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WASHINGTON, Feb. 26 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship Chair Mary L. Landrieu, D-La., today commented on the Republicans’ successful effort to hold the Senate from passing a bill to extend two important small business provisions enacted in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act: increased government guarantees and eliminated fees on small business loans. The blocked bill would also have temporarily extended unemployment benefits and other vital programs. Many of the programs, including the small business provisions, will expire on Sunday, February 28th.

“With Republicans now blocking basic benefits for out-of-work families and access to capital for small businesses, they have reached a new level of obstructionism. The increased government guarantees and eliminated fees, changes made under the Recovery Act, have alone added $18.2 billion in lending to more than 40,000 small businesses and helped to create more than 500,000 jobs in the last year.

“These programs will expire on Sunday and, because of the success of the programs, the money has already run out, leaving 343 small business owners waiting for $141 million in loans. One such small business owner from Louisiana contacted my office this week pleading for help. Her Recovery Act loan has been approved for an increase, but it is pending further action from Congress. Without this increased capital, she says she will need to lay off 27 workers.

“Small business owners across America are depending on us to refund and extend these necessary small business programs. But thanks to one Republican, thousands of small business owners might not get the money they need in time. I remain committed to working with my colleagues in the Senate to pass an extension of these provisions as soon as possible.”

Eighty advocacy groups, forming the Small Business Access to Credit Coalition, sent a letter to Senator Landrieu urging that a long-term extension of the Recovery Act provisions be included in one of the Senates job-creating measures. To read the letter, please click here.

Chair Landrieu, along with Ranking Member Olympia Snowe, included an extension of these provisions as part of S. 2869, The Small Business Job Creation and Access to Capital Act, that was voted out of Committee in early December. To read more about the bill, please click here.

SOURCE U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business & Entrepreneurship

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RELATED LINKS
http://sbc.senate.gov

SACRAMENTO, Calif., Feb. 24 /PRNewswire/ — Today the committee in support of the Safe, Clean & Reliable Drinking Water Supply Act of 2010 (water bond) on the November ballot announced the formation of a broad-based and diverse coalition of organizations supporting the bond representing environmentalists, farmers, business, labor, water agencies and community groups. The coalition – named the Alliance for Clean Water and Jobs – will be working between now and November to educate the voters about the dire need to pass the water bond to begin reversing decades of neglect in our state’s water system.  

The committee released a list of dozens of organizations that have formally supported the water bond in just a few short weeks. Coalition members said the list would continue to grow exponentially in the coming months to include representatives from virtually all walks of California life. Coalition partners plan a months’ long effort to educate California voters through grassroots, media, social media and online campaign strategies. The coalition’s website will be www.waterforca.com and will serve as an informational portal and online organizing tool throughout the campaign. The campaign has also launched a Facebook page.

“California’s water system is outdated and straining to meet the needs of its families, farms, businesses and environment,” said Jim Earp, Executive Director of the California Alliance for Jobs and co-chair of the committee.  ”Unless action is taken, experts warn that our state will face continued water shortages, the potential for catastrophic failure of our water delivery system, and environmental collapse in areas vital to wildlife and drinking water. We simply cannot let that happen. Already, a broad and diverse coalition of organizations has come together to ensure the water bond passes in November. We’re confident that when voters understand the benefits of the bond for our economy, environment and quality of life, as well as the severe consequences of inaction, they’ll support this measure in November.”

Graham Chisholm, Executive Director, Audubon California said: “Leading conservation groups support the water bond because it will begin reversing decades of environmental degradation in the Delta and other areas that threaten fish, birds and other wildlife.  With entire ecosystems and fish populations crashing, failure to act now is simply unacceptable.  The water bond carefully balances our need to increase the reliability of water supplies for homes, farms and businesses, with the need to protect and restore sensitive environmental areas and wildlife, including birds and fish. We’ll be working to ensure every voter knows that a yes vote on the water bond is a yes vote for our environment.”

Tom Nassif, President and CEO, Western Growers said:  ”Farming is vital for California’s economy, but severe cuts in water have forced many farmers to plow under crops and has turned many farms into dustbowls.  In 2009 alone, farm losses due to water shortages are estimated at more than $3 billion.  Thousands of farm workers have been displaced. The food supply for tens of millions of people around the country and indeed around the world depends on the actions we take today to address California’s water crisis.”

Allan Zaremberg, President of the California Chamber of Commerce said: “Water is the lifeblood of the California economy. Without a sufficient and reliable water supply, we cannot grow new jobs and provide for the needs of California’s working families.  Failure to act now to address California’s water crisis will cost our state and its economy dearly.  Passing this water bond is a critical step forward for California and it will benefit our economy now and for decades to come.”  

Sonoma County Supervisor Paul Kelley, President of the Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA) and board member, Sonoma County Water Agency said: “California’s water infrastructure is aging and inadequate and can’t meet the needs of the economy and the environment. In order to meet these co-equal goals, we must reinvest in this vital system to ensure a sustainable future for all Californians.”

A list of supporters and fact sheets can be found at www.WaterforCA.com.

SOURCE Alliance for Clean Water and Jobs

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http://www.waterforca.com

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Feb. 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ –

Fourth Quarter Highlights

  • Operating income of $14.2 million, after $6.3 million expense related to initial public offering (IPO)(1).
  • Adjusted EBITDA(2) $33.5 million up 1% from fourth quarter 2008.
  • Net cash provided by operating activities of $4.4 million versus $6.9 million in fourth quarter 2008.
  • Strengthened balance sheet; year-end cash of $190.2 million.

RailAmerica, Inc. (NYSE: RA) today reported financial results for the quarter and year ended December 31, 2009.  Reported results reflect the Ottawa Valley Railway (OVR) as a discontinued operation.  In December 2009, the Company received C$73 million gross proceeds upon the termination of its lease of the OVR.

Compared to the prior year period, Adjusted EBITDA(2) increased 1% to $33.5 million for fourth quarter 2009.  Net cash provided by operating activities was $4.4 million and $6.9 million, respectively, for the fourth quarters of 2009 and 2008.

John Giles, RailAmerica’s President and Chief Executive Officer, said, “In the fourth quarter we posted solid financial results as we increased Adjusted EBITDA 1% to $33.5 million in a challenging economic environment.  Excluding the $6.3 million IPO-related charge our operating income was up 7% for the quarter to $20.5 million.  This was a result of our continued focus on running safe railroads and driving operating efficiencies.  With the completion of the IPO and the OVR transaction, we have strengthened our balance sheet and are well positioned to pursue external growth opportunities.  We will apply the same discipline to strategic investments that we have used over the past three years to improve the Company’s operational and financial performance.”

Mr. Giles continued, “Although still evolving, we are encouraged by the recent growth in carloads and have positioned RailAmerica for strong performance as volumes improve.  This year, we plan to maintain a sharp focus on our three strategic priorities:  delivering organic growth and efficiency gains, strengthening our balance sheet, and capitalizing on external growth opportunities.”        

Including charges totaling $0.24 per diluted share for the early retirement of debt, interest rate swap termination and the IPO, RailAmerica reported a fourth quarter 2009 loss from continuing operations of $12.5 million, or $0.24 per diluted share.  This compares to income from continuing operations of $6.0 million, or $0.14 per diluted share, for fourth quarter 2008.  The prior year quarter included expenses of $0.08 per diluted share for foreign exchange loss on former bridge debt and an income tax benefit of $0.29 per diluted share primarily related to 45G tax credits.  

Net loss, which includes discontinued operations, for the fourth quarter of 2009 was $6.9 million, compared to net income of $8.9 million for the fourth quarter of 2008.  The OVR is now included in discontinued operations, and for the fourth quarter of 2009 it generated total revenue of $3.7 million, operating income of $2.3 million and minimal depreciation/amortization expense.  For the fourth quarter of 2008, the OVR had total revenue of $4.1 million, operating income of $1.0 million and minimal depreciation/amortization expense.

Below are details of the fourth quarter 2009 charges for debt retirement, swap amortization and the IPO.  These expenses total $19.8 million on a pre-tax basis, of which $17.6 million are non-cash.

  • $6.9 million ($4.5 million after tax, or $0.08 per diluted share) related to the early retirement of $74.0 million in senior notes.  $4.7 million of this pre-tax expense is non-cash.
  • $6.6 million ($4.3 million after tax, or $0.08 per diluted share) for the non-cash amortization of swap termination costs in connection with terminating an interest rate swap on former variable rate debt.  
  • $6.3 million ($4.1 million after tax, or $0.08 per diluted share) for a non-cash charge related to the IPO for the expiration of restricted stock repurchase feature.

Fourth quarter 2009 revenue declined 9% to $105.4 million from $115.7 million in the prior year quarter.  Freight revenue declined 10% to $86.1 million primarily due to lower fuel surcharge and carloads.  Non-freight revenue declined 5% to $19.3 million primarily due to lower car hire and demurrage revenue, which offset strong growth in car repair and storage revenue.  

Fourth quarter 2009 operating income declined 26% to $14.2 million from $19.1 million in the fourth quarter of 2008 primarily due to the $6.3 million IPO-related expense.  The impact of lower revenue was offset by operating expense reductions resulting from lower volumes and productivity initiatives.  Additionally, the Company had a $3.9 million operating expense benefit in the fourth quarter of 2009 from a Track Maintenance Agreement executed in 2009 to monetize 45G tax credits.  Fourth quarter 2008 results include a $1.7 million impairment charge and $1.9 million in expenses for headquarters relocation compared to fourth quarter 2009 results which include $0.4 million in expenses for headquarters relocation.

Full year 2009 loss from continuing operations was $5.5 million, or $0.11 per diluted share, compared to earnings of $9.6 million, or $0.22 per diluted share, for full year 2008.  Full year 2009 net income, which includes discontinued operations, was $15.8 million, compared to $16.5 million for full year 2008.  Full year 2009 results include the $19.8 million of expenses discussed above ($0.28 per diluted share, after tax, on a full year basis) plus an additional $10.0 million ($6.5 million after tax, or $0.14 per diluted share) for the non-cash amortization of swap termination costs and a $1.2 million non-cash, benefit ($0.8 million after tax, or $0.02 per diluted share) for foreign exchange gain on former bridge debt.  Full year 2008 results include $8.3 million ($5.5 million after tax, or $0.13 per diluted share) of non-cash expense for foreign exchange loss on former bridge debt.

As previously announced, RailAmerica, Inc. will present its fourth quarter earnings on Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time via live teleconference and webcast.  Those interested in participating via teleconference may dial (877) 756-2088.  Callers outside the U.S. may dial (574) 941-1456.  The conference ID number is 52696051.  Participants should dial in no later than 10 minutes prior to the call.  Presentation materials and access to the live webcast will be available in the Investors section of RailAmerica’s website (www.railamerica.com).  Following the earnings call, a webcast replay will be archived on the Company’s website.  A telephone replay will be available through March 8, 2010 beginning approximately two hours after the call.  The recording can be accessed by dialing (800) 642-1687 or (706) 645-9291.  The conference ID number is 52696051.

RailAmerica, Inc. owns and operates short line and regional freight railroads in North America, operating a portfolio of 40 individual railroads with approximately 7,400 miles of track in 27 U.S. states and three Canadian provinces.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain items in this press release and other information we provide from time to time may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 including, but not necessarily limited to, statements relating to future events and financial performance. Words such as “anticipates,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “projects,” “believes,” “may,” “will,” “would,” “could,” “should,” “seeks,” “estimates” and variations on these words and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These statements are based on management’s current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of factors that could lead to actual results materially different from those described in the forward-looking statements. RailAmerica, Inc. can give no assurance that its expectations will be attained. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements contained in this press release. Factors that could have a material adverse effect on our operations and future prospects or that could cause actual results to differ materially from RailAmerica, Inc.’s expectations include, but are not limited to, prolonged capital markets disruption and volatility, general economic conditions and business conditions, our relationships with Class I railroads and other connecting carriers, our ability to obtain railcars and locomotives from other providers on which we are currently dependent, legislative and regulatory developments including rulings by the Surface Transportation Board or the Railroad Retirement Board, strikes or work stoppages by our employees, our transportation of hazardous materials by rail, rising fuel costs, acquisition risks, competitive pressures within the industry, risks related to the geographic markets in which we operate; and other risks detailed in RailAmerica, Inc.’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our prospectus filed with the Commission on October 13, 2009. In addition, new risks and uncertainties emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for RailAmerica, Inc. to predict or assess the impact of every factor that may cause its actual results to differ from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release. RailAmerica, Inc. expressly disclaims any obligation to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in its expectations with regard thereto or change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any statement is based.

(1) Refers to non-cash charge related to IPO for expiration of restricted stock repurchase feature

(2) See schedule at the end of press release for a reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures


                       RAILAMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

                      CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
                                   (Unaudited)

                                      For the quarters       For the years
                                     ended December 31,     ended December 31,
                                   --------------------   --------------------
                                     2009         2008      2009         2008
                                   ---------- ---------   ---------- ---------
                                      (In thousands, except per share data)

    Operating revenue             $105,426   $115,746    $410,603    $488,457
    Operating expenses:
    Transportation                  46,155     61,313     179,338     267,541
    Selling, general and
     administrative                 33,858     24,874     107,641      99,956
    Net gain (loss) on sale of
     assets                             44     (1,164)        899      (1,696)
    Impairment of assets                 -      1,689           -       3,420
    Depreciation and amortization   11,207      9,973      41,804      39,359
                                   -------    -------     -------     -------
    Total operating expenses        91,264     96,685     329,682     408,580
                                   -------    -------     -------     -------
    Operating income                14,162     19,061      80,921      79,877

    Interest expense, including
     amortization costs            (24,108)   (20,055)    (86,878)    (61,718)
    Other loss                      (6,721)    (5,498)     (8,117)     (9,008)
                                   -------    -------     -------     -------
    Income (loss) from continuing
     operations before income
     taxes                         (16,667)    (6,492)    (14,074)      9,151

    Benefit from income taxes       (4,139)   (12,471)     (8,539)       (481)
                                   -------    -------     -------     -------
    Income (loss) from
     continuing operations         (12,528)     5,979      (5,535)      9,632

    Discontinued operations:
    Gain on disposal of
     discontinued business (net
     of income taxes)                4,109      2,219      17,040       2,764
    Income from operations of
     discontinued business (net
     of income taxes)                1,551        679       4,337       4,131
                                   -------    -------     -------     -------
    Net income (loss)              $(6,868)    $8,877     $15,842     $16,527
                                   =======    =======     =======     =======

    Basic earnings (loss) per
     common share:
    Continuing operations           $(0.24)     $0.14      $(0.11)      $0.22
    Discontinued operations           0.11       0.06        0.46        0.16
                                   -------    -------     -------     -------
    Net income (loss)               $(0.13)     $0.20       $0.35       $0.38

    Diluted earnings (loss) per
     common share:
    Continuing operations           $(0.24)     $0.14      $(0.11)      $0.22
    Discontinued operations           0.11       0.06        0.46        0.16
                                   -------    -------     -------     -------
    Net income (loss)               $(0.13)     $0.20       $0.35       $0.38

    Weighted average common shares
     outstanding:
    Basic                           52,849     43,533      45,979      43,443
    Diluted                         52,849     43,533      45,979      43,443

                             RAILAMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

                                 CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
                                        (Unaudited)

                                                        December 31,
                                                     2009        2008
                                                   --------------------
                                                      (In thousands,
                                                    except share data)

                        ASSETS
    Current assets:
    Cash and cash equivalents                       $190,218     $26,951
    Accounts and notes receivable, net of
     allowance of $4,557 and $3,338, respectively     66,619      76,384
    Other current assets                              21,958      18,480
    Current deferred tax assets                       12,697       5,854
                                                  ----------  ----------
    Total current assets                             291,492     127,669
    Property, plant and equipment, net               954,165     953,604
    Intangible assets                                136,654     172,859
    Goodwill                                         200,769     199,754
    Other assets                                      17,187      16,561
                                                  ----------  ----------
    Total assets                                  $1,600,267  $1,470,447
                                                  ==========  ==========

                        LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
    Current liabilities:
    Current maturities of long-term debt                $669        $899
    Accounts payable                                  53,948      56,058
    Accrued expenses                                  34,675      51,349
                                                  ----------  ----------
    Total current liabilities                         89,292     108,306
    Long-term debt, less current maturities            3,013     628,681
    Senior secured notes                             640,096           -
    Deferred income taxes                            185,002     144,748
    Other liabilities                                 21,895     117,192
                                                  ----------  ----------
    Total liabilities                                939,298     998,927
                                                  ----------  ----------
    Commitments and contingencies
    Stockholders' equity:
    Common stock, $0.01 par value, 400,000,000
     shares authorized; 54,364,306 shares issued
     and outstanding at December 31, 2009; and
     43,531,272 shares issued and outstanding at
     December 31, 2008                                   544         435
    Additional paid in capital and other             630,653     470,578
    Retained earnings                                 46,386      50,029
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss             (16,614)    (49,522)
                                                  ----------  ----------
    Total stockholders' equity                       660,969     471,520
                                                  ----------  ----------
    Total liabilities and stockholders' equity    $1,600,267  $1,470,447
                                                  ==========  ==========

                        RAILAMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

                       CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
                                    (Unaudited)
                                   (In thousands)

                                                            For the years
                                                           ended December 31,
                                                         --------------------
                                                            2009       2008
                                                         ---------- ---------

    CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
    Net income                                           $15,842      $16,527
    Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
     provided by operating activities:
    Depreciation and amortization, including
     amortization of debt issuance costs classified
     in interest expense                                  52,340       49,118
    Amortization of swap termination costs                16,616            -
    Net gain on sale or disposal of properties           (26,826)      (1,738)
    Foreign exchange loss (gain) on debt                  (1,160)       8,260
    Swap termination costs                               (55,750)           -
    Loss on extinguishment of debt                         9,499            -
    Equity compensation costs                             10,712        3,042
    Deferred income taxes                                 21,057       (3,161)
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities, Net
     of acquisitions and dispositions:
    Accounts receivable                                   10,873       12,257
    Other current assets                                  (3,093)      (5,861)
    Accounts payable                                      (3,122)      (5,016)
    Accrued expenses                                     (16,677)       7,196
    Other assets and liabilities                         (20,771)       2,948
                                                         -------      -------
    Net cash provided by operating activities              9,540       83,572
                                                         -------      -------

    CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
    Purchase of property, plant and equipment            (47,789)     (61,282)
    Proceeds from disposition of business/sale of assets  90,340       17,367
    Deferred acquisition/disposition costs and other        (355)      (1,736)
                                                         -------      -------
    Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities   42,196      (45,651)
                                                         -------      -------

    CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
    Proceeds from issuance of senior secured notes       709,830            -
    Principal payments on long-term debt                (625,898)      (7,359)
    Repurchase of senior secured notes                   (76,220)           -
    Sale of common stock                                 143,123          635
    Dividends paid to common stockholders                (19,485)           -
    Deferred financing costs paid                        (20,175)     (18,075)
                                                         -------      -------
    Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities  111,175      (24,799)
                                                         -------      -------

    Effect of exchange rates on cash                         356       (1,558)
                                                         -------      -------

    Net increase in cash                                 163,267       11,564
    Cash, beginning of period                             26,951       15,387
                                                         -------      -------
    Cash, end of period                                 $190,218      $26,951
                                                        ========      =======

                        RAILAMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

                          SELECTED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
                              (amounts in thousands)
                                   (unaudited)

                                            For the years ended December 31,
                                            -------------------------------
                                                  2009           2008
                                            --------------- ---------------

    Operating revenue                    $410,603   100.0% $488,457   100.0%
    Operating expenses:
     Labor and benefits                   139,132    33.9%  140,760    28.8%
     Equipment rents                       35,838     8.7%   44,790     9.2%
     Purchased services                    31,055     7.6%   38,425     7.8%
     Diesel fuel                           32,243     7.8%   68,657    14.0%
     Casualties and insurance              15,520     3.8%   20,929     4.3%
     Materials                             11,175     2.7%   10,286     2.1%
     Joint facilities                       6,941     1.7%   12,573     2.6%
     Other expenses                        15,075     3.7%   31,077     6.3%
     Net loss on sale and impairment of
      assets                                  899     0.2%    1,724     0.4%
     Depreciation and amortization         41,804    10.2%   39,359     8.1%
                                          ------- -------   ------- -------

    Total operating expenses              329,682    80.3%  408,580    83.6%
                                          ------- -------   ------- -------
      Operating income                    $80,921    19.7%  $79,877    16.4%
                                          ======= =======   ======= =======

                                           For the quarters ended December 31,
                                           ----------------------------------
                                                 2009              2008
                                           ----------------- ----------------

    Operating revenue                    $105,426   100.0% $115,746   100.0%
    Operating expenses:
     Labor and benefits                    41,772    39.7%   36,333    31.4%
     Equipment rents                        8,623     8.2%   10,960     9.5%
     Purchased services                     7,811     7.4%    9,817     8.5%
     Diesel fuel                            9,640     9.2%   11,481     9.9%
     Casualties and insurance               2,938     2.8%    6,712     5.8%
     Materials                              3,189     3.0%    2,883     2.5%
     Joint facilities                       2,119     2.0%    2,609     2.2%
     Other expenses                         3,921     3.7%    5,392     4.6%
     Net loss on sale and impairment of
      assets                                   44     0.0%      525     0.5%
     Depreciation and amortization         11,207    10.6%    9,973     8.6%
                                          ------- -------   ------- -------
     Total operating expenses              91,264    86.6%   96,685    83.5%
                                          ------- -------   ------- -------
      Operating income                    $14,162    13.4%  $19,061    16.5%
                                          ======= =======   ======= =======

                         RAILAMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
            Railroad Freight Revenue, Carloads and Average Freight Revenue
                                   Per Carload
                             Comparison by Commodity Group
                                   (unaudited)

                              Year ended                  Year ended
                            December 31, 2009           December 31, 2008
                      ----------------------------   -------------------------
                                           Average                     Average
                                           Freight                     Freight
                                           Revenue                     Revenue
                      Freight                per     Freight             per
                      Revenue    Carloads  Carload   Revenue Carloads  Carload
                      -------    --------  -------   ------- --------  -------
                     (Amounts in thousands, except carloads and average
                             freight revenue per carload)
    Agricultural
     Products         $56,458    126,683     $446   $61,193   143,730     $426
    Chemicals          47,022     80,748      582    59,543   103,290      576
    Coal               36,914    178,028      207    37,362   177,842      210
    Non-Metallic
     Minerals and
     Products          31,603     75,701      417    38,467    93,413      412
    Pulp, Paper and
     Allied Products   30,453     57,865      526    39,456    72,167      547
    Forest Products    26,642     46,755      570    40,023    70,737      566
    Food or Kindred
     Products          25,386     52,298      485    26,279    54,659      481
    Metallic Ores and
     Metals            23,802     41,542      573    52,361    93,351      561
    Waste and Scrap
     Materials         20,227     53,685      377    28,379    77,434      366
    Petroleum          19,429     41,943      463    19,725    44,912      439
    Other              13,504     32,709      413    13,697    36,087      380
    Motor Vehicles      6,454     17,458      370     5,437    19,330      281
                     --------    -------  -------  --------   -------  -------
    Total            $337,894    805,415     $420  $421,922   986,952     $428
                     ========    =======  =======  ========   =======  =======

                            Quarter ended                 Quarter ended
                          December 31, 2009             December 31, 2008
                    ----------------------------   ---------------------------
                                         Average                       Average
                                         Freight                       Freight
                                         Revenue                       Revenue
                      Freight              per     Freight               per
                      Revenue   Carloads Carload   Revenue   Carloads  Carload
                      -------   -------- -------   -------   --------  -------
                          (Amounts in thousands, except carloads and average
                                    freight revenue per carload)
    Agricultural
     Products         $16,543     38,199     $433   $14,856    34,661     $429
    Chemicals          12,219     20,785      588    13,083    21,194      617
    Coal                8,576     41,687      206     8,135    41,316      197
    Non-Metallic
     Minerals and
     Products           6,996     16,882      414     8,553    19,492      439
    Pulp, Paper and
     Allied Products    7,575     14,216      533     9,577    16,031      597
    Forest Products     6,120     10,916      561     9,300    14,767      630
    Food or Kindred
     Products           6,168     13,102      471     6,381    13,912      459
    Metallic Ores and
     Metals             6,954     11,649      597    10,720    16,064      667
    Waste and Scrap
     Materials          5,438     13,930      390     6,147    14,214      432
    Petroleum           5,045     10,700      471     4,427    11,568      383
    Other               2,152      6,287      342     3,173     7,161      443
    Motor Vehicles      2,300      6,053      380     1,020     3,225      316
                      -------   --------  -------   -------  --------  -------
    Total             $86,086    204,406     $421   $95,372   213,605     $446
                      =======   ========  =======   =======  ========  =======

RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES TO GAAP MEASURES

Adjusted EBITDA is a supplemental measure of liquidity that is not calculated or presented in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). We use non-GAAP financial measures as a supplement to our GAAP results in order to provide a more complete understanding of the factors and trends affecting our business. However, Adjusted EBITDA has limitations as an analytical tool. It is not a measurement of our cash flows from operating activities under GAAP and should not be considered as an alternative to cash flow from operating activities as a measure of liquidity.

Adjusted EBITDA assists us in monitoring our ability to undertake key investing and financing functions such as making investments, transferring property, paying dividends, and incurring additional indebtedness, which are generally prohibited by the covenants under our senior secured notes unless we meet certain financial ratios and tests.  Adjusted EBITDA represents EBITDA before impairment of assets, equity compensation costs, gain (loss) on foreign currency exchange and non-recurring headquarter relocation costs.  EBITDA, also a non-GAAP financial measure, is defined as net income (loss) before interest expense, provision for (benefit from) income taxes and depreciation and amortization.

The following tables set forth the reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA from our cash flow from operating activities (in thousands):


                                                                      Year
                                                                      ended
                                                                     Dec. 31,
                               Q1 2009   Q2 2009   Q3 2009  Q4 2009    2009
                               -------   -------   -------  -------  --------
    Cash flows from operating
     activities to Adjusted
     EBITDA Reconciliation:
    Net cash provided By
     (used in) operating
     activities                $(6,335) $(37,023)  $48,486   $4,412    $9,540
     Changes in Working
      capital accounts          25,308    23,423   (29,231)  13,290    32,790
     Depreciation and
      amortization, including
      amortization of debt
      issuance costs classified
      in interest expense      (15,432)  (12,718)  (11,708) (12,482)  (52,340)
     Amortization of Swap
      termination costs             --      (972)   (9,054)  (6,590)  (16,616)
     Net gain (loss) on sale or
      disposal of properties       728      (787)      190   26,695    26,826
     Foreign exchange gain (loss)
      on debt                   (1,164)    2,324        --       --     1,160
     Swap termination costs         --    55,750        --       --    55,750
     Loss on debt extinguishment    --    (2,593)       --   (6,906)   (9,499)
     Equity compensation costs    (790)   (1,152)   (1,204)  (7,566)  (10,712)
     Deferred income taxes      (1,322)   (8,018)    6,004  (17,721)  (21,057)
                               -------   -------   -------  -------  --------
    Net income (loss)              993    18,234     3,483   (6,868)   15,842
                               -------   -------   -------  -------  --------
    Add: Discontinued
     operations income/gain     (1,130)  (13,177)   (1,410)  (5,660)  (21,377)
                               -------   -------   -------  -------  --------
    Income (loss) from
     continuing operations        (137)    5,057     2,073  (12,528)   (5,535)
    Add:
     Provision for (benefit
      from) income taxes           766       916    (6,082)  (4,139)   (8,539)
     Interest expense, including
      amortization costs        18,590    16,673    27,507   24,108    86,878
     Depreciation and
      amortization              10,214    10,137    10,246   11,207    41,804
                               -------   -------   -------  -------  --------
    EBITDA                      29,433    32,783    33,744   18,648   114,608
    Add:
     Equity
      compensation
      costs                        790     1,152     1,204    7,566    10,712
     Foreign exchange (gain)
      loss on debt               1,164    (2,324)        -        -    (1,160)
     Loss on debt extinguishment    --     2,593         -    6,906     9,499
     Non-recurring headquarter
      relocation costs             509       127       408      359     1,403
                               -------   -------   -------  -------  --------
    Adjusted EBITDA            $31,896   $34,331   $35,356  $33,479  $135,062
                               =======   =======   =======  =======  ========

                                                                      Year
                                                                      ended
                                                                     Dec. 31,
                                 Q1 2008  Q2 2008  Q3 2008  Q4 2008    2008
                                 -------  -------  -------  -------  --------
    Cash flows from Operating
     activities to Adjusted
     EBITDA Reconciliation:
    Net cash provided by
     operating activities         $8,186  $30,568  $37,963   $6,855   $83,572
     Changes in working
      capital accounts             8,602   (7,134) (15,864)   2,872   (11,524)
     Depreciation and
      amortization, including
      amortization of debt
      issuance costs classified
      in interest expense        (10,506) (11,182) (13,420) (14,010)  (49,118)
     Net gain (loss) on sale
      or disposal of properties     (209)    (144)    (515)   2,606     1,738
     Foreign exchange gain
      (loss) on debt              (1,735)     395   (1,422)  (5,498)   (8,260)
     Equity compensation costs    (1,043)    (652)    (723)    (624)   (3,042)
     Deferred income taxes        (5,113)  (5,259)  (3,143)  16,676     3,161
                                 -------  -------  -------  -------  --------
    Net income (loss)             (1,818)   6,592    2,876    8,877    16,527
                                 -------  -------  -------  -------  --------
    Add: Discontinued Operations
     income/gain                  (1,127)    (809)  (2,061)  (2,898)   (6,895)
                                 -------  -------  -------  -------  --------
    Income (loss) from
     continuing operations        (2,945)   5,783      815    5,979     9,632
    Add:
     Provision for (benefit from)
      income taxes                 4,547    4,854    2,589  (12,471)     (481)
     Interest expense, Including
      amortization costs          12,183   12,192   17,288   20,055    61,718
     Depreciation and
      amortization                 9,717    9,755    9,914    9,973    39,359
                                 -------  -------  -------  -------  --------
    EBITDA                        23,502   32,584   30,606   23,536   110,228
    Add:
     Impairment of assets              -        -    1,731    1,689     3,420
     Equity compensation costs     1,043      652      723      624     3,042
     Foreign exchange (gain) loss
      on debt                      1,735     (395)   1,422    5,498     8,260
     Non-recurring headquarter
      relocation costs               222    1,152    2,864    1,851     6,089
                                 -------  -------  -------  -------  --------
    Adjusted EBITDA              $26,502  $33,993  $37,346  $33,198  $131,039
                                 =======  =======  =======  =======  ========

SOURCE RailAmerica, Inc.

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Whenever I see the title of that book, I keep on thinking “GET CAFFEINATED”. Is there a subliminal message here, or is this yet another insomnia treatment? Posted by: JeffS | February 21, 2010 at 12:12 PM … Texas, which has seen it’s real
estate prices soar over the past 25 years as the same types of liberals who invaded Santa Fe try to make it over into their own little enclave of tolerance in the Davis Mountains (or try to make it into West Austin, if you prefer). …
Dennis the Peasant – http://ping.fm/7kEGy
http://bit.ly/d2mcZg

[Via http://txrealtynews.wordpress.com]

NEW HAVEN, Conn., Feb. 21 /PRNewswire/ — Tranzon Integrated Property Group (“Tranzon”) has announced the closing of the Central Plaza Shopping Center, a 50,000 sq. ft. center on over 7 acres of land in North Branford, CT.  During the short 5-week marketing period, Tranzon surfaced 230 interested bidders who self-qualified by filling out confidentiality agreements.  From this group, 53 parties toured the property at various inspections times and 18 qualified bidders attended the auction with $150,000 cashier checks, bidding the property up to $2,860,000.

“Although this property had great potential, it languished on the market for over 2 years teetering on foreclosure without sufficient interest to close a deal, but in a very short time our auction marketing process was able to create a competitive bidding environment that was acceptable to the Owner and to its bank,” says Joshua Olshin, President of Tranzon. Oren Klein, Auctioneer and Partner at Tranzon adds, “The auction brought all the tire kickers to one place at one time, and turned the ‘interested parties’ into real bidders, ready to close on the asset all cash on an as-is, where-is basis.”

Andrew Buzzi, Jr., an attorney specializing in workout and distressed properties from the Danbury law firm of Buzzi & Terbrusch, represented the sellers in the workout of this asset with their lender, Citizens Bank, and noted that “within weeks of bringing Tranzon into this situation, we were in a contract that allowed us to successfully structure a work-out solution that allowed my clients and Citizens Bank an acceptable exit in a difficult situation.”

“We were extremely happy with the results and look forward to offering our clients the Tranzon auction method of marketing for their real estate assets during these turbulent times,” says Tom Greene the agent at Ryer and Associates of Danbury who had previously been marketing the center and worked closely with Tranzon throughout the process after having brought them in to auction the property when the end game with the lenders became imminent.  

More information can be found at www.tranzon.com or by calling 888-243-3431.

Tranzon Press Contact:

Emily Kozlow

Skyline43 Public Relations

917-837-8592

SOURCE Tranzon Integrated Property Group

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AKRON, Ohio, Feb. 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — FirstMerit Corporation (Nasdaq: FMER) announced today it has acquired, through its subsidiary FirstMerit Bank, N.A., the banking operations of George Washington Savings Bank (“George Washington Savings”), the subsidiary bank of George Washington Savings Bancorp through a purchase and assumption agreement with the Federal Deposit and Insurance Corporation (FDIC). The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulations, Division of Banking, declared George Washington Savings closed today and appointed the FDIC as receiver.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070920/CLTU138LOGO)

As of January 30, 2010, George Washington Savings had approximately $393 million in deposits and $420 million in assets. George Washington Savings’ $330 million in loans will be subject to a loss-sharing agreement with the FDIC. Additional terms were not disclosed. FirstMerit expects the acquisition to be accretive to operating earnings per share in 2010.

For George Washington Savings customers, the transition to FirstMerit will be seamless. On Saturday morning, February 20, 2010 all four Chicago branches will reopen as FirstMerit locations. Existing George Washington Savings checks, debit cards and ATM cards will continue to work, allowing customers to access their money without disruption. Checks drawn on the bank will continue to be processed. Loan customers should make their payments as usual.

To help customers with the transition, FirstMerit representatives are on-site at all former George Washington Savings locations to address customer needs and begin integrating operations. For additional information, customers can also visit http://www.firstmerit.com or call the FirstMerit customer service line at 1-888-554-4362.

“We welcome George Washington Savings customers and employees to the FirstMerit family. As one of the Midwest’s strongest community banks, we can assure our new customers that their deposits are safe and readily accessible,” said Paul G. Greig, president, chairman and CEO of FirstMerit. “When they walk into their usual branch on Saturday, they will see the same faces with whom they’ve become familiar.”

The transaction gives FirstMerit additional presence in and around communities in Chicago, building on its recent acquisition of 24 First Bank branches in greater Chicagoland.

“As with our First Bank branch acquisition in Chicago, we are growing the FirstMerit franchise through strategic acquisitions in areas that have long-term growth potential for our company,” said Greig. “Our super-community bank model, based on providing world-class financial products and services on a local level, has served us well and we look forward to bringing that successful model to more businesses and consumers in Chicago.”

FirstMerit was advised by the investment banking firm of Sandler O’Neill & Partners and the law firm of Squire, Sanders & Dempsey L.L.P.

Click here for more information.

Forward-Looking Statements

This release contains forward-looking statements relating to present or future trends or factors affecting the banking industry, and specifically the financial condition and results of operations, including without limitation, statements relating to the earnings outlook of the Company, as well as its operations, markets and products. Actual results could differ materially from those indicated. Among the important factors that could cause results to differ materially are interest rate changes, continued softening in the economy, which could materially impact credit quality trends and the ability to generate loans, changes in the mix of the Company’s business, competitive pressures, changes in accounting, tax or regulatory practices or requirements and those risk factors detailed in the Company’s periodic reports and registration statements filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to release revisions to these forward-looking statements or reflect events or circumstances after the date of this release.

About FirstMerit

FirstMerit Corporation is a diversified financial services company headquartered in Akron, Ohio, with assets of $10.5 billion as of December 31, 2009 and 158 banking offices and 172 ATMs in 25 Ohio and Western Pennsylvania counties. FirstMerit provides a complete range of banking and other financial services to consumers and businesses through its core operations. Principal wholly-owned subsidiaries include: FirstMerit Bank, N.A., FirstMerit Mortgage Corporation, FirstMerit Title Agency, Ltd., and FirstMerit Community Development Corporation.

FirstMerit Corporation

Analysts: Thomas O’Malley/Investor Relations Officer

Phone: 330.384.7109

Media Contact: Robert Townsend/Media Relations Officer

Phone: 330.384.7075

SOURCE FirstMerit Corporation

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SONOMA, Calif., Feb. 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Sonoma Valley Bancorp (OTC Bulletin Board: SBNK), the holding company for Sonoma Valley Bank, said today that it would revise its financial results for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009. The Company intends to amend its Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2009 no later than March 31, 2010.

The Company said its Board of Directors, after consultation with its outside accountants, had determined the action was necessary based on the outcome of a bank regulatory examination that occurred after the filing of the original Form 10-Q for the third quarter. As a result of that examination, the Company was advised that certain impaired loans that had been restructured by the Bank should be valued using collateral values that had declined due to market conditions, which is resulting in additional loan charge-offs and provisions for loan losses related to the reclassified loans. In addition, the Company was advised that certain restructured loans should be placed on non-accrual status and that interest income previously recognized on these loans be reversed.

“As is the case with many other community banks, we are facing the challenges of the current economic environment, particularly its impact on the commercial real estate sector. The majority of the issues related to this action involve a small number of relationships. The steps we are announcing today reflect a conservative approach on the part of our Board and management and recommendations by the regulators. We do not believe that these actions will require any material adjustments beyond the third quarter of 2009 and we look forward to resolving these issues so that we can resume our growth and continue to serve the needs of our customers and community,” said Sean Cutting, Sonoma Valley Bank President and CEO.

As a result of the actions announced today, the Company has been notified by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) that it will need to prepare and file a capital restoration plan and comply with certain restrictions on asset growth, acquisitions, dividends, management fees and any other capital distributions. Cutting said the Bank is working with professional advisers to identify available options to address this need.

Based on the revisions announced today, the provision for loan and lease losses for the third quarter of 2009 will increase from $2.6 million to approximately $24.5 million and from $7.4 million to approximately $29.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2009. Interest income for loans and leases for the third quarter of 2009 is expected to decrease from $4.6 million to approximately $4.4 million and from $13.5 million to approximately $13.3 million for the nine months ended   September 30, 2009. Net interest income for the two periods is expected to decrease from $3.8 million to $3.6 million and from $11.0 million to $10.8 million, respectively.

The Company’s net loss for common stockholders for the three months ended September 30, 2009 will increase from $495,000 to approximately $19.0 million, and the loss per share will increase from $0.22 to $8.27. For the nine months ended September 30, 2009, the net loss for common stockholders will increase from $1.6 million to approximately $20.1 million, and the loss per share will increase from $0.70 to approximately $8.75.

As of September 30, 2009, loans and lease financing receivables, net of unearned income will decline to approximately $270.9 million from $286.0 million, and total assets will decline to $335.6 million from $354.2 million.  Additionally, the allowance for loan and lease losses will increase to $12.8 million from the previously reported $6.0 million.  As a result of these revisions, total shareholders’ equity at September 30, 2009 will decline by $18.5 million to approximately $19.2 million versus the previously reported amount of $37.7 million.

The Company plans to report complete revised results for the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2009, and final results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2009, by March 31, 2010.

Given the Bank’s knowledge of its local market, its liquidity, deposit growth and strong net interest income, it is well positioned to continue to serve the community’s financial needs and provide long-term profitability to the holding company and its shareholders as the economy and real estate markets recover.

Sonoma Valley Bancorp shares are listed on the OTC Bulletin Board (OTCBB) and the stock symbol is SBNK.

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward looking statements” that involve uncertainties and risks. There can be no assurance that actual results will not differ materially from the Company’s expectations or any results expressed or implied by such forward looking statements. Factors that could cause materially different results include, among others, the risk that the revised accounting treatment described herein changes, as may be determined by the Company and/or as required by the Securities and Exchange Commission or other regulatory agencies; the risk that the Company is negatively impacted in future periods  by the same factors that caused the Company to adjust results for the third quarter of 2009; the risk that the Company is less profitable than expected in future periods; the risk that these matters could adversely affect the Company’s ability to make timely filings with the Commission; the risk of damage to the Company’s business and reputation arising from these matters; and other risks and uncertainties discussed more fully in the Company’s SEC filings, including those discussed under Item 1A, “Risk Factors,” in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008, and in subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. The Company disclaims any obligation to update or correct any forward looking statements made herein due to the occurrence of events after the issuance of this release, except as required under federal securities laws.

SOURCE Sonoma Valley Bancorp

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SAN DIEGO, Feb. 17 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — BioMed Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE: BMR) today announced the promotion of Matthew G. McDevitt to the newly created position of Executive Vice President, Real Estate, where he will oversee the company’s acquisitions and leasing strategies with a focus on maximizing the value of the company’s assets, while continuing to implement and manage the execution of these strategies throughout the company’s markets. Most recently, Mr. McDevitt served as Executive Vice President, Acquisitions and Leasing, having joined the company in 2004.

(Logo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20091005/BIOMEDLOGO)

“I am very pleased to announce Matt’s newly expanded role of Executive Vice President, Real Estate,” said Kent Griffin, BioMed’s President and Chief Financial Officer. “As one of BioMed’s founders, Matt has been at the center of our success in building a world-class tenant roster within every one of our seven core markets. Over the past two years alone, he has expertly managed our two regional leasing teams in the execution of more than 2.3 million square feet of new leases, lease extensions and renewals. In addition, Matt has established exceptionally strong relationships throughout the life science industry and has guided and mentored the acquisition and leasing team members as they assume greater responsibilities and leadership in executing the company’s strategies.”

About BioMed Realty Trust

BioMed Realty Trust, Inc. is a real estate investment trust (REIT) focused on Providing Real Estate to the Life Science Industry®. The company’s tenants primarily include biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, scientific research institutions, government agencies and other entities involved in the life science industry. BioMed owns or has interests in 69 properties, representing 112 buildings with approximately 10.5 million rentable square feet. The company’s properties are located predominantly in the major U.S. life science markets of Boston, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, Maryland, Pennsylvania and New York/New Jersey, which have well-established reputations as centers for scientific research. Additional information is available at www.biomedrealty.com

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 based on current expectations, forecasts and assumptions that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially.  These risks and uncertainties include, without limitation: general risks affecting the real estate industry (including, without limitation, the inability to enter into or renew leases, dependence on tenants’ financial condition, and competition from other developers, owners and operators of real estate); adverse economic or real estate developments in the life science industry or the company’s target markets; risks associated with the availability and terms of financing, the use of debt to fund acquisitions and developments, and the ability to refinance indebtedness as it comes due; failure to manage effectively the company’s growth and expansion into new markets, or to complete or integrate acquisitions and developments successfully; risks and uncertainties affecting property development and construction; risks associated with downturns in the national and local economies, increases in interest rates, and volatility in the securities markets; potential liability for uninsured losses and environmental contamination; risks associated with the company’s potential failure to qualify as a REIT under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and possible adverse changes in tax and environmental laws; and risks associated with the company’s dependence on key personnel whose continued service is not guaranteed. For a further list and description of such risks and uncertainties, see the reports filed by the company with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the company’s most recent annual report on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q.  The company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

SOURCE BioMed Realty Trust, Inc.

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http://www.biomedrealty.com

ROAD TOWN TORTOLA, British Virgin Islands, Feb. 17 /PRNewswire/ — Tranen Capital Ltd. is pleased to announce two new office locations, in Zurich, Switzerland and Dublin, Ireland, that will be servicing European-based clients. Tranen Capital will be sponsoring and speaking both at the Institutional Investors Congress in Vienna, Austria, February 21-22 and in Monte Carlo, Monaco on June 14-17. Tranen Capital is an alternative investment Fund focused on the Life Settlements market or the secondary market for life insurance in the United States.

Life Settlement is a growing market globally, from a $16 billion dollar per year industry to an expected annual growth rate well ‘over $160 billion in the next several years,’ according to Sanford Bernstein, a financial consultant. The life settlement market has gained much press in recent months about the potential for securitization of the asset class. The American Counselors of Life Insurance (ACLI) have tried to ban securitization, arguing that the investment banking industry’s need for product (policies) to be securitized will lead to Seniors (over age 65) being encouraged to purchase life insurance polices for the sole purpose of reselling them, thereby fueling the securitization market. The purchase and resale of policies, however, is a perfectly good, and legal, method for Seniors to generate needed cash. In fact, many organizations have come to the defense of the consumer in this matter. The European Life Settlement Association (ELSA), formed in 2009, is one of the leaders against the effort to ban securitization, stating that it is a suspect and cynical argument, designed to prevent seniors from realizing the economic benefit in being able to purchase and resell life insurance policies and to eliminate a product and foreclose a market, securitized life policies, that could provide stable returns for investors.

Tranen Capital supports the position of ELSA. “There has never been a better time for seniors to be able to realize liquidity, whether they cannot afford premium payments, or to realize the economic benefit in a policy,” states Kenneth A. Landgaard, managing director of Tranen Capital. “Transparency of purpose and intent, consumer rights and protections, and asset liquidity have to be at the core of this argument, not the insurance industry’s profiting from policy lapses,” concludes Landgaard.

www.TranenCapital.com

SOURCE Tranen Capital Ltd.

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0 FOR SALE BY OWNER FAQ #3

admin to real estate  

Q. Is it a good idea to do an open house and is there anything special we should do?

A: If you are a For Sale By Owner (FSBO) there are pros and cons to doing an open house. You don’t really know who is entering your home but on the other hand it may draw people who would have not seen your home.

If you would like to do an open house we do have some tips. Click the link to see Seven Steps to Prepare For An Open House and Ten Ways To Make Your Home Irrestible

Please let us know if we can help. Click here for the link!

Carol Moson
RE/MAX Greater Atlanta
678-414-0760 (direct)
770-973-9700 ext 289

[Via http://sellersblog.wordpress.com]