New workplace worry: ‘textual harassment’
Text messaging in the workplace has become an increasing source of concern for employers. Much like the emergence of e-mail in the 1990s, the popularity of text messaging among employees […]
Gold, silver and oil futures can be dangerous
Dear Mr. Berko: I want to own assets that will protect me from inflation. So, my broker had me trading gold, silver, oil and natural gas future contracts. In three […]
Don’t wait to make preparations for passing wealth
Many clients who have accumulated wealth and built up family businesses are eager to pass these on to future generations – without hefty tax liabilities. Gift taxes can severely dilute […]
A plan to pay for road and street projects
Oregonians recognize that with utilities, at least, they get what they pay for. Their water, gas, sewer, electric and telecommunications usage determines how much they’re charged. Sure, they may grumble […]
It may be time to start playing Whac-A-Broker
Dear Mr. Berko: I’m a 67-years-young woman who recently retired from a good job in Miami. I rolled over my 401(k) into an independent retirement account with a Miami broker […]
Research firm is a go, but pump maker is a no
Dear Mr. Berko: What do you think about Acacia Research? I’d like to buy 700 shares if you think it has good promise. And what is your opinion on Graco? […]
Where we’ve been, where we are, where we’re going
It has become painfully clear that tightening lending conditions are having the greatest impact on the multifamily investment market.
Theater advertising firm doesn’t earn its top billing
Dear Mr. Berko: I have $4,500 to invest, and this money is very important to me. I have a certificate of deposit coming due and want to make a better […]
Millennials in the workplace challenge managers
The challenge for managers today is to integrate, satisfy and retain the brightest performers across the age spectrum. The differences appear extreme. Here is a look at prevailing misconceptions about […]
Batten the hatches for gale of ‘destructive creativity’
Dear Mr. Berko: Can you explain in simple English who Joseph Schumpeter was and what this economist was talking about when he wrote about the industrial collapses and changes in […]
Medical conditions don’t cancel out drug testing
Employers who do substance abuse testing need to be comfortable talking about employee body parts and, well, liquid waste. Nearly all employment-related drug testing is done using a urine specimen, […]
Financial advisers offer more than just money advice
Investing isn’t just about money; it also involves an emotional aspect for investors. As a result, in tough economic times, financial advisers may find themselves acting more like counselors than […]
News
- $960,000 office renovation in Portland building permits | Aug. 10, 2026
- Two projects in historic districts in Portland land use review intakes | Aug. 10, 2026
- Multnomah County commits up to $101.6M for Moda Center
- Portland code changes to take effect in November
- Los Colibris project approved for Portland’s OMSI District
- Pacific Northwest projects totaling $9.9 million in top bidders | Aug. 7, 2026
- Oregon opens infrastructure grant program
- Ex-TV host claps back at Detroit officials in blight case
- 31-unit multifamily project in Portland land use review intakes | Aug. 3, 2026
- $2.4 million office renovation in Portland building permits | Aug. 3, 2026
- Transportation commission weighs ODOT budget cuts
- Lam Research planning $1.7 billion investment in Tualatin
Commentary
- Beware of when the debt collector comes calling | Opinion
- Assembly of a future workforce begins with an invitation | Opinion
- Beware of overlooking legal requirements for remote workers | Opinion
- Become a critical thinker and transform a workplace | Opinion
- Managing construction risks with international suppliers | Opinion
- A rally with many engines: the lesson of 2026’s first half | Opinion
- Oregon housing challenges persist despite sound and fury | Opinion
- When does an employee’s bullying become harassment? | Opinion
- Ditch disorganization — the cost of deferred decisions | Opinion
- Consider 10 common risks for healthcare construction projects | Opinion
- Clarifying the reach of a law regarding prevailing wage | Opinion
- Adjust to legal changes now to ensure compliance later | Opinion







