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!