Tom Sparling, founder of the Seattle-based Sparling consulting firm, died earlier this month of complications following a fall at his winter home in Arizona. He was 87. Sparling, who also had a home on Whidbey Island, founded the company in 1947. Sparling, which has an office in Lynnwood, is an electrical engineering and technology firm. Tom Sparling helped develop the company as a leader in setting up complex power and control systems for structures such as the first Hood Canal floating bridge, military facilities and high-rise buildings. Sparling is survived by his wife, Dorothy, four children, 13 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Remembrances may be made to the Thomas Sparling Memorial Scholarship Fund at Montana State University, MSU Foundation, P.O. Box 2750, Bozeman, MT 59717.
Buyer confidence rises in December
Improving labor market conditions and cheaper energy prices led to a sharp increase in a widely watched indicator of consumer confidence in the economy in December, a good sign for economic growth heading into the new year. The Conference Board, a New York-based business research group, reported Tuesday that its index of consumer confidence leapt by nearly 10 points to 102.3 in December from 92.6 in November, following four months of declines.
Holiday sales boost Amazon
Shares in Seattle-basead Amazon.com Inc. rose nearly 9 percent after the online retailer said it recorded the best holiday season in its history. Spokesman Craig Berman said on Monday that sales for its 10th holiday season were better than any previous year, but he declined to give specific figures. Shares in Amazon rose $3.32 to $42.25 in trading Monday on the Nasdaq Stock Market.
Spanish airline buys three 737s
Spanish carrier Air Europa said Tuesday it would buy three Boeing Co. 737s, a week after becoming the first airline to commit to rival Airbus SAS’s planned new A350. The deal for the three, single-aisle 737-800s is worth $195 million at list prices, although airlines typically negotiate discounts. The planes, which are built in Renton, are scheduled to be delivered beginning in January 2006.
From Herald staff
and news services
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.