Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Blogs; Public Enemies---Columbus Blog takes center stage
Click on the post for the blog that covers lots of little details about the Public Enemies film shooting----
Monday, June 29, 2009
White House: The Simplified FAFSA is coming
What a relief a simplified FAFSA will be. Click on the post for the story.
Yahoo: Madoff gets 150 years---now search moves to the thousands who facilitated the fraud
Click on the post for the sentence of Bernie Madoff---the rest of the story is the rest of the defrauders----and whether the government will pursue them. Stay tuned.
Mailbag: CPA sends some metaphors from high schoolers
Subject: Analogies & Metaphors
Every year, English teachers from across the USA can submit their collections of actual analogies and metaphors found in high school essays. These excerpts are published each year to the amusement of teachers across the country. Here are last year's winners.
1. Her face was a perfect oval, like a circle that had its two sides gently compressed by a Thigh Master.
2. His thoughts tumbled in his head, making and breaking alliances like underpants in a dryer without Cling Free.
3. He spoke with the wisdom that can only come from experience, like a guy who went blind because he looked at a solar eclipse without one of those boxes with a pinhole in it and now goes around the country speaking at high schools about the dangers of looking at a solar eclipse without one of those boxes with a pinhole in it.
4. She grew on him like she was a colony of E. Coli, and he was room-temperature Canadian beef.
5. She had a deep, throaty, genuine laugh, like that sound a dog makes just before it throws up.
6. Her vocabulary was as bad as, like, whatever.
7. He was as tall as a six-foot, three-inch tree.
8. The revelation that his marriage of 30 years had disintegrated because of his wife's infidelity came as a rude shock, like a surcharge at a formerly surcharge-free ATM machine.
9. The little boat gently drifted across the pond exactly the way a bowling ball wouldn't.
10. McBride fell 12 stories, hitting the pavement like a Hefty bag filled with vegetable soup.
11. From the attic came an unearthly howl. The whole scene had an eerie, surreal quality, like when you're on vacation in another city and Jeopardy comes on at 7:00 p.m. Instead of 7:30
12. Her hair glistened in the rain like a nose hair after a sneeze.
13. The hailstones leaped from the pavement, just like maggots when you fry them in hot grease.
14. Long separated by cruel fate, the star-crossed lovers raced across the grassy field toward each other like two freight trains, one having left Cleveland at 6:36 p.m. Traveling at 55 mph, the other from Topeka at 4:19 p.m. At a speed of 35 mph.
15. They lived in a typical suburban neighborhood with picket fences that resembled Nancy Kerrigan's teeth.
16. John and Mary had never met. They were like two hummingbirds who had also never met.
17. He fell for her like his heart was a mob informant, and she was the East River.
18. Even in his last years, Granddad had a mind like a steel trap, only one that had been left out so long, it had rusted shut.
19. Shots rang out, as shots are won't to do.
20. The plan was simple, like my brother-in-law Phil. But unlike Phil, this plan just might work.
21. The young fighter had a hungry look, the kind you get from not eating for a while.
22. He was as lame as a duck. Not the metaphorical lame duck, either, but a real duck that was actually lame, maybe from stepping on a land mine or something.
23. The ballerina rose gracefully en Pointe and extended one slender leg behind her, like a dog at a fire hydrant.
24. It was an American tradition, like fathers chasing kids around with power tools.
25. He was deeply in love. When she spoke, he thought he heard bells, as if she were a garbage truck backing up.
=
Every year, English teachers from across the USA can submit their collections of actual analogies and metaphors found in high school essays. These excerpts are published each year to the amusement of teachers across the country. Here are last year's winners.
1. Her face was a perfect oval, like a circle that had its two sides gently compressed by a Thigh Master.
2. His thoughts tumbled in his head, making and breaking alliances like underpants in a dryer without Cling Free.
3. He spoke with the wisdom that can only come from experience, like a guy who went blind because he looked at a solar eclipse without one of those boxes with a pinhole in it and now goes around the country speaking at high schools about the dangers of looking at a solar eclipse without one of those boxes with a pinhole in it.
4. She grew on him like she was a colony of E. Coli, and he was room-temperature Canadian beef.
5. She had a deep, throaty, genuine laugh, like that sound a dog makes just before it throws up.
6. Her vocabulary was as bad as, like, whatever.
7. He was as tall as a six-foot, three-inch tree.
8. The revelation that his marriage of 30 years had disintegrated because of his wife's infidelity came as a rude shock, like a surcharge at a formerly surcharge-free ATM machine.
9. The little boat gently drifted across the pond exactly the way a bowling ball wouldn't.
10. McBride fell 12 stories, hitting the pavement like a Hefty bag filled with vegetable soup.
11. From the attic came an unearthly howl. The whole scene had an eerie, surreal quality, like when you're on vacation in another city and Jeopardy comes on at 7:00 p.m. Instead of 7:30
12. Her hair glistened in the rain like a nose hair after a sneeze.
13. The hailstones leaped from the pavement, just like maggots when you fry them in hot grease.
14. Long separated by cruel fate, the star-crossed lovers raced across the grassy field toward each other like two freight trains, one having left Cleveland at 6:36 p.m. Traveling at 55 mph, the other from Topeka at 4:19 p.m. At a speed of 35 mph.
15. They lived in a typical suburban neighborhood with picket fences that resembled Nancy Kerrigan's teeth.
16. John and Mary had never met. They were like two hummingbirds who had also never met.
17. He fell for her like his heart was a mob informant, and she was the East River.
18. Even in his last years, Granddad had a mind like a steel trap, only one that had been left out so long, it had rusted shut.
19. Shots rang out, as shots are won't to do.
20. The plan was simple, like my brother-in-law Phil. But unlike Phil, this plan just might work.
21. The young fighter had a hungry look, the kind you get from not eating for a while.
22. He was as lame as a duck. Not the metaphorical lame duck, either, but a real duck that was actually lame, maybe from stepping on a land mine or something.
23. The ballerina rose gracefully en Pointe and extended one slender leg behind her, like a dog at a fire hydrant.
24. It was an American tradition, like fathers chasing kids around with power tools.
25. He was deeply in love. When she spoke, he thought he heard bells, as if she were a garbage truck backing up.
=
The Vegetable Garden At Monticello
Doubleclick to enlarge. The slaves of Monticello did not get enough wages to survive and the garden was the major source of food.
Video: Excitement for "Public Enemies" builds---Opening Wednesday
Lots of Wisconsin extras are wondering whether they are in the movie or on the cutting floor. Click on the post for the soundtrack.
Supreme Court: Live update: White Firefighters Win---court rules 5-4
Click on the post for the opinion.
Supreme Court Corner: Reverse Discrimination Case decided today--Will Sotomeyer be reversed?
Click on the post for the latest.
WSJ: Evansville High Mileage Vehicle Club Shines in Spotlight
Click on the post for the story with pictures in the Wisconsin State Journal.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Blogs: LondonFlyGirl: Adventure Changes----German castles anyone?
LondonFlyGirl has been reporting for the Observer from London, but now is moving to the Continent.....click on the post for the story...stay tuned.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Nostalgia: Video: Blooze Brothers: "Living in the USA"--7-4-2008
Classic Blooze Brothers: Patriotic Segment of program: "Living in the USA". For full screen viewing, download to desktop and run on windows media player. ....and turn up volume real loud.
Download File
Download File
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Pioneer Press: Grants available for low income Wisconsin residents
Click on the post for the latest.
New Historic Evansville Signs Arrive---click on the post for the history
Evansville is a historic city. Click on the post for the history.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Blogs; "Bridges to Nowhere?------Wisconsin sets the example?
When America is transformed....will it be with rural bridges from Wisconsin? Click on the post for an issue in the news now.
Dateline Normal, Mn.: "I've Been Hiking the Appalachian Trail"---FICTION
Click on the post for the latest.
StarTribune; Mpls: It's Official: U of Minn New Stadium will be dry--and other sports too.
Click on the post for the latest.
Blogs: Nihilist in Golf Pants---"One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest"
Finally the famous Mpls blog comments on Favre. Click on the post.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Blogs: LondonFlyGirl: Heathrow Terminal 5 is sinking---
Click on the post for the update from London.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Dateline Normal, Mn.: Schools face Crisis: Cut Math, Science, Reading---Add Baseball Coach--FICTION
Click on the post for the latest.
yahoo: Finance: Wall Street: Technical Indicators all Bearish
Advances & Declines
NYSE NASDAQ
Advances 535 (14%) 421 (15%)
Declines 3,116 (84%) 2,242 (82%)
Unchanged 74 (2%) 77 (3%)
Up Vol* 443 (13%) 160 (12%)
Down Vol* 2,867 (86%) 1,080 (84%)
Unch. Vol* 6 (0%) 40 (3%)
New Hi's 15 13
New Lo's 40 22
NYSE NASDAQ
Advances 535 (14%) 421 (15%)
Declines 3,116 (84%) 2,242 (82%)
Unchanged 74 (2%) 77 (3%)
Up Vol* 443 (13%) 160 (12%)
Down Vol* 2,867 (86%) 1,080 (84%)
Unch. Vol* 6 (0%) 40 (3%)
New Hi's 15 13
New Lo's 40 22
"The Disappeared"----a true story.
Recently I purchased some handmade parchment cards and envelopes made in the Philippines---they were distinctive with pressed flowers on the covers. They were obtained from the Missionary sisters who used them as a revenue source to help the "Widows of the Disappeared." It was that last phrase that got my attention.
I inquired about it. In the Philippines there is a segment or branch of AlQuida that kidnaps men, holding them for ransom, or just killing them for their political beliefs. In primitive cultures, as well as our own, to lose the breadwinner is devastating for the family.
On Fathers Day, I received a letter from Michelle Obama about the importance of Fathers in our life....and how she and Barack differed in their history.
On Fathers Day 2009 I salute all you fathers out there, and also recommend purchasing the parchment cards from the Widows of the Disappeared---It's just a little reminder for me each day to show up and not to be disappeared myself.
Click on the post for some pictures of these cards.
I inquired about it. In the Philippines there is a segment or branch of AlQuida that kidnaps men, holding them for ransom, or just killing them for their political beliefs. In primitive cultures, as well as our own, to lose the breadwinner is devastating for the family.
On Fathers Day, I received a letter from Michelle Obama about the importance of Fathers in our life....and how she and Barack differed in their history.
On Fathers Day 2009 I salute all you fathers out there, and also recommend purchasing the parchment cards from the Widows of the Disappeared---It's just a little reminder for me each day to show up and not to be disappeared myself.
Click on the post for some pictures of these cards.
Gazette; "School District Brain Trust to be reorganized"
This is the official Evansville Observer "Headline of the Week". Click on the post for the full story.
Land Purchase on the Agenda for Evansville Schools?"
Click on the post for the agenda for the Evansville School Board meeting for June 29, 2009.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
StarTribune: Mpls: U of Minn to make new Stadium "dry"--will Wisconsin follow?
Click on the post for the latest.
Mailbag: Missions: Philippine Scholars: Products
(Ed.note: I have received the following pictures and prices for hand crafts from the Philippines. Contact Gary directly to confirm availability prior to sending money. His email is: pscholar@msn.com Checks to Philippine Scholars
Mail to: 1319 Hillcrest Drive NE
Fridley, MN 55432
----------------------------------------------------
Dear Sponsors and friends of Philippine Scholars,
I visited with nuns at the Missionaries of the Assumption in Davao in April.
They are building the first ever schools on remote mountain tops, to help
Lumad people (indigenous). Toward this end, they send to me scarfs and
table cloths that I sell and send ALL proceeds to them. In addition, I have
some cards made by some Scholar families in Cebu, and pendants. Again, we
make next to no profits from this, its for income production.
Here are pictures of the items. When the name has a size, like "20x60", the
dimensions of the cloth are 20" by 60". The cloths are very colorful. Note
that the materials are thin (they come from a hot place). The prices are:
20x60 = $ 7, and larger, $ 9. (Target stores sell some similar, at twice
this price). Generally, there are plaids (lowland patterns), batik, and
varying multicolors across fabric patterns. Item 5519 is a really smart
native pattern, and I only have one, and it costs $ 12.
The wallets are $ 4. The pendants are $ 6 (the crab claws are 1.5 inches
long, and shiny). The coin purses are $ 2.
The cards are each 3 for $5, except those hand-painted with scented matching
envelopes are $ 2.50 each.
If expecting me to mail items, please add $3 to $6 for shipping costs.
I expect these will all sell within two weeks, this is a presale to past
customers. First come (order by email), first serve. I can email back if
your order is available, before you send a check. I may have to substitute
a color if some colors get sold out.
Thanks,
Gary King
Mailbag; Michelle Obama Writes on Father's Day
(Ed. note: Click on the post for the Video from Pres. Barack Obama on Fatherhood.)
Happy Father's Day,
I’m writing to share a special video of Barack talking about fatherhood, but first I want to share some thoughts of my own.
My father, Frasier Robinson, was the rock of our family. Although he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in his early thirties, he was our provider, our champion and our hero.
He worked tirelessly through good days and bad to make sure my brother and I had every opportunity he didn't -- to go to college and pursue our dreams. His example continues to guide me every day.
Barack didn't have my good fortune -- his father left when he was just two years old. But he has always been determined to give our daughters what he never had, and he values being a good father more than any other accomplishment in his life.
On Friday, Barack brought some men (and a bunch of kids!) to the White House to talk about fatherhood. Check out a video of the event:
Happy Father's Day,
I’m writing to share a special video of Barack talking about fatherhood, but first I want to share some thoughts of my own.
My father, Frasier Robinson, was the rock of our family. Although he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in his early thirties, he was our provider, our champion and our hero.
He worked tirelessly through good days and bad to make sure my brother and I had every opportunity he didn't -- to go to college and pursue our dreams. His example continues to guide me every day.
Barack didn't have my good fortune -- his father left when he was just two years old. But he has always been determined to give our daughters what he never had, and he values being a good father more than any other accomplishment in his life.
On Friday, Barack brought some men (and a bunch of kids!) to the White House to talk about fatherhood. Check out a video of the event:
Saturday, June 20, 2009
USA Today: Travel: TWITTER is the deal connection for Travel and Hotels
Airlines and hotels are offering last minute deals and those who are hooked up on TWITTER can cash in. Click on the post for the article in USA Today.
Linkedin: Baker: Twitter: Slideshow on Uses for Conferences
Twitter can be used for revolutions in the streets---we saw that last week. Click on the slideshow to see how Twitter can be used to enhance the effectiveness of conferences. Compliments of Paul Baker. Enjoy.
Gazette: OpEd; How should the City of Janesville balance its budget?
Click on the post for the latest.
Friday, June 19, 2009
Video: Scenes of the Philippines: Philippine Scholars seek Sponsors
Ed.note; Click on the post for a tour of the Philippines and the mission of the Philippine Scholars----Schooling is a luxury in a third world country where many of the fishermen make less that $200 per year in hard currency. I am pleased to sponsor a student at the Bohol school. Below is the letter I received with the slideshow. Click on the post to run the slideshow which has slides and movies. The Philippine Scholars is a tax exempt charitable organization. To get info on sponsoring a student email pscholar@msn.com.
Dear Philippine Scholar Sponsor,
Last April, as my wife Glen and I went to the Philippines and to three Scholar summer camps, we were accompanied for two weeks by Sponsors Pete Lund and Harriet Strasberg. They were able to spend almost a week each with their Scholars, Stephanie in Cebu and Evan in Bohol. They had a great time. They made an on-line show of what they saw and did. I believe this does an excellent job to capture, from American perspectives, the towns and people. I highly recommend that you watch this.
[Some parts are movies, and take a while to load. You probably need DSL. My computer also seems to stop if an email comes in, so you may want to close your server after you’ve started the download.]
Dear Philippine Scholar Sponsor,
Last April, as my wife Glen and I went to the Philippines and to three Scholar summer camps, we were accompanied for two weeks by Sponsors Pete Lund and Harriet Strasberg. They were able to spend almost a week each with their Scholars, Stephanie in Cebu and Evan in Bohol. They had a great time. They made an on-line show of what they saw and did. I believe this does an excellent job to capture, from American perspectives, the towns and people. I highly recommend that you watch this.
[Some parts are movies, and take a while to load. You probably need DSL. My computer also seems to stop if an email comes in, so you may want to close your server after you’ve started the download.]
NYT: The Squeeze on Small Business
The recent credit card reforms did not extend to small business accounts. Small Businesses are getting squeezed in the current recession. They are where the growth in employment was coming from. Click on the post for the latest.
Video; Colbert Nation: Colbert gets haircut: Obeys the Commander in Chief
Click on the post for the latest.
OpEd: NYT: David Brooks; "The Great Unwinding"
This is a classic description of the reality that is facing Americans. Enjoy.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Star Tribune; Minn Cuts to Budget means thousands of jobs: Delayed funds may mean cut funds
Click on the post for the latest.
Fr. Kevin Dooley of St. Paul's Church Celebrates 25 Years in Priesthood
The Observer covers the good news as well as the news----and the good news last Sunday was the celebration of 25 Years for Fr. Kevin Dooley. Click on the post for selected audio, and the sermon by Fr. Dooley.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Gazette; Wisconsin makes pitch to GM for Janesville
Click on the post for the latest from the Gazette.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Video: 4 of 4: Patents 101: Charles Sara Presents
Video; 4 of 4: Evansville I and E Club; June 10, 2009: Charles Sara Presents Patents 101.
Download File
Download File
R and A Canoing Now Open at Lake Leota---
R & A Canoeing NOW OPEN!!
Starting today, June 5th, Rob and I are now open down at the Warming House on Lake Leota. We have been working steadily since this Monday getting the warming house cleaned up and in a presentable shape. :) We have life vests available, but feel free to bring your own. We are also offering private and group paddling classes. So please let us know if you are interested. Currently there is one kayak, two canoes and a "john" boat (flat bottom fishing boat) w/oars available. Rates are $9.00/hour for rentals.
Starting today, June 5th, Rob and I are now open down at the Warming House on Lake Leota. We have been working steadily since this Monday getting the warming house cleaned up and in a presentable shape. :) We have life vests available, but feel free to bring your own. We are also offering private and group paddling classes. So please let us know if you are interested. Currently there is one kayak, two canoes and a "john" boat (flat bottom fishing boat) w/oars available. Rates are $9.00/hour for rentals.
White House Uses new technologies to aid citizen participation in decison making
Click on the post for the full article.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Video: 3 of 4: The Classic Patent---the Fishing Lure
Video: Evansville I and E Club: Charles Sara, Patent Attorney dicusses one of his favorite patents.
Download File
Download File
Video: Meet Charles S. Sara--Patents 101
Video: Evansville I and E Club: June 10, 2009: Patent Attorney Charles S. Sara of DeWitt, Ross, Stephens, presents Patents 101---an introduction to patents for the beginning inventor, business owner, etc.
Download File
Download File
Mailbag; Rep Brett Davis writes: Votes NO
Davis Votes No on State Budget that Increases Taxes and Spending, Cuts Education Funding
Authors, supports amendments to improve certain provisions, but worst provisions remain
MADISON...Citing billions in tax increases, harmful non-fiscal policy, and lack of provisions geared to boost the state’s economy and create jobs, State Representative Brett Davis (R-Oregon) ultimately voted no on final passage of the 2009-11 state budget. The state budget bill was passed in the middle of the night at 5:19 am, on a narrow 50-48 vote.
“With so many families and small businesses faced with difficult economic times and forced to reduce their own budgets, the state should not be increasing its budget by spending 6.3% more ($3.6 billion), increasing taxes $3.7 billion, including a $1.48 billion property tax increase, all while cutting education and doing little to create jobs or promote economic development” said Davis. “Simply spending more money is not going to get our economy moving again or create jobs. This is the wrong time for the government to take more money out of people's pockets.”
In addition to the 6.3% spending increase, Davis noted several provisions that remained in the budget which will hurt hard working middle class families and made him unable to vote in favor of it including:
A new phone tax,
An increase in the gas tax,
New mandates that will increase the price of auto insurance,
An increase in the garbage tipping fee, all of which will be passed along to working families, seniors and businesses.
“I could not vote for a state budget that included so many provisions that will harm middle class families and our state’s economy,” stated Davis. “I worked hard to offer solutions to improve the budget, but overall it takes our state in the wrong direction.”
The state budget bill will now go to the State Senate, where it is expected to be taken up next week.
Authors, supports amendments to improve certain provisions, but worst provisions remain
MADISON...Citing billions in tax increases, harmful non-fiscal policy, and lack of provisions geared to boost the state’s economy and create jobs, State Representative Brett Davis (R-Oregon) ultimately voted no on final passage of the 2009-11 state budget. The state budget bill was passed in the middle of the night at 5:19 am, on a narrow 50-48 vote.
“With so many families and small businesses faced with difficult economic times and forced to reduce their own budgets, the state should not be increasing its budget by spending 6.3% more ($3.6 billion), increasing taxes $3.7 billion, including a $1.48 billion property tax increase, all while cutting education and doing little to create jobs or promote economic development” said Davis. “Simply spending more money is not going to get our economy moving again or create jobs. This is the wrong time for the government to take more money out of people's pockets.”
In addition to the 6.3% spending increase, Davis noted several provisions that remained in the budget which will hurt hard working middle class families and made him unable to vote in favor of it including:
A new phone tax,
An increase in the gas tax,
New mandates that will increase the price of auto insurance,
An increase in the garbage tipping fee, all of which will be passed along to working families, seniors and businesses.
“I could not vote for a state budget that included so many provisions that will harm middle class families and our state’s economy,” stated Davis. “I worked hard to offer solutions to improve the budget, but overall it takes our state in the wrong direction.”
The state budget bill will now go to the State Senate, where it is expected to be taken up next week.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Blogs: Chasin: No Child Left Behind has Evansville Schools on List
Click on the post for the latest.
Blogs: Rock Net Roots: Health Care We can Believe In?
Click on the post as Rock Net Roots weighs in on Obama's health care plan.
Reflection: "On Pirates: On Wall Street: On Health Care--Compare and Contrast"
Click on the post for the latest.
StarTrib: The Dance of the Cagey---Childress and Favre
Click on the post for the latest in the dance of the cagey.
WSJ: Dems vote to add 4K----
Adding programs at a time of fiscal crisis----seems to be following the lead of Janesville schools. Click on the post for the full story in the Wisconsin State Journal.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Yahoo: Finance: Interest Rate Status: 6/11/2009
Loan Type Today Last Week
30 Year Fixed 5.74% 5.35%
15 Year Fixed 5.37% 4.92%
30 Year Fixed 5.74% 5.35%
15 Year Fixed 5.37% 4.92%
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Charles S. Sara: Patent Attorney: DeWitt, Ross Stevens: Audio: I and E Club: Patents 101
Audio: Evansville I and E Club: June 10, 2009; Patents 101: Presentation by Charles S. Sara, Patent Attorney, DeWitt, Ross and Stevens
MP3 File
MP3 File
White House Wraps up Open Government Brainstorming
Click on the post for the latest. The Government took ideas on how to improve openess and transparency. Even The Observer put in a few ideas.
Tuesday, June 09, 2009
Gazette; Mr. Steve Ends 30 Year Career in Evansville Schools Today
Click on the post for the story in today's Gazette.
Party for Mr. Steve----Upper Park Wednesday--4-6PM
Past and present students and families are gathering for a final send off celebration on Wednesday night from 4-6PM for Mr. Steve and recognizing his contribution to our families and community. Be there.
Mailbag; I and E club Meets Wednesday, June 10th
The Evansville Area Inventors & Entrepreneurs Club (I&E) will hold their June meeting on Wednesday, June 10, 2009 at the Eager Economy Building, 7 East Main Street, Evansville, 6:30 - 8:30 PM.
The guest speaker this month will be Charles S. (Chuck) Sara, topic: Patents 101. Chuck is a registered patent attorney and the chair of the DeWitt Ross & Stevens Intellectual Property practice group in Madison, WI. Chuck focuses his practice on U.S. and foreign patents and trademarks, copyright matters, design patents, litigation, client counseling, and licensing and technology transfer issues. He has handled a wide variety of patents covering medical products, agriculture, monoclonal antibodies, food products, dog cages, fishing lures, hunting equipment, and trees to name a few. He also helps protect names (trademarks), and books, music and software (copyrights).
The guest speaker this month will be Charles S. (Chuck) Sara, topic: Patents 101. Chuck is a registered patent attorney and the chair of the DeWitt Ross & Stevens Intellectual Property practice group in Madison, WI. Chuck focuses his practice on U.S. and foreign patents and trademarks, copyright matters, design patents, litigation, client counseling, and licensing and technology transfer issues. He has handled a wide variety of patents covering medical products, agriculture, monoclonal antibodies, food products, dog cages, fishing lures, hunting equipment, and trees to name a few. He also helps protect names (trademarks), and books, music and software (copyrights).
Monday, June 08, 2009
Yahoo: Video: Finance: Wall Streeters don't want regulation
There was a day when everything was not about transactions----It is hard for Wall Street to remember the days before churning.
Click on the post for the discussion.
Click on the post for the discussion.
School Beat; June Evansville School Reports
Click on the post for the reports for today's Evansville School Board meeting.
Monona Terrace---Downtown Works Week Celebration
Doubleclick to enlarge---some free lunches are offered.
School Beat; Evansville School Board Meets today---June 8, 2009
Click on the post for the full agenda.
Sunday, June 07, 2009
OpEd: What the bond market told Obama----
Loan Type Today Last Week
30 Year Fixed 5.45% 5.23%
15 Year Fixed 4.97% 4.89%
Last week, the bond market told President Obama that it's time for beef...and not baloney---simply printing money is not enough---seniors, and investors want returns for their money. Puny CD rates will not do. The Chinese told the US that printing money will not cut it.
Here is the bottom line---when you are a debtor, the lender calls the shots. End of discussion.
In the financial rescue package---where did the money go? What was the plan? The successive spin of rapidly changing plans was a smoke screen? Many, many banks need to be closed. And the assets need to be properly priced. Delay will not do.
Where is the transparency? Bernanke spoke of it. And then forgot what he talked about.
Feeding news is not transparency. Transparency is more---and what citizens demand.
On the regulation of the hedge funds---where is it?
On the regulation of the banking executive compensation--where is it?
On the indictments for mortgage fraud of the subprime lenders,,,where are they?
The laws of fraud were there---the enforcement was lacking. Nothing more than will was needed..where was it.?
It's time for beef.....not baloney. Visit Paris on your own time. We have needs to be attended to here.
30 Year Fixed 5.45% 5.23%
15 Year Fixed 4.97% 4.89%
Last week, the bond market told President Obama that it's time for beef...and not baloney---simply printing money is not enough---seniors, and investors want returns for their money. Puny CD rates will not do. The Chinese told the US that printing money will not cut it.
Here is the bottom line---when you are a debtor, the lender calls the shots. End of discussion.
In the financial rescue package---where did the money go? What was the plan? The successive spin of rapidly changing plans was a smoke screen? Many, many banks need to be closed. And the assets need to be properly priced. Delay will not do.
Where is the transparency? Bernanke spoke of it. And then forgot what he talked about.
Feeding news is not transparency. Transparency is more---and what citizens demand.
On the regulation of the hedge funds---where is it?
On the regulation of the banking executive compensation--where is it?
On the indictments for mortgage fraud of the subprime lenders,,,where are they?
The laws of fraud were there---the enforcement was lacking. Nothing more than will was needed..where was it.?
It's time for beef.....not baloney. Visit Paris on your own time. We have needs to be attended to here.
WSJ: 60% of School Districts face declining state aid: Property tax increases loom
Click on the post for the article in the Wisconsin State Journal.
Saturday, June 06, 2009
Barrons: Alan Abelson : "No Bottom for Housing."
Click on the post for the article in Barrons this week.
Pioneer Press: Dakota Co Cities Cut Mowing to Pare Budget
Click on the post for the full story in The Pioneer Press. One city has saved $30,000.
CapTimes; "Build" Planning Grants a casualty of budget axe
Click on the post for the full article in the CapTimes.
Friday, June 05, 2009
Mailbag; Brett Davis Writes;
Remove Policy Changes to Liability Law in Budget
Now that the Joint Finance Committee (JFC) has made changes to and passed the state budget, the bill will soon come before the full State Assembly. It is rumored that the budget could be before the Assembly for a final vote as soon as Wednesday, June 10th.
Perhaps one of the most harmful and unknown items in the state budget proposal that I will fight to have removed is known as Joint and Several Liability, or contributory negligence. This provision relates to the liability laws in court cases.
Under current Wisconsin law, in order for someone to be 100% financially liable, they must be at least 51% at fault. This law, which was passed in 1995 as a bipartisan compromise, has kept Wisconsin in the legal mainstream with other states.
However, changes to Joint and Several Liability were passed by JFC that will dramatically change the legal landscape in Wisconsin, making our state one of the worst in the nation when dealing with liability law.
Under the changes, the new law would lower the threshold for liability so that if a defendant is only 20% responsible, they can be found 100% liable for any damages. It also provides that a less at fault defendant can be sued by an even more at fault plaintiff. Additionally, if a person is found to be 99% liable and has no insurance or is unable to pay, his or her liability could be then unfairly distributed to a defendant that is only 1% liable, putting them at risk to potentially pay 100% of the costs.
To me, it does not make sense to make someone who is only 1% at fault pay 100% of the damages; just because they have insurance or assets. For the average family, this will mean higher insurance costs as insurance companies raise rates to buffer against future lawsuits.
Equally as important, this provision is an example of non-fiscal policy in the state budget and should be removed. It does nothing to create jobs, foster economic development, or help balance the state budget. In fact, this provision does the exact opposite. It will force manufacturers and businesses across the state to rethink their decisions, and may force some to relocate to other states where the litigation environment is not nearly as hostile as Wisconsin. Therefore, I am working with my colleagues to garner enough votes to have this provision stripped from the state budget when it is taken up in the State Assembly.
Now that the Joint Finance Committee (JFC) has made changes to and passed the state budget, the bill will soon come before the full State Assembly. It is rumored that the budget could be before the Assembly for a final vote as soon as Wednesday, June 10th.
Perhaps one of the most harmful and unknown items in the state budget proposal that I will fight to have removed is known as Joint and Several Liability, or contributory negligence. This provision relates to the liability laws in court cases.
Under current Wisconsin law, in order for someone to be 100% financially liable, they must be at least 51% at fault. This law, which was passed in 1995 as a bipartisan compromise, has kept Wisconsin in the legal mainstream with other states.
However, changes to Joint and Several Liability were passed by JFC that will dramatically change the legal landscape in Wisconsin, making our state one of the worst in the nation when dealing with liability law.
Under the changes, the new law would lower the threshold for liability so that if a defendant is only 20% responsible, they can be found 100% liable for any damages. It also provides that a less at fault defendant can be sued by an even more at fault plaintiff. Additionally, if a person is found to be 99% liable and has no insurance or is unable to pay, his or her liability could be then unfairly distributed to a defendant that is only 1% liable, putting them at risk to potentially pay 100% of the costs.
To me, it does not make sense to make someone who is only 1% at fault pay 100% of the damages; just because they have insurance or assets. For the average family, this will mean higher insurance costs as insurance companies raise rates to buffer against future lawsuits.
Equally as important, this provision is an example of non-fiscal policy in the state budget and should be removed. It does nothing to create jobs, foster economic development, or help balance the state budget. In fact, this provision does the exact opposite. It will force manufacturers and businesses across the state to rethink their decisions, and may force some to relocate to other states where the litigation environment is not nearly as hostile as Wisconsin. Therefore, I am working with my colleagues to garner enough votes to have this provision stripped from the state budget when it is taken up in the State Assembly.
LIVE: BREAKING: Meeting of Woman's Groups on Health Care Reform
Click for this live meeting at the White House.
Blogs: Fate of Nations: Analysis of Current Recession/Depression re Income Distribution
Double click graph to enlarge.
Click on the post for the full article.
Thursday, June 04, 2009
Audio: Finance: Current Status of Police Station bids
Audio; Finance Committee: June 4, 2009; City Administrator speaks to the current status of bids on remodel of police station.
MP3 File
MP3 File
Audio: Finance; Impact of Cut of State Aids on City Budget
Audio: Finance Committee: June 4, 2009: City Administrator Dan Wietecha discusses his best guess on the effect of the proposed cut in state aids on the city budget--75,000.
MP3 File
MP3 File
Pioneer Press: Microsoft Opens Software Development Office in Downtown St. Paul
Click on the post for the latest.
Wednesday, June 03, 2009
Wind Corner: Minn: Effect of Setback of Wind Turbines on Health
Check our the latest from Minnesota. Click on the post.
Yahoo: Interest Rate Update:
Loan Type Today Last Week
30 Year Fixed 5.36% 5.00%
15 Year Fixed 4.95% 4.69%
30 Year Fixed 5.36% 5.00%
15 Year Fixed 4.95% 4.69%
Finance meets tomorrow night: Police Station Remodel on Agenda: 2009 Budget on Agenda
Click on the post for the latest.
Dateline Normal, Mn.: "Freedom" means never having to pay for your own sewage plant"---FICTION---
Click on the post for the latest.
Soucheray: Pioneer Press: On Twittering; On the good old days of sportscasting
Classic Soucheray. Click on the post for the latest.
USA: Bernanke Comments on Treasury rate rise for 30 yr mtg.--need for deficit control
Click on the post for the latest.
NEVER FORGET Corner: Nostalgia: Federal Reserve: Chairman Bernanke Speech 11-14-2007---On Why Transparency is Essential---the speech Bernanke forgot?
Fed. Chairman speech on transparency changes at the Federal Reserve. On why improved transparency is essential for banking and the markets.
MP3 File
MP3 File
Tuesday, June 02, 2009
NYTimes: David Brooks Speaks; On Empathy---on Law...and much more.....
The Commentary of David Brooks is always refreshing. Click on the post for the latest.
OpEd: WisState Journal: In praise of Shared Services for Municipalities
Click on the post for a timely OpEd from the Wisconsin State Journal.
Shared Services was the rage in health care in the 70's and many hospital networks began as simple shared services and grew from there. It made sense in health care---to avoid cronyism and purchase with professional skill----It is interesting that municipalities have avoid this. They are afraid of offending the cronies. Seems that the taxpayer interest is second. Stay tuned.
Shared Services was the rage in health care in the 70's and many hospital networks began as simple shared services and grew from there. It made sense in health care---to avoid cronyism and purchase with professional skill----It is interesting that municipalities have avoid this. They are afraid of offending the cronies. Seems that the taxpayer interest is second. Stay tuned.
Minutes; ECP: Big plans for the 4th in Evansville---
Click on the post for an inside look at the preparations.
JOBS AVAILABLE: 3000 workers needed for Minnesota-Wisconsin Pipeline
Click on the post for the latest.
CapTimes; " Public Enemies" early screening on June 30th
This should be quite a party---the film was shot in Wisconsin and featured many Wisconsin extras. Stay tuned. Click on the post for the full article.
Monday, June 01, 2009
Gazette; Lawsuit against Evansville Police Officer Settled
Click on the post for the story in the Janesville Gazette. Errors in release of information can be costly.
Gazette: GM designates Janesville as "standby"
Click on the post for the article in the Gazette today.
Audio; President Obama speaks on GM: On Chyrsler
Audio: Breaking News: President Barack Obama speaks on GM; On Chrysler: On straight talk about what it means to those are stakeholders and what it means to taxpayers.
MP3 File
MP3 File
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