I graduated from college in May 2009. During that time, “unpaid internships” were all the rage (whether they were legal or not was another consideration all together). As the economy is going though another downturn, I suspect unpaid internships will be on the rise again. While the Department of Labor rules governing unpaid internship programs … 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
Taking a slight break from the current news and topics this week to talk about our favorite topic at OG+S: trademarks. A Little Background: Not every word or phrase in the universe can be trademarked. Specifically, words that are generic or descriptive (without something more) cannot be protected. It sounds complicated, but most of the … 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
We have offices in Cedarburg and Madison – but in reality, we work all over the place (or did, until we all started working from home). Making that happen seems pretty easy, especially with technology, but getting the right mix and hitting our stride took time – and there were bumps in the road. Along … Read more
I had grand plans for today’s blog post. I should discuss the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. I should discuss the different loan and business programs available in Wisconsin. I should do a lot of things. But really, what I want to do is just figure out a way to get us all through the … Read more
We’ve been getting a lot (a lot) of questions about how breweries, wineries, or distilleries can practice and encourage effective “social distancing” with their clientele. So, let’s review for the record: Basic Rule: Breweries, Wineries, and Distilleries can sell at their place of manufacture/tasting room for off-premise consumption. In other words, they can all sell … Read more
I have been asked quite a bit lately about when one should create a business entity like an LLC. I get told things like: “It is just a small side gig.” or, “It is a direct sales thing.” And I get it. You don’t know if it is going anywhere, and you don’t want to … Read more
Trademarks are our jam at OG+S. This post is a short one about trademark strategy and what to think about if your brand has a global reach. First to Use: In the United States, we have a “first to use” system when it comes to trademarks. What that means is that the Company who uses … Read more