MATR News Comments

"The State with the Best Education Wins!"

MATR News Comments

We have the teachers exemption (i.e. researchers own their own inventions) in Sweden and have had
this law also elsewhere in Europe. There is no indication what so ever that this model is good for
commercialization.
— Henric Rhedin

Referring to article: Fixing Technology Transfer (Mar 16th, 2010)

OK; so, maybe you can substitute Market and Passion for a business plan, but you can't substitute a
Business Plan for 1) software planning or 2) understanding your market. For example on #1, if
you have a business plan or RFP, with a brief discussion of the functionality needed for a web app,
(instead of a software plan) it's not the developer's fault if the app doesn't do things that
management didn't consider and explain fully. This is especially true if deadlines are looming and
management grabbed at the "most likely" solution because they are not meeting their deadlines.
For example on #2 - knowing your market, a person once said to me that the Forest Service and
other government agencies should be an easy sell for a web product because the money isn't theirs,
and they have a government credit card and can just get what they want, ie. price doesn't matter. I
haven't found that to be true; I have found agency folks to be very budget conscious. Market
and Passion are very important, but they are a poor substitute for working product that is needed by
a working public!
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: Forget Business Plans—Go for Market and Passion, Say Investors (Mar 13th, 2010)

Whether your career is in computer programming or creative writing, it is important to be able to
communicate through the written word. Kudos to the school systems for putting more emphasis on
writing skills, which are time-consuming to teach and to assess. And, kudos to Diane Benjamin and
the Missoula Writing Coaches for providing writing support to teachers and students!
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: High school writing assessment aims to improve Montana students, teachers (Mar 11th, 2010)

Boo Ho sounds to me like Blackfoot is afraid of a little competition. Who’s interests do they have
in mind here theirs or ours. While they do have a point we are connected a long problem has been
that we don’t have a lot of options in Western MT. Bring it on Google let’s do this thing!!!
— Let's Do This

Referring to article: Providers question Google Net project, saying Missoula already on major fiber route. Meeting scheduled for 3/18 (Mar 12th, 2010)

December 18, 2009 The Honorable Max Baucus 511 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC
20510 Re: Protecting entrepreneurs and angel investors in draft “Restoring American
Financial Stability Act of 2009” Dear Senator Baucus: The draft “Restoring American
Financial Stability Act of 2009” is important for addressing many critical issues and I applaud Sen.
Christopher Dodd and the Senate Banking Committee on the bill. I do, however, want to point out two
issues in the current draft that would be harmful to entrepreneurs and individual investors, which
in turn would hurt the nation’s economy plus place in jeopardy America’s global leadership in
innovation. Please consider deleting the following from the current bill: • Section 412
of the draft bill recommends adjusting the accredited investor standard for inflation. As we
understand it, this section would change the current requirement for an individual of $1 million in
net worth or $200,000 in annual income to about $2.3 million in net worth or $450,000 plus in annual
income. Over the last twelve months many accredited investors have lost more than 20 percent of
their net worth and, as a result, innovative start-ups have been increasingly challenged in their
capital raising efforts. Decreasing the pool of potential angel investors and consequently the
capital available to startups at this time appears counter-productive to supporting the very
companies that will create new high-paying jobs. The number of Montanan’s making $450,000 is very
small. • Section 928 of the legislation would repeal the existing federal preemption of state
regulation over “accredited investor” securities offerings. This would end the uniform, national
set of rules for financing start-ups. By eliminating regulation that is working well, the draft
bill would expose technology startups to a potentially complicated system of patchwork,
state-by-state regulation, resulting in higher costs, more legal risks, and the potential of not
being able to raise capital because of different rules in different states. Nothing would be gained
from this change: no additional protections would be provided to the accredited angel investors and
there would be no benefits to the national financial system or to the economy. Worse, increasing
the complexity of co-investing across state boundaries would add an additional challenge for
entrepreneurs trying to raise capital. In Montana, we routinely go to regional investors in deal
syndication and they invest here. In fact, Frontier Fund represents 5 states of residency. As
a group of investors and entrepreneurs in Washington state recently put it, “the startup ecosystem
…, comprised of entrepreneurs and the angel investors and professionals who support them, is one of
the spawning pools from which tomorrow’s great American companies are born. … Technology startups
are funded by (a) the entrepreneurs who start them, (b) the friends, networks, and families of those
entrepreneurs, and (c) experienced angel investors who have a taste for startups and a passion about
supporting entrepreneurs. This community depends on the uniformity, clarity and certainty of
federal exemptions, which substantially ease the costs and legal risks of raising critically, needed
seed capital.” As the Fund Coordinator for Montana’s only angel fund, I urge you to help
eliminate these two sections from the draft legislation. It is important to ensure that innovative
entrepreneurs have access to start-up capital, particularly during this economic recession.
Retaining these two provisions would hinder America’s entrepreneurial community in accessing such
capital, to the detriment of our economy and our global ingenuity leadership. Thank you Senator
Baucus for your leadership. Sincerely, Elizabeth C. Marchi Frontier Angel Fund,
LLC Montana
— Elizabeth C. Marchi

Referring to article: Dodd Bill Could Drain Angel Pool, Make Startup Financings More Confusing (Mar 6th, 2010)

An article to put a smile on your face! And, good thoughts for those thinking about applying for a
patent.
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: Masters of Invention - The stories behind five of Missoula's most brilliant and bizarre patent applications (Mar 4th, 2010)

We hear over and over that the University system wants to develop stronger relations and
collaborations with local communities. We also know that running a University is much like running
a very large company. While some on the community work in the community, they're on the
committee because of their position with the University. Where are the Missoula city officials,
business leaders and business professionals who do not have a link to the University? Their
contributions to the process could provide significant dividends as they look at the "business" of
running the University system more efficiently, especially financially. The committee shouldn't
be limited to only those individuals who already have a working relationship with the University.
What message does this send to the community?
— Russ

Referring to article: University of Montana forms presidential search committee (Mar 6th, 2010)

Can anyone get me an invitation to the next TED conference...and possibly sponsor the entrance fee
of $6,000? It never hurts to ask. :) At the very least, people should make a point to watch the
TED presentations on their own time. These aren't always presentations about some new high-tech
solution. Sometimes it's just a simple idea that has the potential to change the world - and it
just needs people to mobilize behind it. Sometimes a presentation is just thought provoking. At
the least, I have a more positive outlook about the world after watching these presentations. I
recommend the TED documentary available on NetFlix.
— Tony Ferrini

Referring to article: Brain Exercise: The Top 10 TED Talks - These presentations are truly amazing! (Feb 22nd, 2010)

I have been a huge TED fan for years. Like many of those who commented on Dan's blog, I think each
person should decide for themselves what the top ten TED lectures are by going to TED.com and poking
around the index and viewing lectures that seem interesting. Some of my favorites: The MIT
engineering professor who takes her students to the Third World to apply their learning to real
world problems; The guy who is extending the range of flight in a flying squirrel suit; The woman
musician who plays jazz on a Theramin; and all the lectures that prompt expansive thinking. Most
of the lectures are available for download as podcasts for free via iTunes. If you travel a lot,
having an iPod or laptop loaded with TED lectures will make the time go by in a fascinating,
educational way.
— Geoff

Referring to article: Brain Exercise: The Top 10 TED Talks - These presentations are truly amazing! (Feb 22nd, 2010)

The practice of poaching business from another state is now taking on a somewhat negative tone in
many respects. I agree with New Jersey that a better and more productive effort is to promote
the better aspects of a state to make entrepreneurs in any state more aware of the opportunities
available. Montana Ambassadors http://www.montanaambassadors.com/ is developing a series of
local chapters in many of the larger communities throughout the U.S. These are great ways to bring
the Montana story to the local business community and respectfully encourage them to think of
Montana in their future plans. I would encourage that Montana put more support behind the efforts
of Ambassadors instead of developing a confrontational program that could have far-reaching
unintended consequences in the future.
— Russ

Referring to article: GOP hopes Oregon tax increases mean Montana business (Feb 21st, 2010)

There's a very telling couple of paragraphs from the story: "No one teaches you how to think
about money in medical school or residency. Yet, from the moment you start practicing, you must
think about it. You must consider what is covered for a patient and what is not. You must pay
attention to insurance rejections and government-reimbursement rules. You must think about having
enough money for the secretary and the nurse and the rent and the malpractice insurance. Beyond
the basics, however, many physicians are remarkably oblivious to the financial implications of their
decisions. They see their patients. They make their recommendations. They send out the bills. And,
as long as the numbers come out all right at the end of each month, they put the money out of their
minds." Our medical schools don't give prospective physicians the business tools they need to
manage their business. It's unfair to expect them to fully understand the intricacies of the bottom
line if they're not given the education and tools. One quick answer would be to require med
students to take basic business classes that focus specifically on the business of medicine. If
there are some schools that are requiring this now and the results are resulting in better prepared
physicians, then those programs should be held up as examples for other schools.
— Russ

Referring to article: The Cost Conundrum - What a Texas town can teach us about health care. (Feb 21st, 2010)

This article makes a lot of sense. The thread I think we have to confront is that healthcare is a
profit-making center. What was once a profession has become a business, with all the attendant
demands that businesses have: growth, sound bottom line, cost-cutting, etc. It is an environment
where when any action can be rewarded with money, profit-making will follow. Instead of competition
for excellence the competition is for profitability. As someone who hates having my otherwise
self-guided healthy lifestyle break down and necessitate a visit to my doctor--who I like and
respect--it galls me to think that the system must focus so intently on the bottom line.
— Geoff

Referring to article: The Cost Conundrum - What a Texas town can teach us about health care. (Feb 21st, 2010)

I realize that many MATR readers are not in Missoula but I wanted to share this innovative way to
develop public consensus. Could your community use this technology? Russ
— Russ

Referring to article: What should Missoula City Council goals be for 2010? (Feb 19th, 2010)

Every student should be good in leadership, having good leadership skill helps to every student
achieve great success in their life. Leadership skill is most essential part to achieve success in
our life. For more information about leadership skills visit: http://www.businessmantra.net/
— Leadership skills

Referring to article: Leadership Montana Now Accepting Applications for Class of 2011… (Feb 2nd, 2010)

It's not just entrepreneurs. It's engineers and programmers too! I bet if you poll the University of
Montana for major choices, you will find that the majority of women don't choose the hard sciences.
Often in my graduate level CS classes, I was the only female. And, most of the other (male)
students were the age of my children. One solutions would be to do like communist countries did
decades ago and force people (women) into fields they don't choose because there is a need. Yes,
that's totally wrong, but until then, we are stuck with what women choose to study!
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: Addressing the Dearth of Female Entrepreneurs (Feb 10th, 2010)

Many years ago, I heard a radio broadcast where the speaker reviewed the economic system of the
ancient Jewish laws regarding debt, property ownership, etc. It was very interesting. Considering
that these folks lived in an era where a man could sell his wife and children to pay debts - and the
debt holder could take them, whether the man wanted them sold or not, the laws and practices were
incredibly innovative and merciful. It was a fascinating business and economic discussion.
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: What ( insert your city or state name here ) can learn from the Israeli model to boost entrepreneurship (Feb 12th, 2010)

Way to go Molly. You are a pro in this arena and will do very well. Others will do even better by
reaching out to you and utilizing your skills.
— Blair Williams

Referring to article: Montana Talent - Social Media and Advertising Professional - Molly E. Haislmaier Bradford (Feb 9th, 2010)

Nice work, Steve!
— Tony Ferrini

Referring to article: First Webmaster Certificate Recipient, Steve Hug, Launches New Career - The Lifelong Learning Center, Missoula County Public Schools Adult Education Division (Feb 10th, 2010)

Best of luck, Molly! I'm sure that your great personality will take you far!
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: Montana Talent - Social Media and Advertising Professional - Molly E. Haislmaier Bradford (Feb 9th, 2010)

Beside the books listed in the article, I like SocialCorp by Joel Postman.
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: Books Show How To Engage Clients with Social Media (Feb 9th, 2010)

"I will respect the rights and dignity of the individuals working for the enterprise. I will engage
in honest and transparent transactions." ...maybe Mr. Obama should follow this... "If I do not
violate this oath, may I enjoy life and art and personal success" - I think I'll enjoy it either it
so thanks but no thanks. This sounds like more liberal indoctrination to me... let's just stick with
the good old "Barack Hussien Obama, he's our lord and savior"
— Hussien

Referring to article: Right and Wrong - Can business schools teach students to be virtuous? In the wake of all the corporate scandals, they have no choice but to try. (Sep 21st, 2003)

A little known fact is that under federal law, cocaine and meth have approved medical uses.
Cannabis/Marijuana does not.
— JM

Referring to article: University of Montana professor tests meth as stroke treatment - Sinapis Pharma (Feb 9th, 2010)

For more information about Idaho National Laboratory's research projects, visit the lab's facebook
site. http://www.facebook.com/idahonationallaboratory
— htomfields

Referring to article: Idaho National Laboratory providing science, math grants to schools (Feb 8th, 2010)

Bravo for our students!!!
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: Big Sky students semifinalists in national science competition sponsored by Intel (Feb 4th, 2010)

This brings up something that I try to convey to every business I talk with. Any business doesn't
have the time or ability to keep up with the ever-changing world of social media, new trends and the
wants and desires of some of our most affluent consumers. Take time to reach out to high school
and college students. Ask one to be on your board of advisors. You'll be surprised at the energy,
innovation and creative ideas that they will bring if you give them a chance. They're much more
connected and aware of what your customers and future customers are interested in. Any board with a
college or high school student is a better board than one with just those who have moved away from
the river of change that technology is bringing.
— Russ

Referring to article: It's time to start learning from the next generation (Feb 4th, 2010)

Very interesting! Has this been tried before - other than in private colleges and universities? If
so, what were the results? Would that make the university system responsible to make a profit? I
like the part about being more responsible to students. Would currently starved departments be
better off? Where do research $$$ come to play in this situation? Would the university
presidents be fired if the university starts failing their goals. I think that football coaches lose
their jobs when their team has a long losing streak, but universities put more graduate students in
instructor positions.
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: Make universities public corporations (Nov 19th, 2009)

Bravo, Dr. Apostle! The idea of internships is great. Not every student learns well in a classroom
environment. And, some learn better in a classroom environment at a different time of life, or after
they see where it fits into the "real" world. I think that we will see students more supportive of
their teachers, if they value their education, instead of being cajoled and flattered into learning.
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: Graduation Matters Missoula - Superintendent Apostle's audacious plan aims to curb dropouts (Jan 21st, 2010)

Please send MATR the URL of your state's technology council. These are invaluable to the success of
any economy in today's competitive environment. If your state doesn't have one, why not??? What
can you do to get one started? Thank you.
— Russ

Referring to article: Business leaders launch Idaho Technology Council (Jan 22nd, 2010)

Thank you for the correction. That was a quote. Unfortunately, I still believe that that statement
unjustly attributes a goal to people who don't have it! In fact, I have yet to speak to a Montanan
who believes that every tree should be cut down. The larger error lies in the fact that if we don't
produce wood and wood products locally, we will be buying them from nations who do "cut down every
tree ..." and leave third world communities with little to survive. The converse ridiculous
statement would be to say that the writer of that article believes that we should outlaw wood
products totally and go to plastics or live in caves.
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: Boost Montana's economy with nature, not natural resources (Jan 4th, 2010)

The article was not written by Superintendent Juneau. The logic of the argument is absolutely spot
on. The future of Montana lies not in extracting everything out of our natural resources but
in enhancing, restoring and protecting them to attract those who appreciate the best wild parts of
Montana and want them available as they build their businesses. There is a reason that Montana is
known as "The Last Best Place". Are we destined to repeat the failings of the past or move in new
directions to assure a bright economic future for the children of our children?
— Russ

Referring to article: Boost Montana's economy with nature, not natural resources (Jan 4th, 2010)

Does that mean that Denise Juneau thinks that our "folksy" governor and other political leaders have
a plan to cut every single tree down? Sorry Ms. Juneau, but if a high school debate team made that
type of argument, they would lose points for the strength of the argument. Also, our high school
debate teams are smart enough that the other side would have a field day with that one!
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: Boost Montana's economy with nature, not natural resources (Jan 4th, 2010)

There's little doubt that public policy is headed this way. Support for taxing and regulating
marijuana like alcohol now exceeds 50% in western states. Of course, the devil will be in the
details. My prediction: Montana citizens' initiative, 2012.
— John Masterson

Referring to article: Re: Revenue Generating Ideas for Montana - Thirty Thousand Pounds (Jan 16th, 2010)

This is a wonderful opportunity for those willing to buy in to Rehberg's right wing & anti
pro-choice views.
— David Irwin

Referring to article: Internship Opportunity Available in Rep. Denny Rehberg's Washington, D.C. Office (Jan 12th, 2010)

For more information about Idaho National Laboratory's research projects, visit the lab's facebook
site. http://www.facebook.com/idahonationallaboratory
— htomfields

Referring to article: Idaho National Laboratory studies graphite for use in reactor (Jan 13th, 2010)

While you have to change a few of the names and locations, this letter is a must-read for anyone in
any state interested in developing a better future for our children's children. While it was on
a slightly different subject, these words bring the message home: "We cannot vote as if we have
blinders on and only see our present economic picture. We must take lessons from the past seven
generations and also look forward and provide for the interests of the next seven generations."
Education is first, last and everything in between when our future is considered. It's not
about short term gains or quick fixes. It's about a continuous and focused effort to help every
individual attain their highest goals and contribute to the very best of their abilities. Are you
on board for the future?
— Russ

Referring to article: The Future Of Innovation In Idaho - (The following is an open letter to members of the Idaho Legislature) (Jan 13th, 2010)

That also means designing websites for older Montanans - accessible websites!
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: Montanans Getting Older - Business Needs to Plan Now (Jan 6th, 2010)

I would buy into a reasonably priced solution like this in Missoula. My home office is in Lolo, but
that's not convenient for my frequent meetings and time between meetings.
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: Co-Working Offers Community To Solo Workers (Jan 7th, 2010)

Hear hear! I have known plenty of students in our school district who participated in Gifted and
Talented in earlier grades, my child included. All attention dropped once they reached high school
and teachers are unaware of these students' exceptional abilities. I have seen them become board
true to what the article points out“When schools fail to challenge our most capable learners, what
they learn is that effort is not required,”. No one denies we need develop and tap our brightest
students, so it is encouraging to see some of the options in the article.
— Kev Campbell

Referring to article: Gifted education outrages (Jan 7th, 2010)

If ever there was a self-fulfilling prophecy, the Missoula Macy's store was one. Marketed as top
end goods, the display windows used to encourage shoppers to come in were a joke. If you visit any
major city, the window displays were works of art. The "doomed to failure" theme was continued
with the lack of any significant major interior upgrades to make visiting the store a real
enjoyment. As non-online shopping becomes more of an entertainment event instead of just a chore,
the gloomy atmosphere and ambiance was a recipe for closure. Missoula shoppers weren't the
problem. It was the lack of innovation by Macy's management. Macy's failed the communities in
Missoula and Boise, among others, by guiding these stores to failure instead of giving them the
support they needed to compete. I'm going to cut up my credit card and the many mailings I get
from the store and mail them back to Macy's with a note that they will never get my business again.
— Russ

Referring to article: Macy's Abandons Montana and Idaho (Jan 6th, 2010)

For more information about Idaho National Laboratory's research projects, visit the lab's facebook
site. http://www.facebook.com/idahonationallaboratory
— htomfields

Referring to article: Idaho National Laboratory develops safer, more efficient nuclear fuel for next-gen reactors (Dec 28th, 2009)

Are you an executive with Montana roots who'd like to help introduce the benefits of doing business
in Montana to entrepreneurs and companies in your community? Are you an alum of a Montana
University who'd like to help others learn about the opportunities available in Montana? If so,
give Montana Ambassadors http://www.montanaambassadors.com/ a call 406.563.5353 or post an e-mail
info (at) montanaambassadors.com. It's a great way to contribute to the economic success of
Montana.
— Russ

Referring to article: Homegrown CEOs drum up high-tech business for their native state. How can you help Montana? (Jan 4th, 2010)

This is a very disturbing story for women everywhere. How will we now hide the remote and save
ourselves from the endless "manshow" called Flipping Channels???
— Gloria O'Rourke

Referring to article: Forget the Remote; Control TV By Waving Your Hand (Dec 24th, 2009)

Keep up the good work, Yolanda!!!
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: University of Montana develops software, Global Information Gatherer, designed to aid college students (Dec 28th, 2009)

Unfortunately, there is often little distinction in classes from kindergarten through the first two
years in some colleges between 1) learning to use a computer application, 2) learning how to set up
a network, 3) computer graphic design, and 4) computer science. Why would students be interested in
taking an AP class on how to make a better PowerPoint presentation? Having studied CS, I believe
that the genders have somewhat different learning patterns which show up in the study of Computer
Science. And, I have no doubt that more girls would go into Computer Science if it were presented
differently. Currently, lower level CS classes exist to create coders, when CS is actually a problem
solving technique.
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: Help Reform Computer Science Education (And Win a Trip To Australia!) (Dec 20th, 2009)

Nice!!! This would be a great one to send through Facebook and Twitter.
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: "The Gift" (Video) to You and Yours on this Most Joyous of Holiday Seasons (Dec 24th, 2009)

Thanks for all you done for MSU and Montana Geoff. Your continued involvement to help guide the
future leaders of Montana is appreciated. All the best,
— Russ

Referring to article: Montana State University Geoff Gamble upbeat on last day at Montana Hall (Dec 23rd, 2009)

Rich. This and so much more. Thanks and pass it on.
— Geoff

Referring to article: "The Gift" (Video) to You and Yours on this Most Joyous of Holiday Seasons (Dec 24th, 2009)

For more information about Idaho National Laboratory's research projects, visit the lab's facebook
site. http://www.facebook.com/idahonationallaboratory
— htomfields

Referring to article: Idaho National Laboratory announces winners of student video contest (Dec 16th, 2009)

Great article, but a very tough concept as most small companies do not have the resources or
knowledge to encourage innovation. However, innovation could just be a system to get a job done more
quickly. Unfortunately, that type of innovation usually goes unnoticed and unrewarded. I once
worked for a company which set their bonuses based on "performance." That sounds like a great idea,
except that my bonus was based on the results of my doing sales - on top of programming, SEO and
general web development, public speaking, invoicing, creating marketing materials, technical
support, etc. It was a vicious cycle. The website needed to be improved to generate revenue, the
other tasks needed to be done, but there was not one bit of reward for that work - only for sales.
That experience helped me make some "innovative changes to the classes I teach web development
classes for business owners. Instead of just focusing on the technical aspects, I hope that I give
them an accurate picture of the amount and quality of work and constant innovation that should go
into managing a website - or there will be no innovation on the website - just the most necessary
tasks.
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: 50 Ways to Foster a Culture of Innovation (Dec 15th, 2009)

This is a great way to learn about wind energy and the benefits of installing wind turbines
especially among students. Wind energy is gaining huge popularity and having such programs will
encourage children to use renewable sources of energy. Transformer company, Pacific Crest
Transformers specializes in the manufacture of liquid-filled distribution transformers. It has
whitepapers and articles on wind energy and the role of transformers in the energy grid. Visit the
Pacific Crest Transformers website for more on this.
— Roger Roster

Referring to article: New wind turbine expands partnership with Idaho schools - Idaho National Laboratory's Center for Advanced Energy Studies (Dec 14th, 2009)

The revitalization of tech transfer efforts at the University of Montana is a bellweather event but
future success will take the efforts of all of Montana. Entrepreneurs, Angels, VC's, business
professionals are all needed to assist and nurture the technology into the world of commercial
success. I encourage anyone who has an interest in working with world class research
commercialization opportunities to contact Joe Fanguy at the University of Montana and learn more
about the possibilities. Joe.Fanguy (at) mso.umt.edu (406) 243-0211
— Russ

Referring to article: University of Montana Research Could Provide Effective Treatment for Stroke and Traumatic Brain Injury - Sinapis Pharma (Dec 14th, 2009)

Thought you might be interested in my new PV system. Its similar to the Akeena in that one
micro-inverter is used with each PV panel. My system uses 10 PV panels at 215 watts each and 10 of
the Enphase micro-inverters. Its very easy to install and wire -- I did the whole system myself. I
found the process of getting the electrical permit and the net metering agreement with NW Energy to
go very easily and quickly. The wiring on the PV end is just a matter of plugging connectors
together, and on the house end its like adding any new 240VAC appliance -- not much to it if you
have done some wiring before. Details on the planning, design and
install: http://www.builditsolar.com/Projects/PV/EnphasePV/Main.htm This works out a fair bit
cheaper than the Akeena system, and Enphase has been around a couple years and has a product that
has gotten a lot of favorable reviews -- I think they will be around for a long time. Customer
service was very good. There system includes and EMU gadget that just plugs into the wall and
collects info via the house electrical wiring on the micro inverter, and either gives it to you
locally or sends it back to the Enphase site. They build a web page for each installed system and
provide some very nice reporting
online: http://www.builditsolar.com/Projects/PV/EnphasePV/RealTime.htm My internet connection is
a bit flaky, so its not always right up to date. Best, Gary
Reysa Bozeman gary@BuildItSolar.com
— Gary Reysa

Referring to article: Solar panel designed with the novice in mind (Dec 10th, 2009)

I fear that in the name of competition our state government is endorsing or making as its top
priority for federal stimulus funds a project that cannot sustain two or more providers. There are
areas of our vast state with population of less than 100. How can those areas support Bresnan AND
the local telco that has already invested in the infrastructure to bring services to the area for
the past 50+ years? Employment will be negatively affected and service will not be any better, only
unnecessarily duplicated. Remember when our state in the name of competition opened up and
deregulated the electricity/power industry. Now we get to pay higher rates to purchase the power
that is generated in our state, from an out of state company. How has that turned out for us -
pretty poorly if you had retirement stock that went from Montana Power to TouchAmerica to nothing.
It seems to be the Bresnan plan could end up the same way. All of the dollars and effort to bring
telecommunications to our rural areas would be wasted - that includes federal dollars. As taxpayers
and as employees and members of independent telecommunications companies in the state we need to
protect the investment that has already been made by thousands of our parents, grandparents and
great-grandparents. How will we explain to our children, our future that we had a good thing, but we
got greedy and now they have to pay the price?
— Kev Campbell

Referring to article: Rural Montana telecom providers escalate protests against $70M Bresnan contract (Dec 10th, 2009)

While important, an "Operations Manual" sounds like a daunting, monolithic document. An easier way
to get started, and maintain your internal documentation is with a wiki (think wikipedia for your
business).
— John Masterson

Referring to article: How to Write an Operations Manual (Dec 7th, 2009)

Excellent article! Websites fail for the same reasons. The business management, sales and
development staff need to understand how their jobs work together. I worked for a company where
one of the board members kept asking how sales were going, as soon as the first prototype of an
advertising site was up. No testing time; no site population time; no time to develop readership.
The board member was very successful in his own field, but had no understanding of the life cycle of
a website. Needless to say, those were the wrong questions, and, for me as the developer, very
discouraging.
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: The 10 Questions Your Company Should Never Stop Asking (Nov 30th, 2009)

So, how about taking a side path and working in a field that is hiring, like the medical field or
GIS? Business degrees have use and value in every industry.
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: In recession, one road led back home to Missoula, Montana (Dec 1st, 2009)

Thank u. One of the neat things about our program is that all the teachers are current or former
professionals in their respective fields. So the kids learn real world solutions.
— Peter

Referring to article: Media Arts in the Public Schools (MAPS) begins production in Hamilton, Montana (Dec 3rd, 2009)

Very nice designs on www.bigredbarndesign.com. The designs are well balanced and attractive. It
seems that some attention is paid to SEO too. One thing that I understood from the article is
that the students are learning more than just how to use a piece of software and "click here." I
appreciate the budgeting lessons and the production process lessons. Best wishes with the web
development project!
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: Media Arts in the Public Schools (MAPS) begins production in Hamilton, Montana (Dec 3rd, 2009)

Nora - this is the first year we've offered web, doc, and journalism. Previously, MAPS was exclusive
to Corvallis High School and I taught the film classes. U can see that work on our site,
www.mediarts.org and hit the 'video' tab. The new web classes are currently building sites, our
instructor is Mike Henderson. U can check him out at www.bigredbarndesign.com
— Peter

Referring to article: Media Arts in the Public Schools (MAPS) begins production in Hamilton, Montana (Dec 3rd, 2009)

It's great to see teens learning technical skills. I'm sure that it will open their eyes to fields
they may not have considered otherwise. However, I didn't see any links on the MAPS site that
showcase the websites they have produced.
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: Media Arts in the Public Schools (MAPS) begins production in Hamilton, Montana (Dec 3rd, 2009)

Interested in the move for game industry into home town of Great falls. After reading local
newspaper, the idea to bring it to creation is awesome! Still will be a fan til i get credentials
in order before requesting chance to shadow behind the scenes of amazing demos.
— Kris Lorenz

Referring to article: Local Brothers Beat the Odds to Follow Dream in Great Falls, Montana (Aug 1st, 2008)

Flathead Valley Community College is a great place for workforce training. As a working mom with 5
kids, I attended FVCC in the evening for 5 years to get a 2-year degree. I received nothing but
encouragement from the staff. Now I have a business degree and an MS in Computer Science. FVCC gave
me the courage to succeed.
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: Montana Sentator Jon Tester hears economic concerns of Flathead business community (Nov 24th, 2009)

You can learn more about Idaho National Laboratory's research projects including more information
about the hybrid vehicle testing results at the lab's facebook
site. http://www.facebook.com/idahonationallaboratory
— htomfields

Referring to article: Idaho National Laboratory fighting climate change by turning CO2 to stone (Nov 18th, 2009)

Great article that touches rural economic development.
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: Proof that Industrial Incentives are Poor Bet (Nov 20th, 2009)

Warmest congratulations to Julie and her team for seeing this dream realized for the future of the
Bitterroot Valley and Montana.
— Russ

Referring to article: The new Ravalli Entrepreneurship Center in Hamilton is OPEN! (Nov 19th, 2009)

Solving the primary care issue will go a long way. In other words, investments in primary care--to
make it both attainable and affordable--will reduce the need and cost of more involved care. More
GP's and Nurse Practitioners. Better to stay healthy than need curing, I say.
— GeoffB

Referring to article: Montana needs cure for doctor shortage (Jul 12th, 2009)

Every project has challenges. If any conclusion can be drawn about offshoring from the POINTS
project it is that project managers need to understand the challenges presented by the approach and
take appropriate measures to ensure project success. This was not a failure of the staffing
strategy; it was a deficiency in the management of the project.
— Tom Rupsis

Referring to article: Former manager on Montana's POINTS doesn’t endorse off-shoring (Nov 17th, 2009)

Congratulations to Jane Karas. She has been a very effective leader for the Community College and
for higher education in Montana. The college has grown and improved in many areas during her
leadership. Dr. Karas has served the students and community of the Flathead with distinction. Thank
you Jane. Liz
— Liz Marchi

Referring to article: Flathead Valley Community College President Jane Karas honored with CEO award (Nov 6th, 2009)

CDI Corporation own MRINetwork also known as Management Recruiters International, a global
recruitment franchise. They have a track record of misrepresenting the truth. For years they falsely
portrayed someone as a regular franchisee who had no valid franchise agreement and who was not
paying them royalties. This got so bad that he eventually owed them more than £170,000 UK Pounds or
approx. $300,000 US Dollars in unpaid royalties. MRINetwork continued with this deception for years
and fooled all real franchisees and clients alike. Read the facts about this and more questionable
business practices by MRINetwork and their owners at http://www.cdicorp.info Specifically read
about: Roger H Ballou misstatements to shareholders
http://www.cdicorp.info/rogerhballou-denial.html Joseph R Seiders affidavit misstatements made
under oath http://www.cdicorp.info/josephrseidersaffidavit.html Sarbanes-Oxley concerns - was the
debt correctly written-off? See why Roger H Ballou is so coy about clarifying his legal obligations
under SOX rules http://www.cdicorp.info/sarbanesoxleyconcerns.html The years of
misrepresentation by MRI Network http://www.cdicorp.info/mrimisrepresentation.html MRINetwork
Breach of Franchise Contract http://www.cdicorp.info/rogerhballou-damage-to-mrinetwork.html Steve
Mills denies responsibility http://www.cdicorp.info/stevemillsdeniesresponsibility.html Steve
Mills applies coercion to franchisee in attempt to gain get-out clause for MRI Network negligence.
http://www.cdicorp.info/management-recruiters-international.html Management Recruiters
International Break agreements. Read how Steve Mills made and then broke written agreements with
franchisee. http://www.cdicorp.info/management-recruiters-international-ethics.html Read the
facts and form your own opinion on their ethics and actual business practices of MRINetwork and
their owners CDI Corporation.
— Bob Stewart

Referring to article: CDI's Aerospace Group to Open Sikorsky Engineering Design Center in Bozeman, Montana (Jun 11th, 2006)

Great move by the State. While I think that restricting out-of-state travel is commendable, I
think, as an innovative and technologically forward thinking state, Montana should also take
advantage of our "in-house" technology to limit in-state travel as well. As Sen. Burns used to
say, "there's a lot of dirt between light bulbs in Montana." We have gotten into the habit of
traveling several hundred miles for a 2 hour meeting and then traveling back. How much could
the state and other organizations save by taking advantage of technology like the state-wide network
of video conferencing locations throughout the state provided by VisionNet
http://www.vision.net/prod/av/index.php ? While we do need to have one-on-one face time with
people frequently, we don't have to get in our individual cars and drive mile and miles every single
time. Let's show the world that Montana is a leader in using new technologies effectively that
can save us time and money and help drive our economic success. Next time you're organizing a
meeting, first think about the possibility of having a virtual meeting that can bring the parties
together electronically. The meeting can also be recorded and provided for anyone who missed it or
for future reference significantly increasing the value of the discussions. It's not that hard to
do. It just takes some initiative and a willingness to try something new.
— Russ

Referring to article: Montana Governor Schweitzer mandates 35% cut in travel expenses (Nov 8th, 2009)

With the repeal of the Montana Fund of Funds during the last legislative session, Montana is not one
of the majority of states that have a venture fund to support and encourage entrepreneurial
development. Add the fact that Colorado has 46 venture firms while Montana has one, and the
disadvantage that the state is at in competing for entrepreneurial talent is cricital. While we
hear much about state efforts to recruit and attract companies, Montana hasn't put as much effort
into keeping and attracting entrepreneurs who can build very successful companies with much less
state support. The biggest missing component is a active and networked funding system that includes
Angel Investors, Venture Capital firms and a state sponsored Fund of Funds. We must not let
Montana fall further and further behind the "neighbors". A fund of funds program that meets all
constitutional criteria needs to be introduced in the next legislative session. We owe it to the
future of Montana.
— Russ

Referring to article: State offers entrepreneurs a boost through $120 Million Fund of Funds (Nov 6th, 2009)

You can learn more about Idaho National Laboratory's programs at
http://www.facebook.com/idahonationallaboratory.
— htomfields

Referring to article: Idaho National Laboratory educates Idaho businesses on working with the lab (Nov 4th, 2009)

You can learn more about Idaho National Laboratory's research projects at
http://www.facebook.com/idahonationallaboratory.
— htomfields

Referring to article: Idaho National Laboratory - Assistant Secretary Schaffer dedicates Industrial Control Systems Cyber Emergency Response Team capability (Nov 3rd, 2009)

I hope you get someone great! You are one of my favorite businesses. I was so surprised to find a
Great Harvest in Albuquerque, NM!!!
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: Montana Career Opportunity - Acting Chief Information Officer - Great Harvest Bread Company (Oct 29th, 2009)

I really like this idea. I will be contacting Monticello and Lafayette to see how they pulled it
off.
— Steve Kirby

Referring to article: Want 50Mbps Internet in your town? Threaten to roll out your own (Oct 28th, 2009)

Is this the example we expect our University educators to set for the leaders of tomorrow?
— Russ

Referring to article: University of Montana Football Coach, Bobby Hauck, University Newspaper, Kaimin feud goes viral (Oct 24th, 2009)

The rejoicing is not universal in Lolo. Not all skiers are evil 'rich' folk. There are no BMWs
parked in our drivewy. Yet, there are 4 skiers in my family who looked forward to another local ski
area. And, there were folks looking forward to another job opportunity.
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: Residents Quietly Rejoice Bitterroot Resort Foreclosure (Oct 21st, 2009)

When you use the phrase "labor shortage" or "skills shortage" you're speaking in a sentence
fragment. What you actually mean to say is: "There is a labor shortage at the salary level I'm
willing to pay." That statement is the correct phrase; the complete sentence and the intellectually
honest statement. Employers speak about shortages as though they represent some absolute, readily
identifiable lack of desirable services. Price is rarely accorded its proper importance in their
discussion. If you start raising wages and improving working conditions, and continue doing so,
you'll solve your shortage and will have people lining up around the block to work for you even if
you need to have huge piles of steaming manure hand-scooped on a blazing summer afternoon. Re:
Shortage caused by employees retiring out of the workforce: With the majority of retirement
accounts down about 50% or more, most people entering retirement age are working well into their
sunset years. So, you won’t be getting a worker shortage anytime soon due to retirees exiting the
workforce. Okay, fine. Some specialized jobs require training and/or certification, again, the
solution is higher wages and improved benefits. People will self-fund their re-education so that
they can enter the industry in a work-ready state. The attractive wages, working conditions and
career prospects of technology during the 1980’s and 1990’s was a prime example of people’s
willingness to self-fund their own career re-education. There is never enough of any good or
service to satisfy all wants or desires. A buyer, or employer, must give up something to get
something. They must pay the market price and forego whatever else he could have for the same price.
The forces of supply and demand determine these prices -- and the price of a skilled workman is no
exception. The buyer can take it or leave it. However, those who choose to leave it (because of lack
of funds or personal preference) must not cry shortage. The good is available at the market price.
All goods and services are scarce, but scarcity and shortages are by no means synonymous. Scarcity
is a regrettable and unavoidable fact. Shortages are purely a function of price. The only way in
which a shortage has existed, or ever will exist, is in cases where the "going price" has been held
below the market-clearing price.
— SuzyGGG

Referring to article: Worker shortage looming (Oct 17th, 2009)

Here is another example of a state Fund of Funds that is benefiting the entrepreneurs of a region.
Unfortunately, the Montana Legislature disbanded the Fund of Funds effort during the last
session. It would have provided up to $60MM in funding opportunities for Montana's entrepreneurs.
I hope that Montana can again move forward in this area and design an acceptable program so that
the state doesn't continue to fall further behind in providing funding opportunities. Approximately
40 other states have some form of a Fund of Funds program. Montana is putting it's economic future
at risk by not "keeping up with the Jones'."
— Russ

Referring to article: Bioscience venture capitalists to open offices (Oct 16th, 2009)

Besides great woodworking, their website is an excellent example of business owners who took the
time to get the photographer and text right!
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: Former NASA space shuttle engineer who's now a Montana chair maker creates DVD to teach the world how to build fine chairs (Oct 11th, 2009)

I had a chance to look at the system they are developing at Montana Sustainable Building Systems and
was very impressed with the durability of the product, of its use of much smaller wood dimensions
and of the remarkable wood insulation that they are using. Well worth your time to check them
out! Steve Corrick www.MagnificentMontana.com
— Steve Corrick

Referring to article: Building With New Efficiency - Montana Sustainable Building Systems of Whitefish, Montana, promises highly sustainable, environmental buildings (Oct 13th, 2009)

In Utah, we agree that recruiting "rock star" researchers is a key element of economic development.
Over the last two years through the USTAR initiative (www.innovationutah.com), we've attracted two
dozen leading faculty to the state's research universities. We're seeing a two-to-one leverage of
the state's investment in an increased inflow in extramural funding, all in a very tough funding
environment. Plus we're starting to see some company creation and increased industry collaboration,
particularly in the energy field. That said, states need a balanced approach to economic
development. You need to start new companies, grow the ones you have, and attract others through
policy and incentives. You need to pair your researchers with savvy business people to get ideas out
of the lab and into the market. Recruiting new talent is effective, as long as it happens within the
context of an "innovation ecosystem."
— Michael O'Malley

Referring to article: Recruit Rock Star Scientists To Make Seattle Thrive as an Innovation Hub (Oct 7th, 2009)

An article worth reading and videos worth watching!
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: Q&A with Author of "The Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs" (Oct 5th, 2009)

You can learn more about INL's energy and environmental projects at the lab's facebook
site. http://www.facebook.com/idahonationallaboratory
— htomfields

Referring to article: Idaho National Laboratory-trained educators teaching energy session to increase science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) in Idaho schools. (Oct 2nd, 2009)

I've been writing to MATR perhaps since last year about this scam...a spec built jail illegal in the
first place that promoters knew wouldn't make any money. Chickens have come home to roost, with
this latest in a series of con games and the dummies the city has elected and appointed to hold
public positions. As if a $27.4 million bond default wasn't enough.
— Frank

Referring to article: Battered for so long, Hardin, Montana has high hopes but new company (American Police Force)exec has criminal record (Oct 1st, 2009)

Wow, it must be tough to get hundreds of job offers - and then to have to go through the
"painstaking" process of narrowing them down. Sorry, no sympathy from me. I've spent 7 of the
last 10 months without a job, with no end in sight. Thanks though, for the glimpse into how rough
it can be to be a doctor. Maybe you should have a follow-up on how "painstaking" it was for them to
find a home for under $500,000.
— Jeff

Referring to article: For Dr. Kathie Voigt and family, Shelby, Montana feels like 'coming home' (Sep 24th, 2009)

Good read. thanks for information. http://www.envirotoneimaging.com
— Ricky Regnier

Referring to article: PrintingForLess Newsletter - September 2009 (Sep 28th, 2009)

Great story!!! Best wishes in your new business, Sarah. What a boon for White Sulphur Springs!
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: Red Ants Pants of White Sulpher Springs, Montana made for gals who buck bales, clear trails (Sep 27th, 2009)

So wind energy is FREE? Cool, why aren't we using it already to replace coal, hydro...why isn't it
already developed and in everyone's homes and businesses? Oh, that's right it has a huge price tag.
And it's not proven to be a better and it needs backup power. Maybe instead of investing in wind
power to the tune of billions of dollars we should all stop buying products from overseas...that
would certainly cut down in our consumption and waste of resources. I agree that real change is
easy and possible if every human used less. I disagree with the editorial that our US Senators
shouldn't be sidetracked by Health Care Reform, the two issues (Health Care and Energy Bill)have a
significant relationship. According to The National Center for Public Policy, the U.S. Senate can
increase the number of Americans with health insurance by tens of millions -- at zero cost to
taxpayers -- by rejecting cap-and-trade legislation passed by the U.S. House. The National Center
for Public Policy Research contends Waxman-Markey would increase energy prices, slow the economy and
result in higher unemployment. This, in turn, the group says, would increase the number of
uninsured. "For every one percentage point increase in unemployment, 1.1 million Americans lose
their health insurance coverage," said David A. Ridenour, Vice President of The National Center for
Public Policy Research. "With the Waxman-Markey legislation projected to cost an average of 1.15
million jobs annually between 2012 and 2030, this could translate into tens of millions of Americans
losing their health insurance coverage. The best health care reform is doing nothing at all - at
least on cap-and-trade." Did you read the part about lost jobs. That's lost jobs, not new jobs. So
I wonder if the authors of this editorial are concerned about being named the commissioners or
mayors or business representatives who "stopped global warming" (as if) or are if they are truly
concerned about the health, wealth and general existence of our neighbors at home and across the
nation? And to make claims that our Ag industry is going to be better off with the proposed energy
legislation...that's a snake oil sales pitch that our Montana farmers won't buy!
— Kev Campbell

Referring to article: Climate legislation means jobs for Montana (Sep 25th, 2009)

I urge our US Senators to support legislation “that deals with climate change and promotes clean and
renewable energy” too. And that legislation must be: FAIR - Climate change legislation needs to
recognize regional differences in how electricity is produced. I should not be penalized because of
where I live; AFFORDABLE - Any climate change plan must keep electric bills affordable for all
Americans and ACHIEVABLE - Climate change mandates must be realistic to ensure long-term success.
— Kev Campbell

Referring to article: Business representatives to push Montana senators to support bills addressing climate change (Sep 24th, 2009)

"Making this a cookie-cutter program would negate all of the intensive pre-testing that Siebel did
in Montana and water down its effectiveness." I would not worry too much about watering down the
"effectiveness" of the Montana Meth Project. The MMP's claims are largely, and possibly entirely,
based on systematic misrepresentation of the true effects of the program. The only peer-reviewed
assessment of the Montana Meth project published to date* found that: After the first six months
of advertising, "the percentage of teens reporting that there is great or moderate risk [of using
meth once or twice] declined significantly, from 93% to 87%. The percentage indicating that there
is no risk increased significantly, from 3% to 8%." [Internal citations omitted - all data reviewed
were self-published by the Montana Meth Project, available on their website.] [snip] "[T]he
percentage of teens reporting that they strongly approve of regular methamphetamine use increased
four-fold after the implementation of the advertising campaign." [snip] "According to the
2005/06 report, at baseline 74% of teens perceived using methamphetamine once or twice as a behavior
that involves great risk, compared to 68% who perceived great risk in using heroin. The 2007 report
indicated that 65% of teens perceived great risk in using methamphetamine, compared to 56% for
heroin. The figures suggest ... that there may have been a decrease in the perception of risk
involved in using both drugs." [snip] "The MMP has successfully portrayed its advertising
campaign as a resounding success to the media, politicians, and even some researchers. However,
claims that the MMP's advertisements have been associated with positive changes in attitudes to
methamphetamine are, for the most part, not supported by the evidence. In some cases, the MMP's
claims of efficacy are directly contradicted by data in their own reports. It is very worrying that
the MMP has ignored and misrepresented several negative findings, such as increases in the
acceptability of methamphetamine use, and decreases in the perceived dangers of drug use following
the introduction of graphic advertisements in Montana. The MMP's misleading interpretation and
inadequate reporting of data has resulted in the public forming distorted and inaccurate beliefs
about the campaign's effectiveness." *Erceg-Hurn, "Drugs, Money and Graphic Ads: A Critical
Review of the Montana Meth Project," Prevention Science, 2008, 9:256-263
— Beamer

Referring to article: Catalytic Philanthropy - The Montana Meth Project (Aug 24th, 2009)

Thanks for the great article and list of low cost resources for people with disabilities. Alexis
— Alexis Volkerts

Referring to article: Text-to-Speech Technology Reaches an Inflection Point (Sep 22nd, 2009)

The Billings Gazette had another editorial today on the Hardin jail. Their caution to Hardin
officials be best summed up as, if I might paraphrase, "Please don't pull still another boneheaded
move. You're embarrassing all of Southeast Montana." "Have you ever heard of the term, "Due
diligence?"
— Frank

Referring to article: Congressional Delegation Speaks on Hardin Jail - Web sites offer hints about jail company - Job Fair for Jail Next Week (Sep 19th, 2009)

Idaho National Laboratory now has a Facebook site that contains research videos, news, job postings
and other events. The lab conducts a variety of energy, security and environmental research.
http://www.facebook.com/idahonationallaboratory
— htomfields

Referring to article: 'Going Above And Beyond' At INL Science, Engineering And Safety Expo, 9/18-19, Idaho Falls, Idaho (Sep 18th, 2009)

This official, the school superintendent, continuously tries to tell the residents of Hardin that
everything is just fine, despite the fact that the Monantic is listing heavily and
sinking. However, the latests in a long series of inept economic development managers had been
relieved of his post, and no one's talking. He was shown the door On Thursday, days before Tuesday's
meeting. The latest of a string of scams that have been foisted on the town was questioned
immediately by those familiar with the for-profit prison industry. Nothing about the proposal made
sense. It sounded like a business plan developed amongst the cast of "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's
Nest." Albert Peterson continues to vouch for the (dubious) authenticity of the "American Police
Force" proposal, even while Twin Rivers Authority just cashiered the guy who was their point man.
— Pancho

Referring to article: Hardin officials assure residents about suspect jail contract (Sep 16th, 2009)

The story is a little old but you may find some of the people from this article. Glass-blowing
artist finds Missoula niche http://matr.net/article-9883.html
— Russ

Referring to article: Glass-blowing artist finds Missoula niche (Feb 13th, 2004)

Hi I'm a high school senior in Missoula and I'm thinking of doing glassblowing as a senior project.
Does anyone know of local glass blowers I could get in contact with? Thanks! email:
jennygodwin24@yahoo.com
— Jenny

Referring to article: Glass-blowing artist finds Missoula niche (Feb 13th, 2004)

This jail scheme has been occupying Hardin for the past five years. Why has not one news source in
all that time questioned the legitimacy of the project from the start? Why has the word "fraud"
never been uttered? This is just the latest in a long series of hustles that took Hardin and
bondholders to the cleaners.
— Frank

Referring to article: Questions swirling around Hardin, Montana jail deal (Sep 13th, 2009)

I am an Afghan girl, being 20 years old. I have applied for IEAW scholarship on 2008 and as per
their stipulated criterias I am one of the eligible candidates. I have scored 583 marks in TOEFL and
4.0 in TWE, but unfortunately I am not receiving any response from Ms. Nirschel in spite of being
accepted from their side. It has been around two years that I have been promised that I will be
granted this opportunity, but yet no action has been taken towards me. Hope you could pass my
message to her.
— Zulfia

Referring to article: Afghan woman arrives in Missoula to study at the U of M (Aug 27th, 2002)

I know that there is the general consensus that economic Hydrogen production, specifically wrt
combustion engines, is farce, however I am skeptical, and hopeful that in the near future we will be
made aware of gross Human rights violations pertaining to the withholding of information that could
have allowed mankind to shoot forward into a new energy dimension! (Accommodation in Johannesburg
www.bastilledeblignaut.co.za)
— Len

Referring to article: Hydrogen Production Method Could Bolster Fuel Supplies (Nov 28th, 2004)

Concerned individuals can learn more about this issue by contacting Dr. Rob Bargatze, President of
the Montana Bioscience Alliance, email address robert.bargatze@ligocyte.com and phone number is
406-585-2733 or Bob McGinnis, MD, MSEE, Registered US Patent Agent, email address
RMcGinnis@aol.com and phone 406-522-9355. Both of us are in Bozeman, Montana.
— Bob McGinnis

Referring to article: National Small Business Association Objects to Key Provisions of Patent Reform Act of 2009 (Sep 5th, 2009)

Concerned individuals can learn more about this issue by contacting Dr. Rob Bargatze, President of
the Montana Bioscience Alliance, email address robert.bargatze@ligocyte.com and phone number is
406-585-2733 or Bob McGinnis, MD, MSEE, Registered US Patent Agent, email address
RMcGinnis@aol.com and phone 406-522-9355. Both of us are in Bozeman, Montana.
— Bob McGinnis

Referring to article: Provisions in patent reform legislation that is presently pending in the U.S. House and Senate (H.R. 1260 and S.515) contain provisions that would be hurtful to small innovative businesses that depend on patents and inventions. (Sep 5th, 2009)

Heather O'Loughlin's email address is the full name: heather_O'Loughlin@baucus.senate.gov, In
the previous posting the email address did not come through.
— Bob McGinnis

Referring to article: Provisions in patent reform legislation that is presently pending in the U.S. House and Senate (H.R. 1260 and S.515) contain provisions that would be hurtful to small innovative businesses that depend on patents and inventions. (Sep 5th, 2009)

Heather O'Loughlin's email address is the full name: Heather_O'Loughlin@baucus.senate.gov, In
the previous posting the email address did not come through.
— Bob McGinnis

Referring to article: National Small Business Association Objects to Key Provisions of Patent Reform Act of 2009 (Sep 5th, 2009)

The "it's all about me" attitude is catching up. Starting with teens, society doesn't tell young
adults that who you are currently with is more important than the text message that is coming
through.
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: On the Job: Employers struggle with unprepared college grads (Sep 6th, 2009)

Nice idea! However, sending a Tweet every single time someone buys something is not good publicity!
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: Vann’s campaign helping out Montana business neighbors by donating 5 percent of any purchase to a Montana-based business of the customer's choice. (Sep 8th, 2009)

I urge concerned individuals and groups to contact their U.S. Congressional delegation, especially
Senators and express concern or opposition to the provisions in the Patent Reform Act of 2009 that
would hurt small businesses and University inventors. Contact information for the Montana
Senators is as follows. Senator Tester's Office: http://tester.senate.gov/ (202) 224-2644, (202)
224-8594 (fax), (866) 554-4403 (toll-free). Ms. Alpha Lillstrom is the legislative aide dealing with
the Patent Reform Act of 2009, email address is Alpha_Lillstrom@tester.senate.gov Senator
Baucus's Office: http://baucus.senate.gov/ (202) 224-2651, (202) 224-0515 (Fax), (800) 332-6106
(from MT) Ms. Heather O'Loughlin is the legislative aide dealing with the Patent Reform Act of 2009,
email address is Heather_O'Loughlin@baucus.senate.gov Bob McGinnis, M.D., Registered U.S. Patent
Agent
— Bob McGinnis

Referring to article: National Small Business Association Objects to Key Provisions of Patent Reform Act of 2009 (Sep 5th, 2009)

I urge concerned individuals and groups to contact their U.S. Congressional delegation, especially
Senators and express concern or opposition to the provisions in the Patent Reform Act of 2009 that
would hurt small businesses and University inventors. Contact information for the Montana
Senators is as follows. Senator Tester's Office: http://tester.senate.gov/ (202) 224-2644, (202)
224-8594 (fax), (866) 554-4403 (toll-free). Ms. Alpha Lillstrom is the legislative aide dealing with
the Patent Reform Act of 2009, email address is Alpha_Lillstrom@tester.senate.gov Senator
Baucus's Office: http://baucus.senate.gov/ (202) 224-2651, (202) 224-0515 (Fax), (800) 332-6106
(from MT) Ms. Heather O'Loughlin is the legislative aide dealing with the Patent Reform Act of 2009,
email address is Heather_O'Loughlin@baucus.senate.gov
— Bob McGinnis

Referring to article: Provisions in patent reform legislation that is presently pending in the U.S. House and Senate (H.R. 1260 and S.515) contain provisions that would be hurtful to small innovative businesses that depend on patents and inventions. (Sep 5th, 2009)

While earning my BS at MSU, I participated in a similar class project which was headed by Dr. Jakki
Mohr. This announced project gives the students some clue into one or more live business operations.
I recommend this approach to any start-up. Jim Miller
— Jim Miller

Referring to article: University of Montana Marketing Management Class Offering Marketing Plan Development to Montana Businesses (Sep 1st, 2009)

Great article that points our some important facts to guide marketers. For example, point six: More
susceptible to sticker shock. This is why grocery stores are selling half-loaves of bread. As the
cost of grain rose dramatically, consumers were not buying as much bread. Sometimes, it was wasted,
as well. A half loaf is perfect for a single or couple, but families were buying because of the
sticker price, afraid of cash-flow issues. This strategy might stay in place long after the
recession is gone... Readily transferable idea. For a website designer... design two pages instead
of five this month, then another two next month. You might sell six pages instead of five by selling
two pages the thrid month when the client is impressed. visit my
website: http://www.radianceroadmarketing.com
— Jack Duncan

Referring to article: Recession Marketing 101!! (Mar 2nd, 2009)

I also refuse to stay in any hotel/motel that charges for Internet service. I've also chosen hotels
based on Internet speed. The slower, the less likely I am to stay there. If the reception desk
doesn't know the download speed, I don't stay...
— Russ

Referring to article: Hotels' charges for Internet irk some (Aug 31st, 2009)

My wife and I were mesmerized when we had the privilege of seeing his work. Truly inspiring and
beautiful. Montana has again attracted an artist of world renown.
— Russ

Referring to article: Sculpting legend: From Thailand to Bigfork, ‘Amazing One’ creates lifelike replicas (Aug 30th, 2009)

Yikes E. coli was found? Escherichia coli happens to reside in your gut and mine. It is a native
bacterium found in the digestive tracts of warm-blooded animals. Most strains are harmless. In
fact, there is a possibility that this class of bacteria assists in the reduction of pathogenic
bacteria that can proliferate in the gut. There are several strains. esp. O157:H7 that can be nasty
if not lethal. The piece did not mention which strains of E. coli were found but be assured every
time you flush the toilet after a bowel movement, E. coli is entering your sewage treatment system.
-David
— David Irwin

Referring to article: Water pollution starts at home (Aug 24th, 2009)

With all the too sweet chais out there, Tipu's is the best I've every had.
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: Montana's Tipu’s Tiger Chai Tea hitting the big time (Aug 23rd, 2009)

Congratulations Buddhapalita, Varada and the Entire Tipu's Chai team!!! Finally - Chai to the world!
I am so proud of you all. Tipu's Tiger Chai is indeed the finest and I look forward to being able
to purchase it in Canada! I can just sense the excitement of all the people who visited the
restaurant as they travelled through Missoula and tasted this great chai. Love to you all, Sharon
Twamley.
— sharon twamley

Referring to article: Montana Based Tipu's Tiger Chai Tea Closes Equity Round with Frontier Angel Fund, LLC: Poised for Global Market (Aug 18th, 2009)

Network World reported kast week that at&t, Time Warner, and Comcast are also not applying for grant
money. The requirements for "net neutrality" were cited as the possible reason. I suggest that
another reason may also be possible. The large carriers may not be interested in serving rural
commuities because of the high cost and low profit potential. The lack of participation by the giant
carriers is great news for smaller, more entrepreneurial providers. In my experience, these smaller
providers typically do a better job of serving rural communities anyway. They also provide the kind
of quality competition we need to keep the incumbent providers honest!
— Paul DeWolfe

Referring to article: Montana PSC leaders ask Qwest to reconsider Internet grant (Aug 19th, 2009)

I just wanted to say that I have been using your jerky seasoning for a few years, and anyone whom
has my jerky says its great. I wanted to thank you and also to ask if you sell it in bulk amounts.
thank you Kenneth Loessberg
— Kenneth Loessberg

Referring to article: Jerky and much more -Hi Country Snack Foods (Dec 12th, 2002)

Hi Russ, Good to see esolar pursuing the heliostat/power tower type plant, but they are not the
first in the US to do this. The Solar 1 and Solar II projects outside of Barstow were full scale
(1800 heliostats, 10 MW) projects sponsored by the DOE that did the pioneering work in showing this
technology to be practical. I have a small piece of mirror from one of the Solar I heliostats
hanging on my shop wall. I think the DOE deserves credit for doing the work to prove this
technology. Gary
— Gary Reysa

Referring to article: Solar Thermal Power Tower Debuts in U.S. (Aug 9th, 2009)

Congratulations, Computer ER! I have never used your services personally, but every one of my web
development students who have mentioned your services have had nothing but good things to say!
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: I.T. Grants Available (Aug 11th, 2009)

Are you kidding. Look for yourself at what Terry Johnson the Legislature chief financial guru said,
"For example, corporation income tax (10th line) shows a negative $3.3 million in the “Difference”
column. This means collections through July of this year are $3.3 less than the amount received
through July of FY 2009 for a 58.2 percent difference..." "Individual Income Tax Based on July
accounting data, net individual income tax collections for FY 2010 (gross collections less refunds)
were 11.9 percent below net collections for FY 2009 or a decrease of $7.2 million. The 61st
Legislature assumed that revenues would increase by 3.1 percent from the FY 2009 amount or an
increase of $25.1 million. This increase was anticipated because collections received in FY 2009
were below the HJ 2 estimate." "the negative 4.2 percent growth from last year indicates total
wages have declined from the level observed a year ago." and "Withholding payments Legislative
Fiscal Division 3 July 27, 2009 for mineral royalties have declined by $3.7 million or 64.3
percent." Wow this sure looks rosie to me, what doesn't someone call B.S. on this stuff.
— John Michael

Referring to article: Governor Schweitzer: With Good Fiscal Management Montana Continues to be Ahead of the Curve (Aug 3rd, 2009)

Thay's great John
— John

Referring to article: Ignite Missoula- Are You Ready For 5 Minutes In The Spotlight?, 9/2, Missoula, Montana (Aug 29th, 2009)

Hi Mr. Tester, I am a 66 year old that has been a Democrat all my life & will not change. I have
also been a General Motors fan ever since my first car. Every vehicle I have bought has been
GM. That is going to change if they drop buying from this country & send their orders to other
countries. I didn't see those countries bailing them out as we did so they will lose business if
they don't get smart. I understand they want to save money, but they will lose more than they save
if they drop the U.S.A. products.
— Pearl Williams

Referring to article: Senator Tester launches G.M. feedback website, encourages Montanans to weigh in (Jul 29th, 2009)

Thanks for the mention and nice publication. I noticed in the write-up, Goomzee is misspelled.
Also in the article, the website address is missing an 'e'. For those who want to visit the site:
http://www.goomzee.com Best, Mike Sparr, CEO Goomzee "Connecting buyers and sellers"
— Mike Sparr - Goomzee

Referring to article: MONTANA Business & Technology Magazine - Summer 2009 Issue - "Competing Through Innovation" (Jul 29th, 2009)

There is much more to this story now. The Bankruptcy Courts are making sure that Real Estate
Victims Get No Help. Check out http://www.ObsidianFinanceSucks.com and
http://www.Summit1031bkjustice.com for more to this story.
— Crystal L. Cox

Referring to article: Exchange Business, "Summit 1031 Exchange" Closes, Prompts Criminal Investigation (Jan 14th, 2009)

Modwest processes hundreds of thousands of incoming messages every day, and despite our best
efforts, the majority are spam. A while back, we wrote about this and it still holds true:
http://blog.modwest.com/2007/08/maximizing-spam.html
— John Masterson

Referring to article: Spam soars despite billions spent to prevent it (Jul 22nd, 2009)

Why don't you keep the jobs in Montana. Why did you all even bother to go into Canada to put jobs
in Canadian hands and have the government railroad you all out of Canada. Some of my friends have
businesses in Canada and wants to leave and run because of the same issue. Give Montana a chance
and give the locals jobs, train them and pay them well, they will benefit also your company.
— Dee Reece

Referring to article: Neville Log Homes Corp.- Montana based log home builder files bankruptcy on Canada plant (Nov 6th, 2008)

Oh, rats. When reading the headline, I thought someone was finally going to step up and talk
about the Texas smooth talkers who took Hardin for that $27 million ride. I await the day.
— Frank

Referring to article: Warning about Texas company saves small Montana business a bundle (Jul 15th, 2009)

While I can understand the Governor's upset. He appears to be speaking out of both sides of his
mouth - while onthe one hand he is upset about a contract being cancelled with the state of Montana
- on the other hand he has no worries about the state of montana having cancelled a contract with a
developer to build and site for the state. Hmmmmmm....What's good for the goose....
— Blair

Referring to article: "Damn right I'm mad!" - Montana Governor Schweitzer blasts GM plan to cancel Stillwater platinum contract (Jul 11th, 2009)

Companies do have issues with the loss of control, but the fact is they have lost control and they
need to become involved with social media if they want to be able to lead the conversation about
their brand. When I start working with a client the first thing I do is go see what the current
conversation is like surrounding their brand. Most times the surprise at the number of
conversations already going on that they aren't involved in will get them interested in social
media. Doug McIsaac http://www.SocialMontana.com
— Doug McIsaac

Referring to article: Creating Influence - Social Media Club Missoula, 7/15, Missoula (Jul 10th, 2009)

A HUGE contratulations, Brian!!! I worked on the Adventure-Life website in 2000-2001. Brian deserves
every bit of recognition he gets. As an employee, I was very impressed with how hard Brian worked to
create a great value for the customer while providing jobs for local people in the tour countries.
In local Montana, as his company grew, he shared the growth with his employees in increased
benefits. I think he should be Businessman of the Year!
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: Brian Morgan, CEO of Missoula-Based Adventure Life Travel Company Featured on Cover of Inc. Magazine. “How to Build Your Dream Company” (Jul 10th, 2009)

Congratulations Angus. I just wish that other states would emulate your wisdom.
— Russ

Referring to article: State of Maine orders 64,000 MacBooks for students and faculty in grades 7 through 12. Maine closing technology gap for students thanks to former Gov. Angus King (Jul 7th, 2009)

In my web development experience, I have seen quite a few companies and organizations create a
budget or a business plan for their website with a somewhat realistic estimate on the cost of
developing the website, but not on the long term maintenance. The costs of maintaining a website are
far and above the costs of developing the site, unless you are building a site with no expected
return. Viewers want fresh information, and your search engine positioning is also highly dependent
on not "abandoning" your site. I have seen organizations build a website underbudget, put the extra
$$$ into some other business area, and then not have any $$$ for website upkeep.
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: Determine your website needs and then set a budget (Jul 2nd, 2009)

Love it! After 28 years in a wheelchair, it will mean one less thing to worry about. That said,
how does the chair react to someone's ADD thoughts (smile). I can imagine driving in all sorts of
directions!
— Blair

Referring to article: Toyota Unveils Wheelchair Propelled by Thoughts Alone (Jun 30th, 2009)

All it took was the "forward" thinking of one or two individuals to begin to change an area of
Helena that has been slowly fading away over the past years. It's not that others didn't see the
problem, it's that others didn't find a solution. Remember that some dogs bark, some dogs are
silent, but the big dogs lead the pack. And the big dogs are not the loudest, they are the
strongest.
— Jeff

Referring to article: Urban Park in a Rural State - Helena, Montana’s Historic Walking Mall (Jun 20th, 2009)

I agree with all of the comments by Marcy and Paul. I have been working on rural broadband issues
for 10 years and strongly believe that affordable, reliable and ubiquitous broadband is critical for
economic vitality in rural areas. The broadband mapping could be a very valuable tool to help
communities engage in planning for broadband. There was a recent Wall Street Journal article
("Battle Brewing Over Broadband Mapping", 6/3/09) that discusses the pitfalls of relying on service
providers to supply the info for the mapping project. The Montana Department of Commerce is
planning on issuing an RFP for the broadband mapping this summer. Please share your concerns with
them and the PSC. Kate McMahon Whitefish, MT www.appcom.net
— Kate McMahon

Referring to article: Broadband Is Key to Economic Development - It's all about the children - Comments requested on Montana's future. (Jun 18th, 2009)

I recommend to readers of the USA Today article a post from a scientist whose work is referenced in
the report
... http://rogerpielkejr.blogspot.com/2009/06/obamas-phil-cooney-and-new-ccsp-report.html
— James

Referring to article: 'Game-changer': Report on climate change urges action (Jun 17th, 2009)

A good new book to read is the Toilet Paper Entrepreneur by Mike Michalowicz. It's a small book
filled with actionable information and ideas to get and keep you on your entrepreneurial
path. Mike's a hell of a guy and was one of the funnest interviews I've ever had on my
BlogTalkRadio show. Doug McIsaac
— Doug McIsaac

Referring to article: Good books for entrepreneurs? (Jun 11th, 2009)

Facebook has been very careful to make sure that Trademarks are protected. In order to register a
username for your Fan Page, you have to meet these TWO criteria: 1. Your Fan Page must have been
LIVE (published) on Facebook prior to May 31st, 2009, AND 2. You must have a minimum of 1000 fans
also prior to May 31st, 2009. In addition they have a trademark registration page here
http://www.facebook.com/help/contact.php?show_form=username_rights Facebook is trying to
protect your trademarks. Now Twitter on the other hand.... Doug McIsaac Social Montana
— Doug McIsaac

Referring to article: Vanity Web Addresses Available to Facebook Users: The Latest Trend in Online Social Networking May be the Next Big Challenge for Trademark Owners (Jun 11th, 2009)

BRAVO, FVCC! You gave me my start. With that start, I went from earning $6.00/hr as a computer
illiterate to a Masters of Computer Science from the University of Montana. The encouraging
environment of FVCC helped this mother of 5 get off food stamps!
— Nora McDougall-Collins

Referring to article: Study: Flathead Valley Community College has brought in millions of dollars in regional income to Northwest Montana. (Jun 8th, 2009)

Hi, • We have just added your latest post "Montana Food and Agriculture Development Centers to
focus on food, bio-energy" to our http://www.projectgrant.info. You can check the inclusion of the
post, Visit
”http://projectgrant.info/story.php?title=montana-food-and-agriculture-development-centers-to-focus-on-food-bio-energy”
We are delighted to invite you to submit all your future posts to the directory for getting a huge
base of visitors to your website and gaining a valuable backlink to your site. Warm
Regards Project Grant Team http://www.projectgrant.info
— kelvin

Referring to article: Montana Food and Agriculture Development Centers to focus on food, bio-energy (Jun 5th, 2009)

Pancho's right. -------------------- Group's past project investigated by Dennis Wagner - May.
21, 2009 The Arizona Republic The business group spearheading plans for a private prison near
Tucson succeeded with a similar project in Texas years ago but only after a tangle of political
intrigue and criminal indictments. In 1999, Innovative Government Strategies proposed a private
detention center for federal inmates in Willacy County, Texas. James Parkey, now heading the prison
plan near Sahuarita on the Tohono O'odham Reservation, led the development team. Financing was
handled by Municipal Capital Markets Group Inc., the same company now backing the Arizona venture.
The Texas prison was approved and built without competitive bidding. A grand jury
investigated allegations of corruption, then issued indictments. In 2005, two Willacy County
commissioners pleaded guilty to taking bribes for their votes on the project. A commissioner
from another county, who worked as a consultant for Parkey's company, Corplan Corrections Inc., was
convicted of passing the money to his co-defendants. None of the prison development companies or
executives faced charges. Parkey acknowledged that the commissioner convicted of paying bribes
had worked for his company. "We had nothing to do with that whatsoever," Parkey said.
— Helena

Referring to article: Hardin, Montana offers new prison to take Guantanamo prisoners (Jun 1st, 2009)

MATR repeats the "woo-woo" endlessly done over in the national press, but no one is taking a good
look at this boondoggle. The Texans who convinced the rocket scientists at Hardin that their scam
would have money raining from the skies took millions off the top. Greg Smith, the ecodev guy,
still wants to blame it on Schweitzer, the one person who worked hardest to extricate them from
their own foolishness. He begged consideration from Wyoming, Colorado, California and various
federal agencies. The state allowed the boneheaded ruling by a boondocks court to stand, which
essentially said that if another jurisdiction had been able to get away with something illegal (in
this case importing prisoners) Hardin should have the same opportunity to make fools of themselves.
I assume Schweitzer may have had something to do with that almost inexplicable laissez faire
approach. Meanwhile if I ever get a ticket for doing 120 MPH on the wrong side of the road, I'll
know to which court to get venue changed, if I can find someone else who's escaped the consequences
of their own dangerous behavior. Hardin is no more qualified to take Guantanamo detainees than
the local barber is qualified to do brain surgery. It's a minimum-security facility that would be
staffed by $7/hour amateurs. Someone needs to ask about the potential culpability of those Music
Men who took the town to the cleaners, getting away unscathed with many millions in fees and
commissions. Meanwhile, MATR's should perhaps consider a new mantra: "All business may not be
good business."
— Pancho

Referring to article: Hardin, Montana offers new prison to take Guantanamo prisoners (Jun 1st, 2009)

The issue of VC-owned companies participating in SBIR is a very important issue for small technology
companies in this region, or at least it should be for those unaware of the issue. In 2008, 61% of
all U.S. Venture Capital was invested in California and Massachusetts alone, and those two states
won 31% of all SBIR awards. If VC-owned companies would be allowed to participate in SBIR, that
would open up a significant pool of new competitors in those states, and those companies would have
a major advantage in the competition for awards: by virtue of having an experienced Venture
Capitalist on their Board, and outside VC funding, they would be perceived by agency reviewers to be
much more likely to be able to commercialize technology (based on current scoring criteria), and so
gain a tremendous advantage in what is now a very tight competition. The apparent net result would
be a significant reduction in both the number and percentage of SBIR awards in this region, thus
reducing access to capital for start-up and small technology firms, and slowing the long-term
economic growth in the region. Montana companies currently win over $10 million per year in
SBIR/STTR awards. Such a change could therefore cost Montana millions annually in business
development funding.
— Ray Friesenhahn

Referring to article: Obama’s SBA Nomination Nods In Favor Of VC Industry (May 28th, 2009)

This article has tremendously good advice. another critical piece of information is DO NOT wait
until the last minute to submit. I would submit at least a week in advance in case there are format
corrections that have to be mnade
— wayne sinclair

Referring to article: Top 10 Pointers for a Successful SBIR-STTR Application (May 29th, 2009)

What a success story! Congratualtions, Julie and team.
— Gloria

Referring to article: Ravalli County Economic Development Authority’s new Entrepreneurship Center moving forward (May 25th, 2009)

Thank you Sen. Baucus. This is yet another example of what makes Montana so great.
— Russ

Referring to article: Special bond brings Sen. Max Baucus to grad's big day. Major player in Congress to speak to Winifred, Montana's graduating class of 8 (May 17th, 2009)

Steve is too modest. Montana is lucky to have him involved with UEDA as the President
Elect. Steve Holland, UEDA President Elect Director Montana Manufacturing Extension
Center http://www.mtmanufacturingcenter.com/ Montana State
University 406-994-3812 sholland@coe.montana.edu He'll be hosting their upcoming
conference which I hope will see several representatives from Montana's education system.
"University Economic Development Association (UEDA) 2009 Summit, 10/11-13, San Antonio, Texas"
http://matr.net/article-34290.html
— Russ

Referring to article: University Economic Development Association (UEDA) focuses on the nexus between higher education institutions and economic development partners. (May 12th, 2009)

Please feel free to email me if you want more information about UEDA. Steve
— Steve Holland

Referring to article: University Economic Development Association (UEDA) focuses on the nexus between higher education institutions and economic development partners. (May 12th, 2009)

I was interested to see that Larry's material shows professional and business, services as a high
growth sector in Montana & Missoula. These fit Larry's definition of "footloose" businesses
that can serve clients around the globe from most any place. Missoula should be doing more to
encourage these kind of businesses to move here or start up here. However, I see very little
evidence that Gov't representatives in Montana understand the needs of these kind of businesses -
which are primarily to access high quality talent, digital infrastructure and to be part of a
cluster of related businesses that can collaborate in delivering complex business solutions to
clients. Most existing gov't incentives and programs are for traditional industries or for
financing of the kind of assets (buildings, machinery) that are no longer needed by professional and
business services organizations. Outreach and marketing (PR) by the city/county/state to
attract and promote these kinds of businesses would be an excellent step forward as would grants to
assist in relocating top talent and/or training top talent from the University for careers in these
fields.
— Paul

Referring to article: Economist Larry Swanson: Missoula lags behind other cities when it comes to the crucial elements of sustainable and focused economic development (May 4th, 2009)

One of the values that underlies our local, state and national economic activity is its short-term
nature. So long as pay-offs are short-term, money and investment will almost always chase a quick
turn around. One of the things that got Wall Street and the big banks in trouble was their ability
to invent "financial products" that could be assembled, valued, sold, sliced and diced, re-packaged,
and sold again in the blink of an eye. The quick fees supplanted the reward for patient investment;
as soon as the product was sold, and the fee collected, the item just sat on the books, festering.
How many more parts of our economy take that view? Real estate development comes to mind.
Developing land takes time and deep pockets (or an accommodating lender)but the jobs it
creates--trades, Realtors, mortgage lenders, etc. are all motivated by moving volume, i.e. building
and selling as fast as possible. I submit that is what makes them most vulnerable when the economy
turns south. It used to be in western Montana that we had the jobs (wood products)that seemed to
go on and on and on. We learned about sustainable forest practices too late. All extractive
industries meet this fate whether it is oil, mining, commercial fishing, etc. Whether they see it
coming and plan for it determines how long they can stay around. The people who tout
sustainability are on to something, I think. But it won't matter until business and investing make
it a key part of the foundation of what they do. If a certain technology is a key part of a
business plan, how long will it be before that technology is eclipsed by something cheaper, faster,
more proprietary? What does reliance on short-term technical advantage say about a business? [I
think one of the reasons Microsoft remains so viable is that it has been big enough to sustain its
vision for technology just over the horizon.] On the local level, we should be doing what we can
to encourage businesses that have more than one good idea and who have a culture that looks many
years past the quarterly financial reports. Those are the ones we need to educate for and focus
public infrastructure for.
— Geoff

Referring to article: Economist Larry Swanson: Missoula lags behind other cities when it comes to the crucial elements of sustainable and focused economic development (May 4th, 2009)

Why is Bozeman doing so much better than Missoula? Why has it done so in just the last 10 years?
Everyone talks about the Griz/Cat rivalry in sports. Why don't we take a look at the economic
development comparison? (Please don't get me wrong. Bozeman is not the competition. The world
is... We should be working more with our fellow Montana and regional communities.) I think part
of the the answer lies in the tech transfer activities at MSU http://www.montana.edu/wwwvr/ and the
entrepreneurship activities from TechRanch
http://matr.net/click.php?id=34&url=http://www.techranch.org . Montana State University has
focused on increasing the visibility, activity and vitality of Research and Development and the
resulting Technology Transfer activities throughout the University and the nation. MSU President,
Dr. Gamble almost always includes some statement or fact about tech transfer activities in his
speeches. The department puts out regular news updates that cover new development, developments
available for licensing and success in either spinning off new companies or licensing technology.
There's a highly promoted site that promotes tech transfer opportunities
http://www.montana.edu/wwwvr/tto/index.html It's been so successful that it made the
BusinessWeek.com top 10 tech transfer list The primary goal hasn't been to earn huge sums of
money for the University, although this is always a nice result when it occurs. Stanford got $250
million from a portion of its equity stake and the professor who mentored the founders got over $15
million when Google went public. The real benefits include but are not limited to: *
increased visibility of research projects that can help attract both world class scientists and top
flight students who want to learn from and work with them * higher levels of entrepreneurial
activity that leads to globally focused startups instead of just, as Rob Ryan of Entrepreneur-
America in Hamilton
http://www.matr.net/click.php?id=&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.entrepreneur-america.com%2F calls them,
"lampost" companies http://matr.net/article-33805.html * a more vibrant professional and
entrepreneurial community that understands the need to attain higher levels of excellence in order
to compete on the global stage * an awareness by entrepreneurs from other regions that the town
is a place where they can develop their ideas and get the support they need We don't need more
"high paying jobs". "High Paying" jobs in Montana usually come from companies that have their
headquarters outside of the state or from companies that have moved to Montana because of
incentives. Why are so many of them below or just at living-wage? Dont' we deserve better? And
both can be transient as those same companies can easily be lured away. What we need are more
home-grown millionaires. If entrepreneurs become millionaires here, it means they've built
successful companies in Montana that hire the best and the brightest at high salaries. (A great
example is PrintingForLess in Livingston http://matr.net/article-33876.html ) We have too many
jobs that pay below living-wage salaries. That's why we are perennial list leaders for people with
2 or more jobs. TechRanch has done an outstanding job of nurturing startups and proactively
developing the entrepreneurial community in Bozeman. Regular news updates, frequent networking
meetings, a focus on helping tenants of the incubator either go big or go home, and helping those
startups with great potential attract the vital seed funding that will help them excel are all part
of the mission of TechRanch http://matr.net/click.php?id=34&url=http://www.techranch.org I don't
believe Missoula has done as good job as it must at fostering tech transfer and developing the
entrepreneurial climate in our community that encourages, educates and supports entrepreneurs who
have a great idea but don't have the experience of developing high potential companies. As James
Lee Burke said: "Missoula ruins so many careers. People visit, and then throw everything away just
so they can stay." We have the ability to make it easier for people to succeed here and when they
succeed, we all benefit. Bozeman and many other communities got it years ago. It's not that
we can't do it hear, it's just that we haven't done it yet. Montana Career Opportunity -
Director-Technology Transfer - University of Montana
http://matr.net/article-33860.html There's going to be a growing effort to develop a Missoula
Economic Blueprint. It will need input from every citizen interested in securing a better economic
future for Missoula. If you're interested in learning more, please contact Dick King, CEO of the
Missoula Area Economic Development Corporation http://www.maedc.org (406) 728-3337 There will
also be an excellent conference that will help us learn how to better retain and attract creative
and successful businesses in Missoula and Western Montana. "IEDC Business Retention And Expansion
Course, 5/12-13, Missoula, Montana" http://matr.net/events.phtml?showdetail=2719
— Russ

Referring to article: Economist Larry Swanson: Missoula lags behind other cities when it comes to the crucial elements of sustainable and focused economic development (May 4th, 2009)

While it's great for Montana to be again ranked so highly, the trend of the types of startups
continues to be disappointing. Almost all of our activity is focused on what Rob Ryan calls
"lampost" companies. http://matr.net/article-33567.html (Everyone should read this.) We don't
have an ethic of trying to build world class companies but instead follow the mantra of "I don't
want to work for a company anymore so I'll start my own but I'll do something that's proven to be
successful in the next town." I call these "survival" companies because their goal is to pay the
entrepreneur enough money to survive but they lack the innovation to grow beyond that
level. Obviously there are exceptions but our continued high ranking without the resulting
globally focused companies indicates that we're still just trying to survive. Montana needs to
change the way we encourage entrepreneurial activity. A great start is the Warren Miller Freedom
Foundation http://matr.net/article-31159.html which is helping elementary school children develop,
plan and run their own companies. This gives them the basics that will become the building blocks
for their careers. They will begin to understand that if you're going to build a company, it's
the same effort whether the goal is to make $50,000 a year or $500,000,000. "America's Print
Shop" - PrintingForLess in Livingston is a great example that Montana can be proud of. If you're
going to build a printing company, why not build one that can serve the world instead of just your
local businesses http://www.printingforless.com Mentoring, education and networking can all
contribute to a better entrepreneurial climate in Montana. What else can we do to encourage more
PFL's?
— Russ

Referring to article: The Kauffman Foundation Index Of Entrepreneurial Activity Ranks Montana 3rd in the Nation. Why isnt' this great news? (May 4th, 2009)

Very innovative way to utilize the space. ;-)
— Mike Sparr - Goomzee.com

Referring to article: ReMax office turns biz incubator in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho "Suite Solutions" for anyone looking to start a business. (May 1st, 2009)

This is a very personal view. I don't like pornography. I think, historically, it is demeaning to
women. I was stalked as a child but, we didn't talk about that 45 years ago. My life changed
forever. I've been to counseling, as an adult. I am 54 years old. I am also pretty computer
knowledgeable. Also, I am a teacher. I have spent my life working with children who are hurt in
some way. I have a master's degree in special education. My boyfriend was just sentenced to 11
years for sending/receiving pornography via computer that included minors. He was sexually molested
as a child. His molester (who sexually abused a number of children) got one year in prison. That
was 30 years ago. My friend drew 11 years. The internet has opened up doors that people would never
enter otherwise. $25,000 later, after all the tests and assessments and defense, we learned what we
already knew. He's not a pedophile, he's not a threat to anyone except maybe himself. Those of us
who have lived through, and survive, the stalking and molestation just don't see life the same way
as people who are "safe". It's not an excuse. I hope to God that there is mercy in this life.
— lornabee@ameritech.net

Referring to article: Montana computer forensics agent, Jimmy Weg of Helena “The Legend.”, honored for meritorious service (Apr 29th, 2009)

Great find, Russ. Thanks for posting!
— Tom Rupsis

Referring to article: Stand By Me -- Playing for Change (Apr 28th, 2009)

This is sorry news. I know none of the specifics regarding the failure of Sustainable Systems to pay
the growers of oilseeds and my viewpoint is only speculation. This business was one of the shining
lights in emerging technologies coming from Missoula and UM. I sincerely hope that the Sustainable
Systems will not, or has not gone to the netherlands of failed startup companies. Having attended,
exhibited and spoken at more than a few biofuel conferences, I know the volatility of the market is
no small factor. The bottom line is that biofuels are more expensive than fossil fuels. When fossil
oil is really high, biofuel and promising oilseed crops like camelina will be viable. This will not
happen until we have a depleted, completely unstable petroleum reserve. -DI
— David Irwin

Referring to article: Missoula based Sustainable Systems fails to pay farmers. Missoula’s biodiesel bus system loses its fuel supplier of 10 years (Apr 22nd, 2009)

It seems to me we need to very carefully analyze the ramifications of bringing $2 billion in Federal
matching funds into the early stage markets. For example, the $2 billion match is only available to
angel funds, which represent only 20% of US angel groups. Is that fair, reasonable and practical?
Furthermore, this plan calls for expanding the SBA's role through an office of angel investing. For
what purpose? I personally see no need or justification for this legislation. Bill Payne PS Ask
those bankers who did not want TARP money and now cannot return it how they might react to such a
proposal?
— Bill Payne

Referring to article: Creating a National Innovation Framework (Apr 23rd, 2009)

I have seen Gil Stober at work and have listened to his work many times when listening to "11th &
Grant with Eric Funk" When I first saw the show, the videography and sound quality was so good I
assumed I was watching a broadcast that was originating from Seattle or Chicago.
— Tim Hammond

Referring to article: Peak Recording & Sound Inc. hits perfect note in Bozeman (Sep 21st, 2003)

Warmest congratulations and thank you for helping to start and develop Frontier Angels
http://frontierangelfund.angelgroups.net/ in Montana. You've contributed and continue to
contribute a great deal to the future of Montana. Thanks Bill
— Russ

Referring to article: William H. Payne (Frontier Angels in Whitefish, MT) Honored as 2009 Hans Severiens Award Recipient (Apr 19th, 2009)

Thanks for the smile, Russ. Yes, we are fortunate that we can make local calls!
— Gloria

Referring to article: Phones in Church... (Apr 7th, 2009)

Mr. Feiss' comments are, as always, well researched and well stated. However, I find a few reasons
to take exception. First, he points out that there is no plan for how to spend the HB645 funds.
This is true. However, the existing rural providers he represents also have not published a plan for
their use of the stimulus funding. Their plans have not been publicly reviewed so that independent
and objective Montanans can decide whether they are worthy endeavors or simply replacing investments
or their own money with federal dollars. Also, the argument that the state would be competing
with the private sector is not necessarily true. Public/private partnerships can be a very effective
means to reach the most remote users. The approach to ARRA funding espoused by Mr. Feiss is
essentially a public/private partnership. The argument that the $5 million dollars can not be
spent in time is also speculative. Some of that money could be dedicated to identifying unserved and
underserved communities and identifying solutions for those communities. This work could be
completed on a statewide basis in 6 months. From this analysis, application could be made for the
second or third round of ARRA funding. Said applications would be based on independently vetted
plans that prove the need of the community and the sustainability of any given solution. This
approach has been proven in Idaho and North Dakota, two states that are much better prepared to
compete for ARRA funding than is our own state. My greatest concern with letting the incumbent
providers control the application for stimulus funding is also based on real experience. In 2006,
four rural counties in North Central Idaho lobbied for state funding for broadband deployment in
rural communities. The Idaho Legislature approved $5 million dollars with the caveats that it be
matched dollar for dollar by the applicant and that the applicant be an existing service provider.
The net result was that 97% of that funding was spent in communities adjacent to Boise and Coeur
d'Alene. The truly rural counties that lobbied for the funding received less than 3%. It is arguable
that the major providers used the state funding to replace their own money, selected the most
profitable implementations, and did little to improve the broadband service in the neediest
communities. Without an independent and objective brodband planning effort, our rural residents
may well suffer the same results. The HB645 funding could enable that effort and help the neediest
communities, ones which may not appear on the telcos applications, to finally bridge the digital
divide.
— Paul DeWolfe

Referring to article: What's 'broadband'? Billions in stimulus funds (especially in rural states) are at stake. Dream Big, Feds, Very Big! (Apr 9th, 2009)

Mr. DeWolfe is a strong ally of rural telecommunications, and his involvement in policy circles is
valuable and appreciated. He is correct that there’s a $5 million appropriation request in HB 645,
and the Senate may consider deleting the funding. Why would, as Mr. DeWolfe queries, rural telecom
service providers “lobby against funding for their own industry?” The answers certainly are not for
the reasons Mr. DeWolfe speculates. The $5 million appropriation in HB 645 is intended for the
state’s 20% match required to apply for federal broadband stimulus grant money. The American
Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) requires applicants for broadband grants to provide a 20%
non-federal funding match for the federal stimulus funds being sought. Requiring applicants to
match grants with their own money is an effective way to ensure accountability in applications. In
the case of a state or local government application for broadband stimulus funds, this
“accountability match” is provided by the taxpayer, as opposed to private investors in the case of
non-governmental applications for broadband funds. That’s 20% of taxpayer money ($5 million in the
case of HB 645), combined with 80% of taxpayer money ($20 million) to comprise a total of $25
million of broadband stimulus grant funds—if a state or local government applies for, and receives,
federal stimulus funds. No one is walking away from the prospect of $25 million of stimulus
funding for new broadband investment in rural Montana. In fact, Montana’s rural telecom providers,
not to mention a host of other telecommunications service providers, are anxious to compete for
broadband stimulus funds, and immediately to invest such funds in enhanced deployment of broadband
services to rural, unserved, and underserved constituencies in Montana, as ARRA requires. These
constituencies include schools, libraries, emergency service providers, and health care
institutions, not to mention the rest of Montana’s rural business and residential consumers.
Montana’s rural telecom providers have already deployed state of the art services to the edges of
their networks and exceed practically all national benchmarks for broadband deployment. This is not
to say we can’t, and don’t intend to do even better. The broadband stimulus funds offer an
outstanding opportunity to invest more and/or sooner in deploying technologies that otherwise would
not be deployed. If you do the math, there is less than $7 billion in ARRA for broadband
investment in rural, unserved and underserved areas. If, as ARRA provides, there’s at least one
grant provided to each state; and if you divide $7 billion by 50 (not including D.C. and American
territories, which also are eligible for grants), then you have less than $140 million available to
each state. $25 million provided to the state potentially means that there's even less available
for private investment in Montana's broadband telecommunicaiotns infrastructure. Title XV of ARRA
is the “Transparency and Accountability” section of the Act. It requires detailed descriptions of
projects that applicants propose to fund with stimulus funds. For state and local governments, ARRA
further requires that projects are fully reviewed and vetted. This has not happened in Montana. We
do not know how the state and/or local governments plan to spend $25 million of broadband stimulus
funds in Montana. Title XVI of ARRA provides that 50% of the funds provided in the Act are
invested in projects that can get off the ground quickly—120 days after enactment, or June 17. If
we don’t even know what project(s) the state intends to fund, it is unlikely that such project(s)
can satisfy the “quick start” provision of Title XVI alone, not to mention the rest of ARRA’s
requirements. Other provisions of ARRA provide that funds must be targeted to unserved and
underserved areas, schools, health care faciliites and vulnerable populations. Applicants must
ensure that they can complete projects within two years of receiving funds; i.e., they won’t be
returning to the taxpayer for more money. They must report quarterly on the use of the funds and
comply with a variety of other standards and requirements. Montana’s rural telecoms are able and
willing to comply with these provisions immediately. Montana’s rural telecom industry can use
every penny of funding available. However, they do not need to compete (potentially) with their
own state for these valuable resources. And there’s the rub. We do not know how the state plans
to spend this money. Will it squeeze out other applications including private investors? Isn’t
there a conflict of interest if a government entity applies for funds, and then uses its influence
to steer funding to its own application? Will government projects effectively divert resources
from, or discourage private investment? Will government-funded projects really be one-time-only
expenditures, or will government projects require on-gong public financing? Even if state or local
government grant funds are made available to private investors, wouldn't that just create a new
layer of administrative bureaucracy between applicants and stimulus funds? There is competition
already in many rural service areas from other wireline providers, wireless providers, and cable
providers. What consumers don’t need is competition from their own government—-especially when
there is no transparency or accountability associated with publicly-funded projects. ARRA is
intended to bring targeted, temporary and timely stimulus to the economy. Montana’s rural telecom
providers, not to mention a host of other private investors (e.g., competitors), are prepared to
spend far more than $25 million in deploying broadband services to areas most in need in Montana.
So far, without any evidence to the contrary, the $5 million in HB 645 has all the potential of
diverting funds from more effective, efficient investment activity. The $5 million in HB 645 is
neither targeted, temporary, nor timely. Geoff Feiss, Montana Telecommunications Association.
— Geoff Feiss

Referring to article: What's 'broadband'? Billions in stimulus funds (especially in rural states) are at stake. Dream Big, Feds, Very Big! (Apr 9th, 2009)

Well I believe that you are a pediphile and murderer. Does that make it true? Does it make any
sense? I don't even know you! But because i said it on the internet it must be true! Honestly,
the red-line advisory is telling you and me that they are marketing here in Montana. It also goes on
to state that they can't and shouldn't be garanteeing you a grant. Which they aren't, at least they
didn't promise me any money. Basically if I hire them, they will be doing the PAPERWORK for me. If
that doesn't make sense to you then don't do it. Seriously, you wouldn't want people posting
falsely about your company online would you? Unfounded, unsupported, lies? Be an adult, if you don't
want to hire them, don't. But they have a B- with the local BBB, they have a complaint that was
resolved. The other company you mentioned has an F with the BBB, and multiple complaints that
haven't been resolved. Could that possibly be because people honestly complained? Might it be
because they went through the right channels to do so? if Corporate Capital Team was just as bad,
they would have just as bad a rep with thier BBB.
— well I belive....

Referring to article: Better Business Bureau - Red Line Advisory - Corporate Capital Team Leaving Automated Messages for MT Businesses re: Grants (Feb 9th, 2009)

I grew up in Great Falls amd remember going to the sip and dip. one night there was a convention of
the Montana School for the Deaf and Blind. they showed up at the bar. it was a bit surreal
watching pat play the piano and all the deaf people sitting around the piano bar talking but with no
sound!
— jan

Referring to article: Quirky Sip-N-Dip (Great Falls) makes splash on GQ magazine's top 10 bars in the world. (Mar 31st, 2003)

Rural Montanans, take note! The current legislature's bill to implement the federal stimulus, HB
645, includes $5 million dollars to be used as matching funds for up to $20 million in federal rural
broadband stimulus funds. The $5 million was in the bill when it was approved by the House. The
Senate, however, is considering deleting that funding. They are doing so with the encouragement of
the Montana Telecommunications Association (the rural telephone companies). Why would the telcos
lobby against funding for their own industry? Perhaps because public funding would require open
competition and threaten the monopoly status of teh rural telcos? Rural Montanans should be calling
their Senotors and encouraging them to support the State funding match for the federal rural
broadband stimulus.
— Paul DeWolfe

Referring to article: What's 'broadband'? Billions in stimulus funds (especially in rural states) are at stake. Dream Big, Feds, Very Big! (Apr 9th, 2009)

And that's before they even start talking about earthquakes....
— Russ

Referring to article: Warming to bring more flooding and fire, less rain to California (Apr 2nd, 2009)

Hi Russ, Good article. I find that its not just the computer itself, but also the peripherals
plugged into it that use a lot of power. We use this gadget to shut all down
automatically: http://www.builditsolar.com/Projects/Conservation/MiniPowerMinder.htm Works like a
champ. We save over 1700 KWH per year by just using hibernate and the gadget above on 2
PCs! The other awful new gadget is the TIVO style digital TV recorders -- they use about 50 watts
24/7/365 whether turned or or off -- they are as bad as a
fridge. http://www.builditsolar.com/Projects/Conservation/conservation.htm#PowerHogs Gary
— Gary Reysa

Referring to article: Goodnight Computer - How to save money by logging off. PCs left on at night cost companies $2.8B a year (Mar 25th, 2009)

If you live in a community served by Triangle Communications, please apply for the Business Boost
Education grant for funds to attend Rural Communities workshop. Visit www.itsTriangle.com for link
to grant application and workshop.
— Kev Campbell

Referring to article: Rural Community Skills-Building Conference, 5/12-13, Bozeman, Montana (Mar 27th, 2009)

Fred and Linda are truly great people. They offer a great work environment for their entire team.
MCFC is proud to have been able to help them with their building needs, along with First Interstate
Bank!
— Linda Kindrick

Referring to article: Missoula business recognized for success - Paradise Dental Technologies (Mar 26th, 2009)

I attended the Philipsburg meeting on March 20th. Apparently it wasn't meant for the many as no
notice appeared in the local paper. Yet the majority present were local small business owners and
government agents/public officials. I am neither. In my opinion, one that seemed to be shared by a
number of the audience, Mr. J.J. Adams was ill prepared for many of the bitting questions and
negative comments. He couldn't give any plausible explanation as to how applying for the stimulus
loans and grants would provide any good paying permanent local jobs. More agreed that the tax payers
would be saddled with paying for more wasteful government handouts, with borrowed money, which would
create more problems than solve. Baucus and his aides apparently must believe their own polls that
claim more people support this outrageous give away. Again, Mr. Adams was ill prepared and seemed to
have more moments of lose of words than those of wisdom. BTW You can call it whatever you want.
However, a "Jobs Bill" ? Please. Don't underestimate the intelligence of the people who aren't
holding their hands out begging.
— E.G

Referring to article: Senator Baucus' Staff Holding Workshops Across Montana to Help Business Make the Most of the Jobs Bill (Mar 20th, 2009)

This is an outstanding event that every student taking college classes in Montana should enter.
Amazing experience that will increase your ability to compete in the business world after you leave
school. Before you do though, everyone should spend a lot of time going through this site
http://matr.net/article-33567.html and reading SMARTUPS. The Video Vault
http://www.entrepreneur-america.com/?pageid=video_vault is worth its weight in gold (funding for
your startup) !
— Russ

Referring to article: The 20th Annual John Ruffatto Business Plan Competition, 5/14, University Of Montana (Mar 22nd, 2009)

Congratulations to Pat for this honor. I hope the man has a book in him that he needs to write. It
would be a great read!
— Geoff Badenoch

Referring to article: Montana University Regents to honor former U.S. Rep. Pat Williams with emeritus status (Mar 20th, 2009)

Warmest congratulations and thanks for all you've done for Montana Pat. It's an honor to know
you.
— Russ Fletcher

Referring to article: Montana University Regents to honor former U.S. Rep. Pat Williams with emeritus status (Mar 20th, 2009)

I read your post on alternate energy with interest. My own experience with NWE and even the former
MPC is that they are only interested in brokering power with the highest profit and the lowest
hassle. Since their rates are fixed and their profit is garunteed they do not have a reason to cater
to alternate energy suppliers. I was involved with a project in Carbon County where I had 4000
gallons per minute of water available with 300 feet of head. I made numerous inquiries to NWE about
installing a hydroelectric plant that would produce up to 250 KW. No one ever returned my calls. The
local manager, in Bridger, basically told me that they would not be interested in coordinating on
the project. I was also told that a grid tie system for the 16 KW plant that I eventually installed
would cost me $12,000 and would be nothing short of a "pain in the ass" for NWE. In over twenty
years of engineering projects I have never been involved with a comapany with a lower dedication to
service than NWE. Their true moto should be "Profit First, Customers when and if we have the
time". I am in the process of preparing, at the request of three clients, a detailed accounting
of the service we have recieved from NWE. Once complete, we will present the report to the Public
Service Commission.
— Ron Schwend

Referring to article: CEO Bob Rowe: NorthWestern Energy committed to renewable energy (Mar 5th, 2009)

I believe the last figures I saw were that 58% of the U.S. population lives within 50 miles of a sea
coast. If sea level rises aren't slowed, this is going to mean a lot more people are going to
be looking at the "3rd Coast". How are rural communities planning for this increase in
population, importance and social change?
— Russ

Referring to article: Scientists: Sea-level rise worse than thought - Sea level rise due to global warming poses threat to New York City - California Sea-Level Rise May Threaten $100 Billion of Property (Mar 16th, 2009)

For those of you in the Missoula area, I'd encourage you to attend a City Club Missoula
http://www.cityclubmissoula.org forum. "OUR MISSION is to bring together people to inform and
inspire citizens on issues vital to the Missoula area community through public forums that encourage
the discussion of new ideas and the free exchange of thought." For those of you in other
communities, please feel free to contact CCM to discuss how your community can develop your own City
Club.
— Russ

Referring to article: Johns Hopkins Civility Project makes peace person to person, then nation to nation (Mar 15th, 2009)

http://800notes.com/Phone.aspx/1-877-472-6814/16 Please review this link. We believe Corporate
Capital Team is a spin off of Small Business Funding Company.
— ripped off client

Referring to article: Better Business Bureau - Red Line Advisory - Corporate Capital Team Leaving Automated Messages for MT Businesses re: Grants (Feb 9th, 2009)

My book group read Three Cups of Tea for our book for March, 2009. I was very impressed with the
work being done by Greg Mortenson and his co-workers. It has been my firm belief for many years
that the only way to succussfully promote peace is to educate women and children. Those cultures
that continuously subjugate women and do not take care of the health of women and children are
destined to failure. Greg has found the best way forward for Pakistan, Afgahnistan, the Untited
States, and for all cultures. We as a nation and a people should do all we can to support his
efforts. I am impressed that he has been nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize and sincerely hope he
wins. I watched the NBC interview and know that the future of generations to come will be improved
by his efforts. His daughter, Amira, is beautiful, talented, and well educated. She shows great
maturity which is a tribute to both her father and her mother. Many thanks to Greg, Tara and all
the workers and staff of Central Asia Institute.
— Nancy Vitale

Referring to article: The Today Show - Reaching young minds Greg Mortenson and the Pennies for Peace program (Three Cups of Tea - a humanitarian tale) (Jan 22nd, 2009)

I just had the pleasure of attending Bill Joos' presentation here in Missoula. Outstanding and
essential for anyone who is an entrepreneur, may want to be an entrepreneur or thinks they can spell
entrepreneur... Trying to build and finance a business without following his guidance would be
like trying to build your dream home without plans and only a saw. You may have the best idea in
the world but, without the right tools and a plan developed the right way, you're just gonna make
sawdust. Bill Joos can help you build your dream.
— Russ

Referring to article: Highway 12 Ventures Hosts A One Day Entrepreneur Bootcamp With Bill Joos, 4/13, Boise, Idaho (Mar 12th, 2009)

800 Million to create 11,000 jobs. I'm not seeing the logic here.
— Paul Morton

Referring to article: Montana Governor Schweitzer unveils stimulus spending proposals (Mar 6th, 2009)

Thank you, Russ, for honoring my Grandma. She is an amazing lady.
— Gloria

Referring to article: Happy 102nd Birthday to Gloria O'Rourke's (MEDA and Ambassadors Coordinator) Grandma, Lorraine Stamper Enloe (Mar 6th, 2009)

Great article, Russ. I applaud the local communities for organizing on their own. We work with a
client in that area and know first hand the frustration of working with Verizon in rural
communities. That client is paying $1000 per month for 1.5Mbps. There aren't too many Vermonters (or
Montanans, Idahoans, etc.)that can afford that! I also can't help wondering if the single-minded
focus on fiber networks, with their 5 or 10 to 1 cost disadvantage compared to wireless solutions,
isn't going to doom their project in the end.
— Paul DeWolfe

Referring to article: The Broadband Hot Potato (Mar 5th, 2009)

At 10:17am traveling East on I40 along the steep incline west of Williams, AZ aWatkins Shepard truck
numbered 2379L unlawfully entered into the leftmost third lane in an area of the interstate
whereupon there are three lanes and no freight trucks are allowed to travel upon that leftmost lane.
An 18-wheeler had moved into the center lane to pass a slower moving 18-wheeler travweling the
rightmost lane, then the W.S.2379L 18-wheeler moved into the leftmost lane forcing me into the
shoulder, wherein my left front wheel struck upon a boulder that lie ahead while I am being forced
to run along the I40 leftmost shoulder. If I had the authority of the law, I would cite that driver
for an illegal lane change, endangerment, impedeing traffic, and anything else the law would
allow. This happened upon the 27th of Febuary 2009 at 10:17am.
— B. Wordsworth

Referring to article: Road scholars - Watkins and Shepard Trucking trains, then employs fleet of drivers (Oct 14th, 2003)

The Hill County Electric Cooperative Workforce Development scholarships applications are due in the
office or postmarked by March 1, 2009. If you or someone you know is attending an accredited
lineman's school or MSU Northern for the Electrical Technology program, encourage them to apply.
Applications are online at www.HillCountyElectric.coop or call 406 394 2864 for scholarship
application and information.
— Kev Campbell

Referring to article: Hill County Electric (HCE) - The Three Phases That Keep Hill County's Workforce and Montana Energized (Feb 25th, 2009)

actually capacitors are the answer, msu electrical engineers are you working on this also?
— pkt

Referring to article: Are You Listening? Just One Word: Batteries (Feb 24th, 2009)

sad excuse for a tourist attraction, isn't it? the museum of mining is great and it and the
architecture uptown should be featured instead!
— pkt

Referring to article: Berkeley Pit as inspiration (Feb 23rd, 2009)

A blistering counterpoint to the above too:
http://www.techcrunch.com/2009/02/22/friedman-misses-the-point-and-economic-reality-of-silicon-valley/
— John Masterson

Referring to article: “Start-ups, not bailouts: nurture the next Google, don’t nurse the old G.M.’s.” (Feb 23rd, 2009)

Our Governor is Making Room for Big Ideas; that's good. Butte was built with big ideas, lots of
capital, and enormous personal resourcefulness. Back in 1989 some visiting scientists, who had
worked the large projects of the world up to that time, advised me to remember two things: The best
hydro-geologists and earth scientists they had ever encountered were right there in Butte; and Butte
sets its sights too low, "If the Japanese had this hill right now it would be a bee hive." Since
I've had the time to become more familiar with the mining history of Butte, I fell it's important to
make two important corrections: The copper kings did not bring that 10,000 mile honey comb of
drifts, raises, and shafts into existence. The miners did. Underground miner was without question
one of the most capable work men around, We need to continue building that type of multitalented
individual adjusting for the new economic environment. Secondly, the Butte Hill was already
filled with water; mining could not proceed at to top below the 140 foot level. It took hard rock
miners from Cork Ireland, who had learned how to work out under the Atlantic in the Allhies mines
out under the Atlantic drive the initial deep shafts. They of course would turn the water on their
friends farther down the hill, until it was learned that the water was itself valuable for putting
in tin cans and getting back copper by cementation. These processes and arrangements evolved
over time as mines grew and merged. At the end all mines were interconnected a the 3800 foot level
and surveyed in such a way that the continuous inflow of water would drain to the pump rooms of the
High Ore Mine. From the 3800 foot level of the High Ore, four stainless steel pipes were used to
move water to the surface (3800 feet) and then back over Hungry Hill (Dublin Gulch) to what is now
called the tailings ponds. There the values continued to be extracted. Butte Copper miners did
never intend to "store water," but rather to "get rid of it as painlessly and profitably as
possible." When the 10 main pumps in the High Ore Pumping Gallery (with five in reserve) were shut
down, that ended underground mining in Butte. The water is still rising and its been more than 30
years. Again my compliments to our governor. I hope there are some capable individuals out there
who can move on the idea. On a final note: I thoroughly evaluated the technical paper by
Nordberg given to the American Association of Engineers in Butte in 1913. In it he describes the
system of compressed air storage and hydrostatic storage used by the Anaconda Company to store
energy transmitted from Great Falls into another form so it could be used to run 27 major mining
operations on the Butte Hill. Specifically I am referring the the Butte Hoist Compressor System.
There's was a remarkable feat: they figured out how to protect the 125 mile transmission line to
great falls (longest one to that time), while at the same time energizing the wildly dynamic heavy
industrial activity at Butte. Had they not figured out how to used storage to give a near 100% load
factor to the line from Great Falls, Butte would have not been able to take advantage of electricity
as an energy form and lost out to the lower cost mines farther south. I think there is a lot
to be learned from this experience with compressed air, that lasted the extensive life of the Butte
Hill, which might be useful now, not for communicating a 100% load factor of 27 head frames working
24/7 at the load end of a transmission line, but for communicating a near 100% capacity factor of 27
wind mills at the resource end of a transmission line. I'll be glad to send my notes on the 1913
paper to any one who has further questions. John Driscoll http://www.stewardmagazine.com
— John Driscoll

Referring to article: Gov Schweitzer: Butte, Montana could be first zero-carbon city on the planet (Feb 16th, 2009)

Hi Russ, The new package also gives tax credits for solar water heating systems, and for a whole
raft of energy efficiency items (roofs, insulation, wind power,
...). http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=products.pr_tax_credits Gary
— Gary Reysa

Referring to article: Stimulus adds tax credit for home solar panels (Feb 18th, 2009)

No way should there be a new college in the Bitteroot unless privately owned (which means no new
college in todays economy). With the internet and online colleges, extension, night classes,
closeness to Missoula, it is ridiculous and irresponsible to try unless a local business will fully
pay for it.
— philospherkingtomas

Referring to article: State Legislature won't fund Bitterroot Valley Community College (Feb 20th, 2009)

Greetings BVCC supporters and interested parties-- By now many of you may know that the BVCC
died during Executive Action of the Senate Education and Cultural Resources on February 18. Voting
for the BVCC were Senators Laible, Stewart-Peregoy, Brown, and Hamlett. Voting against the BVCC
were Senators Hawks, McGee, Ripley, Zinke, and Branae. Ripley and Zinke gave no reason for their
"nay" vote, while Hawks stated that he didn't believe the community was really behind the college
and that per his conversation with George Dennison (UM President) what Ravalli County really seemed
to need was a COT (College of Technology); McGee said he was voting against the new college because
he didn't believe in mandatory levies; and, Branae said that although he supported 2-year education
he was reluctant to vote for this particular proposal. All in all, the Montana University System
(MUS) simply had too much influence for us to overcome. Decisions were made based on false
understandings of Montana's 2-year education system. The process weighed heavily in favor of
maintaining the status quo. We are now left to pick up the pieces and make do with the scraps.
In a final call to action regarding the BVCC, I urge you to write and thank the Senators who were
brave and principled enough to support our community's efforts. Likewise, I urge you to write and
express your frustration to the Senators who failed to take the time to listen to our community and
understand the complexity of this issue. With much appreciation to all the BVCC supporters and
hard working volunteers, on behalf of the BVCC Trustees-elect and BVCC Steering Committee, I thank
you for your willingness to be visionaries in a hostile climate. Best to all, Victoria
Clark BVCC Steering Committee Spokesperson (406) 821-1682
— Victoria Clark

Referring to article: State Legislature won't fund Bitterroot Valley Community College (Feb 20th, 2009)

Wisconsin has long been a leader in innovative programs to encourage entrepreneurship and funding
for their startups but these programs, given the dire economic climate, are outstanding. What can
your state/our state do to consider implementing similar programs? Entrepreneurs have the ability
to live anywhere so they'll go to those states that can provide them the programs and support that
will help them succeed. It's a very competitive world.
— Russ

Referring to article: Wisconsin Governor Doyle's budget initiatives to promote innovation and growth. Wow! (Feb 19th, 2009)

I received my education in solar engineering technology during the late 1970's and early 1980's.
Millions of State tax dollars were spent to advance renewable energy technology and the return on
investment was very poor While I fully support these technologies, if we want to make a
difference, we must first change our thinking about the way that we plan developments and build our
homes. Conservation and passive solar gain is by far the most cost effective way to save energy.
That should be our priority when spending government dollars in this "new" green energy economy.
We can change our building energy codes to include simple construction methods that can cut the
operating cost of a home by 20% to 50%. This can be done with a minimal increase in the cost of
construction. I am pleased to see a resurgence in this industry, but we must review previously
subsidized projects and spend taxpayers money wisely.
— Dave Williams

Referring to article: Novel Kalispell, Montana based startup, Great Northern Solar banks on 'smart grid' (Jan 31st, 2009)

great news for Billings! and for business!
— philosopherking

Referring to article: Allegiant plans Missoula- Billings, Montana - Los Angeles, California flights (Feb 17th, 2009)

Right, but this is a good way to bring in more skilled workers.
— Jason

Referring to article: Getting innovation from the mind the market - A Boise firm, I-Cubed, short for Invest Idaho Innovations LLC, will help creative people secure the capital they need to commercialize new ideas (Feb 16th, 2009)

The perception that there is a lack of funding for new ventures has no basis. Fundable companies
are able to raise capital. Technology transfer is not limited by funding sources, it is limited by
a lack of qualified entrepreneurs to run scalable ventures based on new technology. Idaho has
plenty of capital to fund new companies. Several new angel groups and VC funds have capital to
invest. Bringing in capital from offshore will not improve the quality of new ventures. It is my
opinion that this is a solution seeking a problem.
— Bill Payne

Referring to article: Getting innovation from the mind the market - A Boise firm, I-Cubed, short for Invest Idaho Innovations LLC, will help creative people secure the capital they need to commercialize new ideas (Feb 16th, 2009)

Clearly, John Goodrich's observations and comments, while disturbing to the VC community hoping for
better times without hard work or change in approach, were spot on. There will be enormous wealth
created in the next few years but will be by those investing in troubled situations which will
require a lot of hard work and creativity deployed by those with substantial experience.
— Dick Alston

Referring to article: Valley VCs need to be realistic, veteran lawyer John Goodrich says (Sep 12th, 2002)

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