Linton: The Magic Coal City

The U.S. Sardine Industry Dead @ 135 Years

2010-04-15T12:00:00.000-04:00

Another long-time U.S. industry dies: http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/after-135-years-last-us-sardine-cannery-closing/article1534564/

Battle for the Old Clock?

2010-04-06T12:00:00.001-04:00

There are a couple of interesting posts about the old clock on the corner that Regions Bank recently had removed. According to the Linton Business Reporter, there's rumor of an ownership battle now on-going.

Counterfeit $100 Bills in Area

2010-02-24T12:00:00.000-05:00

Counterfeit $100 bills are currently circulating in the local area. They are very good counterfeits, too, passing the pen test because the counterfeiters are taking $5 bills and making them into $100 bills. Use caution when accepting bills, watching especially for these alterations.

Court Says Alanar Defendant's Bail Set Too High

2010-02-19T18:00:00.001-05:00

Read all about it: http://www.theindianalawyer.com/html/opinions-pdf.asp?pdf=02191006ewn.pdf

Math Quiz

2010-02-18T12:00:00.000-05:00

It is said that only people with an IQ 120 and over are able to figure this out.

If:

2 + 3 = 10

7 + 2 = 63

6 + 5 = 66

8 + 4 = 96

Then:

9 + 7 = ?

How Embarrassing!

2010-02-08T18:00:00.000-05:00

How embarrassing would it be if a bunch of bankers were forced into a short sale of their assets themselves? hmm... that's just what recently happened...

http://www.thestreet.com/_aol/story/10676360/1/mortgage-bankers-association-forced-into-short-sale-todays-outrage.html?cm_ven=AOL&cm_cat=Free&cm_pla=Feed&cm_ite=Feed

U.S. Debt Clock

2010-02-03T12:00:00.000-05:00

Very interesting visual: http://www.usdebtclock.org/

Toyota Halting Production @ Princeton

2010-01-27T12:00:00.000-05:00

Let's hope this halt to production does not last very long:

http://pressroom.toyota.com/pr/tms/toyota/toyota-consumer-safety-advisory-102572.aspx

If it lasts too long, it'll spell even more economic devastation for SW Indiana... not only through the employees that work there, but the plant's small suppliers scattered about, as well as outsourced services provided locally.

Are You Giving a 0% Loan to the Government?

2010-01-22T12:00:00.000-05:00

Now that it's tax season again, I was going to write a post about adjusting your W-4 form at work to stop giving the government a 0% interest loan -- and, therefore, put more more in your pocket each payday. But, before I had gotten around to writing it, I ran across this article, which done a good job I thought, and it saved me from writing it. So, here it is: http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/life/fiscal-fitness-give-yourself-a-200-raise-right-now-562577/

Even Value of the White House Drops in Value

2010-01-21T12:00:00.001-05:00

This post over at CNBC is amusing: http://www.cnbc.com/id/34956652 It just underlines the fact that no one has been been immune to this economy!

Morality vs. Legality

2010-01-13T12:00:00.000-05:00

Here's a good example of where 'the law' separates from common morality:

http://www.theindianalawyer.com/html/opinions-pdf.asp?pdf=01121003mpb.pdf

The case focuses on a man, who applies for a credit card, charges up an amount, then ultimately never pays his account. The credit card company sells it to another company that is in the business of buying bad debts & trying to collect them, and they go after the man. In the end, the man wins because the statute of limitations is invoked on collecting the debt e.g. they waited too long to collect.

So, boys & girls, the moral of the story is this:

In America, it's not what's morally right or wrong, it's just what the 'letter of the law' says.

Easy Money

2010-01-08T12:00:00.001-05:00

This type of 'legalized' theft has to stop, as it’s purely the rich stealing from the poor:

http://cincinnati.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/stories/2009/12/21/daily32.html?ana=yfcpc

I've seen the shareholders of various companies over the past several years far victim to this, where an investment company buys an undervalued company. In some cases, they've used the method of loan the target company money via a convertible note, later exercising, and voting all of the shares 'yes' to sell to themselves for a ridiculously low price (think: Conseco several years ago vs. a small insurance company they acquired via this method).

Mark my words, too: the buyer will take it private for a year (maybe two) and then do an IPO, once they've parted off anything they can in their 'chop shop'.

The victims? Those are the long-term investors, who believed in the original company & trusted the Board of Directors with their hard-earned savings. It's call 'fiduciary responsibility' and more Boards need to learn this.

[End of Rant]

Happy New Year!

2009-12-30T12:00:00.001-05:00

May everyone have a very Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas, Everyone!

2009-12-24T12:00:00.000-05:00

Have a very Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year!

Bernanke on FAQ's

2009-12-10T12:00:00.000-05:00

Chairman Ben Bernanke answers FAQ's in a speech at the Economic Club of Washington, D.C.: http://www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents/speech/bernanke20091207a.htm

IBJ: Indiana Troopers Association Files BK

2009-12-09T12:00:00.000-05:00

The Indianapolis Business Journal is reporting that The Indiana Troopers Association has filed for bankruptcy protection. More here at the IBJ: http://www.ibj.com/indiana-troopers-fraternal-group-files-bankruptcy/PARAMS/article/14941

Who Is Filing Bankruptcy?

2009-12-08T12:00:00.000-05:00

A statistical chart of who is filing bankruptcy can be found here:
http://www.fancystats.com/who-is-filing-bankruptcy/

2010: IRS Lowers Standard Mileage Rates 10%

2009-12-07T12:00:00.001-05:00

Beginning January 1st, 2010, the Internal Revenue Service will reduce the standard mileage rate for the use of a vehicle for business purposes to fifty (50) cents per mile, a ten percent (10%) reduction to the current allowance.

Modern-Day 'Cavemen' Inherit Billions

2009-12-04T12:00:00.000-05:00

Here's a quirky rags-to-super riches story: http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_3584037.html

Un-Banked in America

2009-12-03T12:00:00.001-05:00

The recently released 'FDIC National Survey of Unbanked and Underbanked Households' stated that "Nearly 20 percent of lower-income U.S. households -- the almost 7 million households earning below $30,000 per year -- do not have a bank account."

For other stats from this survey, see the Executive Summary here: http://www.fdic.gov/householdsurvey/executive_summary.pdf

New Publication Coming in December!

2009-11-18T12:00:00.001-05:00

A new publication is coming to the tri-county area of Greene, Sullivan, & Knox counties in December 2009. Their website will be located at http://thecurrentclassifieds.com/

Radius Indiana Announces Its Leader

2009-11-17T12:00:00.002-05:00

A few weeks back, Radius Indiana announced its leader for the newly-formed regional orgnaization: http://www.in.gov/portal/news_events/43412.htm Meanwhile, note the blurb at the end that SAIC announced plans to locate employees in the new East Gate facility. The BEdford facility is picking up steam, it appears.

Financial Literacy & The Typical American

2009-11-09T12:00:00.000-05:00

Good article on financial literacy in America today, although no surprise:
http://news.yahoo.com/s/bw/20091109/bs_bw/jul2009pi20090722420432;_ylt=AgjkT1Z1_YbtLQml0L3Epius0NUE;_ylu=X3oDMTNtM2xnczl2BGFzc2V0A2J3LzIwMDkxMTA5L2p1bDIwMDlwaTIwMDkwNzIyNDIwNDMyBGNjb2RlA3JhbmRvbQRjcG9zAzcEcG9zAzQEcHQDaG9tZV9jb2tlBHNlYwN5bl9oZWFkbGluZV9saXN0BHNsawNhbmFseXNpc2FyZXA-

Golf Carts & Tax Credits

2009-10-23T12:00:00.000-04:00

We've all heard of the 'Cash for Clunkers' program, but now there's buzz about golf carts qualifying for electric car tax credits. The Wall Street Journal had an article on it the other day, which can be read here: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704107204574473724099542430.html The devil is in the details it seems though.

VARIOUS TAXES: A State-By-State Comparison

2009-10-15T12:00:00.000-04:00

There was an interesting graphic posted at stateline.org, which shows how the various states stack up against one another on various taxes. Take a look:

http://www.stateline.org/live/details/story?contentId=430433

Goody's or Peebles Opening Soon?

2009-10-14T12:00:00.001-04:00

Stage Stores, Inc. operates under the Bealls, Palais Royal, and Stage names throughout the South Central states, and under the Peebles and (now) Goody's name throughout the New England, Mid-Atlantic, Southeastern, and Midwestern states. They purchased the Goody’s chain assets in early-2009, according to company-provided information.

One of these names, but likely Peebles in my estimation, will operate out of the old Goody’s location in Linton. They may re-open under Goody’s, but I’m thinking that it would be best to open under a new nameplate, such as Peebles. More info on Peebles can be found here: http://www.peebles.com/

In a September release, however, the Company stated, “The Company expects to open an additional eight new stores during the next three months, six of which will be opened under the Goody’s name.” I’m hoping one of the unnamed six is in Linton, but that would make my guess on the nameplate wrong. Linton may not be one of these six too. Only time will tell, I suppose. Most recently, they opened Goody’s stores in Martinsville & Princeton, according to August & September 2009 press releases, so hopefully they are closing in on the Linton location soon.

APPEALS COURT: Greene County Jail Escape?

2009-10-07T18:00:00.001-04:00

Is it 'escape' when an inmate leaves his/her jail cell, but doesn't intend to escape out of the facility? And does the 'intent' of the inmate even matter? These are questions that the Indiana Court of Appeals answered earlier today. While the majority did not consider it an act of escape and punishable as a crime, one judge dissented saying that indeed it was.

The Court's opinion can be found here:
http://www.in.gov/judiciary/opinions/pdf/10070902jgb.pdf

Federal Spending Growth Outpaces Median Income

2009-10-01T18:00:00.002-04:00

Here's some very interesting charts on federal spending & more:
http://www.heritage.org/research/features/BudgetChartBook/Federal-Spending-Grew-Seven-Times-Faster-Than-Median-Income.aspx

As you'll see, growth in federal spending has outpaced growth in median household income for nearly 40 years now...

Property Taxes By State: A Map

2009-09-30T12:00:00.001-04:00

The Tax Foundation has put out a map of the United States, which shows property taxes on owner-occupied housing by state. See how you rate against other states here:
http://taxfoundation.org/research/show/24078.html

The Mortgage Electronic Registration System

2009-09-28T12:00:00.000-04:00

A method to speed along mortgages during the peaks of recent years may now be back-firing on lenders now. More here in the New York Times: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/27/business/27gret.html?nl=your-money&emc=your-moneyema4

More Taxes, O' They Are Coming

2009-09-21T12:00:00.000-04:00

More reassurances that local tax increases are on their way soon:

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/chi-ap-in-strainedbudgets,0,6566458.story

COA: Indiana Voter ID Law is 'Unconstitutional'

2009-09-17T12:00:00.001-04:00

An Indiana Court of Appeals opinion dated earlier today calls the Indiana Voter ID law "unconstiutional" by stating, "we conclude that the Voter I.D. law violates Indiana Constitution Article 1, Section 23, and must be declared void because it regulates voters in a manner that is not uniform and impartial."

You can view the Court's whole opinion here:
http://www.in.gov/judiciary/opinions/pdf/09170901par.pdf

FDIC Deposit Insurance Calc: An Online Tool

2009-09-15T12:00:00.002-04:00

If you’re unsure that you’re fully-protected, ‘EDIE the Estimator’ on the FDIC website will calculate your current FDIC insurance on deposits at financial institutions, based on some simple information inputted into the online calculator.

The website address is: https://www.fdic.gov/EDIE/index.html

Deep Thoughts @ McDonald's

2009-09-10T12:00:00.000-04:00

Exactly what type of fish makes up the McDonald's Filet-O-Fish?

The New York Times answers this question & more here:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/10/science/10fish.html?no_interstitial

Who knew?!

New Beige Book Release - Chicago District

2009-09-09T18:00:00.000-04:00

A new release to the Beige Book for the Chicago District is shown here:
http://www.federalreserve.gov/fomc/beigebook/2009/20090909/7.htm

Lower Bail for Alanar Defendants Denied

2009-09-09T12:00:00.001-04:00

Greene County’s own Judge Dena Martin, who is serving as a Special Judge in Sullivan County’s case against Vaughn Reeves Sr. and his three sons in the Alanar church bond scandal, said that the defendants failed to show why their bonds should be lowered; therefore, she denied lowering their bond, as requested by their counsel. Bob Hunley, Sullivan County’s Prosecutor, said they were a flight risk if their bond was lowered. From the outcome, it appears he was persuasive in his arguments.

More on this story can be found on Forbes.com @ http://www.forbes.com/feeds/ap/2009/09/08/business-financial-impact-us-fallen-church-financier-indiana_6860294.html

FYI - Increased FDIC Insurance Extended

2009-08-29T12:00:00.001-04:00

For those of you that may not yet be aware, deposits at FDIC-insured banking institutions are now insured up to at least $250,000 per depositor through December 31, 2013. This marks an extension from the original time period this additional coverage was to run.

Internet Speeds

2009-08-26T12:00:00.001-04:00

Interesting new results about Internet speeds: http://www.speedmatters.org/content/2009report/

E-Mail Forward Wisdom

2009-08-20T12:00:00.000-04:00

Today's Thought of the Day:

If 'con' is the opposite of 'pro' in the English language, is Congress the opposite of progress?

It's Not Coal, It's a Mastodon!

2009-08-18T12:00:00.000-04:00

The Chicago Tribune, Indianapolis Star, & Terre Haute Tribune Star newspapers are all reporting stories of coal miners recently finding the fossil remains of a mastodon at Vectren’s Black Panther Mine in Sullivan County, Indiana. The miners are being praised for stopping operations and setting aside the soil surrounding the remains for review by scientists.

Here are links to the news stories:
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/chi-ap-in-mastodonbones,0,7063154.story
http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090818/NEWS/908180373
http://www.tribstar.com/news/local_story_230115433.html

More info on mastodons can be found here at Wikipedia:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mastodon

Indiana Businesses

2009-08-13T12:00:00.000-04:00

There’s a lot of Indiana-based business news coming out today, including:

In Indianapolis, Steak ‘n Shake will acquire the Western Sizzlin’ restaurant chain, various news reports state.

To the southwest, in Terre Haute, a new agri-business incubator on the Wabash Valley Fairgrounds is planned, which will help early-stage companies.

Working down further south in the state in Santa Claus, Holiday World announced it will spend $5.5 million for a new water ride, dubbed ‘Wildebeest’. The water ‘coaster’ will cover more than two acres, they say.

Perhaps, the economy is beginning to turn positive.

Indiana & the Tomato

2009-08-07T12:00:00.001-04:00

The 'Who knew?' factoid of the day: Indiana ranks second in tomato production in the United States.

Not So Finger-Licking Good

2009-08-03T18:00:00.000-04:00

I think I'll eat in tonight after reading this: http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/article6737005.ece

Current Beige Book

2009-07-30T18:00:00.001-04:00

New Beige Book entry for the Seventh District (Chicago), which we are located in:
http://www.federalreserve.gov/FOMC/Beigebook/2009/20090729/7.htm

PRESS RELEASE: (1) Linton Police Officer Funded!

2009-07-28T18:00:00.000-04:00

(Washington, D.C.) - Vice President Joe Biden and Attorney General Eric Holder today announced $1 billion in grants to fund the hiring and rehiring of law enforcement officers all across the country under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The grants will be awarded to 1,046 law enforcement agencies from all 50 states, including more than $26 million in grants to fund the hiring and rehiring of 126 law enforcement officers in Indiana. These funds will provide 100 percent of the approved salary and benefits for these officers for three years. All police departments receiving the grants will then be required to retain the grant-funded positions for a fourth year.

“A big part of the Recovery Act is about building communities – making them as strong as they can be, allowing every American family to live a better life than the one they are leading now,” said Vice President Joe Biden. “And we can’t achieve the goal of stronger communities without supporting those who keep our streets safe.”

The Recovery Act grants, which will be administered by the U.S. Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) through the federal agency’s COPS Hiring Recovery Program, provide much needed financial support to state, local and tribal governments, and will help the nation’s law enforcement agencies add and retain the manpower needed to fight crime more effectively through community policing. The Department of Justice received over 7,200 applications for more than 39,000 officer positions, representing a total of $8.3 billion in requested funding.

“These Recovery Act funds will pump much needed resources into communities through a program with a proven track record,” said Attorney General Holder. “The tremendous demand for these grants is indicative of both the tough times our states, cities and tribes are facing, and the unyielding commitment by law enforcement to making our communities safer.”

City: Gary - Number of officers: 11 - Grant money: $2,076,514.00

City: East Chicago - Number of officers: 5 - Grant money: $1,120,105.00

City: Indianapolis - Number of officers: - 50 Grant money: $11,046,850.00

Michigan City Police Department - Number of officers: 3 - Grant money: $592,641.00

City: Clinton - Number of officers: 1 - Grant money: $134,136.00

Kokomo Police Department - Number of officers: 5 - Grant money: $1,146,950.00

Marion Police Department - Number of officers: 4 - Grant money: $947,500.00

South Bend Police Department - Number of officers: 13 - Grant money: $2,453,295.00

Anderson Police Department - Number of officers: 6 - Grant money: $1,501,434.00

City: Terre Haute - Number of officers: 6 - Grant money: $1,204,896.00

Akron Police Department - Number of officers: 1 - Grant money: $143,176.00

Clarksville Police Department - Number of officers: 2 - Grant money: $467,844.00

Lafayette Police Department - Number of officers: 4 - Grant money: $915,564.00

Merrillville Police Department - Number of officers: 3 - Grant money: $588,090.00

Lake Station Police Department - Number of officers: 1 - Grant money: $186,183.00

Montezuma Police Department - Number of officers: 1 - Grant money: $129,288.00

Town: Spencer - Number of officers: 1 - Grant money: $138,942.00

City: LaPorte - Number of officers: 2 - Grant money: $382,154.00

Muncie Police Department - Number of officers: 5 - Grant money: $1,160,175.00

Linton Police Department - Number of officers: 1 - Grant money: $161,370.00

Nashville Police Department - Number of officers: 1 - Grant money: $118,635.00

Source: The White House

Restaurants: 4,000 Fewer This Year

2009-07-28T12:00:00.001-04:00

The economy is hurting everyone, including the 'mom-and-pop' diners and other independent eateries. If there's any silver lining, though, will the reported 4,000 fewer restaurants in the U.S. mean smaller waistlines for Americans too? Read more on recent restaurant closings within the United States here: http://www.npd.com/press/releases/press_090727.html

AllState Ends Sponsorship of Brickyard

2009-07-27T18:00:00.001-04:00

Today, AllState announced it would end its sponsorship of the Brickyard 400. I just wonder who will pick up the sponsorship now?

Money & Politics in Indiana

2009-07-22T12:00:00.002-04:00

If you want to follow the 'money trail' as they say, the Indy Star has made up a database of all-things-lobbyist for Indiana, which can be seen here in their Money & Politics section: http://www.indystar.com/data/government/lobbyists_search.shtml

FOR SALE: Linton Taco Bell

2009-07-21T12:00:00.002-04:00

It seems everything is FOR SALE in Linton these days!

Here's a listing for the Linton Taco Bell:
http://colerealtyadvisors.com/uploadedFiles/Properties_for_Sale/Offering%20Flyer%20-%20Taco%20Bell%20Linton%20IN.pdf

In past posts, you've read where Stoll's was for sale: http://magiccoalcity.blogspot.com/2009/03/update-asking-price-going-down.html

But apparently, they've switched Realtors now:
http://www.bizbuysell.com/work/429949/dastolls,linto.pdf

And even the Linton DQ is for sale:
http://magiccoalcity.blogspot.com/2009/03/for-sale-lintons-dq.html

Jasonville "Mayor's Ride" Fundraiser

2009-07-18T12:00:00.002-04:00

Here's some info on the 1st Annual Jasonville Mayor’s Ride:

"The ride will consist of a 93 mile motorcycle ride touring scenic areas of southern Indiana. All proceeds from the ride will benefit the city park. The ride is Saturday, August 29th, 2009.

Registration begins at 9:00 a.m. ride begins at 10:00 a.m. The ride will begin and end at the City Park on North Lawton Street. There will be food and fun for everyone. All motorcycle riders and enthusiasts are welcome.

We would appreciate any and all donations to offset the cost of the food and drinks. Hamburgers, Hotdogs, Potato Salad, Soft Drinks, Plates, Cups, Table Service, Napkins and/or monetary donations will be accepted. Please consider donating to this worthy cause.

For more information or donation, please feel free to contact me at my office 812-665-2266.

Thank you in advance for your donation.

Mayor Roy Terrell, Sr."

Eastern Greene's Farmers Market

2009-07-17T18:00:00.000-04:00

Looking for something different to do on a Saturday? Check out the new Farmer's Market in Solsberry. For more info, see: http://easterngreene.org/market.aspx

LMF Design Winner

2009-07-17T12:00:00.001-04:00

To follow up on the LMF t-shirt design contest posted in May http://magiccoalcity.blogspot.com/2009/05/lmf-t-shirt-design-contest.html a winning design has been crowned. The winning design can be seen here: http://www.shirtriot.com/ShirtRiot/User/ContestDetails.aspx?cst=37 Congratulations!

For more info on the Linton Music Festival, the website can be found here: http://www.lintonmusicfest.com/

Today's Milestone: Happy 300th!

2009-07-16T18:01:00.000-04:00

At 6PM today, the 300th post was added. Happy 300th!

Linton's Newest Rockstar: Pinkie

2009-07-16T18:00:00.001-04:00

The other day, I wrote about the rare bird spotted recently in the Goose Pond area: http://magiccoalcity.blogspot.com/2009/07/pinkie-roseate-spoonbill.html

Well, 'Pinkie,' the roseate spoonbill, is getting more news coverage on WISHTV: http://www.wishtv.com/dpp/news/indiana/Rare_bird_spotted_near_Bloomington_20090625
Maybe Pinkie should become Linton’s new mascot…

Bad Checks in Linton

2009-07-16T12:00:00.001-04:00

About a month ago, FOX59 ran a story about Linton’s own Jim’s Petro Plus and his now infamous ‘bad check writers sign’ located prominently in front of the store: http://www.fox59.com/wxin-bad-check-sign-061709,0,6087588.story

Knowing several local business owners, bad checks are rampant.

Unfortunately, they also are not prosecuted for the theft they really commit, and I’ve never really understood that. If someone grabs an item in a store & walks out with it, they seem to be charged with more than someone who grabs the same item & walks out with it after writing a bad check for it.

Really, what’s the difference?!

Tax Sale Dates for Nearby Counties

2009-07-14T12:00:00.001-04:00

Upcoming property tax lien sales are tentatively scheduled for these nearby counties:

Owen 09/01/09
Sullivan 10/06/09
Daviess 10/23/09

More dates to follow as they become available.

Pinkie, the Roseate Spoonbill

2009-07-13T12:00:00.002-04:00

The Courier Press posted a nice article around 12 hours ago about 'Pinkie,' a roseate spoonbill found at the Goose Pond recently: http://www.courierpress.com/news/2009/jul/12/migrant-birds-get-major-wow-at-goose-pond/

Visitors to the area may find this map with local eateries and points of interest helpful: http://www.gcedc.us/PDF/visitorhandout.pdf

FREE SERVICES: Greene County Health Dept.

2009-07-11T12:00:00.000-04:00

From the Greene County Health Department:

"We would like to get the word out about the HPV Vaccine. The state has allowed us to offer, at NO CHARGE, the HPV Vaccine to any woman under 19 years old and to any woman 19-26 as long as they start the series before December. The cost is between $400 & $600 for the series. Please have anyone interested to contact us at 812-384-4496.

We are also doing the TDAP & Meningitis vaccines that will be required to attend jr. high & high school starting NEXT school year 2010/2011.

Please call for an appointment."

Low-Calorie Diet Extends Lifespan

2009-07-10T18:00:00.001-04:00

Put down the bag of cheesy Doritos and jug-o-cola and read this: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124718227356220229.html#mod=todays_us_nonsub_page_one

Alanar Scandal: Receivership Link

2009-07-10T12:00:00.002-04:00

As regular readers know, charges were recently filed against the Reeves family for this church bond scam in nearby Sullivan County. More info from the other day can be found here: http://magiccoalcity.blogspot.com/2009/07/alanar-saga-continues-with-charges.html

When a huge scam unravels in your own backyard, the story is all the more riveting. Here’s a link to the law firm that has been handling the Alanar receivership: http://www.silegal.com/cases/alanar/

It contains lots of good background information, and it's been a website I've been following for quite some time, so I thought I'd share the link.

Road Salt Not So Salty This Winter

2009-07-09T12:00:00.000-04:00

The State of Indiana is working with local government units to reduce the price of road salt needed on Hoosier roadways this next winter.

Press release: http://www.in.gov/portal/news_events/40286.htm

Injunction Issued Against Misleading Companies

2009-07-07T18:00:00.000-04:00

Here's the text from a recent newsletter from the Indiana Secretary of State:

"Indiana Corporate Compliance, International Corporate Compliance, Inc. and Papillon Global Marketing, LLC are no longer allowed to misrepresent themselves as a government agency to Indiana business owners thanks to an investigation conducted by the Indiana Secretary of State. The Marion County Superior Court issued a permanent injunction requiring the companies to immediately stop sending any written notices or transmissions that could reasonably be interpreted as a compliance notice from a government entity.
In May, the Indiana attorney general's office filed a complaint against the companies, most commonly known as Indiana Corporate Compliance, alleging multiple violations of Indiana's Deceptive Commercial Solicitation Act. Individuals Aaron V. Williams and Lisa Diane Brown, both of California, were also named in the lawsuit. Indiana Corporate Compliance had been sending letters to businesses all over Indiana under the guise of the Business Services Division of Indiana Secretary of State Todd Rokita's office, citing a fictitious state law implying businesses were required to send up to $150 for record keeping services.
"The permanent injunction is an important step forward in our ongoing efforts to prevent Indiana businesses from being deceived," said Secretary Rokita. "Obtaining this judgment is the direct result of the tireless work by my investigators and the cooperation of hundreds of businesses from around the state who were targeted by this scam. My office will continue to make businesses aware of these types of scams, and I thank Attorney General Zoeller and his team for working with us to bring justice through the legal system."
The Secretary of State's office, which registers and certifies Indiana businesses, began an investigation as a result of complaints it received from businesses. A hearing will be scheduled to determine the total amount of damages which could be awarded to those who fell victim to the scam. More than 150 Indiana businesses reported sending money in response to the letters from Indiana Corporate Compliance and its affiliates.
Recipients of the letters reported believing the compliance notices were generated by a government agency and were misleading and confusing. As a result, the court found it reasonable that business owners would be confused and would comply with the notice."

Fellow Lintonian Inventors of Yesteryear

2009-07-07T12:00:00.003-04:00

I've become infatuated with Google Patents http://www.google.com/patents lately. So, I decided to look up some inventors of local interest. Doing a search for ‘Linton, Indiana’ yielded some local patent holders of yesteryear, as shown below. Who knew!

Inventor: Marion N. Thayer
Subject: Improvements to Umbrella
Patent number: 912206
Issue date: Feb 1909
Google URL: http://www.google.com/patents?id=kllNAAAAEBAJ&printsec=description&zoom=4

Inventor: George F. Chapman
Subject: Screw-Threading Implement
Patent number: 938973
Issue date: Nov 1909
Google URL: http://www.google.com/patents?id=PrZXAAAAEBAJ&printsec=abstract&zoom=4

Inventor: Earl T. Aikin
Subject: Burial Casket Plate
Patent number: 1602185
Issue date: Oct 5, 1926
Google URL: http://www.google.com/patents?id=ZbNSAAAAEBAJ&printsec=abstract&zoom=4

Inventor: William H. Stewart, et al.
Subject: Improvements to Surface Mining
Patent number: 1872016
Issue date: Aug 1932
Google URL: http://www.google.com/patents?id=fkhkAAAAEBAJ&printsec=abstract&zoom=4

Sullivan Gentlemen Add to Mining in 1915

2009-07-06T18:00:00.001-04:00

A little earlier in the patent history for mining tools, specifically in 1915, two local Sullivan County gentlemen received a patent on certain improvements to acetylene lamps too. Here’s the patent: http://www.google.com/patents?id=X5BkAAAAEBAJ&printsec=abstract&zoom=4&source=gbs_overview_r&cad=0

Jasonville Inventor - circa 1924

2009-07-06T12:00:00.000-04:00

For all of you local coal mining historians & enthusiasts out there, on March 11th, 1924, Samuel G. Thomasson of Jasonville, Indiana received a patent on improvements to the acetylene lamp. Here is the patent from Google Patent Search: http://www.google.com/patents?id=R0FHAAAAEBAJ&printsec=abstract&zoom=4&source=gbs_overview_r&cad=0

Jefferson's Code Finally Cracked

2009-07-02T12:00:00.001-04:00

Interesting article in the WSJ Online about breaking a 200 year old code used by Thomas Jefferson: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124648494429082661.html

Alanar Saga Continues with Charges Filed

2009-07-01T12:00:00.000-04:00

Partial State Shutdown Soon?!

2009-06-30T12:00:00.000-04:00

If state lawmakers fail to pass a new budget by midnight, employees working in 'non-essential' services will be furloughed. This could get very interesting.

Madoff Gets 150 Years!

2009-06-29T12:00:00.000-04:00

Multi-billon dollar investment schemer, Bernard Madoff, was sentenced to 150 years this morning. For his victims, however, that is probably still not enough time in prison.

Attention Chase Card Customers

2009-06-25T12:00:00.000-04:00

Those of you with Chase credit cards should be sure to open any and all mail received from the company and read it carefully – don’t dismiss it because it has fine print, looks like junk mail, or whatever the case may be.

Changes in terms are now being mailed to Chase customers, which may have a dramatic effect in how much per month will be required. Borrowers are being told that their minimum monthly payments are going from 2% of the total balance to 5% as of their August 2009 billing cycle. Some, who have had a balance for two years or more on a Chase card, reportedly are going to be assessed a new $10 per month servicing fee too.

No doubt, this will cause considerable cash flow problems for many Americans, who have Chase cards in their wallet. It could be that other large card issuers will follow suit with similar minimum requirements, too, so be sure to open & read mail from all card issuers that you may be doing business with.

Unemployment Will Hurt Local Grant Apps?

2009-06-24T12:00:00.001-04:00

Greene County's current unemployment rate is high, yet as compared with other Indiana counties, it ranks as the 75th worst unemployment rate. That's according to the data posted the other day on this blog.

And that'll hurt.

Many grant applications ask for unemployment data and stats, and ranking in top 'most employed' counties -- wow, that's hard to believe! -- that'll subtract points for submissions.

Indiana Unemployment Rate Up Again

2009-06-19T18:00:00.001-04:00

WISH-TV is showing the Indiana unemployment has risen to 10.6%:
http://www.wishtv.com/dpp/news/indiana/Ind_jobless_rate_percent_in_May_20090619

Greene County ranked 75th with 8.8%.

Like a Good Neighbor

2009-06-19T12:00:00.000-04:00

Interesting little story out of the Evansville Courier Journal printed yesterday:
http://www.courier-journal.com/article/20090618/NEWS02/906180358/

Is Muncie Foretelling of What's to Come?

2009-06-12T12:00:00.000-04:00

With local funding shortfalls, will our area see consolidations too?

Muncie, Indiana is battling this with fire fighters & stations, but it seems to me that more governmental services could be affected as well. Read this article on Muncie's consolidation plans: http://www.thestarpress.com/article/20090606/NEWS01/906060311

Is Muncie at the forefront of the issues to come here locally soon?

Halted Chrysler Sale is Restarted

2009-06-11T12:00:00.001-04:00

The other day, the Supreme Court lifted the stay on the sale of Chrysler to Fiat, making this a very bad day in history for the Treasurer of Indiana, as well as Indiana teachers, troopers, and others. Here's the document: http://www.scotusblog.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/chrysler-order-6-9-09.pdf

Beige Book - June 10th

2009-06-10T18:00:00.000-04:00

Beige Book update: http://www.federalreserve.gov/fomc/beigebook/2009/20090610/7.htm

The Hoosier Lottery

2009-06-10T12:00:00.001-04:00

This is a very interesting article on the inner-workings of the Hoosier Lottery:
http://www.thestarpress.com/article/20090607/NEWS06/90607006/1002/rss

What ever happened to funding education?!

Property Tax Bills Will Hit Mailboxes Soon

2009-06-03T18:00:00.001-04:00

According to the Greene County Treasurer’s Office earlier today, the county's property tax statements will be placed in the mail next week. Friday, June 26th will be the due date, they said.

Chrysler Sale Affects Teachers, State Troopers, & All Hoosiers

2009-06-03T12:00:00.001-04:00

The Indiana State Teachers Retirement Fund, Indiana State Police Pension Trust, and Indiana Major Move Construction stand to lose millions, even as secured creditors of Chrysler. The federal government, using taxpayer-funded TARP monies, is trying to take on higher-priority status than these secured creditors, according to State Treasurer Richard Mourdock.

According to documents, not only are the Feds trying to push the sale of the Chrysler through quickly, but offering these Indiana pension and construction funds only pennies on the dollar to sell the Company’s assets to foreign-owned Fiat.

Here is the Treasurer’s Press Release:
http://www.in.gov/tos/files/TreasurerMourdockObjectiontoChryslerBankruptcy.pdf

Here is Indiana’s court objection:
http://www.in.gov/tos/files/Docket_1185.pdf

Full Text of Governor's Budget Address

2009-06-02T12:00:00.003-04:00

The full text of Governor Daniels' Budget Address from yesterday evening:

Governor Mitch Daniels

Budget Address

June 1, 2009

Good evening, citizens and taxpayers.

As you know, the legislature didn’t pass a budget before they adjourned a month ago. That’s OK, because the one they were working on assumed over a billion dollars of revenue we clearly will never have. So it would have spent way beyond our current means, wiped out our state savings account, and forced a big tax increase. I’d have had to veto it, and we’d be right where we are today.

To their credit, the legislative leadership quickly came up with a good plan for starting fresh, this time with a more believable estimate of how much money we really will have to work with.
Despite the terrible national economy, Indiana remains in vastly better shape than most states, and any of our neighbors. We have over a billion dollars in reserves, and a AAA credit rating. Everywhere else, any reserves are long gone. They are slashing education by as much as 10 to 15 percent; they’re releasing convicts from prison early; and, worst of all when families are struggling, they’re raising taxes. There’s only one reason why we are so different: because we have held government spending down to the level of our income. But if we lose our sense of discipline now, in no time we’ll look just like Michigan, or Illinois, or, heaven forbid, California.

Since my first submission in January, state revenues have slipped even further, an unprecedented 8 percent below last year. When businesses don’t make profits, investors have losses not gains, and people are out of work, earning less and spending less, tax payments plummet.

It’s not pleasant, but it’s reality, so let’s deal with it. I have modified further the tight budget I proposed four months ago, and here are the major points:

Total state spending would be reduced by 2 1/2 percent. Many good ideas will just have to wait. Across state government, nothing, and I mean nothing, goes up. When your income drops by 8 percent, you can’t increase your spending, on anything.

Here’s a sample of the reductions we’re prepared to make (See attached document). Please note that we have already reduced per capita state spending substantially the last four years.
There is only one exception. Public education, as well as student financial aid, would get a significant increase. Every school would receive more per student than it did this year. And if by some happy chance, state revenues turn out better than projected, I’m proposing that one of every two extra dollars go automatically to our schools, with the rest going to our savings account. Let’s hope it happens.

These last couple years, Indiana schools have been among America’s luckiest, fully funded through the downturn while schools in other states were clobbered by massive cuts. Our goal is to keep it that way, although in times this tough no sector has a right to demand business as usual.

As always, I am ready to compromise and cooperate with the legislature, up to a point. I’m willing to see us use about a quarter of our surplus, leaving a billion dollars in reserve, but not a penny less. A billion is a lot of money, but it’s only about 26 days of state operations. If legislators want to spend more on some favorite cause, that’s fine as long as they offset it elsewhere. Add a dollar, cut a dollar. And, of course, no gimmicks, and no tax increases.

Our legislature has done a good job of helping us live within our income these last few years, while other states spent themselves into catastrophe. By working together again, we can protect services, taxpayers, and our pro-jobs business climate, positioning Indiana to lead economic recovery as it begins.

You can help. If you’re a taxpayer, ask your legislators to put the general public interest first, and say no to the special interests who demand money we just don’t have right now. When some lobbyist or legislator promises more spending on some favorite cause or project, ask him “Which of my taxes are you proposing to raise, and why do you want to do that?”

Across America, people are asking how Indiana has kept its head above water while everyone else is drowning. It’s because we’re Hoosiers, of course; we have this quaint custom of not spending money we don’t have. If we keep our common sense now, we’ll get through this very tough patch and come out ahead of other states.

Thanks and good night.

An Image Makeover

2009-05-29T12:00:00.001-04:00

For those of you noting the commotion at the local Wal-Mart, it's all part of the plan: the image makeover plan, that is. Almost all stores nationwide will be receiving a cleaner looking, brighter space. More info about the new image can be found here in an article from the Arizona Daily Star: http://www.azstarnet.com/allheadlines/293181

LMF T-Shirt Design Contest

2009-05-28T12:00:00.000-04:00

The Linton Music Festival is holding a design contest for this year’s official LMF t-shirt at http://www.shirtriot.com/ShirtRiot/User/ContestDetails.aspx?cst=37 Enter to win the $150 prize being offered, plus money from every shirt sold through the shirtriot.com website using your winning design!

The Blade

2009-05-27T18:00:00.000-04:00

I found it amusing that the cover art of the June 8th, 2009 edition of National Review features a caricature of Governor Daniels as ‘The Blade,’ a name reportedly given to him by former President Bush. Said cover can be found here: http://nrd.nationalreview.com/

The Staggering Debt in the USA

2009-05-27T12:00:00.000-04:00

Here’s the thirty-minute version of a thought-provoking documentary, entitled I.O.U.S.A., which is about the staggering debt in the USA today: http://www.iousathemovie.com/

Bear Run Mine in 'Mileposts' Newsletter

2009-05-26T18:00:00.001-04:00

Here’s a link to the Spring 2009 edition of the ‘Mileposts” publication, the official newsletter of the Indiana Rail Road Company, which highlights the new Bear Run mine in Sullivan County, Indiana: http://www.inrd.com/images/pdf/Mileposts_Spring_2009_Extra.pdf

Making a Buck on the Dollar Menu

2009-05-26T12:00:00.001-04:00

There’s an interesting article on the profit margins for some of the fast food 'dollar menu' promos of late, which can be found here:

http://finance.yahoo.com/career-work/article/107106/Can-They-Really-Make-Money-Off-the-Dollar-Menu?mod=career-selfemployment

Have a Great Extended Weekend!

2009-05-21T12:00:00.000-04:00

I'm taking an extra-extended holiday weekend. Hope everyone has a safe & very happy Memorial Day with plenty of cookouts and IndyCar racing. Tune in next Tuesday!

Q&A with Charlie Munger

2009-05-20T12:00:00.000-04:00

Interesting Q&A interview with Charlie Munger of Berkshire Hathaway fame:
http://www.law.stanford.edu/publications/stanford_lawyer/issues/80/pdfs/sl80_munger.pdf

No More 'Gotcha' Tactics Soon?

2009-05-19T18:00:00.001-04:00

An AP story out today says new legislation will soon make credit card companies’ surprise fees and other ‘gotcha' tactics unlawful: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Senate-votes-to-limit-credit-apf-15292841.html?sec=topStories&pos=1&asset=&ccode

Oh Boy, Where's This Going?

2009-05-19T12:00:00.001-04:00

The Evansville Courier & Press ran this story about cost-cutting measures for I-69: http://www.courierpress.com/news/2009/may/18/18web-Daniels/

Teachers, Have You Heard About This?

2009-05-18T12:00:00.000-04:00

On the RTV6 blogs, the Indiana State Teachers Association is the 'talk of the town': http://rtv6blogs.com/rtv6_capitol/2009/05/14/ista-lobbyist-we-are-going-to-put-all-our-cards-on-the-table/comment-page-1/ I’m curious to know what any local educators have been told about this situation, if anything…

Bankers Should Be Boring

2009-05-16T12:00:00.000-04:00

At lunch the other day, I read in the New York Times an interesting quote from a banker in nearby Jasper, Indiana, which I thought I’d share here…

“Banking should not be exciting. If banking gets exciting, there is something wrong with it.”
-Clay W. Ewing, President of Retail Financial Services
German American Bancorp, Jasper, Indiana

The full article can be found here: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/12/business/12small.html

The Carnegie Heritage & Arts Center

2009-05-15T18:00:00.002-04:00

The Carnegie Heritage & Arts Center of Greene County, which is located in the old Margaret Cooper Library in Linton, will be having a Grand Opening this Saturday, May 16th from 11 AM to 7 PM.

There will be musicians playing throughout the day, refreshments available, a pottery demonstration, and plenty of art to peruse while you’re there.

Several local people have put a lot of time & energy into the building. So, check it out!

Lions & Tigers & Storms, Oh My!

2009-05-15T12:00:00.001-04:00

The thunderstorms the other night made me think about computer files & paper records, for some reason. Perhaps, it’s because I work in risk management.

Natural disasters, such as Hurricane Katrina, could teach us all something though. And I wonder if we really all got the message sometimes. Although we may never have a hurricane in southwestern Indiana, there are plenty of other perils that could have similar results.

So, here’s a thought for the weekend:

Do you have a routine in place at home & business that all of the computer info is backed up at certain intervals? How about records and documents on paper and not in ‘electron form’?

If so, are these back-ups kept off-premises? Disasters like tornados and fires may not be too kind even if you do have back-ups, but they’re on premises.

Thought of the Day: Auto Dealerships

2009-05-14T12:00:00.001-04:00

Here's a thought for today:

With all the announcements of cutting the number of dealerships in the national news, particularly with GM & Chrysler, what will southwestern Indiana be left with in the end?

As for Chrysler, here's a website dedicated to their restructuring: http://www.chryslerrestructuring.com/

From The Partnership for Fair & Affordable Energy

2009-05-12T18:00:00.001-04:00

I received this e-mail earlier today, which you may want to read. It's cut-and-pasted below:

"Wabash Valley Power Association, Hoosier Energy, IMPA and Indiana Statewide is working to inform and educate consumers, the media and our elected officials about the impact that proposed carbon reduction legislation would have on Hoosier citizens. As a brief overview of the topic, it’s certainly difficult to pinpoint when and what the final legislation will look like – but the moving target appears to have enough support that it could cost as much as an additional $50 per MONTH per Hoosier household. This surcharge would be bundled with electric bills, as the consequence, in essence, for our state’s dependence on coal. So our joint group has created a :30 TV commercial that began airing today. In addition, we’ve developed a web site that explains the issue and encourages people to join us in showing their support to legislators for keeping the cost for electricity fair and affordable. We expect this effort will be an ongoing process, although the initial TV buy is just for two weeks now, and two more weeks in June. After that, we’ll re-evaluate in terms of public support and Congressional direction. By the way, the group is operating under the name, The Partnership for Fair and Affordable Energy. And while we have several members in other states, at this point the project is limited to Indiana. We’re continuing to work with our other Statewide associations to find ways to support the issue in their states. You’ll find the site at http://www.blogger.com/www.fairpowernow.org. On the Video Gallery section, you can view the TV commercial. We encourage you, if you agree with the message, to sign the petition and to share it with your friends and family. This is truly a grass roots effort, and is not at all limited to co-op members. '

Postage: Two More Cents Today

2009-05-11T12:00:00.000-04:00

It’ll cost you two more cents today – now 44 cents -- to mail a first-class letter at the Post Office. This is unless you stocked up on ‘Forever’ stamps beforehand.

In a previous post from 2007, I discussed hoarding stamps as an oddball investment vehicle. I surmised it was a very low rate of return, but if they keep moving up every year around Mother’s Day, I may need to re-evaluate my rate of return calculations.

The previous post can be found here: http://magiccoalcity.blogspot.com/2007/10/new-twist-on-forever.html

More Jobless In USA

2009-05-08T12:00:00.003-04:00

New jobless rates are coming out. Read more here:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/08/AR2009050800394.html?hpid=topnews

While reading, though, keep this post in mind: http://magiccoalcity.blogspot.com/2009/02/unemployment-101.html

FYI - Linton City Council Monthly Meeting

2009-05-07T18:00:00.000-04:00

The Linton City Council's monthly meeting is scheduled for the first of next week - Monday, May 11th, 2009 @ 7PM. The Board of Works meeting is prior to the Council meeting.

Linton First Annual City-Wide Yard Sale

2009-05-07T12:00:00.001-04:00

I thought I'd pass along an announcement I received last night:

'Drag those unused items out of the attic and the garage, gather your nickels and dimes, and rev your engines because the City of Linton will hold its first annual City-Wide Yard Sale on Saturday, May 30th over Phil Harris Weekend (Greene County Foundation Festival). The sale will begin at 8 am and continue through the day ending at 5 pm, so be sure to tell your friends, relatives, and co-workers to spread the word around. Participants will be posting their own signs so be on the lookout at all street corners and the major intersections along SR 54 and SR 59. Be sure to look out for downtown businesses, churches, and community groups that may also be participating throughout the community along sidewalks, parking lots, and community rooms. Planning is already underway for the next City-Wide Yard Sale event, so if you have any ideas or suggestions, please contact Deidra Brumfield via email at deidra1972@yahoo.com. Look for members of the Planning Committee visiting the day of the sale to get contact information for a mailing list for the next City-Wide Yard Sale event.'