PORTLAND-1000 Friends of Oregon is suing 23 cities in the state because the ordinances could be used "to authorize everything from cell phone towers in residential zones to development on coastal sand dunes.

WASHOUGAL, WA-The $6.9 million center will feature trails, interpretive kiosks, an elevated viewing structure, classrooms, a gift shop, and the obligatory restrooms and parking. Specific plans will be brought before Congress next year.

PORTLAND-Industrial vacancy rates are at their lowest level since 1995. The vacancy rate in warehouse and manufacturing space dropped four full points in 2000, net absorption posted an all-time high of more than five million sf, and rental rates were up.

ASTORIA, OR-College board members have made downtown Astoria their first pick in part because it affords the college its best chance at receiving state funding. Two other locations are named as viable secondary options, however.

BEND, OR-The improvements to the existing mall will begin early next year along with the parking, landscaping and utility work for the eight-acre expansion. After that, work on three new retail pads will begin.

SEATTLE-New York City-based Aegis Realty Inc. is acquiring 19 community shopping centers from Dallas, Texas-based P.O.B. Montgomery & Co. and its investment partners, as well as P.O.B's ongoing development business.

PORTLAN-In 2001, the state is expected to again see employment growth of about 1.4% with a personal income increase of 5%, according to US Bank's in-depth economic forecast and review by John Mitchell, economist for the bank's Western region.

PORTLAND-The Arlington Club, a century-old, members-only facility for Portland's business elite, is seeking $150,000 in damages caused during demolition of the Aero Club building that the Paramount Hotel replaced.