The current issue of AWB's Washington Business magazine is particularly good. The cover story (beginning on page 32) is about Washington's maritime sector and the challenges it faces (and is written by our former president, Richard Davis).

Trade and maritime activity have long defined Washington. And the industry is well positioned to thrive here for decades to come. Natural advantages, however, won’t be enough.

Indeed. (See also this post.)

Additionally, beginning on page 38, there's a good story about the fires in eastern Washington last year, including discussion of the losses in terms of property taxes, cattle, timber, tourism, and jobs.

And in a story about charter schools (beginning on page 46), I liked this quote from state Rep. Eric Pettigrew:

“Every kid has a light switch and it may not exist in the traditional way we provide education. This is why families who can afford it sometimes go to the private system or homeschool,” Pettigrew explained. “Public charter schools fit a need that is there to serve kids that can’t necessarily afford those same educational routes.”