Town Hall Meetings

If given the opportunity to attend a town hall meeting on the much-talked-about health care proposal from Washington, will you? Hopefully you will, if given that opp. I'm still wondering who has really read the proposal; who understands it; and who can we trust?

Jets for Congress

Can you believe Congress has approved $550 million for new jets to transport them and other government officials around? And these were the same people criticizing corporate execs for using private aircraft. Wow!

Healthcare

Does anyone really understand the proposed federal healthcare overhaul? Has anyone read the detail? Who do we believe in this debate?

What We Are Seeing

For the first 8 years of our bank's life, we had no delinquent home mortgage loans. Now we have a few and even one foreclosure! But these concerns pale in comparison to other parts of the country. But I do sense we are at or near the bottom of this recession. I only hope some horrific event does not set us back.

Radio Talk Show Hosts

I like to listen to various radio talk shows. The hosts vary in creditability. And when someone disagrees with them, they often get down right disrespectful. Recent talk show hosts Henck and McKenna of WIBA AM are two I often listen to. When Henck is disagreed with, he is respectful and thanks you for listening and calling in or e-mailing him. On the other hand, Ms. McKenna lacks the class that Henck shows. I feel people like her that seem to represent the opposite ends of the political spectrum cause more problems than they'll ever solve. But one must be careful not to pick fights with people who buy their ink by the barrell.

Don't Be A Victim of Vishing

By now most of us have become programmed to ignore the e-mail messages we receive from foreign princes promising to send us thousands of dollars in return for doing a simple favor. These types of scams have been around for years and are a form of "phishing"; criminals trick people into handing over their bank account number, credit card info, social security number or other valuable data using malicious e-mails or Web sites pretending to belong to banks or online auction services.

But a similar, though less well-known type of scam - "vishing" - is becoming more prevalent.

Voice phISHING, also called "VoIP phishing" is the telephone equivalent to phishing. Vishing is a scam using voice over IP to gain access to a victim's personal information.

Typically, victims receive a call from a recorded voice informing them that their bank account is frozen and also provides a toll-free number to utilize to reinstate the account. When you call that number, you will be asked to verify your personal information. Once you do that, you have provided the criminals with the data they need to steal money from your bank account, or steal your identity. And in the last couple of years vishing attacks have seemed to occur most often over a holiday when the bank is closed and there is no easy way to confirm the validity of the call.

Consumers need to be wary of such calls. If you receive such a call, you should:

.... STOP. Do not respond immediately. It is always best to be cautious and slow to respond.

.... THINK about why your bank would be asking for this information. Remember, no legitimate business would request a customer to verify personal information such as PINs, bank account numbers or SSNs over the phone unless you initiated the contact with the institution using a phone number obtained from the phone book or a bank statement.

.... CALL your bank directly the next business day they are open, and call local law enforcement to report the scam.

Criminals are constantly inventing new techniques or variations on old ones to steal personal information. If you are ever in doubt about a request, immediately contact the police and your financial institution. Both are well equipped to determine the legitimacy of the request and will be happy to offer assistance.

A Day for Remembering

Here we are on the eve of another one of those days that most Americans only see as a day to play. It is too bad all cannot tour the historic battlefields along our east coast; or walk the freedom trail in Boston. Such reminders of the sacrifices so many made for our freedom! The freedom we take for granted.

God bless America! Travel safely.

Hyper-Inflation

I listened to an interview with Governor Tommy Thompson this a.m. on WIBA. During the interview he expressed concern about the unbelievable spending going on right now at the federal level. He predicts inflation levels that might surpass what we saw during the Carter administration in the late 70's - early 80's. I concur. Those who feel this massive spending was necessary to turn the economy around are likely to regret that we didn't take our lumps now and reap the benefits later. As it is, Katy bar the door in a few years, I'm afraid.

Financial Reform

The proposed financial regulatory reform offered by the Obama administration is, as might be expected, good and bad.

The good: requires greater capital requirements for the very large banks that pose systemic risk to our financial system. There are about 19 banks that fit into this category. Also good are some other aspects that put some of the same requirements on the large banks as currently being enforced on smaller banks.

The bad: Creation of new agencies which will do exactly what current agencies should be doing. Why not clean out the management of those existing agencies and require them to do what they should have been doing all along?

Wisconsin Budget

I get the feeling that when all is said and done, the actions of our federal, state and local governments as relates to the current economic environment will take years and years to undo.

Brewers Still In First!

I have high hopes for our Brewers this year. I still think they will pick up another starting pitcher before the end of July. Jake Peavey in San Diego must be high on their list.

Occasionally I have extra Brewer tickets. So if you have an interest, let me know. Good seats - four of them and parking.

Government Is Too Involved

I am somewhat disturbed by an attitude that seems to be gaining acceptance in our American culture. Throughout most of my life it seems good things have happened because the citizens of this great country get involved and make them happen. But it seems more and more people feel things will happen only if the government somehow makes them happen. In my opinion, this will lead to mediocrity rather than excellence.

Too much government, in my opinion.

Remember

This is the weekend we all should pause and thank God for all the heroes in years past who have made it possible for us to live here in the greatest country in the world! As bankers we often see businesses owned by second and third generation family members fail. Why? In my opinion, these second and third generation members have no idea of the sweat and sacrifice made by their fathers, mothers and grandparents to make the business succeed. They lose sight of what it really takes.

I pray Americans are not like these second and third generation business people.

Honesty

Business people come in all sizes, shapes and colors! It is especially rewarding to have as associates people who can be open and honest with you. Sometimes we can get defensive, and even hurt, by honest expressions of opinion and advice. But, in the long run, people who are honest with you are the best people to be associated with. And they don't mean to offend or hurt you.

What A Beauty!

As I look out my window and see people jogging; bikers biking; ducks doing whatever they do this time of year in the pond; the bright sun; predicted high temp of 75.... how can one not be awed by the power of nature on our moods!

Annual Meeting

Last night was our 9th annual shareholders' meeting. It is held each year in the Promega Building in the Fitchburg Research Park. If you have not driven down East Cheryl Drive recently, you should. And go from Fish Hatch all the way to Syene Road. You'll not only see a couple new buildings with retail shops along the drive, but you'll also see the wonderful expansion that has taken place at HospiceCare.

Each Day Gets Better

Most of you know I had knee surgery after a fall on the ice in January. Yesterday was a great day for me in that I was able to ride my bike about a mile - albeit a slow ride around the circle at the housing complex where we live. But nevertheless, a big step in my rehab. So many times we take our health for granted, don't we?

Book Recommendation

I am currently reading "Caught in the Middle." It is a book about how the economy of the Midwest is changing. It is kind of a depressing book as the author doesn't hold out much hope for our smaller communities, especially those more than 50 miles away from a Madison, Chicago or DesMoines. It does hold out Madison as being an economy that has adjusted from relying primarily on manufacturing and agriculture to biotech, research, etc. The book argues that the Madisons of the Midwest will survive and prosper. But it doesn't offer much hope for those communities are not bedroom communities of prospering cities.

Worth a read.

Another Yuk!

Yuk! Weather is ugly today but you got to admit... we always have something to look forward to... nice weather!

Interesting article in the Wi St Journal this a.m. on the effort by Good Times owner Chris Peterson to create a reality show. Check it out and stay tuned.

Up and Down

Well, the Dow Jones is up over 8,000 again. Did it bottom out a month ago? Opinions vary. But my stance these days is to buy cautiously but don't bail out of current "good" companies. And there are "glimmers of hope" as President Obama says.

Refinance

I probably don't need remind anyone that interest rates are very low right now. If you have a home loan and your rate is greater than 5.50%, it probably makes sense for you to consider refinancing. Go to our web site, www.oakbankonline.com and see how you can calculate what your new payment would be at the current rates. Then you divide the savings into the new costs of approximately $1,200. That gives you the number of months before you break even.

Final Four

Would have been nice if Michigan State could have beat North Carolina. Watching North Carolina's talent makes me realize that Wisconsin is a ways off from winning a national championship. Wisconsin fans are happy being second best, I guess.

Dane County Trips

Back in 1996 then County Exec Rick Phelps wrote a number of articles on Dane County day trips which are off the beaten path. If you would like a copy of the six articles, send me an e-mail to rgorsuch@oakbankonline.com.

NCAA Tourney

Four of my teams are already out in NCAA tourney!

Government As A Partner

Iberia Bank is a large bank in the South. They were one of the recipients of the financial rescue funds from the federal government. They really didn't need the funds and now that the public seems to perceive that the banks who take the funds have a problem or two, Iberia is wanting to return the funds to Washington. I think we'll see more of this.

Use of a Debit Card

I really like using my debit card. I use it more than any other card in my wallet. When asked whether "debit or credit", I always say "credit". Seems to eliminate the need for a password. One thing to remember: bring your receipt home or back to the office and be sure to enter the transaction in your checkbook.

Bailout?

I am a little sensitive about how everyone refers to the so-called bank bailout as some sort of government grant to Banks. Keep in mind that the federal government is getting Preferred Stock in return for the funds distributed to the banks. As such, the government will be paid dividends, and eventually, get all principal repaid. Where else in government are we seeing a return on our investments?

Bailout?

Retirement

Hindsight is everything! As I look back over a lifetime of blessings, I wonder what I would have done differently. One think that pops out is preparing for retirement. Does one who is under 40 ever think they will retire? If I had it to do over I would have disciplined myself earlier in life to save and invest. A dollar invested today will produce more retirement income than two dollars invested 10 years from now. In other words, don't put off till tomorrow what you could do a little bit of today!

Financial Advice (Continued)

As difficult as it can be, I recommend that all young professionals build a cash-like reserve equal to three to six months of their annual income. This can be a savings or money market account, or short term (less than 1 year) certificates of deposit. This is a reserve to be drawn upon in the event of an emergency, like a loss of a job. Again, it takes personal sacrifice to do this, but it is wise. In fact, all of us should have such a reserve.

Budgeting Advice

If I was giving financial advice to an 18 year old about to enter college, it would be this. Get thru school without incurring any student loan debt or do not put anything on a credit card that you do not pay off each month when you receive your statement. "Well, how do I get thru school? My folks are not rich." Work, my young son or daughter, work. It may take longer to get thru school, but when you get out, no debt!!!

We continually see young people start their working careers with significant debt. It puts pressure on them for years, in many cases.

Old Fashioned Budgeting

I recall how we used to do our household budgeting when we were first married some 47 years ago. My wife set up an envelope for all our expenditures. On the outside she would write the amount that we would put into the envelope (in cash) from each payday. Of course, the amount on the envelope multiplied times the number of paydays would equal the future payment need for that budgeted expenditure. This way, the money was always there to meet expenses.

Old fashioned, but it worked when dollars were limited!

Watch Out For the Black Ice

It's been a while. On Jan 22 I slipped on ice in Evansville, rupturing my quad tendon in the left leg. It pulled off the knee cap, necessitating surgery on Jan 27. The surgeon feels things went well. I plan to be on my bike in 75 days!

Slipped on the Ice

As we all know these are treacherous times to be walking out of doors. Ice can become a problem at the most unexpected time. Well, I found out last Thursday just how dangerous the ice can be. While walking to the gym in Evansville for a granddaughter's basketball game, I all of a sudden found myself writhing on the ground in pain. I knew I had done something pretty bad to my left knee.

Unable to get up by myself, someone eventually came along and helped me up. Fortunately my wife was already in the gym. She drove me to the St. Mary's Emergency Room where I was diagnosed with a ruptured quad tendon. Tomorrow I have surgery to reattach it.

So I may be absent for a few days. I"m looking forward to the surgery so I can start to get back to normal.

Take care.

A New Era

Regardless of how I voted last November, I have been pleased so far with President Obama's appointees and how he is addressing the pressing issues. Sure, no one is perfect. But overall, I think the nation has a bit of renewed enthusisam and optimism about the future. That is good!

Economy in 2009

I had the opportunity yesterday to hear Dr. Evans, president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago speak on the economy and his outlook for 2009 and 2010. He left no doubt that he thinks 2009 and early 2010 will see more unemployment nationally. He does feel we may see some improvement in latter 2009, but it will be a slow process to get us back to a normal level.

Brrrr!

Being a Yooper I think I know what it takes to keep warm in severe cold weather. If I didn't, I probably would be be a frozen statistic up there.

Wearing wool clothing cannot be over emphasized. And footwear that keeps your feet dry. And then a good hat with cover for your ears. A scarf wrapped around the neck keeps the wind out.

I also think its a good idea to keep your car's gas tank full. Each time you fill up, add a bottle of gas d-icer to keep your fuel line from freezing up. The fuel line can freeze even when the car is on the road if you don't take these precautions.

Remember your pets safety when you have to take them out!

Enjoy!

Stock Price

We recently had an evaluation done on our holding company stock. Keep in mind that the Bank is a subsidiary of Oak Financial, Inc., the holding company. The evaluation was done by the accounting firm WIPFLI. Their formula for arriving at the value is book value of stock multiplied by 150% (normal premium paid by an acquirer for control of a community bank) less a discount of 25% due to lack of marketability for the stock and because most transactions would involve minority stock interests.

Got it?

Good Bye 2008

I've always been able to maintain an attitude that "you can't do anything about what has already happened!" And that's the way I look at 2008. Adios! You're history! On to 2009 with all the possibilities for improvement in our economy.

More than just wishing all a good economy in 2009, I want to wish all a healthy and happy New Year! In the final analysis, it is not about material things. It's about relationships and how we treat our brothers and sisters.

Greetings, etc

May Peace on Earth somehow be obtained.... and may 2009 be a healthy and happy one for all of you. We are blessed and live in the greatest nation on earth!

Auto Rescue

Philosophically I am opposed to government "rescuing" any business. But these are unique times, to say the least. But I am seeing glimmers of economic recovery. The low interest rate environment is stimulating some home buying. And many households will refinance their mortgages. As a result of lower home payments and gasoline at half the price per gallon as a few months ago, there will be an estimated $500 billion available for saving/investments and spending.

BRRRR!

It is cold!! Again, dressing properly takes some of the sting out of the cold. I personally love wool clothing during this kind of weather. And warm footwear, despite how unattractive, is a must. And keep your head covered. I ran into a native of Door County a few days ago. She said she loved the cold weather .... with snow.

Auto Rescue

I understand the short run implications of a failing American auto industry. But in the long run, they have to be able to compete. Just throwing $14 billion dollars at them now only delays the inevitable if they can't compete. And one of the areas they are non-competitive now is pricing. So unless they can reduce their costs to enable lower sales prices for the vehicles, more money right now may be wasted.

Like the U.P.

Today's snow storm reminds me the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, where I spent some great years. Storms like this are a frequent occurrence there and do not get the media attention like here. And despite perception, it is not really much, if at all, colder than here. Being surrounded by open water like Lake Superior, Michigan and Huron, keeps it warmer. It's just the length of the winter that gets to people there.

Packers and First Snow

Well, another close loss by a Packer team. As I sat in my seat at Lambeau yesterday and saw the catch by Smith in the closing minutes that eventually led to the winning touchdown by Carolina, I once again marveled at the athleticism of those guys. They have God-given talents!

What a beautiful morning! I'm a believer that as long as it is cold, we might as well have snow. What else could anyone expect from a Yooper?

Make someone happy today!

Giving Thanx

Happy Thanxgiving to all!!

Giving Thanks

My pastor had an interesting challenge for me in his sermon this past Sunday. It has to do with Thanksgiving. Each morning as you awake think of 5 things you are thankful for. Then before you retire for the evening, think of 5 things you are thankful for.

Sometimes even the smallest of things are overlooked. Like just waking up!

Worst To Come

Terry Taylor and I attended an all day event at the Federal Reserve in Chicago last Friday. It was an all day event in which there was not a lot of good news! Some takeaways: "The worst is to come." "The earliest we can expect the economy to bottom out is 2nd half of 2009." The two indicators to watch for a sign that the bottom has been reached? 1. Stabilizing of home prices; and 2. Level or improving Consumer Confidence.

How about those Badgers and Packers this past weekend!

Be kind and laugh alot!

History Is Made

I am happy that the election season is over with. However, I do not recall so much banter following an election as we are hearing now. This is a great country! And it will continue to be great. Challenges, yes. But people have spoken and it is obvious, right or wrong, that we need to make some big changes in how government operates.

Two years from now we all get the chance to cast our ballot again. If we are unhappy with the way things are at that time, we'll change our government leaders again. So be patient - work hard - and be happy. Life is too short to look backward.

Good News - Bad News

I found it interesting on October 28 that the mainstream news media could find nothing positive about the 900 point surge in the Dow nor the lowest oil prices in almost 2 years.

Schemes in Turbulent Markets

During periods of financial stress like we are currently experiencing, one has to be on guard for all kinds of schemes to take advantage of the market turbulence. Be careful! If you don't understand what is being offered, walk away or hang up. People peddling these products are very persistent and don't like to take "No" for an answer. So be tough and don't buy in unless you're confident about what you are doing.

On Vacation

I'm on vacation until October 14.

Autumn

Despite the temp today it is autumn, my favorite season! I just returned from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and northern Wisconsin. The colors should be peaking there within the next week or two. Seeing the hardwoods in its flaming reds and yellows is nature at her best. And while at my meeting in Marquette at Northern Michigan University (my alma mater), I once again saw the awesomeness of Lake Superior. She certainly has her own personality!

Electricity in Lambeau

I was at the Packer game last nite. The electricity in Lambeau surpasses Camp Randall consistently.

Did you vote today? I believe the right to vote and the right to a trial by a jury are two of our most important rights as Americans.

Rather than listen to all the rhetoric from candidates for public office, take a look at their voting record prior to running for whatever they're running for. That will tell you what the candidate truly represents.

Politics

I have a suggestion for all when trying to decide which candidate for any office is the best choice for you. Rather than listen to what they say when running for the office, take a look at their voting record prior to their candidacy. This will really tell you more about the person that what they say. Furthermore, you can't rely on what they say, anyway.

Olympics

The tv coverage of this year's summer olympics has been superb, in my opinion. The commitment of these young people is unbelievable. And the time the parents have spent in getting them to this point in their lives is something few of us appreciate. Many have been soccer and hockey moms and dads. I have an idea you could multiply that commitment 10 times and still wouldn't be close to the olympic experience.

Good Start & Home News

I attended the Packer preseason game last nite in Green Bay. The crowd was a little subdued, in my opinion. Despite Mitch Henck's objection about Aaron Rodgers new moniker, I thought A-Rod did a commendable job at quarterback. Brett who?

Most pronosticators see the end of 2009; early 2010 as the bottom of dropping home values.

Are you enjoying this beautiful summer?

Ooops

Wrong again! Jet Favre traded instead of Rogers. (See previous blog.)

30 year fixed rate mortgage loan now at 6.75%. With the steep yield curve, look for higher yields on certificates of deposit. But then again, look at my prediction on who would be traded at Green Bay!

Favre Saga Continues

Here's a gut feeling I have.... the Packers will trade Aaron Rodgers!

Cubs Go For Sweep

Three significant news items this a.m.

1. Cubs win third in a row from Brewers. My comment: Cubs are flat out kicking our butts right now.

2. Favre still in limbo. Packers presumedly offer him $20 million to stay retired. My comment: Brett, take the money and run!

3. McCain comparing Obama to Britany Spears and Paris Hilton. My comment: I wish someone would compare me to Britany and Paris!

Enough bad humor for this day.

I'm Back

Well, by popular demand, I'm back. My iBank manager tells me there are a fair number of hits on my blog regularly. So, while I doubted anyone actually reads this stuff, apparentely a few do.

Went to the Brewer/Cubs game last nite. A playoff atmosphere existed. I still am amazed at how the Cubs fans get so many tickets.

As to the stock market.... I still think there are a lot of bargains out there in the market. If you are still holding a stock whose price has dropped and you haven't sold, why wouldn't you buy it now at a discount? If you don't think the price is coming back, why wouldn't you sell what you have?

Adios

Oak Bank is always looking for ways to improve its delivery of financial services to its clientele. This blog is just a small piece of that effort. But it appears it is adding little value to your overall experience with us. Therefore, discussion is being held regarding whether to continue this. Stay tuned.

Am I Wasting My Time

I often wonder if the time, though brief, I spend on adding to this blog is worth it. Does anyone really read it? I know our security prevents readers from being able to respond on this blog, but you can e-mail me at rgorsuch@oakbankonline.com.

Keep the flood victims in your thoughts and prayers.

Stay Positive

Boy, it is tough to keep a positive attitude with all this weather being piled on top of gas prices and rising food costs. This morning a woman was interviewed by one of our local TV stations. Her home was flooded in the LaValle area. While having to cope with her problems, she was able to smile and comment that many people have it a lot worse. Don't we really have to remind ourselves of this!

Americans have a history of pulling through the toughest of times. When things get tough, we get tougher!

No Call

If you have not already done so, you may want to register on the Wisconsin No Call List. You can go to www.nocall.wisconsin.gov or call 866-966-2255 to register your phone numbers, including your cell numbers.

Keep all those folks currently under water in your thoughts.

Dane County Day Trips

In 1996, former county exec, Rick Phelps, wrote 5 articles for "The Capital Times" on Dane County day trips that are off the beaten path. I have copies of those articles. If you'd like a set, e-mail me at rgorsuch@oakbankonline.com.

A Great School System

I have 5 grandchildren who live in the Evansville, Wisconsin school district. Over the years my wife and I have had many opportunities to attend musical and drama events at the grade, middle and high schools. What an impressive program! A high percentage of their student body is involved in either the concert band, jazz band, choral groups or plays. And believe it or not; they still have a Christmas program!

If our entire education system had the leadership and parental involvement that Evansville experiences, we would have a lot fewer problems in this great country.

Indy 500

I spent the Memorial Day weekend in Indianapolis visiting my sister and her family. While there, we also took in the Indy 500. Now I am not a big race fan. But this was some spectacle. Over 250,000 at one event! The crowd was definitely supportive of Danica Patrick and Sarah Fisher's attempt to win it. Neither finished. The 33 cars that started the race use 100% ethanol.

It is good to see patriotism in action. Prior to the race, members of our armed services are motored around the track in slick Chevy pick ups. As they went around everyone stood and applauded. Very touching.

We Need To Remember

I have quite a few pictures, plaques and framed certificates hanging on my walls in my office. The one I am most proud of is my Honorable Discharge certificate from the U. S. Army. I served in Missouri, Korea and Texas from May 1959 to May 1962. And yet, I know I take for granted the freedoms I have because of the sacrifice of lives by many, many men and women who have served this great country. Let us all pause and reflect on the positives of living in this great land. There is too much negativity in the media.

Thank God for America!!

Morels & More

I've had my first taste of morels for this year! Two of our clients who know of my love of these tasty morsels brought me a mess. I love to pick morels but have a problem finding them. People who know where to find them protect the location like a trout fisherman protects his favorite trout hole!

I'm off to Hayward this afternoon. Our Zor Shrine has a big event there over the weekend. I have been thru Hayward, but have never spent any time getting to know the area. Perhaps this weekend.......

Our thoughts and prayers include the families who have lost loved ones in the med flight crash.

Housing Boom & Other

On May 6 an article in "The Wall Street Journal" claims the housing crisis is over. The article stated that April 2008 will mark the bottom of the U.S. housing market.

I just returned from 3 days in the Eagle River area. It is a very beautiful area. On Saturday morning we couldn't get off the first tee on time due to frost on the greens. But it warmed up and we had a beautiful day. We saw a pileated woodpecker which are pretty rare. A magnificent bird!

I kind of think we have seen the last drop in interest rates by the Fed. As gas and food prices trend upward, it is going to be interesting to watch inflation numbers. Any show of an increase in the CPI could well lead to increases in rates late this year (after the election) or early next.

Annual Shareholders' Meeting

Tonight is our 8th annual Shareholders' Meeting. It will be held at Promega in Fitchburg's research park. My comments to the shareholders' present will stress that the current economic news is reminiscent of previous challenges to the community banking industry. In the 70's we had the real estate problems; in the 80's the ag crisis and another commercial real estate downturn.

The banks who focus on sound credit principals during good times will survive the bad. The FDIC is predicting about 100 bank failures as a result of the home mortgage situation. Those 100 banks probably did not ever think the business cycle is a cycle. What goes up, must come down.

Been A While

Wow, almost a month since last posting. People who periodically look at my blog tell me I'm too brief and don't post often enough. Brevity is part of my nature, I guess.

Last night Carol and I were honored by the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. There are a lot of more deserving supporters of that great organization, but we are proud nevertheless. I was surprised by having my sister, Sandi, from Indianapolis, and her daughter, Susan, from the Washington, D.C. area, show up for the occasion. It was a marvelous evening during which over $350,000 was raised for diabetes research. I just have a feeling we are not far from a cure for this "silent" disease. In fact, Dr. Hans Sollinger, noted transplant specialist at UW, told Carol and me last night that he also feels we are not far from a cure. Let's pray.

Yesterday was also the funeral for Jodi Lou Barlow Rickert, a former personal banker here. It was a sad day. Our Jim McNulty did a wonderful talk on his reflections about Jodi. Jodi was only 36 years old and leaves a infant daughter, Sophie, husband Ray and parents. Knowing we will all be together again gives us hope, doesn't it?

Well, a little longer than usual. Life is good!

Taking A Break

I don't know about you but I am ready for some warm weather! One of the fun things to do this time of year is drive or bike on the back roads of Dane County. If you have an interest in copies of six articles written by former Dane Co Exec Rick Phelps on neat drives in Dane County, e-mail me at rgorsuch@oakbankonline.com.

Another Opener

I've been going to Brewer openers for 33 years. I recall that two of those 33 were "nice" days for baseball. Today would have been another. But with the roof, weather is not near the factor it used to be.

Economic news continues to dominate the airwaves. We are fortunate to live in a community that is somewhat economic downturn resistant. If one listens or reads about all the economic woes that presumedly exist, it is difficult to not find yourself putting off purchasing decisions, isn't it?

Badgers

With new milestones being reached in snowfall and deaths in Iraq, we should be thankful for the Badger men's basketball success! It certainly helps us keep a positive attitude, doesn't it?

Interest Rates Keep Falling

One has to ask if more interest rates are coming. Probably yes, but my guess is not many. With inflation running higher than the Fed wants it to be, two of the Board of Governors voted against the recent 75 basis point drop. I'm not sure lower rates is the answer. While we are not one, many banks are unwilling to take on credit risk due to a lack of confidence in the economy. No amount of rate cutting will change that.

My Take On Spitzer

All I can say about about the Spitzer ordeal is people who live in glass houses should not throw stones.

Bill Wineke's column in this morning's edition of "The Wisconsin State Journal" left me a little confused.

On another matter, I hear that another bank is considering entering the Madison area market. I fail to understand why outside banks want to enter a market where the margins are already so thin. Maybe it is because the new banks have done so well during the past decade.

A Beautiful State

With all the negative vibes we continually get through the media outlets, one tends to forget the beauty of the creation that surrounds us! As I drove to and from Eau Claire this past weekend I could not help but be taken in by the beauty of our state. One of the joys of road biking is watching the countryside change from winter to spring to summer to autumn.

A Tear Is Shed

Like many watching yesterday's Brett Favre press conference I shed a tear. He just gets it, doesn't he? Be it the game of football or the game of life, he gets it.

Another Farewell

The media is fixed on Brett's retirement. And why shouldn't they? I have witnessed the retirement of Al Kaline of the Tigers; Robin Yount of the Brewers; Ted Williams of the Red Sox; Mickey Mantle of the Yankees; Bart Starr of the Packers, among others. But none of these were felt with the emotion that I am experiencing now. Over the last 16 years there have been lots of ups and downs in Wisconsin and the U.S.A. But the one constant has been # 4. God bless him and his family.

Mortgage Woes

I am often asked if Oak Bank is being impacted by the sub-prime mess. A short answer: No. We service over a thousand mortgages and not a one is past due.

Special Places

I have a series of articles written by former Dane County Exec Rick Phelps in which he details day trips within Dane County that are off the beaten path. If anyone wants a set of those, e-mail me at rgorsuch@oakbankonline.com.

Think Positive

This weather can turn the most optimistic personality toward negativity. But hang in there. The sun will come out; the snow will melt away; and we will be enjoying warm weather. It will happen!

Brrrr

Looks like we set a new seasonal snowfall record tonight. This is the kind of winter I grew up with in the U.P. of Michigan. Even they, though, got tired of shoveling and snow blowing by the first of March.

Super Tuesday After Super Bowl

I looked forward to last Sunday's Super Bowl football game a lot more than I look forward to today's Super Tuesday. When the final whistle blew on Sunday, I knew the outcome of the game. After today, I will still be doubtful about any of the candidates being able to deliver on all their promises.

What A Game

The Wisconsin/Indiana men's basketball game last nite was a prime example of the quality coaching these young men are getting from Bo Ryan. I continue to be impressed with how he gets so much out of his men. They are the true epitomy of "teamwork!"

Now, Giants beat the Patriots!!

Out of Mourning

Well, it has been a week and one day since that cold day in Lambeau. I am pretty much out of mourning and mildly interested in the outcome of this Sunday's Super Bowl. Never in my sports spectating life have I witnessed the change in emotion that I witnessed in Lambeau that day. If you have not seen the Rep play, "Musky Love" you need to go. In it the love for our Packers is acted out in a fun and humorous way.

It won't be long and the Brewers will be in action!!

Stocks May Be On Sale

It's interesting that when department stores have sales, people flock to the store to find bargains. I happen to feel stocks may be on sale right now. In looking at recessions in the U. S. going back to 1953, the average recession lasts about 10 months. During these recessions (nine of them) the S&P 500 dropped an average of 25.6% from its peak prior to each downturn to its trough during the recession. It is down 9.8% already in January. According to the January 21, 2008 edition of "Barron's", a feeling that a full-fledged recession is now priced into the bond market and is increasingly priced into stocks is being expressed by investment strategists.

So it might be a good time to go shopping!

Economic Concerns

One of the problems with living in Dane County is that we are quite insulated from the real economic world. Our steady and growing employment base is one of the best in the nation. And while one gets unduly pessimistic if you get all your news from the electronic media, I do feel there are some concerns about 2008. Rising energy and healthcare costs could result in reduced customer spending. However, one thing I think we often forget is how powerful the international economies are to us. Bottom line: there may be lots of opportunities in the equity market right now.

Off To The Outback Bowl

I leave for the Outback Bowl this Saturday a.m. I'm traveling with the UW Alumni Association who always does a great job on these trips. My entire family just spent an entire weekend at the Wilderness Lodge & Water Park in the Dells. We all stayed in one cabin, a large one! A great, if expensive, weekend. I recommend it!

Here's an early wish for a very healthy and successful new year for you and yours.

Ice On The Roof

Like many other homeowners around here, the snow on my home's roof is creating ice build-up. No leaks yet. Bought a roof rake; hope it helps! They don't build around here like they do in the U.P.

Jared, Brett and Deana

Jared was a little boy aged 8 years who had leukemia. He lived in Evansville, Wi and was a big Packer fan. On December 8 Deana and Brett Favre called Jared. They had become aware of Jared's illness through an e-mail sent to their web site by one of my daughters. Jared's parents said there was a look in Jared's eyes they had not seen for some time. Jared died on December 9. At Jared's wake, there was a large bouquet of white lillies from the Favres.

If you haven't had a chance to read the December 10 edition of "Sports Illustrated" try to get a copy. Brett is on the front cover as Sportsman of the Year. We often hear the bad about pro athletes. People like Deana and Brett Favre are a blessing.

NFL Network

I don't know about you but I am about to go to the DISH network!!

Giving Blood

I'm donating plasma today at American Red Cross. If you don't already give blood on a regular basis, I highly recommend it. It's kind of like getting the oil changed in your car!

Happy Turkey Day

What a great country we live in! Despite the negativity of news media, we have so many things to be thankful for. But we must not be complacent. There are threats to our way of life. I still feel two of our most important freedoms are the right to vote and the right to a trial by a jury.

Happy Thanksgiving. God bless you all.

Badgers & Packers

If you are a football fan, isn't it great to be in Wisconsin! Unless the Badgers fall on their face against Minnesota, they should get invited to a nice bowl game. And the Packers ae surprising everyone!

It looks like the worst of the subprime mortgage crisis is just ahead of us. It looks like we will see the most effect of higher rates for borrowers as their loan rates adjust during the first four to six months of 2008. Five years ago some lenders were offering teaser rates that enabled many to buy homes. Now with the adjustable rates kicking in at much higher rates than the teasers, they are finding it almost impossible to make the higher payments. Lots of "ouches" out there.

A Great Weekend and A Great Day

How about those Badgers and Packers!!!

And the weather outside today? Unbelievable!! Get out and enjoy.

Neat Website

The space shuttle is returning to earth today from the International Space Station. It is probably too late for this time, but a great website to tune in to for live coverage of these space ventures is: http://www.nasa.com/.

Big Game

I anxious for tomorrow's Ohio State/UW football game. I think we will finally see what kind of team Wisconsin really is. I know our expectations were high at the beginning of the season. Tomorrow will tell us whether our expectations were too high!