Interest Rates

Probably everyone is aware the Federal Reserve Bank did not move to increase interest rates at its recent meeting.  It is still speculated that we will see a quarter point increase in either October or December.  The big concern now is global economic colatility. 

Ironman

Another Madison Ironman in the books!  Awesosme weather for it yesterday.  It still amazes me the committment the athletes make to do the 2.4 mile swim; 112 mile bike ride; 26.2 mile run!  Congrats to all who participated even if they were unable to finish. 

Cowboy Stadium

I was fortunate to be in Texas for the UW/Alabama game Saturday night.  Alabama is a very good football team.  A match up with Ohio State would be a classic!  And I cannot really define how big that Cowboy Stadium is.  They certainly do things big in Texas!

Wild Ride

It appears that stockholders did not panic during the wild ride the stock market has been on.  The China economic situation certainly points out how we have become a global economy, although the U.S. economy still is the prime mover of global markets.  And the recent correction was long overdue. 

Economy

Don't panic!  In fact, if you have some excess cash, it might be a good time to invest in the market.  You would be buying good companies cheaper than several weeks ago!

Interest Rates

If you believe what you read, it appears the Fed is hell bent on increase rates a bit by year end.  For those on fixed incomes and depending on income from fixed income type securities, this would be good news.  For borrowers, should not make a great difference.

Memorial Day

The Memorial Day weekend kicks off summer.  People travel.  And then there is Brat Fest.  But let us not forget the real meaning of the Day.... to remember and honor those who have served our country to protect the freedoms we enjoy!

Interest Rates

Bloomberg reports that Fed Chair Yellen warned investors in a recent speech that long term interest rates are at very low levels and that once the Fed begins to raise Fed funds, longer term rates "can move very rapidly" and investors could see "a sharp jump in long-term rates."

Florida

I recently spent a week in Vero Beach, Florida.  It is on the east coast of Florida.  The traffic there seems much less congested than on the west coast.  One feeling I came away with after a week there...... I am not ready to retire!

Packers

Some of you know that I am the holder of Green Bay Packer season tickets.  The schedule just came out.  And it was announced that Brett Favre's #4 will be retired at the Thanksgiving Day night game with the Bears.  I can't understand why I am getting so many requests to attend that game with me!  LOL. 

Bankers Without A Pen

Last night was the annual Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation's spring gala.  Always a fantastic time and cause.  Last night alone over $450,000 was raised for Type 1 Diabetes research!!  One of the more humorous times was when a pen was needed for filling out a form and out of 6 bankers at the table, no one had a pen!!

What A Day

I have a tough schedule today.  Brewer opener followed by UW win over Duke!  Make 'em believe!

Granddaugher's Blog

I have a granddaughter, Lydia Eager, who is spending a semester in Alicante, Spain.  She has a blog and has convinced me she's got her head screwed on right.  Her blogs are incredible.  But as we approach Easter weekend, a couple things she has blogged are very pertinent.  " If you are reading this, please breathe in, breathe out, and thank God for this beautiful world we have and life we are living."  Another quote:  "  While the week leading up to Easter is not nearly as important (in Spain) as in other places, I hope anyone reading this does their best (even if not Christian) to spend this week feeling nothing but gratitude."

Happy Easter ..... and go Badgers!

Frank the Tank

If you haven't picked up a copy of the recent Sports Illustrated with Frank Kaminsky on the cover, you should.  Good, interesting article.  Go Badgers!

Sun is Shining

It is fantastic to see the change in peoples' moods as a result of the sun and warmer air! 

Spring

50 degree temperatures next week!  Boo yah!

Hoqw About Those Badgers

It is so refreshing to be a fan of the UW men's basketball team!  When we hear so much about individuals in sports who set a poor example for our youth, with the UW guys we have a group who we'd all like our kids to emulate.  Congratulations to some great people for their Big 10 championship. 

Right To Work

Can someone tell me why opposition claims Right to Work is bad for workers?  If it is so important, wouldn't those currently in unions want to remain.  So what's the issue?  Or is it big government telling us they know what's right for us again?  Right to work does not take away the right to join a union does it?  What am I missing?

Mayor of Fitchburg

Our current Mayor, Shaun Pfaff came in second in yesterday's primary.  I can only say it is my opinion that Shaun has done an excellent job as Mayor. 

Vote

A number of communities, including Fitchburg, have primaries next Tuesday, February 17.  Turnout is usually very low.  But these elections are important.  Exercise one of your most important freedoms and vote next Tuesday!