Assume for a minute a disaster strikes your community – a tornado – maybe a major ice storm – an industrial explosion – or a fire in a water/sewer facility. What is your next step to keep your municipal operations functional? Take a look at this heart wrenching video of Kentucky Mayors reliving the January 2009» Read Full Article

In January I attended the Economic Trends Seminar presented by the Biz Times.  Speakers included Mike Knetter, PhD – President of UW Foundation, Gerry Frye – President The Benefit Services Group, Peter Gottsacker – President of Wixon, Larry Borgard – President & CEO Integrys Energy Group, and Jeff Yabuki – President & CEO Fiserv.  Each gentleman spoke» Read Full Article

Our hearts are heavy with yet another active shooter event in Milwaukee at Azana Spa in Brookfield, WI. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of the victims, and our wishes for a speedy recovery for the survivors. Unfortunately, violent attacks are becoming more prevalent in our schools and workplaces.  Being able to protect» Read Full Article

Catalytic converters can be stolen in less than a minute. The current prices for precious metals are fueling this demand and converters contain precious metals. Rhodium sells for roughly $9,500 an ounce, while platinum pays at about $2,000. If sold for scrap, stolen catalytic converters go for around $100 to $150. What Thieves Look For» Read Full Article

Although it has been used in deals for some time, M&A insurance has not entered the “mainstream” in the Midwest for middle market acquisitions for a few reasons: It is a relatively new concept to sellers and strategic buyers Premium “sticker shock” has had an effect on potential buyers The abundance of buyers has allowed» Read Full Article

Corporate Report Wisconsin published an article indicating an epidemic rise in metal theft. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, nationwide insurance claims for metal theft increased 81% over the last two years. The article Precious Metal, is a real eye-opener for any manufacturer or business that handles metal. The statistics are staggering. The very last paragraph shares» Read Full Article

There are many challenges when it comes to companies going through acquisitions.  In particular when it comes to reporting out to shareholders and how closely all involved need to monitor expenses.  A prime example came with the Willis Group Holdings’ 2008 acquisition of Hib, Rogal & Hobbs (HRH).  Willis is looking for an upswing in the» Read Full Article