Happy 2014

Today ends a successful year for Oak Bank.  But as of tomorrow, it is history and we start all over.  There is still a lot of uncertainty in our economy.  But we are optimistic that our team will do what it takes to make 2014 special.  Happy New Year to all!!

Do You Believe?

I really had mixed feelings as the clock wound down yesterday.  The Packers were driving and on four different occasions they were down to a critical fourth down play.  I had pretty much prepared myself for a Bear win.  But somehow I felt Rodgers might find a way to pull it out.  After all, the most frequent criticism I hear about him is his inability to win the close ones.  But he combined with Cobb for what will be a win to remember!  Bring on the 49ers!

Winter & Economy

I am not sure if its the time of the year or the impending snow storm (I like snow storms!) or what, but I am mildly optimistic that 2014 is shaping up to be a good year for our economy.  While there seems to exist a lot of uncertainty about taxes and healthcare, the recent budget compromise along with some of the economic indicators have produced some confidence in the Market.  Yet, some central bankers (like the Federal Reserve) are concerned about the low inflation rate and whether deflation should be a concern.  But overall, I am optimistic about 2014.

Can You Believe It?

Give the Packers credit.  They have character!  Yesterday's comeback victory is a perfect example of why we remain fans!  The game is never over till it's over.

Winter

Being from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, I really don't have a problem with snow.  But I really don't care for bitter cold.  You might say, but isn't it colder in the U.P.?  No, not normally.  Being surrounded by the Great Lakes which are 32 degrees or warmer while still open, the U.P. is normally milder and does not experience the chill factors we do here in south-central Wisconsin.  But that open water certainly encourages the snow effect snow fall.  I never owned a snow blower while living up there.