In brief: Nike, others get behind energy bill

SEATTLE – Weyerhaeuser and Nike are joining other Northwest companies and environmental groups to urge the U.S. Senate to pass a climate and energy bill.

The bill is aimed at cutting greenhouse gases, reducing oil imports and creating energy-related jobs.

Representatives from the companies spoke during a teleconference Thursday organized by Climate Solutions, an environmental advocacy group that says hundreds of Northwest businesses support the legislation.

Yellowstone quarters released

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK, Wyo. – Quarters commemorating Yellowstone National Park have been released into circulation.

The U.S. Mint held a dedication ceremony Thursday at Old Faithful for the new quarter.

The Yellowstone quarter features George Washington on one side and a bull bison standing in front of Old Faithful on the other.

The Yellowstone quarter is part of the America the Beautiful Quarters Program, which will commemorate 56 national parks and other important sites over a 12-year period.

Yellowstone is the world’s first national park.