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Small Business Watch

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June 19, 2014

Spokane's economy is on consistent growth track

Jobs continue to increase; wage growth is a concern

June 19, 2014

Spokane has seen 2014 start with a more consistent pattern of economic growth than the nation as a whole. Unlike much of the Midwest and East Coast, Spokane didn't suffer through the severe winter weather that hampered economic activity. The picture t

The Growler Guys craft beer shop seeks other space after objection to liquor license

Different franchise owner to open North Side store

June 19, 2014

Judith Spitzer

Geoff Guertzmacher and his wife, Lindsey, who live in the Tri-Cities, are delaying plans to open a Growler Guys craft beer shop on Spokane's South Hill after learning their state liquor license application was being held up because of an objection. Mea

Caruso's Sandwich Co. plans new restaurant in Burgans Block project

Restaurateur starts first tenant work at Ruby Suites site

June 19, 2014

Mike McLean

North Idaho-based Caruso's Sandwich Co. has obtained the first building permit for tenant improvements at on the ground floor of the Ruby Suites complex that's under construction on the Burgans Fine Furniture Block, at 1120 N. Division. Chris & Pat I

Gifting can help with estate taxes

Washington's rate affects more residents than feds' rules

June 19, 2014

Mike McLean

With historically high exemptions, fewer people are paying federal estate and gift taxes now than decades ago, but more Washington state residents should be aware of their potential state estate tax liabilities, some accountants here say. Washington has

Spokane ranks 15th on list of fast-growing cities

NerdWallet study places Richland at top in state

June 19, 2014

Katie Ross

Spokane has been named one of the top 15 fastest-growing cities in Washington state, according to an analysis published in June by consumer advocacy company NerdWallet Inc., of San Francisco. Spokane ranked 15th on the list, and it wasn't the only Eas

Elevator contractor report rise in work

Vertical Options secures $1 million job in Richland

June 19, 2014

Mike McLean

Vertical Options LLC, of Spokane, a growing elevator service and repair company, recently landed a $1 million job at the Energy Northwest Columbia Generating Station, in Richland, Wash., says Keely Friesen, the company's CEO. Vertical Options will repl

Horizon Credit Union's focus on footprint

Credit union's total assets approaching $600 million

June 19, 2014

Judith Spitzer

Spokane Valley-based Horizon Credit Union has substantially expanded its charter since it was established 67 years ago and has absorbed a couple of other credit unions in recent years, contributing to solid membership, loan, and asset growth. Founded as

Wireless retailers add authorized outlets here

New AT&T stores open in the Valley, Post Falls

June 19, 2014

Katie Ross

Two telecommunications retailers have opened new AT&T Inc.-authorized dealer stores in the Inland Northwest, one in Spokane Valley and another in Post Falls, says AT&T spokesman Andy Colley. Portland-based Smart Wireless Inc. opened a new store earlier

L&I to boost penalties for workplace violations

State agency says it must rise to federal minimums

June 19, 2014

Mike McLean

The Washington state Department of Labor and Industries is proposing to increase penalties for serious workplace safety violations to make them more in line with federal standards. The move, however, could disproportionately harm small businesses that ma