In today’s news, SeaPort Airlines shuts down, Bend region earns No. 8 ranking in GDP growth and Oregon’s free community college isn’t free.
1. SeaPort Airlines was ordered to liquidate as of noon today.
The 8-year-old commuter carrier struggled with bankruptcy this year and was in the process of trying to reorganize in court. The Oregonian reports the issues started after SeaPort discovered it was losing a large contract and a line of credit. Flights were grounded as of 6 p.m. Tuesday and employees were paid through yesterday. The airline mostly operated flights between regional and rural hubs. SeaPort first filed bankruptcy in February and began shutting down service, limiting rural service that already faces an uncertain future.
2. Bend and Redmond ranked eighth in the nation for GDP growth this year.
The Bend Bulletin reports the value of goods and services produced in the metro area increased by 6.8%, or $425 million. The largest growth was in construction and software. The Portland metro area ranked 30th.
3. Oregon’s free community college isn’t completely free.
The first students to enroll in community college with the Oregon Promise program — which provides free tuition for qualified students — begin classes next week. As the Oregonian reports, some may receive a tuition bill they didn’t expect. It could range anywhere from a few dollars to a few hundred, depending on the gap left between federal grants and Oregon Promise funds.
4. A new reality tv show will feature some familiar faces.
The Portland Business Journal reports Pensole Footwear Design Academy has signed a contract to produce eight episode of reality tv for 10×10 Entertainment. The show will feature a design competition similar in concept to Project Runway. Contestants will compete for a chance to have their shoe sold in a major retailer.
5. Comcast is joining the cellphone business.
The internet and cable provider announced yesterday it intends to form a cellphone service in areas where it’s a cable provider. The service would use its existing 15 million Wi-Fi hotspots and resell Verizon’s wireless network. The Register Guard reports the service could launch next summer.
6. Editor’s note: Southern Comforts
OB Editor Linda Baker reflects on a recent trip to the Deep South. Is Atlanta the next Portland?
7. Ebb and Flow: Puppet Labs names two more executives
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