroy important fisheries and food chains in the Pacific Ocean, impacting Pacific Northwest icons like Pacific Salmon. Reduced Salmon runs would harm Puget Sound's endangered Southern Resident Orca populations that depend on the salmon as a major source of food.

In addition to damaging the environment, climate change also has the potential to significantly impact our communities and economy. Washington’s commercial fishing industry, which is threatened by disruptions from ocean acidification, produces gross annual sales of more than $3.5 billion and accounts for nearly 10,000 jobs in the Greater Seattle area. The recreational fishing industry in the state is valued at $1.6 billion, and $4.5 billion for the entire west coast. Nationwide, commercial fisheries contribute over $30 billion annually to the U.S. economy.

In a February 2009 report, the Washington State Department of Ecology estimates that if nothing is done to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, each household in Washington will pay on average an additional $1,250 each year by 2020. Furthermore, health care-related costs for Washingtonians would increase by $1.3 billion and energy costs would increase by $222 million. The text of the full report is available at: http://www.ecy.wa.gov/climatechange/reports.htm

“I’ve already heard stories from shellfish farmers who are seeing their businesses devastated by the impacts of climate change and ocean acidification,” continued Cantwell. “And if things continue down their current path, families and businesses will lose everything they’ve worked for. We must take steps to slow down climate change by finally looking our addiction to fossil fuels in the eye and saying ‘enough is enough.’ We must transition to cleaner, more diverse energy sources. Planning for the future isn’t just common sense – it’s responsible government.”

During the 110th Congress, the Senate Commerce Committee approved the Climate Change Adaptation Act, a bill by Cantwell and Senator Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ) to study and address ocean acidification. Senator Cantwell hopes to continue work on the topic in the 111th Congress.

Small Business Administration Sued For Refusing to Release Executive's Phone Records

Petaluma, Calif. – The Small Business Administration (SBA) is being sued by the American Small Business League (ASBL) in United States District Court, Northern District of California for refusing to release the telephone records of SBA Press Office Director Mike Stamler. The ASBL requested Mr. Stamler's phone records under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). The ASBL believes Mr. Stamler engaged in an aggressive campaign to mislead the media and damage the organization's reputation.

The ASBL has won a series of federal lawsuits against the SBA, which forced the disclosure of information showing that the SBA had fabricated federal small business contracting data and covered-up the diversion of hundreds of billions of dollars in federal small business contracts to Fortune 500 companies and other large businesses.

The ASBL expects to file an additional lawsuit against the SBA for refusing to release all of Mr. Stamler's emails for the years 2006 and 2007. The ASBL began requesting Mr. Stamler's communications after several journalists informed the organization that Mr. Stamler had libeled and slandered the ASBL and its President Lloyd Chapman, and embarked on an aggressive campaign to impugn the organization’s credibility with members of the media.

In one such example, after the Long Island Business News (LIBN) quoted ASBL President Lloyd Chapman in a story, the LIBN reporter received a profanity-riddled email from Mr. Stamler. In response, the LIBN reporter published a blog titled, "Expletives the SBA's Forte?"
(http://cts.vresp.com/c/?AmericanSmallBusines/ffdff438ae/df4aaa5061/26e8faae59

The ASBL intends to continue gathering information on Mr. Stamler's campaign to libel and slander the organization and its President Lloyd Chapman in preparation for another lawsuit to be filed against the SBA for defamation of character.

The SBA's own Inspector General has released several investigations that found blatant fraud and abuses in SBA administered small business contracting programs.
(http://cts.vresp.com/c/?AmericanSmallBusines/ffdff438ae/df4aaa5061/d73326847d

In the past, the SBA responded to federal investigations and news stories, which found billions of dollars in small business contracts had gone to Fortune 500 corporations with a series of press releases claiming that the diversion of federal small business contracts to large corporations was a myth.
(www.asbl.com/documents/sbamythvfact.pdf)

"There is no question that Mike Stamler and the SBA have tried to cover up the diversion of small business contracts to Fortune 500 corporations," ASBL President Lloyd Chapman said. "Based upon the information we have obtained so far, it's obvious that they have launched a massive campaign to attack our organization and impugn our credibility as we continue to expose the rampant fraud and abuse that has gone unchecked since 2002."

Economic Stimulus Starts with Private Sector Job Growth

Suddenly everything old is new again. This saying usually applies to the fashion industry, but today we are digging up old economic theories, dusting them off, and re-applying them.

Today, as in the 1930s and 1970s, government spending is passed off as economic stimulus. Proponents for increased public sector spending tout empty bromides like "the multiplier effect" or "investing in the future." They back these up by asserting that not to move forward would result in economic collapse.

Now that the federal stimulus package is in place, and analysts are finally reading what Congress approved (even if Congress didn't read it before voting), state policymakers are kicking around their own versions of "economic stimulus."

The state legislature has already passed, and the Governor signed, legislation that increases unemployment insurance benefits by $45 for the rest of the year (in addition to increasing the weekly minimum: a twofer). Lawmakers are drawing down part of our $4 billion unemployment insurance trust fund to pay for this.

Even though this approach does not directly and immediately result in a tax increase to employers (since employers are the ones who pay the UI premiums) this is a bit of a gamble. The reason we have a substantial return is because employers have been over-taxed. If this recession lasts too long, UI premiums may have to increase. Such an event would make it even more difficult to hire workers.

There is a risk in increasing government spending--via deficit spending--in order to build new public buildings and calling it economic stimulus.

Any true Keynesian would recognize that the famous economist was no fan of deficit spending as we understand it today. He did advocate for public spending to offset recessions but he posited that investments need to be made without deficits. Or, if deficits could not be avoided, each investment should be able to repay its cost over the long run, such as tolling a new bridge to pay back construction costs. It is arguable whether any of the proposed public projects will ever pay for themselves.

Proponents of big government will claim that "investments" must be made in areas such as green technology and green jobs. But what business is it of government to invest in these areas? We all saw the folly of mandating biofuels. It contributed to higher worldwide food prices, farmers planting on marginal land and encouraged a system that negated the promised environmental benefits.

Does the fact that we are in bad economic times mean that we must let the government throw money into an untested, unverified and highly speculative industry? What happens if these efforts fail, as biofuels did? Taxpayers will be stuck holding the bag yet again.

What happens to green areas that the private sector was already investing in? Why should the private sector continue to fund any green initiatives when there's a chance the government will step in with funds, but then it doesn't? This could decimate some good projects that would have actually helped the environment and created new jobs.

One area where Keynes was right is that it is difficult for governments to get the timing right for any type of public works project. Policymaking lags behind any recessionary cycle and temporary public works spending has little effect on actually growing the economy. Our economy is too large and too complex to be stimulated by a few construction projects or "targeted investments."

Public works projects are often big, expensive, and slow to begin and even slower to conclude. And when finally finished the state has a bridge, or a building, or a school, and it might look nice and shiny, but there is also the new debt piled on top of the debt government had already incurred in the past.

Policymakers should instead focus on ways to grow the private sector. Tax cuts are already off the table in our state this session but policymakers should make running a profitable business easier by reforming our burdensome regulatory system. Government spending should be cut down to core levels, so Washington businesses contemplating relocation or expansion will be confident their taxes won't skyrocket.

Returning to the old ways of big government spending will not help the thousands of recently laid off Washington employees get back to work. Policymakers need to invest in ideas that result in private sector job growth. This will lead to the higher levels of production and consumption that will help end the recession.

Plateau Tribes to Curate WSU Digital Collection

PULLMAN, Wash. - The American Council of Learned Societies (ACLS) has awarded Kimberly Christen, assistant professor of comparative ethnic studies at Washington State University, a Digital Innovation Fellowship funded by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation.

The ACLS fellowship program supports projects that advance digital humanistic scholarship.

Christen is developing the Plateau Peoples' Web Portal, a digital archive that could change the way indigenous peoples interact with cultural artifacts housed in university and museum collections.

Cultural materials from Columbia Plateau tribes held in WSU's collections, including WSU Libraries' Manuscripts, Archives and Special Collections unit (MASC) and the Museum of Anthropology, are being digitally catalogued for Plateau Portal use.

The portal expands on Christen's success with the Mukurtu Archive, a culturally sensitive and adaptable digital archive she and a team of software developers built to return photographs, videos and artifacts to the Warumungu Aboriginal community in Australia's Northern Territory.

What makes the Plateau Portal new and different, according to Christen, is that knowledge is shared and concepts dialoged back and forth between all interested parties.

Members of the Yakama, Umatilla and Coeur d'Alene nations will have the ability to add to and comment on the records, curating the Plateau Portal archive through an interactive process that Christen described as "a parallel sharing of information."

"The portal provides a mutual knowledge exchange with no hierarchy of expertise," Christen said. "The academic benefit is expanding the scholarly record, and at the same time cultural belongings are being repatriated."

Trevor Bond, interim head and special collections librarian at MASC, said, "Unlike other online tools, Professor Christen has developed her portal with the values of indigenous peoples in mind."

Shawn LameBull, a member of the Yakima nation and a graduate student in American studies at WSU, has been working with Christen on the Plateau Portal.

Said LameBull, "The information that can be found here in the WSU Libraries' Manuscripts, Archives and Special Collections fills in the gaping holes in American history and Washington state history concerning what happened in this area, what tribes were involved and how it affected what is happening now."

Through his work on the Plateau Portal, LameBull said, "Dr. Christen has allowed me to give back to my tribe as well as the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Reservation and the Coeur d'Alene."

Christen said the Smithsonian Institution has agreed to act in an advisory capacity through the National Anthropology Archive and the National Museum of the American Indian.

For more information about the Plateau Portal, visit http://libarts.wsu.edu/plateaucenter/portalproject/desc.html

Laid off? The 8 tools you need to network for your next job

The U.S. has already lost 4.4 million jobs since the recession began in December 2007 and the jobless rate is projected to reach 9.4 percent this year and remain high through at least 2011, which means a lot of Americans are going to be on the job hunt.

And the key to surviving a layoff according to top consultant and performance management coach Joe Takash, author of the new book Results Through Relationships: Networking!

Takash is in the networking business. With clients that include American Express, General Motors, AIG and Prudential, he has formulated “The 8 Tools to Become a Master at Networking” – exactly what your readers need to get the leg up on the job competition.

Please review below the 8 Tools and contact me if you plan to include them in an upcoming issue or if you are interested in an interview with Joe Takash.