Charter Financial Declares Quarterly Cash Dividend

PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Charter Financial Corporation (OTC:CHFN) (BULLETIN BOARD: CHFN) today announced that its board of directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend of 25 cents per share. The dividend is payable on December 29, 2008, to stockholders of record on December 12, 2008. This equates to an annualized dividend rate of $1.00 per share.

"Our high level of capital and recent operating performance permit us the to declare this dividend," said Robert L. Johnson, Chairman and CEO.

This dividend will be paid on approximately 2.7 million shares and the total dividend payout will be approximately $675,000. First Charter, MHC, which owns approximately 86 percent of Charter Financial, is waiving its right to receive this dividend.

Charter Financial Corporation is a savings and loan holding company and the parent of CharterBank, a full-service community bank and a federal savings institution. CharterBank is headquartered in West Point, Georgia, and operates ten branches on the I-85 corridor from LaGrange, Georgia, to Auburn, Alabama. The Company also operates two loan production offices in Georgia. CharterBank's deposits are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. Additional information, including financial highlights, is available on the company's website, http://www.charterbank.net/. Persons interested in receiving e-mail notifications of news about the company may do so by completing the registration form on the investor relations page of the company's website.

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Fidelity Southern Corporation to Participate in the U.S. Treasury's Capital Purchase Program

/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Fidelity Southern Corporation (NASDAQ:LION) , parent of Fidelity Bank, announced today that the U.S. Treasury Department has given preliminary approval of its $48.2 million investment in the company and of Fidelity's participation in the Capital Purchase Program.

Fidelity Southern Corporation, through its operating subsidiaries Fidelity Bank and LionMark Insurance Company, provides banking services and credit-related insurance products through 23 branches in Atlanta, Georgia, a branch in Jacksonville, Florida, and an insurance office in Atlanta, Georgia. SBA loans are provided through employees located throughout the Southeast. For additional information about Fidelity's products and services, please visit the website at www.FidelitySouthern.com .

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Consumer Reports' Annual Public-Education Campaign Warns of the Pitfalls of Credit Card Debt

/PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Consumer Reports today unveiled the third installment of its annual public education campaign, warning holiday shoppers of the pitfalls of credit card debt. Consumer Reports' public education campaign kicks off on Monday, November 24th with a full-page ad in USA Today advising shoppers: "There is no 'bailout clause' in your credit card contract." Americans owe nearly $1 trillion in credit card debt according to the Federal Reserve Board.

A recent survey from the Consumer Reports National Research Center found that 12 million Americans are still in debt from last year's holiday season. Additionally 38 percent of Americans said they plan to use credit cards this holiday season as much as they did last year (35%) or more than last year (3%).

In addition to the full-page ad in USA Today, Consumer Reports will run a series of online ads across highly trafficked or influential personal finance and consumer blogs including Consumerist.com, Yahoo Shopping, and Bargainist.com. The online ads will highlight the Consumer Reports "Tightwad Tod" blog on www.ConsumerReports.org/TightwadTod.

Launched at the start of the holiday shopping season, the "Tightwad Tod" blog covers a wide variety of topics that affect consumers during these tight economic times including advice on getting the best deals during the holiday season -- everything from layaway plans to getting a holiday job to navigating outlet malls. The blog is written by Consumer Reports Senior Project Editor Tod Marks, who has been finding deals and exposing scams in every area of consumer spending for nearly 20 years.

"This campaign reminds consumers that Wall Street's bailout won't cover them this holiday season. If consumers over-extend their credit cards, there won't be a rescue package waiting in the wings, so they need to remain vigilant about spending within their budgets," said Jim Guest, president and CEO of Consumers Union, nonprofit publisher of Consumer Reports. "As an organization that doesn't take advertising, we're using this venue as a way to educate consumers and foster marketplace change."

A Tradition of Public Education and Marketplace Change

This latest effort by Consumer Reports follows a tradition of public education campaigns against gift cards and extended warranties. Last year, the organization took on the retail sector and the ubiquitous gift card with a full-page ad in the New York Times, which advised consumers that $8 billion in gift cards go unused and wind up back in the pockets of retailers. The campaign called on retailers and the National Retail Federation to eliminate expiration dates and service fees. In 2006, Consumer Reports took out a full-page ad in USA Today advising consumers to skip the extended warranty. That ad was rebutted by a full-page ad one week later from the Service Contract Industry Council. Following this campaign, the Consumer Electronics Association reported consumer interest in purchasing extended warranties fell 20 percent.

Which way to pay: Credit, debit, check, or cash

A recent poll conducted by the Consumer Reports National Research Center found that 59% of consumers plan to make a budget before they begin to shop this holiday season. And while making a budget is a good first step, being able to stick with it is quite another. Of the 39% of consumers who said they made a budget last year, 45% were able to stay on budget while, nearly as many (44%) went over budget. Only 3% discarded their budget all together going way over budget.

Consumer Reports advises consumers that whether they make a budget or not this year the method of payment makes a difference. Credit cards offer the most protections for consumers, but consumers who routinely carry a balance will pay more for their purchases once fees and interest charges are factored in.

Consumer Reports recommends the following tips to avoid debt and maximize the method of payment:

-- Cash. Consumers should use cash as much as they can. There's no fear
of identity theft, and it's accepted almost everywhere. Remember to
save the receipt for evidence of payment.
-- Checks. Write a check if you need to make a large purchase somewhere
that won't accept credit or debit and you don't want to carry cash.
Canceled checks can also be useful as receipts or for tax purposes. If
a check disappears, you can stop payment on it, if you act quickly
enough (checks are increasingly being processed in a single day).
-- Debit cards. Use a debit card when you don't mind having the money
withdrawn immediately from your checking account. Debit cards are a
surefire way to avoid onerous credit-card interest charges, but you
could be slapped with burdensome overdraft fees if you don't have
enough money in your account to cover your purchases. With a debit
card, your liability for unauthorized transactions is limited to $50
if you report the problem within two business days of discovering it.
After that the limit leaps to $500. Beyond 60 days of your account
statement you could lose all the money in your bank account.
-- Credit cards. Use a credit card for most large purchases, if you're
not carrying a balance and can pay off the bill each month. Credit
cards offer greater protection than other forms of payment. If you
don't pay off your purchases each month, you'll pay interest rates of
about 12 to 13 percent on your balance, depending on whether your card
has a variable or fixed rate. If your account number falls into the
wrong hands, you're liable for only the first $50 in charges, and most
large issuers waive liability altogether. If you have a legitimate
beef with a seller, it's relatively easy to have the charges removed
until the dispute is settled, if you report the matter to the issuer
within 60 days after the charge appears on your statement.


The Consumer Reports National Research Center conducted a telephone survey of a nationally-representative probability sample of telephone households. 1,001 interviews were completed among adults aged 18+. Interviewing took place over October 16-19, 2008. The margin of error is +/-3% points at a 95% confidence level.

DECEMBER 2008

(C) Consumers Union 2008. The material above is intended for legitimate news entities only; it may not be used for commercial or promotional purposes. Consumer Reports(R) is published by Consumers Union, an expert, independent nonprofit organization whose mission is to work for a fair, just, and safe marketplace for all consumers and to empower consumers to protect themselves. To achieve this mission, we test, inform, and protect. To maintain our independence and impartiality, Consumers Union accepts no outside advertising, no free test samples, and has no agenda other than the interests of consumers. Consumers Union supports itself through the sale of our information products and services, individual contributions, and a few noncommercial grants.

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Community Bankers Trust Corporation Welcomes The Community Bank, Loganville, Georgia

Community Bankers Trust Corporation Welcomes The Community Bank, Loganville, Georgia (now operating as Essex Bank, a division of Bank of Essex) into the Bank of Essex Family


Community Bankers Trust Corporation (the “Company” or “CBTC”) (AMEX:BTC) is pleased to announce that Bank of Essex (BOE), a wholly-owned, Virginia state-chartered banking subsidiary of the Company, has entered into a purchase and assumption agreement with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), as receiver for The Community Bank, Loganville, Georgia (TCB), providing for the assumption by BOE, effective 6:00 pm Friday, November 21, 2008, off all deposit liabilities and to purchase certain assets of TCB.

BOE is assuming approximately $600 million in deposits, approximately $250 million of which are deemed to be core deposits. BOE has agreed to pay the FDIC a premium of 1.36% on all deposits, excluding all brokered and Internet deposits. Other than loans fully secured by deposit accounts, BOE is not purchasing any loans at this time, but will be providing loan servicing to TCB’s existing loan customers. BOE has sixty days to evaluate and, at its sole option, purchase any of the TCB loans. All deposits have been fully assumed and all insured deposits maintain their current insurance coverage. The existing branches of TCB will open Monday morning as Essex Bank, a division of Bank of Essex. TCB operates four branches in the greater Atlanta, Georgia market, Loganville, Walton County, Georgia; Covington, Newton, County, Georgia; Grayson, Gwinnett County, Georgia; and Snellville, Gwinnett County, Georgia.

George M. Longest, Chief Executive Officer of CBTC and BOE said, ”Since 1926, Bank of Essex has had a proud history of operating as a core community bank, serving its local community though conservative lending and prudent balance sheet management. This year we continued this tradition with the addition of TransCommunity Bank, N.A., which was recently merged into BOE. Today, we stand solid with one of the strongest balance sheets in the industry, with capital levels well above our peers. TCB is a true community bank and has proudly served its community since 1946. It has been the premier community bank in the markets that it serves. We look forward to working with the employees of TCB in building an even stronger community banking team and serving the needs of our combined customers and the local communities in which we operate. We are excited about the opportunities that lay before us in the greater Atlanta market. Monday morning, customers of TCB, as customers of Essex Bank, will find it is business as usual with the same friendly staff and the same desire to provide full personal service and attention to our customers.”

Gary A. Simanson, Vice-Chairman of the Company, commented, “part of our strategic plan, in addition to operating a core community bank, has been to build a franchise through select acquisition opportunities and reach out to attractive markets beyond the Commonwealth of Virginia. We find the addition of TCB to our franchise to be such an opportunity. Not only are we teaming up with a true, long established community bank, in some of the highest growth markets in the Country, we are making a statement that we are open to looking at further opportunities should they arise in this market. We believe that we demonstrated the appropriate pricing discipline in approaching this transaction and anticipate that the transaction will be accretive to earnings within the first full quarter of combined operations. While there are always execution risks in any transaction, we feel that the long operating history of TCB in its local community helps limits these risks. The local culture of TCB is much like that of the Bank of Essex. Additionally, we are not taking on any credit risk in this transaction. These are interesting times in the banking industry and with our strong capital position and experienced banking team we look forward to continuing to build both a highly respected community banking franchise and long-term shareholder value. We appreciate the assistance of our regulators in consummating this transaction and will endeavor to work with them closely to see that the banking needs of the local communities will continue to be well served.”

About Community Bankers Trust Corporation.

CBTC is a well-capitalized, single-bank holding company headquartered in the greater Richmond, Virginia market, with approximately $1.3 billion in assets, $1.1 million in deposits, $500 million in loans, and $150 million in capital. It operates 13 full service banking facilities from Virginia’s Chesapeake Bay to the Shenandoah Valley under the Bank of Essex, Bank of Goochland, Bank of Powhatan, Bank of Louisa and Bank of Rockbridge brand names and four branches in the greater Atlanta, Georgia market under the Essex Bank brand name. Additional information is available on the Company’s website at www.cbtrustcorp.com. The shares of the Company are traded on the American Stock Exchange (AMEX) under the symbol “BTC”.

Forward-Looking Statement:

This release contains forward-looking statements as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may address issues that involve significant risks, uncertainties, estimates and assumptions made by management. Facts that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by such forward-looking statements include competitive pressures in the banking industry that may increase significantly; changes in the interest rate environment may reduce margins and/or the volumes and values of loans made or held as well as the value of other financial assets held; general economic conditions, either nationally or regionally, may be less favorable than expected, resulting in, among other things, deterioration in credit quality and/or a reduced demand for credit or other services, changes in the legislative or regulatory environment, including changes in accounting standards, may adversely affect our business; costs or difficulties; related to the integration of the business and the businesses we have acquired may be greater than expected; expected cost savings associated with recently completed acquisitions may not be fully realized or realized within the expected time frame; our competitors may have greater financial resources and develop products that enable them to compete more successfully; changes in business conditions, changes in the securities market and changes in our local economy with regards to our market area. We assume no obligation to update information contained in this release.

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Community Capital Bancshares Announces Third Quarter Results of Operations

/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Community Capital Bancshares Inc. (Other OTC: ALBY) today announced a loss for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 of $5,325,000 or $1.74 per basic share. This compares with income of $35,000 or $0.01 per basic share for the nine months ended September 30, 2007. For the three months ended September 30, 2008, the Company incurred a loss of $3,059,000 or $0.99 per basic share, in comparison to the loss of $447,000 or $ 0.15 per basic share made during the same period of 2007.

Net income for the year has been negatively impacted by loan loss provisions of $4,380,000 necessary to provide for potential losses in the loan portfolio. For the nine months ended there have been $1,102,000 of losses and write downs of foreclosed property as compared to $90,000 in 2007. During the third quarter of 2008, the company recognized a loss of $936,000 due to other than temporary impairment on FNMA stock held in its investment portfolio.

Total assets as of September 30, 2008 were $198,933,000 as compared to $248,840,000 as of September 30, 2007. The decreased level of assets is the result of loan reductions and the efforts by the subsidiary Banks to remain compliant with the capital provisions of the Formal Agreements with the OCC.

John H. Monk Jr., President and CEO commented, "We continue to aggressively pursue the collection of our troubled loans. The current market conditions pose additional problems for the valuation and marketing of our troubled assets. We will continue to identify and dispose of these assets. We feel that we have sufficient capital levels to weather this storm. Our Tier 1 risk based capital ratio is over 17.5% at September 30, 2008. During the fourth quarter we will engage an independent valuation firm to test our Goodwill for possible impairment." John Monk continued, "We appreciate the continued support of our customers and look forward to continuing to serve them in the coming years."

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The Home Depot Declares Third Quarter Dividend of 22.5 Cents

PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The Home Depot(R), the world's largest home improvement retailer, today announced that its board of directors declared a third quarter cash dividend of 22.5 cents per share. The dividend is payable on December 18 to shareholders of record on the close of business on December 4. This is the 87th consecutive quarter the Company has paid a cash dividend.

The Home Depot is the world's largest home improvement specialty retailer, with 2,270 retail stores in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, 10 Canadian provinces, Mexico and China. In fiscal 2007, The Home Depot had sales of $77.3 billion and earnings from continuing operations of $4.2 billion. The Company employs more than 300,000 associates. The Home Depot's stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE:HD) and is included in the Dow Jones industrial average and Standard & Poor's 500 index. HDE.

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Habersham Bancorp Announces Suspension of Dividend

/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- David D. Stovall, President and Chief Executive Officer of Habersham Bancorp (NASDAQ:HABC) reported that the Board of Directors of Habersham Bancorp has voted to suspend regular cash dividends on its common stock for an indefinite period. Concerning the announcement, Mr. Stovall stated, "Given the current uncertainty in the economy, the board of directors and management feel it in the best interest of shareholders to retain our capital at the present time, and be better able to sustain our business through this downturn."

Habersham Bancorp owns Habersham Bank, headquartered in Clarkesville, Georgia, with offices located in Cornelia, Baldwin, Braselton, Cleveland, Canton, Flowery Branch, Hickory Flat, Cumming, Toccoa, Eastanollee and Warrenton, Georgia. Habersham Bancorp also owns Advantage Insurers, Inc., headquartered in Cornelia, Georgia, an insurance subsidiary of Habersham Bank.

The Company's stock is listed on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol HABC.

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The Home Depot Announces Third Quarter Results

PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The Home Depot(R), the world's largest home improvement retailer, today reported fiscal 2008 third quarter consolidated net earnings of $756 million, or $0.45 per diluted share, compared with $1.1 billion, or $0.60 per diluted share, in the same period in fiscal 2007. Earnings per diluted share from continuing operations in the third quarter of fiscal 2008 were $0.45, compared to $0.59 per diluted share in the third quarter of fiscal 2007.

Sales for the third quarter totaled $17.8 billion, a 6.2 percent decrease from the third quarter of fiscal 2007, reflecting negative comparable store sales of 8.3 percent, offset in part by sales from new stores.

The Company had 53 weeks in fiscal 2007, which shifted the 2008 fiscal calendar. Because of this shift and given the seasonal nature of its business, third quarter sales, on a like for like calendar basis, were negatively impacted by approximately $225 million. Excluding the calendar shift, the Company's like for like comp for the quarter was negative 7.1 percent.

"The housing and home improvement markets remain challenging. Across our entire business, we are making the adjustments necessary to respond to a tough market environment," said Frank Blake, chairman & CEO.

"We are focused on the things we can control with a commitment to provide value and service to our customers," said Blake. "I am proud of what our associates have accomplished in a very difficult sales environment."

Fiscal Year 2008 Financial Outlook

Given the continued softness in the housing and home improvement markets as well as negative macro economic conditions, the Company now believes that fiscal 2008 sales could be down as much as 8 percent for the year. The Company expects that earnings per share from continuing operations will decline by approximately 24 percent, consistent with previous guidance.

The Company's 2008 earnings per share guidance does not include its store rationalization charge from the closing of 15 stores and removal of 50 stores from its future growth pipeline.

The Home Depot will conduct a conference call today at 9 a.m. ET to discuss information included in this news release and related matters. The conference call will be available in its entirety through a webcast and replay at homedepot.com in the Investor Relations section.

At the end of the third quarter, the Company operated a total of 2,268 retail stores, which included 1,970 The Home Depot stores in the United States (including the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the territory of the U.S. Virgin Islands and the territory of Guam), 172 stores in Canada, 73 stores in Mexico, 12 stores in China, as well as 2 THD Design Centers, 5 Yardbirds stores and 34 EXPO Design Center locations. The Company employs more than 300,000 associates. The Home Depot's stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE:HD) and is included in the Dow Jones industrial average and Standard & Poor's 500 index. HDE

Certain statements contained herein, including any statements related to the state of the home improvement market, the state of the construction and housing markets, our reinvestment plans, comparable store sales, store openings and closures, implementation of store initiatives and financial outlook, constitute "forward-looking statements" as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. While these statements are based on currently available information and current expectations and projections about future events, such forward-looking statements may prove to be incorrect. Risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to: economic conditions in North America and in other countries where we operate; changes in our cost structure; our ability to attract, train and retain highly qualified associates; conditions affecting customer transactions and average ticket, including, but not limited to, improving and streamlining operations, customers' in-store experience, and risks associated with our distribution strategies and planned RDC roll-out. Undue reliance should not be placed on such forward-looking statements as they speak only as of the date hereof, and we undertake no obligation to update these statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances except as may be required by law. Additional information regarding these and other risks and uncertainties is contained in our periodic filings with the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 3, 2008. The risks and uncertainties described in our Form 10-K include the considerable risks associated with the current economic environment and the possible adverse effects on our results of operations and financial condition.

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Staying in the Game: Four Things You Can Do to Ensure Your Business Survives, and Thrives, During Tough Times

PRNewswire/ -- While always important, effective execution and a culture of accountability are even more essential when a business is faced with challenging economic conditions. "Our research on top performing companies points to four actions critical for success in the current environment," says Rick Lepsinger, President of OnPoint Consulting (http://www.onpointconsultingllc.com/). Keeping individuals and teams focused and engaged during tough times requires leaders to:

Be optimistic but realistic. It's important to be positive about the future without appearing naive. The key is to set realistic expectations and find the right balance between resources, time, and desired outcomes. "People have confidence they can succeed, even in a difficult economic period, when they feel that objectives are realistic and adequately resourced," says Lepsinger.

Hold everyone accountable for results. Tough times demand that everyone bring their "A" game and pull their own weight. "Therefore," asserts Lepsinger, "it is important that everyone understands what is expected of them and when. Then monitor progress, celebrate successes, and recalibrate or coach people to get back on track when necessary." It is also important to create an environment where people can raise problems and admit mistakes, rather than "covering up" or "pointing fingers," which is more likely during challenging times.

Involve people in decisions. When times are tough you want everyone's best thinking and full commitment. "Now is not the time to close people out of the decision-making process in order to protect them or to 'speed things up,'" says Lepsinger. Involving people in decisions increases decision quality and acceptance, and enhances engagement.

Ensure plans and actions are coordinated across departments and levels. Don't let uncertainty or ambiguity push you into a day-to-day mindset, as this is not the time to "wing it." However, even the best plan will fail if everyone is not pulling in the same direction. "During difficult times," efficiency is critical and coordination is king," says Lepsinger.

Even in a weak economy there are winners and losers. "By consistently applying the four key actions," says Lepsinger, "you increase the likelihood that you and your team will end up in the winner's circle."

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Private Equity Leaders Confident of Full Economic Recovery

/PRNewswire/ -- Over half of private equity leaders are confident that the full recovery of the market is no more than 18 months away, new research commissioned by Celerant Consulting reveals.

A survey of more than 220 senior executives across Europe and the United States, carried out by the Economist Intelligence Unit, reveals that 53% of private equity leaders believe that the market will return to its pre-credit crunch levels within 18 months. The findings showed that US executives are more optimistic about the future than their European counterparts, with 62% of US respondents believing that a turnaround would occur within that time frame. As noted, the global sentiment was a bit more pessimistic, with 36% of UK and 32% of German respondents predicting a full recovery would take longer.

Paul de Janosi, Managing Director of Private Equity, Celerant Consulting, said: "Despite the optimistic viewpoint of a majority of the survey respondents, we feel that it will be a few years before we see pre-credit crunch levels of activity again. We expect the roots of early recovery to begin in the second half of 2009, leading to broader activity by mid-2010. The GP's will not be static though, as there is significant amount of portfolio remediation work and this type of market down-turn typically yields strong buying opportunities."

Yet to hit rock bottom?

Despite the long-term optimism, many of those questioned still felt that the market has further to fall. The vast majority believe both the volume and value of deals will reduce over the next year (78% and 81% respectively), whilst two thirds (66%) say they intend not to invest at the moment and would instead wait for more attractive deals.

Change is necessary, but how?

The survey also found that private equity leaders from around the globe are united in the belief that the credit crunch and subsequent recession will transform the industry, with 96% agreeing that PE firms will have to change. However, there is no consensus on what the sector will look like when the credit crunch has passed, highlighted by the fact that 16% acknowledge that there will be a need to change but they are not sure how.

One fifth thought that the industry would need to find a completely different financing model -- unsurprising given that the reduced levels of available credit in the marketplace means that the days of massive leveraging are a thing of the past. Almost as many, 19% globally and 29% US, expect the credit crunch to lead to consolidation within the private equity sector itself.

What to do in the meantime?

Nevertheless, despite acknowledging the need for change, only 20% are planning to scale back activity in the next 12 months, and a mere 2% intend to shed jobs. Rather, the optimistic long-term prognosis is illustrated by the fact that 26% of those questioned are prepared to take on new staff.

Paul de Janosi continued: "The credit crunch means that easy refinancing is a thing of the past, yet the private equity industry is still optimistic about the future. In the short term private equity companies have already begun to shift their focus from investment to improvement. They need to concentrate on their existing portfolios to ensure that they are both maximising their operational efficiency for short-term survival, and guaranteeing long-term growth."

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Survey Finds Economic Downturn Has Had a Major Negative Impact on Americans' Ability to Pay for Long-Term Care Services

/PRNewswire/ -- With significant losses to their savings and investments, and economists warning of a prolonged recession, many Americans are feeling uncertain about their retirement security and their ability to pay for long-term care services. According to a new survey by the nonprofit LIFE Foundation, 64 percent of Americans age 45 and older say that the recent economic downturn has had a major negative impact on their ability to pay for long-term care services should they become unable to take care of themselves for an extended period of time. Considering that 70 percent of Americans who reach age 65 will need such care at some point in their lives, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, these findings show how financially vulnerable many people are without a long-term care plan.

Released to coincide with Long-Term Care Awareness Month in November, the LIFE survey found that most adults recognize the reality of needing long-term care services:

-- Sixty-one percent say they are concerned that they will be responsible
in the future for providing either financial assistance or personal
care to a loved one who needs long-term care services.
-- More than half of all adults (58%) think it is likely they will need
long-term care services at some point in their lives.


While adult Americans recognize the risk, few of them, according to Deb Newman, CLU, ChFC, LTCP, president of Newman Long Term Care and spokesperson for LIFE, own long-term care insurance to guard against this risk.

"On average, the cost for long-term care services is roughly $70,000 a year. In today's tough economic environment, most people have far less money available to pay for these services, and it's likely they will need them," says Newman. "Long-term care insurance guarantees that you will always have the financial means to afford the kind of care you'll need and prefer."

Since shopping for a long-term care insurance policy can be complicated, LIFE recommends people meet with a qualified insurance professional who can walk through their options and help them find a plan that meets their specific needs and budget.

LIFE reviews five things people may not know about long-term care insurance and encourages all Americans to make November, Long-Term Care Awareness Month, the time to assess their needs.

You can Share the Care -- If you're reluctant to purchase a policy for yourself, consider one that would cover you and your spouse if either of you ever needed it. Many long-term care policies offer the option of a shared benefits rider, which enables you and your significant other to draw from one policy up to a specified benefit limit.

State Partnership Programs Can Mean Big Savings -- Many states have created Long-Term Care Insurance Partnership Programs to provide incentives to encourage residents to purchase policies. When you purchase a policy through these programs, your state guarantees that if you use up the policy's benefits, you'll be able to qualify for Medicaid without first having to deplete all of your assets. Since these programs vary from state to state, check with your state insurance department to learn more about the program in your area.

Home Care is an Option -- One of the biggest misconceptions people have is that long-term care insurance will only cover care provided in a nursing home or assisted living facility. The reality is that today, most policies offer the buyer the option to receive care in a range of different settings. In fact, the option to receive care at home is now included in virtually all policies sold today. Recently, Unum, a leading insurer in the group long-term care market, reported that nearly 70 percent of its customers use their long term care benefits for care that occurs in the home. So make sure to choose a policy that will pay for care where you want it delivered.

You May Want Coverage before Saying "I Do" -- With more people getting married or remarrying at older ages, including long-term care insurance in prenuptial agreements or alimony packages is becoming more common. If you and your spouse-to-be both purchase a policy, you can guarantee that each of your assets and lifestyles will be protected should either of you need care in the future.

For Most, It's Not Too Late to Purchase Coverage -- Experts recommend that people should begin thinking about their long-term care insurance options in their 40s, when they're young and healthy and have the best chance of locking in a preferred premium rate for coverage. However, if you are over the age of 60, it's not too late. Today, many insurance companies are selling policies to people who are in good health into their 80s.

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Synovus Selected to Participate in U.S. Treasury Capital Purchase Program

(BUSINESS WIRE)--Synovus (NYSE: SNV), the Columbus, Georgia-based financial services company announced today it has received preliminary approval from the U.S. Treasury for the sale of approximately $973 million in preferred stock and related warrants to Treasury under the Capital Purchase Program. The final approval is subject to satisfaction of certain conditions, including approval by Synovus’ shareholders of amendments to the company’s articles of incorporation and bylaws to allow Synovus to issue preferred stock, as well as the execution of definitive agreements.

The Capital Purchase Program, part of the U.S. Treasury Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP), is designed to encourage U.S. financial institutions to build capital and increase the flow of financing to U.S. businesses and consumers. Treasury has set aside $250 billion dollars to invest in the country’s strongest financial institutions.

Synovus expects to use the proceeds from the Capital Purchase Program to further strengthen the company’s capital base, enhance lending capabilities and position Synovus banks to capitalize on competitive growth opportunities in local markets.

“Through participation in this program, we have the opportunity to gain valuable capital to invest in continued growth and economic recovery in each of the communities we serve,” said Richard Anthony, Chairman and CEO of Synovus. “We are especially focused on opportunities to carefully expand our lending efforts to consumers and businesses as we all work through these challenging economic times.”

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Colonial BancGroup Announces Status of the U.S. Treasury’s Capital Purchase Program Application

(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Colonial BancGroup, Inc. (NYSE: CNB) is making the following announcement in order to correct what it perceives to be misinformation in the market place. Colonial has, in fact, applied for participation in the TARP Capital Purchase Program. Its application was delivered to the FDIC in a timely manner. While assurances can not be given as to the outcome of the application, Colonial has been given no information that would lead it to doubt that its application is not being processed through the normal channels. At this time, it is not possible to project when we will receive an answer to the application.

Colonial BancGroup operates 344 branches in Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Nevada and Texas with over $26 billion in assets. The Company’s common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol CNB and is located online at www.colonialbank.com. In some newspapers, the stock is listed as ColBgp.

This release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Words such as “believes,” “estimates,” “plans,” “expects,” “should,” “may,” “might,” “outlook,” “potential” and “anticipates,” the negative of these terms and similar expressions, as they relate to The Colonial BancGroup, Inc. (BancGroup) (including its subsidiaries or its management), are intended to identify forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by such statements. In addition to factors mentioned elsewhere in this release or previously disclosed in BancGroup’s SEC reports (accessible on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or on BancGroup’s website at www.colonialbank.com), the following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking statements and future results could differ materially from historical performance. These factors are not exclusive:

* losses to our loan portfolio are greater than estimated or expected;
* an inability to raise additional capital on terms and conditions that are satisfactory;
* the impact of current economic conditions on our ability to borrow additional funds to meet our liquidity needs;
* economic conditions affecting real estate values and transactions in BancGroup’s market and/or general economic conditions, either nationally or regionally, that are less favorable then expected;
* changes in the interest rate environment which expand or reduce margins or adversely affect critical estimates as applied, projected returns on investments, and fair values of assets;
* deposit attrition, customer loss, or revenue loss in the ordinary course of business;
* increases in competitive pressure in the banking industry and from non-banks;
* costs or difficulties related to the integration of the businesses of BancGroup and institutions it acquires are greater than expected;
* the inability of BancGroup to realize elements of its strategic plans for 2008 and beyond;
* natural disasters in BancGroup’s primary market areas which result in prolonged business disruption or materially impair the value of collateral securing loans;
* management’s assumptions and estimates underlying critical accounting policies prove to be inadequate or materially incorrect or are not borne out by subsequent events;
* the impact of recent and future federal and state regulatory changes;
* current and future litigation, regulatory investigations, proceedings or inquiries;
* strategies to manage interest rate risk may yield results other than those anticipated;
* changes which may occur in the regulatory environment;
* a significant rate of inflation (deflation);
* unanticipated litigation or claims;
* acts of terrorism or war; and
* changes in the securities markets.

Many of these factors are beyond BancGroup’s control. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward looking statements made by or on behalf of BancGroup. Any such statement speaks only as of the date the statement was made or as of such date that may be referenced within the statement. BancGroup does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements.

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Southeastern Banking Corporation Announces Fourth Quarter 2008 Dividend

PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Southeastern Banking Corporation (OTC:SEBC) (BULLETIN BOARD: SEBC) announced today that its Board of Directors approved a 50% reduction in the quarterly dividend from $0.25 per share to $0.125 per share. The reduction reflects management's proactive management of capital through a period of economic uncertainty in the financial industry. The dividend reduction strengthens the Company's overall balance sheet by retaining not only capital but also cash. The announced dividend will be payable December 10 to shareholders of record at the close of business on November 26.

Southeastern Banking Corporation is the parent holding company of Southeastern Bank, headquartered in Darien, Georgia.

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Oxendine Announces Arrest of Suspects in Insurance Fraud Bust

Insurance Commissioner John W. Oxendine said arrest warrants have been issued on 19 suspects in an insurance fraud ring that allegedly collected $995,641.75 in misappropriated claims from a Japanese insurance company.

The suspected ringleader, Ken Dewberry, 42, of Lawrenceville, worked for Sompo Japan Insurance Company of America at the time the theft occurred -- March 1, 2001 to March 30, 2004. He has been charged with 30 counts of theft by taking, as well as charges under the federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act.

“Someone at the Sompo Atlanta office was changing the names and addresses of vendors and then requesting and distributing medical claim checks to people that had not performed any services on the claimants,” Oxendine said. “Our investigation has led us to suspect Ken Dewberry.”

A total of 473 checks were issued to 21 different individuals. Oxendine said the checks were cashed by the individuals, who typically kept some money for themselves and then passed the rest to Dewberry. Dewberry’s financial records during the time of loss show approximately $154,000 in unexplained deposits into his checking and savings accounts. Also, personal connections can be drawn between Dewberry and nearly all of the check recipients, many of whom he knew from previously living in New York.

A total of 19 suspects will be charged under the RICO Act in connection with the case, and other charges are possible, Oxendine said. Besides Dewberry, the suspects include: Raymond Santana, 43, address unknown; Henry Rolle, 43, Atlanta; Terence Hover, 35, Decatur; Dujuan R. Free, 27, Atlanta; Frederick Brown, 28, Decatur; Henry Free, 43, Forest Park; Marcus Battle, 27, Marietta; Katie Winborn, 28, College Park; Mario Starks, 29, College Park; Victor Devalia, 31, Atlanta; Christopher A. Hinds, 34, Marietta; Dana Hunter, 38, Lawrenceville; Jeffrey L. Thompson, 39, Lithonia; Eric Charles Ridenhour, 44, Atlanta; Curtis Broussard, 48, Austell; Frederick Isaac, 39, Stone Mountain; Sandra Lamore, 36, address unknown; and Lawrence Scott, Duluth.
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SunTrust Declares Quarterly Dividend

PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The Board of Directors of SunTrust Banks, Inc. (NYSE:STI) today declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.54 per common share. The dividend is payable on December 15, 2008, to shareholders of record on December 1, 2008. The indicated annual cash dividend is $2.16 per common share.

The Board of Directors also announced a quarterly cash dividend of $1,011.11* per share on SunTrust's Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series A, declared payable in cash on December 15, 2008, to shareholders of record at the close of business on November 30, 2008.

SunTrust Banks, Inc., headquartered in Atlanta, is one of the nation's largest banking organizations, serving a broad range of consumer, commercial, corporate and institutional clients. As of September 30, 2008, SunTrust had total assets of $174.8 billion and total deposits of $115.9 billion. The Company operates an extensive branch and ATM network throughout the high-growth Southeast and Mid-Atlantic states and a full array of technology-based, 24-hour delivery channels. The Company also serves customers in selected markets nationally. Its primary businesses include deposit, credit, trust and investment services. Through various subsidiaries the Company provides mortgage banking, insurance, brokerage, investment management, equipment leasing and capital markets services. SunTrust's Internet address is suntrust.com.

*Editor's Note: The preferred stock dividend has been rounded for reader convenience. The precise dividend is $1,011.11111111111.

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Cousins Properties Authorized to Repurchase Preferred Stock

(BUSINESS WIRE)--Cousins Properties Incorporated (NYSE: CUZ) today announced that its Board of Directors has adopted a new plan authorizing the expenditure of up to $20 million to repurchase the Company's Series A and Series B Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock. The Company may repurchase the shares from time to time in open market transactions, pursuant to a 10b5-1 purchase plan and in negotiated and block transactions as market and business conditions warrant on or before May 6, 2009.

Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2008, Cousins Properties Incorporated is a leading diversified real estate company with extensive experience in development, acquisition, financing, management and leasing. Based in Atlanta, the Company actively invests in office, multi-family, retail, industrial and land development projects. Since its founding, Cousins has developed 20 million square feet of office space, 20 million square feet of retail space, more than 4,000 multi-family units and more than 60 single-family neighborhoods. The Company is a fully integrated equity real estate investment trust (REIT) and trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol CUZ. For more, please visit www.cousinsproperties.com.

Certain matters discussed in this news release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws and are subject to uncertainties and risk. These include, but are not limited to, general and local economic conditions (including the current general recession and state of the credit markets), local real estate conditions (including the overall condition of the residential markets), the activity of others developing competitive projects, the risks associated with development projects (such as delay, cost overruns and leasing/sales risk of new properties), the cyclical nature of the real estate industry, the financial condition of existing tenants, interest rates, the Company’s ability to obtain favorable financing or zoning, environmental matters, the effects of terrorism, the ability of the Company to close properties under contract and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including those described in Part I, Item 1A of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007. The words “believes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “estimates” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that its plans, intentions and expectations reflected in any forward-looking statement are reasonable, the Company can give no assurance that these plans, intentions or expectations will be achieved. Such forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and speak as of the date of such statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of future events, new information or otherwise.

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Fitch Rates Northeast Georgia Health System's (Georgia) Series 2007G Bank Bonds 'A' Und

(BUSINESS WIRE)--Fitch Ratings has assigned an underlying long-term rating of 'A' to bank bonds corresponding to revenue anticipation certificates, series 2007G, issued on behalf of Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS) by the Hall County and Gainesville Hospital Authority. Also, Fitch confirms its underlying 'A' rating on NGHS's outstanding debt. The Rating Outlook is Stable.

Although NGHS's potential exposure to interest rate and term-out risks is considerable, this is largely offset by the system's robust financial profile and relatively good access to the capital markets indicated by its strong rating level. Essentially all of NGHS's outstanding debt consists of variable rate demand obligations (VRDOs), of which the $103 million series 2007G are currently held as bank bonds. Fitch Ratings has assigned an underlying long-term rating of 'A' to bank bonds corresponding to revenue anticipation certificates, series 2007G, issued on behalf of Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS) by the Hall County and Gainesville Hospital Authority. Also, Fitch confirms its underlying 'A' rating on NGHS's outstanding debt. The Rating Outlook is Stable.

Although NGHS's potential exposure to interest rate and term-out risks is considerable, this is largely offset by the system's robust financial profile and relatively good access to the capital markets indicated by its strong rating level. Essentially all of NGHS's outstanding debt consists of variable rate demand obligations (VRDOs), of which the $103 million series 2007G are currently held as bank bonds. The standby bond purchase agreement for the series 2007G bonds allow for a 365 day cure period. Payment draws under other liquidity facility agreements, covering approximately 70% of NGHS's outstanding VRDOs, immediately begin to amortize over 36 months at bank rates which escalate to a minimum of 14% after 90 days. While these terms are somewhat severe, Fitch believes that the possibility of all, or close to all, of the VRDOs being put to the banks simultaneously and NGHS not being able to remarket or refinance these bonds in a reasonable amount of time is unlikely. Furthermore, with NGHS's ample liquidity (292.4 days cash on hand as of June 30, 2008) and strong cash flow generation (operating EBITDA of $82.3 million in fiscal 2007), the system can withstand a limited period of bank bond amortization without adversely affecting the 'A' rating. With the exception of the series 2007G bonds, NGHS's VRDOs are being remarketed successfully.

For more information on NGHS, please see Fitch research dated Aug. 11, 2008 at www.fitchratings.com.

Fitch's rating definitions and the terms of use of such ratings are available on the agency's public site, www.fitchratings.com. Published ratings, criteria and methodologies are available from this site, at all times. Fitch's code of conduct, confidentiality, conflicts of interest, affiliate firewall, compliance and other relevant policies and procedures are also available from the 'Code of Conduct' section of this site.

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Money Management Tips for the Newly Unemployed

PRNewswire/ -- With the nation's unemployment remaining high, Consumer Credit Counseling Service (CCCS) of Greater Atlanta today reminds people who have lost their jobs to continue paying their bills on time and managing their credit wisely during this difficult period.

Managing your credit during unemployment is critical since having good credit is a requirement for some jobs. "Some people have the professional and education background for a new position, but may have an inability to pay bills on time," says Mechel Glass, CCCS of Greater Atlanta's director of education. "Failing to manage your finances during unemployment could affect your credit report and hurt your chances of landing a new job."

As part of its education mission, the national nonprofit credit counseling agency teaches classes on money management. Below are some money management tips to help people through a period of unemployment, as well as long-term tactics to implement once they have a new job.

Short-Term Money Management Tips

People who have recently lost a job should determine if they are eligible for unemployment benefits from their state Department of Labor. While state laws vary, a person is often eligible for benefits as long as they have not received a severance package from their employer or receive retirement income.

Once you have lost a job, consider the following tactics:
-- Make looking for a new job your full-time job. It may take several
months for people in some professional and financial services to find a
new job. Each day you need to network with friends and former
colleagues, look for jobs online and apply for new positions.


Plenty of assistance is available. For example:
-- Contact Angel Food Ministries to obtain food at the lowest possible
cost. The organization can be reached at 1.877.366.3646 or
angelfood@angelfoodministries.com.
-- Call United Way at 211 to find out about other low-cost services, such
as day care.
-- If you are paying off a student loan, contact the financial company
servicing the loan to find out if you can defer or reduce your
payments.
-- Contact the financial company servicing your automobile loan to see if
you can make a similar arrangement.
-- Make at least the minimum monthly payments on your credit card
accounts. If that is impossible, contact your lender, explain your
loss of income and advise them when you will be able to resume making
payments.
-- If you cannot make your mortgage payment, contact a mortgage counselor
at 1-888-995-HOPE.
-- Consider downsizing your lifestyle by reducing expenses such as club
and gym memberships, cable television, bottled water and movies. Find
ways to reduce "everyday" expenses, such as telephone use and dining
out at restaurants. For example, families with cell phones for each
person may not need a land line and cooking all meals at home could
easily save a family hundreds of dollars each month.


Long-Term Money Management Tips

Many people now unemployed formerly worked in high-income professional jobs, such as those in the mortgage, real estate or securities industries, and may not find a new job paying as much money. They should consider a change in their lifestyles to meet their financial obligations in the future. Here are some tips to do that:

-- Develop a new, realistic budget that will enable you to pay for
essential expenses and bills before any extra or luxury items. Consider
developing a budget so you can live on 70 percent of your new income,
with the remaining 30 percent used for savings and investments.
-- Consider selling your car, especially if you have a high monthly
payment, and purchase a less expensive model with smaller monthly
payments.
-- If it's difficult to make your mortgage payment each month and you can
live in a smaller home, consider putting your home up for sale. While
home prices are depressed, it may be a better long-term solution to
live in a home you can afford.

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Mohawk Industries, Inc. Announces Third Quarter Earnings

PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Mohawk Industries, Inc. (NYSE:MHK) today announced 2008 third quarter sales of $1,763 million, a decrease of 9% from 2007. The company generated cash flow from operations of $185 million, paid down debt of $128 million and has over $800 million available under current credit facilities. As a result of Mohawk's declining stock price and deteriorating industry conditions, accounting rules required non-cash charges for a preliminary goodwill and other intangibles impairment of $1,216 million net of tax and for a deferred tax asset impairment of $253 million. While our goodwill and other intangibles impairment analysis is not yet complete, we believe the preliminary amount is a reasonable estimate and we will adjust the charge if required. These impairment charges do not require any cash payments or impact our operations, liquidity or debt covenants. Including the non-cash write offs during the quarter, the company reported a net loss of $1,394 million or $20.37 per share. Excluding the non-cash write off, non-GAAP net earnings were $76 million or $1.10 per share. In the third quarter of 2007, net earnings were $122 million or $1.78 per share.

Net sales for the first nine months of 2008 were $5,341 million representing an 8% decrease from 2007. For the first nine months of 2008, the loss was $1,239 million or $18.12 per share including a non-cash write off for a preliminary goodwill and other intangibles impairment of $1,216 million net of tax and for a deferred tax asset impairment of $253 million. Excluding the non-cash write off's, non-GAAP net earnings were $230 million or $3.35 per share in the first nine months of 2008.

In commenting on the third quarter results, Jeffrey S. Lorberbaum, Chairman and CEO stated, "We generated strong cash flow from operations of $185 million during the period while our earnings were under pressure from falling demand and higher costs. All of our businesses are focused on reducing overhead costs, managing working capital and enhancing sales and margins. The U.S. economy is declining with consumers reducing discretionary expenditures. Residential home sales and remodeling are at low levels and commercial projects are being impacted by tightening credit and softening business conditions. The European economy has become significantly weaker and affected both our flooring and non-flooring products. Government intervention should help stabilize the banking system and improve availability of credit. We are hopeful that the declining energy and commodity prices will help strengthen consumer confidence and lead to an improvement in the flooring market next year.

The Mohawk segment was impacted most by the down turn. Sales declined by 11% with both costs and revenues under pressure. Almost every channel and product category has slowed during the quarter. The price increases we announced in the summer should be fully implemented by year end. During the quarter raw materials escalated more than we anticipated. Additional price increases were initiated in our ceramic, laminate, and vinyl products during the period. Our SG&A has been reduced from the prior year and will decline further in the future from additional actions. To right size the business, we announced closing two staple yarn plants and several regional distribution centers in the fourth quarter. This restructuring will benefit us with lower overhead and more efficient operations going forward. We are carefully rationalizing all our facilities to match the needs for both our near-term and long-term environment.

Dal-Tile sales declined in the quarter 5% below the prior year with business deteriorating through the quarter. We believe Dal-Tile is performing much better than the overall ceramic market. We are increasing our product offerings to the hospitality, multifamily and other commercial segments. New commercial introductions in the American Olean brand will add to our commercial sales through independent distributors. We have begun our factory direct program for large customers and expanded our product line for the Mexican market. We are reducing our ceramic production in the fourth quarter with both shorter work schedules and shift reductions. Our sales, distribution and administrative infrastructures are being reduced further to adapt to the poor environment. Savings in trucking costs are being achieved through increased fleet utilization and synergies with other Mohawk shipments.

The Unilin sales declined 5% as reported or 11% on a constant exchange rate basis. The Western European market has softened substantially as the global economy declines. Our laminate sales were down in both U.S. and Europe with Eastern Europe and Russia out performing other areas. Our laminate royalties have also declined as the industry units contracted. Roofing system sales were slightly up for the period. Our European board volume has declined along with the industry and pricing is at cyclical low levels. In the Columbia wood operations, we have taken out costs and launched new products. Customer demand for wood is very challenging and Columbia continues to operate at a loss. During the period, Unilin costs were higher due to rising chemical, energy, transportation and increased unabsorbed overhead. Many cost initiatives are under way including reengineering products, implementing new systems and reducing infrastructure."

The fourth quarter outlook is challenging due to the slowing economy, tightening credit and falling consumption of consumers and businesses. We do not expect to benefit significantly from declining oil and energy until the first half of 2009. In the quarter, our businesses will reduce inventory with increased shut downs and be impacted by a decline in product mix. The stronger dollar is expected to negatively impact our results in the period. Based on these factors our EPS guidance for the fourth quarter of 2008 is $0.20 to $0.30. Excluded from this guidance is a fourth quarter restructuring charge of $25 to $30 million related to closing facilities which will benefit our future operations.

We anticipate 2009 results will improve from our second half in 2008. During 2009 higher selling prices and lower costs should help our margins. Actions taken in 2008 to reduce overhead, improve productivity, shut down high cost capacity and manage inventories will positively impact our operations. Consumer discretionary spending for flooring will improve from substantial government stimulus, additional liquidity, lower gas and falling commodity prices. We remain convinced Mohawk will be a stronger company when we come out of this cycle.

Certain of the statements in the immediately preceding paragraphs, particularly anticipating future performance, business prospects, growth and operating strategies and similar matters and those that include the words "could," "should," "believes," "anticipates," "expects," and "estimates," or similar expressions constitute "forward-looking statements." For those statements, Mohawk claims the protection of the safe harbor for forward- looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. There can be no assurance that the forward-looking statements will be accurate because they are based on many assumptions, which involve risks and uncertainties. The following important factors could cause future results to differ: changes in economic or industry conditions; competition; raw material and energy costs and supply; timing and level of capital expenditures; integration of acquisitions; impairment charges; rationalization of operations; litigation and other risks identified in Mohawk's SEC reports and public announcements.

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