European Aircraft Industry: Washington state courts Airbus amid Boeing tension

Even as they try desperately to hang on to Boeing, officials in Washington state have been courting the main competitor of the aerospace giant.

During the past several months, state officials have traveled to the U.S. headquarters of Airbus SAS in Virginia, moved to connect Airbus with Washington state suppliers, and signed a five-year confidentiality agreement with the company to allow further exploration of business opportunities, according to records obtained by The Associated Press under public disclosure laws.

In a confidential memo provided to Gov. Jay Inslee in July, state officials described dozens of potential ways to expand or recruit aerospace businesses in the state. At the top of the memo was Airbus, described as just one of a few major opportunities.

Alex Pietsch, top aerospace adviser to the governor, said the talks with Airbus are not an attempt to replace Boeing. But a new relationship with another industry player would help diversify the state's aerospace economy and provide new opportunities for suppliers that are largely dependent on Boeing, he said.

"Just because we have had a near 100-year history with the Boeing Co. doesn't mean we can't work with others," Pietsch said.

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The Real Truth: Euthanasia USA - Die with Dignity starting March 5, 2009

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Euthanasia USA - Die with Dignity starting March 5, 2009

On March 5, 2009, Washington State’s Death with Dignity Act will go into effect, allowing competent adults, expected to die within six months, to request a lethal dose of medication from a licensed pharmacist or physician. However, the patient must administer the drugs themselves. The “law provides safeguards for patients and physicians. For example, patients would need a medical opinion from two doctors verifying that they have less than six months to live. Physicians who prescribe the medicine and follow the rules would be protected from legal prosecution for promoting or participating in a suicide.”

Washington is the second state to enact a “Death with Dignity” law. Oregon has had a similar act in effect since 1997, under which 341 people have died.