Biz week

Funds for training site

Gov. Chris Gregoire set aside $1.5 million in federal funds last week to pay for aerospace training. A large amount of the money will go to a new center at Paine Field, which had been searching for startup money. “We’re really happy to see this moving forward,” said Linda Lanham director of the Aerospace Futures Alliance, an industry group that had been lobbying for increased training. The money will support a Spokane training center and other programs around the state as well.

Verizon suitor makes case: Officials at Frontier Communications made their case at hearing in Everett sponsored by the state Utilities and Transportation Commission, promising good service if they’re allowed to take over phone lines for Verizon in the Northwest. The company has offered Verizon $8.6 billion to handle service in the region, a deal that must be approved by state and federal communication officials. Workers raised concerns about their jobs and their pensions.

Unemployment back in double digits: The jobless rate in Snohomish County rose to 10.1 percent in September, state Employment Security Department officials reported. The rate was at 10 percent in June, but had fallen to 9.4 percent in August. Officials say the numbers weren’t unexpected because, though the economy is improving, it will take a while before employers start hiring again.

Executives seek second 787 line: Executives of nearly 30 companies around the state urged the Boeing Co. to keep a second production line for the 787 Dreamliner in Washington state. Microsoft, the Seattle Seahawks, Cascade Bank and other companies sent a letter to Jim Albaugh, the new president of commercial airlines, to encourage him to pick Washington.

Mike Benbow, Herald Writer