Putting aside money for bad loans pushed Great Florida Bank (GFLB) to a loss of $13.9 million, or $1.06 per share, in the third quarter. That compares to profits of $67,000, a penny a share, in the same quarter last year.

The Coral Gables-based bank set aside $23.5 million for loan losses costs in the third quarter, bringing the total for 2008 so far to $28.5 million. The bank said the number of loans past due between 30 and 90 days actually improved to 1.06 percent of total loans from 3.01 percent as of June 30. The number of ''non-performing'' loans, however -- loans not accruing interest -- increased to 7.49 percent of total loans from 2.69 percent as of June 30.

The bank, which operates 28 branches, is working to contain costs and says it remains well-capitalized.

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