News Briefs

BY VBJ STAFF

Washington jobless get $130M in stimulus funds

State and federal stimulus packages have pumped an additional $130 million into Washington's economy since earlier this year through higher unemployment benefits for jobless workers, according to the office of Gov. Chris Gregoire.

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Every dollar in benefits results in another $1.64 of buying power.

Under the federal recovery act, unemployment benefits were temporarily increased by $25 a week for most existing and new unemployment claims filed on or after Feb. 22. So far, the extra $25 totals about $82 million to more than 307,000 claimants.

Under Washington's stimulus legislation, the Economic Security Act, the minimum weekly benefit was temporarily increased to $155 a week beginning May 3. Another $45 a week was added to the minimum and most claims.

So far, the state-approved stimulus benefits have totaled more than $48.2 million to 213,000 claimants.

Both the stimulus increases are set to expire at the end of the year.

WSUV students launch Boys & Girls Club website

Washington State University Vancouver students from the Digital Technology and Culture Program launched a new website for the Boys & Girls Club of Southwest Washington June 16. The site was produced during the Senior Seminar in spring 2009 and it was designed to provide the public with general information about the organization and to develop interest and support from the community.

The site is www.mybgc.org. The DTC program's senior seminar enhances students' preparation for professional jobs or graduate school by providing a practical learning environment.

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