A good grape harvest
Despite a potentially devastating year for wine grape growing because of erratic weather, early word from Oregon vineyards is that the 2008 crop is shaping up to be better than expected. more >
Weather delays fruit crop
Unseasonably cold weather in early June has pushed back harvest for much of Oregon’s valuable fruit crop. The delay means local fruit will be in markets later than anticipated. more >
Ag prices climb
Farmers have reaped some benefit from costlier global commodities. In 2007, the index of Oregon prices received by farmers for all products grew 12% over 2006 and 27% over 2003. more >
Oregon acreage turns to grapes
More and more acreage around the state is converting to vineyards, and it’s changing the face of agriculture, land values and the environment. more >
Demand and the dollar help spike wheat prices
After a rough 12-year slog with more drought than profit, Oregon wheat growers are finally back in the black, thanks to record wheat prices that are not expected to drop any time soon. more >
Where did they go? What does it matter that Oregon hasn't seen an IPO for years?
Down the line The future of the seafood industry rests with leaders such as Pacific Seafood’s Frank Dulcich, and his ability to balance strong-willed business tactics with collaboration.
Economist Tim Duy tempers state's optimism How will Oregon weather the economic storm in comparison to the rest of the nation? This question is at the top of the list for local policymakers and firms.
Car dealers collapse as sales drive off a cliff At first glance, the car lot in outer Southeast Portland looks like all the others nearby, plentifully stocked with “Dealer’s Specials” and “Fresh Start Financing” deals.
Q&A with Jeff Merkley on business Shortly after he defeated Republican Gordon Smith in early November, U.S. Senator-elect Jeff Merkley caught his breath just long enough to talk briefly about how he would address the challenges facing Oregon businesses.
Telecom suffers and shrinks The loss of 100 Oregon jobs from Denver-based Qwest, part of 1,200 jobs the telecom company said it would cut nationwide by year’s end, is another blow to an already shrinking job sector in Oregon.
Goodies can’t hold Hynix or Freightliner The meticulously designed SolarWorld facility that has brought hundreds of new jobs to Hillsboro did not come for free.
Bottle bill changes uncork opposition When Oregon became the first state in the nation to pass a bottle bill in 1971, the program built swiftly into a success, with a recovery rate of more than 90%.
The boxer rebellion If ever there was a persuasive reason to start a men’s underwear shop in downtown Portland, Steven Lien thinks he has it. “Women,” he observes, “are tired of seeing guys in bad underwear.”
Next: A meth map When store employees ask for your zip code, they’re gathering data to map your travel and spending patterns so they can plan future store locations.
Trimming the office party without cutting the fun Company holiday celebrations are an expression of employee appreciation and just because business may be down for the year and cutbacks loom, that doesn’t mean you should ditch the party.
