Flags lowered in tribute to Custer soldier

Gov. Chris Gregoire has directed that flags at all state agency buildings be lowered to half-staff today in memory of U.S. Army Spc. Aaron S. Aamot of Custer. Aamot was killed last week in Afghanistan when an improvised explosive device detonated near his military vehicle.

Lieutenant governor’s son out of hospital

Lt. Gov. Brad Owen’s 37-year-old son, Mark, was discharged Tuesday from Harborview Medical Center in Seattle.

Rep. Finn to run again for statehouse, along with several other incumbents

OLYMPIA – Democratic Rep. Fred Finn from west Thurston County says he will run next year for a second term representing the 35th Legislative District.

Eyman plans next ballot measure

Professional initiative promoter Tim Eyman says he’ll be back next year with another ballot measure, and how state lawmakers handle taxes in January will have a lot to do with what he proposes.

DSHS to pay $525,001 to settle records lawsuit

The state Department of Social and Health Services is paying $525,001 to settle a public-records lawsuit brought by former foster children abused by their state-licensed foster parents.

Closing Maple Lane is a bad idea, report says

A state consultant's final report states that closing the Maple Lane youth prison at Grand Mound is a bad idea, but if state lawmakers must eliminate juvenile beds, it's a better option than closing Green Hill at Chehalis.

Grain shippers asked to quit tossing pesticide canisters into sea

The state Ecology and Agriculture Departments have a request for grain ships off the Washington coast: Hey, stop throwing those pesticide canisters overboard.