A Gig Harbor neurosurgeon who treated the teenage kayaker critically injured Sunday puts a twist on Steve Martin’s famous song: “Oh, I’m picking out a thermos, for you / Not an ordinary thermos, for you.” Just substitute “picking” with “smashing your face in.” MINUS 1



While it probably won’t do a whole lot of good if you’ve lost your job, your house, your medical coverage or your way — or all of the above — Tacoma Power customers will soon be receiving that promised refund. TPU announced Monday that customers who had an open active account in 2007 and had a TPU account on Dec. 31, 2008 will receive a one-time credit on their bill between March 3 and May 4. Even though it’s the result of overpayment, who doesn’t like a good refund? PLUS 2



Tuesday, March 3, the Washington State House of Representatives unanimously passed House Bill 1596, sponsored by Lakewood’s Rep. Tami Green (D). House Bill 1596, if enacted, will declare breastfeeding anywhere and everywhere a woman’s civil right in the state of Washington. It certainly seems like that’s the direction we’re moving, and that fact can be considered nothing but positive for our state’s mothers and children. Props to Rep. Green. For realz, yo!  PLUS 2



It was announced this week that the median home price in Pierce County rose slightly last month — up to $239,950. It marks the fourth consecutive month that home prices in our county have either risen or stayed the same — which real estate types tell me is a good sign. It’s not a full-fledged recovery, they say, but it’s a step in the right direction. Now if we could only get one of those subprime home loans we’ve heard so much about to buy one. PLUS 1



Tacoma-based Roman Meal Co. and candy maker Brown & Haley have recalled products in conjunction with a salmonella-laced peanut debacle traced to Texas-based Peanut Corporation of America. Brown & Haley recalled Honey Roasted Peanut ROCA Buttercrunch Toffee and Peanut Delights. Tests do not indicate that any of the Tacoma-based products were contaminated, but the companies pulled them anyway as a precaution. Because Peanut Butter Mountain Bars were not affected: PLUS 1

 

Total Pluses:  6           



Total Minuses: 1



This Week’s Total:  PLUS 5       



Last Week’s Total: PLUS 3