Business briefs

Sierra Pacific Power and Nevada Power cos. are currently accepting applications for the fourth year of SolarGenerations, a statewide program that provides cash rebates to electric consumers who use photovoltaic technology to generate electricity. Photovoltaic panels, usually produced from silicon, convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity. This is then converted into alternating current (AC) by "inverters" so that it can power lights and appliances. For information visit www.solargenerations.com.

NNDA Golf-A-Thon creates scholarship program

A $5,000 scholarship was created for Western Nevada Community College's Employee Training Center through the Northern Nevada Development Authority's Golf-A-Thon that was held June 30, at Empire Ranch Golf Course in Carson City. More than $11,000 was raised. The Employee Training Center will provide employees with workforce skills, additional education and training.

Microsoft to lease 65,00 square feet of office space

Microsoft Licensing has agree to lease more than 65,000 square feet in the Sierra Corporate Center. This is Northern Nevada's largest office leasing deal to date. About 250 employees will be affected by the move. Occupancy is scheduled for fall of 2006.

Sierra Pacific reports $30 million in earnings

Sierra Pacific Resources (NYSE: SRP) has announced consolidated earnings applicable to common stock of $29.2 million, or 14 cents per share, for the three months ended June 30, as compared to consolidated earnings applicable to common stock of $9.1 million, or 5 cents per share, for the second quarter of 2005. For the six months ended June 30, Sierra Pacific reported consolidated earnings of $30.4 million, or 14 cents per share, compared with a loss of $435,000 for the same period in 2005.

Washoe Med's Diabetes Program accredited through 2009

The American Diabetes Association has reaccredited Washoe Medical Center's Diabetes Center for the next three years. The review process involves the center being able to demonstrate that it meets all of the national standards for diabetes self-management education.

Wildfires are a reminder to appraise and insure personal property

Wildfire season is a wake-up call for Northern Nevadans to have valuable personal property appraised and properly insured. Art, textiles, silver, decorative arts, maritime objects, natural history specimens and vintage vehicles should all be insured in the event of property loss due to fire. Conducting a "hypothetical" appraisal after the event of a wildfire can be more difficult for an appraiser than working with actual objects. To be sure that you get the value for your lost items, take preventative steps to appraise and insure your property, especially if you are in an area prone to wildfires.