Nationwide almost 804,000 homes received foreclosure-related notices from January to March 2009. That’s up from about 650,000 for the same period last year. According to a report by Realty Trac Inc covering the first quarter of 2009, the 26 cities with the highest foreclosure rates are in 4 states – California, Florida, Arizona and Nevada. Although Las Vegas, Nevada; Merced, California; and the Cape Coral-Fort Meyers area in Florida topped the foreclosure list, Boise City, Idaho was 27th and Greeley, Colorado was 29th. Nevertheless, it seems the warm-weather, vacation states aren’t taking a vacation from foreclosures.
The Detroit News reported an unprecedented number of cats and dogs being left in foreclosed homes, dumpsters and parking lots. The American Humane Association estimates with 8,000 houses going into foreclosure daily, 15,000-26,000 animals are in danger of losing their homes daily. People are taking pets to shelters because they can’t afford to care for them or they’re moving into apartments that don’t allow pets. According to the Web site Petfinder, 84% of shelters and rescue groups are caring for more pets because of the economy; and 37% report decreases in pet adoptions. This isn’t a petty problem.
A new rule approved by the Florida High School Athletic Association is causing a problem. It was designed to save money for high school athletic departments facing tough budget constraints. The group’s board of directors voted 9-6 to cut the number of varsity games played by 20% and all other play by 40% for both 2010 and 2011. The rule – without explanation – doesn’t include football. Critics say this rule will reduce opportunities for students and cost some schools much needed money made by hosting games. Supporters say the rule will give schools facing elimination of some sports a sporting chance.
Due to the recession, many television commercials have been eliminated. The 3 biggest buyers of commercial time used to be fast food, pharmaceuticals and cars. Now car makers are drastically cutting advertising budgets and the television industry is no longer getting $3 billion in advertising. Dealerships have been an important source of income to local television and radio stations, newspapers, magazines and billboards. Now more advertising money is being spent on radio and the Internet because they’re cheaper. Hyundai is the only car company spending more on advertising, telling potential customers they can return their cars if they lose their jobs. Hyundai ads are driving up business.
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