NEWS FLASH:
WDC AUDITS MAY KILL JOBLESS HELP

COVER STORY: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Kent Mao of Edmonds is helping U.S. companies tap China’s growing markets

As China’s economy grows, so does its need for infrastructure, utilities and environmental protection expertise

Marysville and the Tulalip Tribes plan for retail and job growth

BUSINESS NEWS
A design-build approach to I-5 construction is saving time and money

Business Briefs: a mini-tour of Snohomish County business

Calendar of Events

People Watching: career moves, promotions, people “in the news”

REAL ESTATE
Realty Markets: Future looking brighter for rental properties

Real Estate Briefs

RETIREMENT
Survey: Disconnect between retirement expectations, savings

Ready to retire? Tips for getting most for your biz at time of sale

LEISURE TIME
You don’t have to travel far to enjoy hospitality, relaxation of a B&B

FINANCIAL
Here’s an “executive summary” on business retirement plans

New financial columnist: “What’s important about money to you?”

BUSINESS PROFILE
A Snohomish nursery sees growth in its “big trees” business

BUSINESS BUILDERS
Sales Savvy: If sales are falling, ask customers why

BizBest Connections for Success: Why biz owners love phone via Internet

Marketing Mentor: Let’s reinvent the RFP process

Business 101: Business leaders need mentors, too

FOR THE RECORD
Snohomish County Business Licenses

OPINION/EDITORIAL
State Legislature failed to provide meaningful small-business reforms

Business journal welcomes Leisa Dott

Government, individuals need to tighten purse strings

Junior Achievement meets demand for financial literacy education

BUSINESS WOMEN
The annual special issue includes profiles, columns and more