Week in review

MONDAY

Many companies are finding they must do more than install instant Web blocks and filters to stop workers from reaching unsafe or nasty Web sites. Now they must get tools to look inside and examine all workers.

• Online dating is finally reaching out to older singles. Sites such as match.com are seeing the potential market of those who are interested in serious relationships.

TUESDAY

Avista Corp. says Scott Morris will take over as chairman of the board and chief executive officer at the beginning of 2008. He will replace outgoing CEO Gary Ely.

• Two more technology companies, Ask.com and Intuit Inc., have announced plans to build data centers in power-rich Grant County in Central Washington. Microsoft and Yahoo are already building data centers there.

WEDNESDAY

The Spokane Public Facilities District is preparing a request that eminent domain be used to help it acquire the city block south of the INB Performing Arts Center.

• Consumer advocates want increased federal oversight of telephone and cable companies that offer Internet access. They fear discrimination against certain competing providers of Web and video content.

THURSDAY

Avista Corp. predicted flat sales and static profit levels for 2007, due in part to the rejection of a rate increase request by Washington state regulators. That put a damper on a solid performance in 2006, including a nearly 62 percent profit in the fourth quarter.

• Chrysler plans to cut 13,000 jobs and close one plant as part of major restructuring efforts to improve profitability.

FRIDAY

Spokane’s real estate market bucked a national trend, ranking third in the U.S. in appreciation of median-priced homes from 2005 to 2006, the National Association of Realtors reported.

• Schweitzer Mountain Resort announced it will spend $10 million on improvements, including a replacement for venerable Chair One. The new lifts will be in place next season.