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Movers and Shakers April 7, 2010

| April 7, 2010 9:00 PM

New Web site launched for Cd'A boaters

Hagadone Marine Group has launched its new Web site, designed to offer a comprehensive resource for boaters on Lake Coeur d'Alene.

At Hagadonemarine.com, boaters can do everything from checking the weather on the lake to viewing their favorite boat videos.

The site includes twitter and flickr feeds, as well as a live weather report and weather forecasts. There's a countdown to key events, as well as a variety of inside information exclusively for Web watchers. The launch comes as the group gears up for the summer season.

"It's a fun, dynamic site," said Craig Brosenne, general manager of Hagadone Marine Group. "For everyone who loves the water, this is the next best thing to being there."

Recently named No. 40 in the boating industry's top 100 dealers in North America, Hagadone Marine Group includes The Resort Boat Shop and Yacht Club Sales and Service, as well as three marinas on Lake Coeur d'Alene. Services range from antique wood boat restoration to new boat sales, storage, rental and service.

Beware of mortgage modification scams

Gov. Butch Otter has declared April as "Financial Literacy Month." The Idaho Department of Finance will issue a "Smart Consumer Tip of the Week" each week during the month.

With mortgage modification continuing to be one of the top sources of consumer complaints to state and federal financial regulators, Idaho Department of Finance Director Gavin Gee warned homeowners who are searching for ways to save their homes - "Don't fall prey to loan modification scam artists."

Fraudulent companies use half-truths and exaggerated promises of help for an up-front fee and provide little or no assistance to borrowers, the department said.

"Mortgage modification companies, including short-sale negotiation service providers who don't have an Idaho real estate license, are required to be licensed with the department before offering their services in Idaho," Gee said. "These companies cannot require fees or charges prior to completion of a modification - other than third-party charges or charges approved by the department."

Anyone considering doing business with a mortgage modification company, check the Department of Finance's Web site or call the department to make certain the loan modification company you have chosen is licensed.

Idahoans seeking help should know how to recognize a fraudulent loan modification offer.

Do not agree to loan modification offers that:

• guarantee to stop your foreclosure - no matter what your circumstances

• require payments for services upfront by cashier's check or money order

• tell you to immediately begin making your mortgage payment to them - not your lender

• ask you to transfer your title or property deed

• encourage you to lease your home with the option to buy it back over time

Fraud schemes often include omissions of the truth and misrepresentations when offering short sales negotiations, bail-outs, foreclosure rescue, credit enhancement, loan modification, illegal property flipping, seller assistance, debt elimination, to name a few. These types of fraud hurt homeowners, lenders and the economy of our state and country.

Consumers who are having trouble paying their mortgages or have received foreclosure notices should immediately contact their lenders. Additionally, there are organizations willing to provide advice and assistance to help them avoid foreclosure.

The department provides information on a variety of FREE foreclosure prevention resources that are available to distressed homeowners. That information can be accessed at the following Web site address: http://finance.idaho.gov

On the following page is a list of resources and contact information for Idahoans needing foreclosure avoidance assistance. If you feel you may be the target or victim of foreclosure fraud, contact the department at (208) 332-8000 or Idaho toll-free at (888) 346-3378.

Davis named membership director at Post Falls Area Chamber of Commerce

Jame' Davis was named the new membership director for the Post Falls Area Chamber of Commerce. Davis will graduate in May with a bachelor's degree in business and communications from Lewis Clark State College and has worked in retail management, marketing and administration.

She is involved in the community as a volunteer for the Boys & Girls Club of Kootenai County, Heart of the City Church and West Ridge Elementary. Davis will be working with members, future members and community leaders to further the mission and the vision for the business community.

If you have a new, relocated or expanded business, or announcement of events, promotions or awards, The Press wants to let our readers know. The service is free and items run Tuesday through Saturday. To get the word on the street on your movers and shakers, call city editor Bill Buley at 664-8176 Ext. 2016 or e-mail bbuley@cdapress.com.