Making headlines around the Northwest this morning:
- Pierce County Deputy Dies
- Boeing Rival Expected to Concede Tanker Fight
- Seattle's Big Fireworks Show Will Return
Shock at Pierce County Sheriff's Office
Pierce County's law enforcement officers are "in shock" today after the sudden death of sheriff's deputy. Shandon Wright died at home yesterday evening, a day after undergoing surgery for a shoulder injury that happened on the job last year.
Fifty off-duty officers responded to his South Hill home upon hearing the news, according to the News Tribune's Stacia Glenn. The exact cause of Wright's death is being investigated.
EADS Unlikely to Challenge Air Force Contract
Boeing's rival for the massive Air Force refueling tanker contract is ready to concede later this morning. EADS, the European parent company of Airbus, is expected to make an announcement at 9 a.m., according to Congressman Norm Dicks' office.
Reuters' Andrea Shalal-Esa reports the company's chances of successful protest are slim, and may do more long-term harm for their defense business prospects:
EADS officials have been tight-lipped about their decision-making process, but analysts say the European company is unlikely to protest so it doesn't alienate U.S. military officials and can bid for other weapons contracts later.
KPLU's Bellamy Pailthorp had previously reported the challenge for EADS is overcoming a decisive Boeing victory that won the rousing backing of Defense officials.
Lake Union's Big Show a "Go" Despite Fund Shortage
Seattle will have fireworks over Lake Union this summer. Once again this year, hundreds of donations have come in from area residents and businesses who want to see the colors continue on Independence Day.
One Reel, the company that organizes the event, announced this week that $400,000 has been raised and $100,00 more is needed, to cover the show's expenses, according to One Reel press release.
Microsoft and Starbucks are once again the big sponsors of the year. Each has pitched in $150,000, the same as last year. But donations are still needed to meet the extravaganza's costs.
