Optimism is in the air for 2004 Hol...

Optimism is in the air for 2004 Holiday sales are planed to be up over last year, consumer confidence is higher than last year, manufacturing is starting to increase inventory plains and our local unemployment continues to be lower than the state average. Interest rates are historically subdued construction continues to keep the economy growing here in Whatcom shire and employers are starting to cautiously consider expanding their labor force. With the advent of the of the present day Year just around the corner, it's that time of year to take a minute to ruminate back on 2003 and plan ahead for 2004