Silver Bars Donated To Rideshare Program

Johnson Matthey Electronics of the Spokane Valley has donated two silver bars worth $30 each to the Rideshare Week’s statewide prize list.

Bernie Brady, the company spokesman, said the business has had its own commuter program since 1992.

“We want to aid the cause of increasing the quality of life out here,” said Brady.”We feel it’s our corporate responsibility to do that.”

Johnson Matthey Electronics, located at Euclid and Sullivan, employs 500 people.

Brady said the company has ongoing programs that encourage employees to use modes of transportation other than driving alone. Carpoolers receive prizes once a month and the company pays for the bus passes of employees who ride the bus at least 10 times a month. The company also was able to have an STA bus stop placed directly in front of the plant to entice more employees to ride a bus to work, Brady said.

Real estate office closes

Coldwell Banker Associated Brokers of the Spokane Valley closed its doors Sept. 30. Owner Ron Criscione said he was not financially prepared to handle “a downturn in the residential real estate market.”

The business, which was located at 9016 E. Indiana, employed 30 agents. Criscione opened Coldwell a year and a half ago after working with several real estate agencies in Spokane. He said he hopes to continue his work in the real estate business and is still weighing his options.

Valley businessman buys Porta Pool

Porta Pool recently was purchased by Doug Graham of the Spokane Valley.

The store, which sells swimming pools, spas and billiard tables, previously was owned by the Bucknell family for 34 years.

Graham, who formerly worked at Lifetime Pools and Spas on the North Side, said he has 15 years of experience in the pool and spa industry. Since buying the business, Graham has expanded the showroom from 1,500 square feet to 2,000 square feet.

The store is at 111 N. Vista Road in the Vista Industrial Park.

, DataTimes