Oh Brother!

On February 3 we will witness something we likely have never nor will we ever see again.......  brothers being the head coach of each of the two teams in the NFL Super Bowl!  John & Jim Harbaugh.  Former head UW football coach Dave McClain and his wife Judi used to babysit these two.

Gun Control

I have mixed feelings about all the rhetoric regarding guns.  I came from a family that did a lot of hunting.  Guns were a part of our life.  Yet, I don't feel assault type weapons are needed for hunting and other sporting activities.  But I am concerned about new government involvement in regulating what we can own.  My concern is the continued increase in government involvement in our lives.  And regulating guns, in my opinion, would not have prevented the Sandy Hook tragedy.  I believe the guns his mother had were legal and would be legal even under the proposed gun control ideas. 

Community Banking

This may be too repetitive but the banking problems of the past four to five years were not created by community banks.  But many community banks throughout the country were impacted by the problems created by investment and mortgage bankers.  We are now seeing significant improvement in the financial stability and earnings at community banks. 

Happy 2013

Happy New Year to all!  The new year always ushers in hope and optimism.  Let's hope we can come to grips with this country's debt situation.

As the Badgers prepare to defeat Stanford today in the Rose Bowl, here's a little Packer trivia.  The Packers won three consecutive NFL championships from 1929 to 1931, and nearly had a fourth in a row in 1932.  They finished 10-3-1 that year, and second to the 7-1-6 Bears only because ties did not count in the standings at the time.

Stay healthy!

The Cliff

I'm betting that congress and the president will reach a compromise on the pending financial cliff legislation before January 1. 

Big Storm

One thing about impending snow storms... it sure diffuses the bad news we are inundated with.  Also, the hiring of the new football coach, Gary Anderson, will generate a lot of "fun" conversations over the next several weeks.

Drive with care!!

UW Basketball

I attended last night's UW men's basketball game versus the University of Virginia, coached by former Badger assistnat, Tony Bennett.  I was convinced before last night's game that Tony should be Bo Ryan's replacement whenever Bo decides to step down.  I am more convinced now!

Thanksgiving - 2012

Here's a ditty to contemplate especially at this time of year and after all we have gone through this year in the political arena.

An old Cherokee told his grandson, "My son, there is a battle between two wolves inside us all.

One is evil.  It is anger, jealousy, greed, resentment, inferiority, lies and ego.  The other is good.  It is joy, peace, love, hope, humility, kindness, empathy, and truth."

The boy thought about it, and asked, "Grandfather, which wolf wins?"

The old man quietly replied, "The one you feed."

Happy Thanksgiving.

Football - Again

I'm having a difficult time understanding how Wisconsin can be 2 - 3 point favorites for tomorrow's game versus Ohio State.

What Now?

From a financial perspective, the next four years appear critical to me.  If we continue to take on more debt as a nation, we are, in my opinion, headed for a major international financial crisis.  I am concerned that states who are bankrupt like California and Illinois will be baled out by Washington, at our expense as taxpayers.

Vote

One of the most important votes you will ever make is coming up.  If you have not already voted, be sure and exercise the most important right you have on Tuesday, November 6. 

Voting

I don't know how many voters have taken advantage of early voting but I did.  Of course, I already had my mind made up as to who I was voting for.  If you do know which way you are going to go, I recommend you vote early.  The deadline to early vote is the close of business on November 2, 2012.

Good Weekend

Always a great weekend when both the Badgers and Packers win!  Now if the Lions can beat the Bears tonight.  And how about that beautiful weather over the weekend!

Politics

Am I the only person who will be glad when the political calls and ads are gone?

Debate # 2

It's always interesting to watch the polls that tell us who won the presidential debate.  Kind of depends on the media outlet.  Fox says Romney won.  CNN says Obama.  The final poll on November 6 is the one that will be accurate!

Debate

Which one of the vice presidential candidates would you want occupying the White House if something were to happen to the president?

President's Security

Can you believe the taxpayers are on the hook for about $260,000 for security for President Obama's campaign visit to Madison?  And that doesn't count the cost of Air Force 1 and all the related costs.  I really don't care who the candidate is, all those costs should come from their campaign fund raising and not from taxpayer pockets!

Referee Debacle

I thought I had pretty much seen everything you could see in sports.... until last Monday night!  While it was just a game, the loss could mean a loss to the Northeastern Wisconsin economy of over $8 million should that one loss cause the Packers to lose home field advantage in the playoffs.  It is good to see the professional refs back!

Pests

Am I the only one who gets tired of all the political phone calls?  We all should be contacting our elected reps complaining about this.  I strongly feel the "no call" should apply to them, as well.

Football

My sense is that UW football is in a slight pickle!  First the firing of the offenseive line coach after only two games.  Now the quarterback controversy.  What will be next if they don't turn this around?

Packers

Great Packer victory last night over da Bears!  Now if the Badgers can get in sync.

Tought Day in Wisconsin

Not a good weekend.  Bad enough that the Badgers lose first non-conference game after winning 37 in a row, but then the Packers get beat by San Francisco.  In both cases I thing the Wisconsin favorites were outplayed and out coached.

Great Time of the Year

The smell of autumn is in the air!  My favorite season.

The Republican National Convention is now over.  Some great speeches.  I would have to rate Condaleeza Rice's as the best.

Now let's see what the Democrats have to say.

Cleveland

As a kid I remember hearing stories about how a river running thru or near to Cleveland, Ohio would actually catch on fire due to polution.  I understand the city has changed dramatically since then.  I will find out this coming week.  Driving there on Sunday for a meeting.

Ride is Complete

I completed a 100 mile ride last Saturday for Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.  One of the most exciting events of the weekend was hearing about the progress that is being made toward reducing the consequences of having T1D (type 1 diabetes).  While there is still no cure for this "silent" disease, progress is being made.  And with the $1.3 million that was raised by this ride alone we are able to carry on the financing of the research so essential to finding a cure.

Ride Ride Ride

This is the weekend for my annual ride to raise funds for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.  Type 1 diabetes is such a "silent" disease.  Many know so little about this affliction.  It affects young and older persons.  In fact, a neighbor of mine was diagnosed with T1D at age 51.  So, let's all hope and pray for a cure!!

Bits & Pieces

Just a few thoughts I have this morning....

Got to vote.
Like GOP VP pick.
Early in year thought Brewers would be in pennant chase now.
Quarterback issue at UW is interesting.
Doing a 100 mile ride on bicycle this coming weekend for JDRF.
My favorite time of the year coming up.
Thankful for the wonderful country we are blessed with.

Places to Retire

A recent article in 'USA Today" listed Madison as the 2nd best place in the U.S. for seniors to live.  This ranking was of the 100 most populas metropolitan areas.  In fact, there were no cities ranked in the top 5 located in any southern or southwestern state.  They were all northern cities.  The same was true of the cities in smaller cities.  The top five were in the Dakotas, Iowan, Missouri and Minnesota!

Montee Ball

One cannot help but to hope the guys who beat up Montee Ball get caught.  As unfortunate as it is, there is a saying "nothing good happens after midnight." 

Olympics

I still have a problem with professional athletes competing in the Olympics.  Somehow, I have alwasy thought of the Olympics as being competition between amateurs. 

Penn State

The question seems to be was the penalty given Penn State appropriate, too harsh or too lenient?  Tough one to anwser. 

Lawn Watering

I have a few articles prepared by a turf specialist at UW Extension that you might find helpful as to watering of plants, bushes, trees and lawns during this drought.  Send me your e-mail address.  Send it to rgorsuch@oakbankonline.  I will send these articles to you.

Greinke

I have a feeling a trade of Zack Greinke is right around the corner. 

Financial Cliff

The Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago held an economic conference last week at which leading nationally known economists discussed the mess we are in.  There were democrats and republicans on the agenda who spoke.  The one common thread that seemed to run throughout their comments was that the U.S. is on a financial cliff;  a cliff we are on the verge on falling over the edge.  Probably not this year nor the next;  but no one would take bets on the next five years.  Our debt and deficit situation is untolerable.

Even though some disagreed with the Paul Ryan plan as not containing specifics, they did agree something needs to be done with our budget and spending programs as a nation.

Been A While

Wow, it's been quite a while since I've posted.  This has been quite a summer weather-wise.  You have to feel for our farmer friends.  I am feeling like we are in for a winter like we haven't had for sometime. 

Since we talked last, I have been to Charlotte, No Car.  Nice city.  Other than that, been doing some road biking which once out, is just great!  It's good for the mind and body.

Politics haven't changed.  It was interesting how the "Recall Walker" yard signs disappeared the day after the recall election! 

VOTE!!

I've always said the two most important rights we have is the right to a trial by jury and the right to vote.  So be sure and vote today.  Long line at my polling place this morning.  Looks like a record turnout.

UW Football

I know it is only May, but football season is already on the agenda.  Yesterday the Big 10 schedule for the next 4 years was released.  No Michigan State on the schedule for 4 years!  And another reminder was when I was notified that I can select my parking locations starting on June 4th.  But there is plenty of baseball left, so let's forget about football for a while. 

Vote

Today is one of those days where we exercise one of our greatest freedoms.... the right to vote. 

I still have copies of some very interesting Dane County day trips.  Call me at 608-250-5500 if you have an interest in getting a copy of five trips.

Annual Shareholders' Meeting

Our annual shareholders' meeting occurred last night at the Promega headquarters building in Fitchburg.  A positive review of 2011 accompanied with some good food and drink made for an enjoyable evening.  It is always good seeing shareholders, some who I haven't seen since last year's meeting. 

WWII Honor Flight

If you ever have the opportunity to go the the Dane County Regional Airport and be there when the World War II honor flight returns from Washington, D.C. take advantage of the opportunity.  It will bring tears to your eyes to see the joy in the eyes and on the faces of those veterans.  We owe so much to them.  The first person off the flight was an 102 year old woman.  She had tears in her eyes, too.

Steve Jobs

I am almost finished reading the book "Steve Jobs."  Something I just read needs to be shared.  Shortly after he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, he delivered the commencement address at Stanford Univ.  The following was part of that address.

"Remembering that I'll be dead soon is the most important tool I've ever encountered to help me make the big choices in life.  Because almost everything -- all external expectations, all pride, all fear of embarrassment or failure -- these things just fall away in the face of death, leaving only what is truly important.  Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose.  You are already naked.  There is no reason not to follow your heart."

Lightning Strikes!

On Saturday night, at about 11:30 p.m. our building was struck by lightning.  The strike was on the second floor of the building and immediately set off the sprinkler system.  Any fire as a result of the strike was extinquished.  But the sprinklers kept running for sometime before the fire department arrived and was able to turn them off.  We have incurred significant water damage and as a result, our drive up is closed.  We estimate it will be about 10 days before we are back in operation.

We are in the process of replacing lots of drywall and equipment.  In the meantime our staff is working hard to be sure our clients get the same service as normally expected.

Compliance Costs

During a recent compliance exam I was again reminded of the tremendous cost to our society for consumer compliance issues that are well intended, but fail miserably to really address the problem.  Take for example:  Privacy Notices.  How many of you have ever read one of those notices that you receive from every credit card company and bank you do business with?  And every one of them is required to send you the same notice.  Billions and billions of dollars of waste.  And all these costs get passed on to you, the consumer.  As long as no one complains to our legislators, it will only get worse. 

Greece & Debt

There was a segment on "60 Minutes" last night about the debt crisis in Europe. The bottom line is the countries who are in crisis have incurred too much debt and are in danger of defaulting on it. And all the social welfare programs they have implemented over the years are unaffordable and creating social unrest in those countries.

How far are we away from this situation?

Elections

Certainly one of the main challenges of political leaders is building consensus among opposing sides. I am concerned that we have allowed our financial situation to deteriorate to the point where I am not sure if we have the time it will take to build this consensus.

Almost Here

While this weekend's college basketball NCAA finals are truly exciting, my eye is on the Brewer opener next Friday, April 6. A lot of pundits are picking the Cardinals to win the NL Central but I think the Brewers could actually be better this year than last when they won the division. Whatever, the start of baseball means summer isn't far off.

New Technology

On the back of my business card I now include a QR code which when scanned by a smart phone will automatically add all my contact data directly to your contact list. If you'd like to see what I've done, just e-mail me at rgorsuch@oakbankonline.com.

Interest Rates

The Federal Reserve has decided to keep the benchmark Fed Funds Target Rate at a range of 0.00 - 0.25%. They also decided yesterday to keep the Discount Rate at 0.75%. They stated, "Labor market conditions have improved further; the unemployment rate has declined notably in recent months but remains elevated. Strains in global financial markets have eased, though they continue to pose significant downside risks to the economic outlook."

Home loan rates will continue to be at historical lows. However, the bad news is that those on fixed incomes who depend on deposit interest income are negatively impacted.

Spring

We'd all like to think spring is here. But I fully expect we will see at least one more snowy blast.

It appears interest rates are going to remain at these historical low levels through mid-2014. At least, that's what Chairman Bernanke of the Fed leads us to believe. If you have a home loan and have not refinanced, you need to check with us. If your loan balance is over $200k and you can lower the rate 0.50% or more, it makes sense. For smaller loan balances you need more of a spread.

Rhetoric Continues

I listen to the Mitch Henck show on WIBA-AM each morning. I find his talk show one of the more sensible; not all the ranting and raving you hear on other talk shows. But the division of views in our state and country is still evident. It becomes difficult to really know who is right. Compromise is needed but it doesn't appear to be in the making.

Country Divided

For some time I have been bothered about the political extremes and the tension it has created in this country. Never have I felt the divisiveness I do now. Compromise seems so difficult to be reached in our state house or Washington. Here's a wild idea: An Obama/Santorum ticket in 2012!

Winter is Over

Regardless of the snow storms we will get this month of March, winter is all but over. What a winter! Now we get to Big 10 basketball tourneys; NCAA tourney. Great beginning to the spring.

Fiddler

I recently attended the play, Fiddler on the Roof, at the Overture Center in Madison. What a wonderful show! Highly recommened.

North Dakota

I was in Grand Forks, ND this past weekend. Man, it was cold! But its good to see an economy that seems to be booming. The new oil patch and the employment it is creating is wonderful.

Super Bowl XLVI

This was best Super Bowl game in sometime. And the best team won!

Puerto Rico

It has been several years since I have been in Puerto Rico. Will be there this coming week. I will be interested in what changes have occurred over the years. And I am quite sure the weather will be a welcome change.

Listened with interest to Governor Walker's state of the state message last night. Why can't people, regardless of opinions, treat people with respect? Both sides of the collective bargaining issue have acted like school children, at times. C'mon folks. Why can't they do what is best for their constituencies, even if there has to be compromise?

Depression in Packerland

I attended the game in Green Bay Sunday. Unbelievable. Had to be the poorest game they have played in over 3 years. But you know, there are lots of people who would trade a Packer loss for their ailment. Be thankful if you and your loved ones enjoy good health and happiness.

First Big Storm

Being originally from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan I am always amused by the attention given to a 4 inch snowfall.

Interest rates continue to be at historic lows. If you have a home loan you should be checking with your lender about refinancing options. If you can reduce your rate enough to offset the refinancing costs, why not refinance?

Call us at 441-6000 or check out www.oakbankonline.com.

Weather

There is really something to be said about this kind of weather. January 10 and no snow on the ground!! And I think the best team clearly won the national college footbabll championship game last night.

Rose Bowl

I just returned from the Rose Bowl. What a game! And being with first time attendees like my daughter Amy and grandson Prentice was truly special. It's one of those events where you wish everyone who is or has been close to you could be there with you. The Badgers have nothing to be ashamed about. They played a very good team and except for having one turnover too many, would have won. I am already looking forward to next year.

Our Wishes

It is my hope you will take time to reflect on the many blessings we all share and begin the new year with a renewed vision, focus and energy for your family, job and community.

And may our politicians get their acts together in 2012!

Smell the Roses

Rose Bowl.... here we come.

Idea for the Holidays

Each year our entire family rents a cabin at the Wilderness in Lake Delton. Kids love the waterpark. Beautiful cabins. Recommend it.

Bells Ringing

I hope everyone empties their pockets of loose change whenever you pass a Salvation Army bell ringer. This organization does such a great job of serving the less fortunate during this time of the year. You will never miss what you give!

Payback Time

Well, the big game is almost here. Go Badgers! It certainly has been a good year to be a Wisconsin resident. Brewers, Badgers, Packers. Now if we could just get civil discourse among politicians!

Recall

I hope we have not entered a new era where dissatisfaction with enacted legislation results in a recall effort. I have always thought election days were for expressing our agreement or displeasure with elected officials.

Give Thanx

If you are looking for something special to do on Thanksgiving Day morning, check out the Berbee Derby in Fitchburg. It is a 5K run/walk or 10k run. Great way to start off the day of food, football and giving thanx for all the blessings we share.

Philanthropy

Last Friday I was presented with the Lifetime Achievement of Philanthropy by the Association of Fund Professionals. The luncheon was held at the Overture Center and was attended by some 400 persons. It was a wonderful event. It is at times like this that you are reminded of how much generosity truly exists in our Dane County community.

The Beauty of Wisconsin

On some of the recent beautiful days, I have taken short bike rides out into the rural areas. Observing all the farm machinery working in the fields reminds me how important those folks are to all of us. Long hours, big risks and love of independence gives us farmers who provide for our food needs. But it is so difficult for the smaller farm to survive. It is encouraging, however, to occasionally see signage that some farm land is a "No Spray Zone" and is organic.

Economics

You likely notice any new economic news on this blog. There is really not much to report on. Interest rates still historically low. If you have a home loan and have not refinanced within the last six months, you really should go to our web site at oakbankonline.com and check out the rates. My guideline: if your loan balance is over $200,000 and you can reduce your rate 1/2 percent, you should consider refinancing.

How About Those Cardinals?!

Two months ago the Cardinals were so far out of the pennant race that next season was already being planned. But here they are.... world champs! Just another example of Jimmy Valvano's "Never give up".

Hail Mary

I'm still suffering from the UW loss Saturday at East Lansing. It is always exciting to watch these Hail Mary attempts when it involves other teams; but hurts like h--- when it happens to your team AND it is successful! MSU is a good football team but I hope we get another shot at them in Indy on Dec 3!

Two Out of Three Ain't Bad

Well, it was a great run for the Brewers. I was at the game last night. Not usual for me to leave a game early, but I did. Couldn't stand to watch Cardinals celebrate on our lawn! I wonder where my grandkids get their competiveness?

Still got the Pack and Badgers!

Wow!

Can you ever remember a nicer week of weather than this? Brewers better cap off things tomorrow night. Don't want to be the first National League team to lose playoff series after leading 2-0 in best of five!

What a Weekend!

Has anyone experienced a more exciting sports weekend in Wisconsin than this weekend!? I had to give up Brewer playoff tickets for today's game, but will be going to Brewer game tomorrow. But had to give up Packers tickets for tomorrow! Thank goodness for grandkids!

Autumn

Ah, Autumn! My favorite season. Beautiful Wisconsin weather; Badger and Packer football. And this year.... the Brewers possibly in the playoffs!

I've been attending a lot of funerals lately. Reminds you that life is like a strand on a spider web. Fragile and too brief.

Enjoy every day. Especially this time of year!

T'is The Season

This is the best time of the year, in my opinion. Brewers in contention; big expectations of both the Badgers and Packers; wonderful weather and the anticipation of the changing colors of nature!

Enjoy every day!

Here and There

It is refreshing to see the political scene quieting down. There has to be compromise but the huge debt our grandchildren are going to have to service is a major problem. It will take sacrifice and courage to solve that dilemma.

Is this a great time for sports in Wisconsin! The Brewers, Badgers and Packers are among the best, if not the best, in each of their sports. A great time to be in Wisconsin!

As Madison trys to find a way to meet its budget problems, why is no one talking about the raises given public employees prior to the collective bargaining law taking effect??

Glorious Ride

Last Saturday I did a 100 mile bicycle ride as a fund raiser for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. We had 400 riders from all over the country and raised over $1 million, a record for a ride. We started in LaCrosse, crossed into Minnesota, then down the Mississippi to Lansing, Iowa. Then a 20 mile loop in the hills and back to Lansing for the return trip up the Missisip.

What a great group of riders. We had about 80 riders from the Madison Chapter of JDRF who will be friends forever. Hopefully a cure is in the near future.

Build Consensus

Hopefully our adverse political climate will return to some form of sanity. We need leaders who have courage to do what is right rather than cowtowing to special interest groups who contribute the money to get them reelected or elected. There is something wrong when it becomes all about money. And I am not against money, but it should not buy power.

Brewers, Badgers and Packers

I know of no other state that can be as proud of its three major sports teams as we are in Wisconsin! Brewers in first place in their division; Packers strong contenders for another Super Bowl; and the football Badgers talking about a National Championship!

Beauty in Wisconsin

If you have never taken a drive on the country roads in and around Hollandale, you need to do so. Just go out toward Barneveld on 12/18. Just before Barneveld, turn left on County Hwy K. A stop at Botham Winery is suggested. Then just meander. Incredible views.

Rocky Mountain High

Just got back from Denver. I was impressed by the cleanliness of the city. The views of the Rockies are awesome! And 300+ days of sunshine! But most of all, I was impressed by the friendliness of the people in Denver. Especially the police. How refreshing to meet public employees who really want to please you; unlike those who have forgotten who their "customers" are.

Summer is Here

Hopefully this summer will give our society time to discern the serious predicament we are in internationally, nationally, state-wide and locally as to the amount of debt we have accumulated. Keep in mind that the debt service requirements for interest alone accounts for a significant portion of our total governmental revenues. And this is during a historically low interest rate environment. Think of the additional burden when interest rates rise to more normal levels!

High Schools

I had the pleasure of attending one of my grandson's high school graduation this past weekend. He graduated from Evansville High. Over the years this grandson has participated in many musical and dramas at the school. I have been so impressed with this school's arts and music program. The school does an excellent job of balancing its arts and music program with its athletic program.

Hot Hot Hot

While one should drink lots of water in heat and humidity like this, one should also supplement the water with some form of electrolyte drink or tablets.

Memorial Day

Hopefully we will all take a minute or two to pause during this coming weekend and give thanks, each in our own way, to all those who have gone before us. But for many of them, we would not enjoy the freedoms we have today. We take our blessings for granted. And God bless those who still serve in our military putting themselves at risk of death each day.

Final Test

The fourth and final fundamental test every stock investor should use is the Debt Ratio Trend.

The debt ratio (long-term debt divided by total capital, which is combined long-term debt and stockholder's equity) can be overlooked, but it is the most important test of working capital.

The current ratio (current assets divided by current liabilities) can be misleading, especially if the company has allowed its long-term debt to grow in order to bolster cash, accounts receivable and inventory to keep the current test steady. A growing long-term debt is a big problem, because it translates to ever-higher interest and debt service in the future, and that means less capital remains for expansion or dividends. You want to see a steady or declining debt ratio from year to year, not growing levels.

Maps

Each year I offer readers of my blog the opportunity to get a copy of maps of Dane County Day Trips. If interested, send me an e-mail at rgorsuch@oakbankonline.com.

Another Test

A third fundamental test every stock investor should use is Dividends per Share. You will prefer to invest in companies whose dividend is growing each year. The dividend is easily overlooked, but it represents a major factor in your overall return from investing in stock. Reinvesting dividends increases dividend yield.


The best managed companies increase dividends each year, which is also a reflection of growing profits and well-managed working capital.

Fundamental Test #2

Here is the second fundamental test to apply when buying a stock for your investment portfolio.

Price-Earnings Ratio (P/E):

The price-earnings ratio is calculated by simply dividing the price by earnings per share. The multiple represents how many years of per share net earnings are reflected in the current stock price. A P/E ratio that is too high means the stock is probably overpriced; a P/E ratio that is too low indicates lack of interest in the company. As a general rule, the desirable middle ground is between 10 and 25.

Tools to Investing

As a follow up on last posting..... Tests to apply when considering the purchase of a stock.

1. Revenue & Earnings: You want to watch out for companies whose revenues are growing while profits are shrinking -- a very negative trend. The same observation applies when revenues are on the decline but net profit margin is declining more rapidly, also a big negative.

Fundamental Tests

I recently reviewed an article in an investment periodical I receive. The article was the four tests or indicators that every stock investor should use:

1. 5 years of revenues and earnings.
2. P/E ratio.
3. Dividends
4. Debt Ratio Trend

More on each later.

Finding More Time

I find myself gradually unwinding from some volunteer positions I have had for years and years. I am hopeful by doing so new opportunities will arise which will rejuvenate my enthusiasm for community involvement.

Budgets

Hard to know who to believe anymore in politics when it comes to budgets. But I personally feel Paul Ryan is the most capable and trustworthy elected official when it comes to fiscal soundness. It is time we all help eliminate the debt crisis, even if we have to pay higher taxes.

Time to Read

I have never read the book "Atlas Shrugged", but maybe it is time I do.

Go Brewers

I will be attending the Brewer opener in Milwaukee today. I think I have missed 2 openers in the last 36 years. The roof on Miller Park sure makes it more enjoyable that it has normally been. Thank you former Senator George Peatak for your vote making this possible!

Vote

I have always felt two of our most, if not the most, important rights are the right to a trial by jury and the right to vote. Be sure to exercise your right to vote next Tuesday, April 5. Much is at stake.

Financial Blogs

This is a long link but one you might find informative. It gets you to 25 financial blogs with various financial topics of importance. Here it is:

http://www.time/com/time/specials/packages/completelist/0.29569.2057116.00.html. Good luck.

Antics

Yesterday some of the anti-Walker protestors barged into the lobby of the M&I office on the Square with drums, signs and loud speakers. They were there demonstrating against M&I who they felt was a financial supporter of Walker. They were ignorant of the fact that corporations cannot contribute to individuals running for political office. Just another example of the mass miscommunication of information going on down on the Square.