Foreclosure rate up 25 percent over 2007

MIAMI (AP) _ The number of homeowners caught in the wave of foreclosures in October grew 25 percent nationally over the same month in 2007, data released Thursday showed.

More than 279,500 U.S. homes received at least one foreclosure-related notice in October, an increase of 5 percent over September, according to RealtyTrac Inc. One in every 452 housing units received a foreclosure filing, such as a default notice, auction sale notice or bank repossession.

IBM to help build broadband network on power lines

Government launches mortgage restructuring

WASHINGTON - The government and the mortgage industry are launching the most sweeping effort yet to help troubled homeowners by speeding up the process for renegotiating hundreds of thousands of delinquent loans held by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

The Federal Housing Finance Agency, which seized control of the two mortgage finance companies in September, announced the plan Tuesday along with other government and industry officials, including Hope Now, an alliance of mortgage companies organized by the Bush administration last year.

Study: Life isn't cheap for 'working poor'

ATLANTA (AP) _ It costs a lot to be 'working poor' - especially in metro Atlanta.

A single parent of three in Gwinnett County needs to make more than $62,000 a year to avoid going on government assistance, according to the author of a new report that examines the most basic costs of living for families in each of Georgia's 159 counties.

Store's employees get in spirit of Halloween

Among the businesses that allowed employees to wear costumes on was VIP Office Furniture & Supply in Hinesville.

Attorney finishes bank director course

Jeffery Arnold, a director for The Heritage Bank, recently graduated from the Community Bankers Association of Georgia's Bank Directors' College, a part of the Community Bankers University.

Real estate transfers for Nov. 5

The following warranty deeds were filed with Liberty County Clerk of Court Barry Wilkes' office from Sept. 15-26. The listings include the names of the sellers and buyers, the book and page where the deed can be found in deed books maintained in the clerk's office, the transfer tax (which gives an estimate of the price paid, based on $1 per $1,000) and a description of the property, which may be the subdivision and/or Georgia Militia District where it is located. Refer to the accompanying map for the GMD numbers.

Midway salon owner earns acadmic honor

Valeria West of Hinesville has been included in the merit list for the summer quarter at Swainsboro Technical College.

Office park going up across from hospital

When the construction site across from Liberty Regional Medical Center becomes the Hinesville Professional Center, John Carnes, owner of John Carnes construction, hopes it will be a hub for area professionals. Carnes owns the center and the land it's being built on. He plans to lease spaces when it's complete.

FCC plan may hike your phone bill

Even more decisions hang in the balance Tuesday as the Federal Communication Commission will vote on a proposal that could mean increased telephone and Internet service rates for much of the country.

Downtown businesses having holiday open house

In an effort to showcase Hinesville's holiday spirit and encourage residents to take advantage of local holiday shopping opportunities, the first of two downtown holiday open houses opens today from 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

LCDA starts minority/women initiative

When they noticed a disparity in many contracted projects for women and minorities, members of the Liberty County Development Authority decided to take on a Minority/Women Business Enterprise initiative.

Brewers win tree sweepstakes at state fair

It was another good year at the state fair for Brewer's Christmas Tree Farm. The locally owned and operated business earned the most blue ribbons for Christmas trees (10 of 15

Business draws praise from DAV

Disabled American Veterans Chapter 48 of Hinesville recently presented a plaque of appreciation to Rick Place, general manager of NaCon Body Shop, for the support his business has given to the DAV during its 2008 fundraisers. Chapter Commander Garlon Penland presented the plaque.

HABR auction benefits community services

The Hinesville Area Board of Realtors held it's annual basket auction Oct. 15 at Coastal EMC in Midway.

Marketing workshop set for Hinesville

Mike Blinder is a small-business owner and multimedia consultant, and one of his favorite things to do is share his experience and expertise in marketing.

What's best: tax software or a tax pro?

The first three months of the year mean many things to many people. Snow. Super Bowl. Groundhog Day. Valentine's Day. President's Day weekend. Mardi Gras. Lent. And the promise of pleasant spring to come.

Is a messy desk a sign of creativity, or a cry for organizational help?

If you're reading this at work — or, because you've taken my advice and have a flexible schedule, your home office — take a quick look at your desk.

Property transfers Jan. 30-Feb. 5

Deeds filed with the Liberty County Clerk of Courts From Jan. 30-Feb. 5 show the following property transfers:

Ludowici council hears of new eatery

A recent purchase of land brought Ludowici close to becoming home for a new McDonald's restaurant.