Erin Ogden 
After last week’s post, we know that for a federal trademark we need to have interstate commerce, often because we are selling across state lines. So let’s pretend that we know we can apply for federal registration based on sales. Now, we have to decide if it is a strong trademark: Is this mark protectible? … Read more
I have been asked the question, “Is getting a trademark worth the money?” a lot lately. Companies are trying to protect their assets and their budget. They want to spend their money wisely so they rightly ask if this is a good use of it. Now, I always laugh a little and remind them that … Read more
We firmly believe that the most important thing that a business can do is listen to their customers. Listen to what they are telling you, listen to what they are asking you, but also listen for their problems beyond their direct statements and questions. But don’t stop there. Then look at what you can do … Read more
On June 5, 2020, the Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act of 2020 (“Flexibility Act”) was signed into law, amending the CARES Act. Then on June 19, 2020, the Small Business Administration and Treasury issued additional interim final rules regarding the implementation of the Paycheck Protection Program to conform to the Flexibility Act. However, in the … Read more
We all get them. Text messages. Some from friends, some from family, some from Starbucks, and some are from entities that you don’t know until that DING! on your phone. They can be annoying, but they can also be extraordinarily helpful to contact clients and supporters. I get very happy when I know my food … Read more
As you likely know, the Wisconsin Supreme Court struck down the statewide Safer at Home orders as invalid and unenforceable. That means that any further statewide rules will need legislature’s actions. Many counties and municipalities then implemented their own orders, but many did not. Some municipalities that originally said they were going to have such … Read more
This week our blog features guest author Ryan Waite of Neckerman Insurance Services. While it was written pre-COVID, it still holds true and contains some great information for those of you finding yourselves looking at side gigs or maybe even a brand new, full-time freelancing gig. I know many of you are, because we are … Read more
Under Section 2104 of the CARES Act, nearly all individuals receiving unemployment benefits could temporarily receive an emergency increase of $600.00 in their weekly benefit. This increased benefit is fully funded by the federal government until July 31, 2020. The federal payments were contingent on the execution of a signed agreement between the US Department of Labor (“DOL”) and … Read more
The Payroll Protection Program supposedly was taking first applications on April 3, 2020. I have to admit that I know of no one that got an application in to a bank on that day. But last week, people were actually getting applications in, and some have already received approvals. That means that if you are … Read more
There are currently two COVID-19 related acts: The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (“FFCRA”) and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. I know everyone wants to know about the Payroll Protection Program under the CARES Act. We’ve been looking at it and talking to banks, but let’s address the Families First Act … Read more