Coast prepares for Earl's arrival

(News & Observer, Raleigh)

Most tourists left the Outer Banks Wednesday to escape the approach of Hurricane Earl, which could be the most powerful hurricane to threaten the North Carolina coast in years. Winds were measured at around 140 mph, and the storm threatens much of the East Coast. Teams of rescuers and repairmen are standing by, and food, water and generators have been stashed for the storm's aftermath.

Storm expected to turn away from N.C.

(The Charlotte Observer)

Tourists flee Outer Banks

(News & Record, Greensboro)

Earl won't stop holiday traffic

(Burlington Times-News)

New owner to shutter Raleigh loan-servicing office

(News & Observer, Raleigh)

Florida-based Ocwen Financial Services plans to shutter the Raleigh office of HomeEq Servicing, the loan-servicing company once known as The Money Store. More than 240 employees will lose their jobs. The office will close by Oct. 31. Ocwen bought HomeEq from London-based Barclays Bank.

Tax break that spurred Wachovia acquisition never approved by Congress

(Winston-Salem Journal)

Wells Fargo & Co.'s decision to purchase Wachovia in 2008 relied on a tax break that was offered by the Internal Revenue Service but never authorized by Congress. The break allowed acquiring banks to write off more losses from the merged bank and shelter profits from taxes.

Regulators defend decision to push Wachovia rescue

(The Charlotte Observer)

High Point Pre-Market attracts more companies

(High Point Enterprise)

The High Point Market Authority says a record number of buyers and exhibitors are scheduled to attend this year's Pre-Market, an invitation-only event that gives a preview of furniture that will be displayed at High Point Market next month. Twenty-five exhibitors and 201 buyers have signed up for the Sept. 13-14 show.

Home-furnishings orders up for eighth consecutive month

(Winston-Salem Journal)

Triangle health-care systems oppose Novant surgery center

(Winston-Salem Journal)

Three Triangle health-care systems have appealed a state regulatory decision to allow Winston-Salem-based Novant Health to open a surgery center in Holly Springs. WakeMed, Rex Healthcare and Duke Raleigh Hospital say Novant's application contained incomplete and inaccurate information.