(NNPA)—As news reports continue to update foreclosure trends across the country, another looming development has the potential to change the mortgage industry in significant and permanent ways. A lawsuit filed in federal court Dec. 31 by the city of Memphis and Shelby County in Tennessee became the latest legal challenge to how mortgage loans are offered in communities of color. Alleging “unlawful, irresponsible, unfair, deceptive and discriminatory mortgage lending in Memphis and Shelby County,” the lawsuit points an accusatory finger at one of the nation’s largest banks, Wells Fargo.

Western Pennsylvania is well-positioned for green economic growth and opportunity, according to a report issued by the Green Building Alliance. Holding on to that belief, Fred Underwood, owner of Underwood Solar Future LLC, is positioning his business to take advantage of such opportunities.

A LITTLE DAB WILL DO IT—Fred Underwood, owner of Underwood Solar Future LLC, uses a solar panel demonstrating that even a little light can be converted into a needed savings while holding an article indicating that energy bills will increase 63 percent in 2011.

The report, Green Building Products and Services Market Analysis for Pennsylvania and Benchmark States,” reveals that there are unmet needs in the region. Providing full-service solar panel estimating and installation for commercial businesses and some residential applications, Underwood says his company plans to fill the solar needs of the state and beyond.

JAN. 13—The Pittsburgh Coaches Association will host Five Networking Essentials, “Lunch & Learn” from 11:15 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Grand Concourse, 100 W. Station Square Dr., Station Square. Deanna Tucci Schmitt will lead this interactive networking presentation on how individuals can make networking work for them. The cost is $30 for members and $40 for non-members. Registration is required by Jan. 8. E-mail Roberta Rollings at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

(NNPA)—During 2009 we saw the end of the deepest recession, since the Great Depression of the 1930s. We witnessed the bankruptcy of GM and Chrysler, a tumbling stock market, record housing foreclosures and double digit unemployment. And this was all in the first half! The second half of the year saw a stabilizing in all these areas, with economic growth moving into the black for the first time in two years.

Most forecasts for 2010 are for 2.0 percent to 3.0 percent GDP growth, some easing in unemployment and inflation remaining in check, primarily because of slack demand. Unfortunately, the improving economy is being propped up by federal government stimulus programs and a Federal Reserve Bank policy of low interest rates. Neither of these policies are sustainable over the long haul.