http://stinson.com/rssfeed.aspx Subscribe form, Overview /Publications/Blogs/BankinBits.aspx BankinBits, which discusses recent developments in the banking industry, is produced and maintained by attorneys in the Financial Services Division at Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP. Wed, 07 Jul 2010 09:30:22 /Publications/Newsletters/2010_Newsletters/Executive_Briefing_-_Employment___Labor_Law/Employee_Benefits,_April_2010.aspx Executive Briefing is an electronic newsletter that focuses on emerging developments in employment, labor law and employee benefits. The following topics are included in the April issue: How Health Care Reform Affects Employers, EEOC Attacks Leave of Absence Policies, Implementing Policies to Address Social Media, Implementing Policies to Address Social Media, and Inside Washington: New Laws, Regulation and Agency Guidance. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 12:32:42 /Publications/Newsletters/2009_Newsletters/Executive_Briefing_—_Employment___Labor_Law/Employee_Benefits,_December_2009.aspx Executive Briefing is an electronic newsletter that focuses on emerging developments in employment, labor law and employee benefits. The following topics are included in the December issue: DOL and Plaintiffs' Attorneys See Opportunity Under the FLSA, Workplace Violence: Are You Prepared, Mini Summary of Health Bill Introduced in U.S. Senate in November, Inside Washington: New Laws, Regulations and Agency Guidance. Tue, 29 Jun 2010 14:02:27 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Corporate_Finance_Alert__Word_Seal_Extends_Statute_of_Limitations_to_20_Years_in_Delaware.aspx While Delaware has a three-year statute of limitations generally applicable to contracts, a 20-year statute of limitations applies to contracts under seal. In Whittington v. Dragon Group, L.L.C., 2009 WL 4894305 (Del.Supr.), the Delaware Supreme Court addressed for the first time what evidence is necessary to establish a contract under seal. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 18:55:06 /Publications/Alerts/2009_Alerts/Financial_Institutions_Alert__FASB_166_Set_to_Go_Into_Effect__New_Rules_Will_Impact_Accounting_Treatment_of_Loan_Participations.aspx The new year will mark the beginning of a new accounting regime for financial institutions involved with loan participations, securitizations and special purpose entities. Beginning January 1, 2010, financial institutions ending their fiscal year on December 31, will be required to abide the standards set forth in recent amendments to Financial Accounting Statement No. 166 (Transfers of Financial Assets). Wed, 02 Jun 2010 13:28:16 /Publications/Alerts/2008_Alerts/Government_Solutions_Alert__10th_Circuit_Says_States_Can_t_Ban_Out-of-State_Signature_Gatherers_for_Initiative_Petitions,_Comments_Favorably_on_Paid_Circulators.aspx Initiative petitions are becoming a force to be reckoned with when it comes to state government. In an opinion last week concerning an Oklahoma initiative promoting a "Taxpayers' Bill of Rights," the United States Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit struck down Oklahoma's ban on out of state initiative petition circulators. Oklahoma's law prohibited non-residents from circulating petitions under any circumstances and, although not discussed in the decision, Oklahoma had brought criminal charges against individuals who violated the law. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 13:54:13 /Publications/Alerts/2007_Alerts/Employee_Benefits_Alert__Missouri’s_New_Cafeteria_Plan_Requirement.aspx Newly enacted in 2007, Section 376.453, R.S.Mo. requires an employer that pays any portion of the health insurance premium for an employee to establish a premium only cafeteria plan as permitted under Section 125 of the Internal Revenue Code. The new section specifically states that the requirement does not apply to employers who maintain self-insured or self-funded group health benefit plans. Finally, the section provides that it does not prohibit or restrict an employer’s ability to provide a group health benefit plan or a premium only cafeteria plan in which the employee purchases the policy. New Section 376.453 is effective January 1, 2008. Wed, 21 Apr 2010 14:50:11 /Publications/Alerts/2006_Alerts/Corporate_Finance_Alert__Institutional_Investors_and_Anti-Takeover_Devices.aspx Many institutional investors are taking strong positions against commonly used anti-takeover devices. Supermajority voting, staggered or classified boards, and poison pills have come under fire because institutional investors feel that these devices leave too much power in the hands of the board and ultimately lead to a decrease in value for stockholders. Wed, 21 Apr 2010 14:54:19 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Health_Care_Alert__New_Health_Care_Reform_Law_Includes_Mandatory_Compliance_Programs_for_Medicare_or_Medicaid_Suppliers_and_Providers.aspx On March 23, 2010, President Obama signed into law Public Law 111-148, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA). The law, as passed, is 2,409 pages and addresses a massive number of issues related to health care. This e-Alert, however, focuses only on mandatory compliance programs. In the near future, any provider or supplier wishing to enroll or stay enrolled for Medicare or Medicaid reimbursement must establish a compliance program meeting certain minimum elements. Thu, 24 Jun 2010 12:34:59 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Corporate_Finance_Alert__The_SEC_Staff_Provides_Guidance_to_Certain_Companies_Wishing_to_Go_Dark.aspx The SEC issued a new Staff Legal Bulletin providing guidance to companies that wish to "go dark" in certain situations and that have registration statements on file with the SEC that have been updated or recently become effective. Prior to the issuance of the guidance, many public companies wishing to go dark, including public companies recently acquired by another company, were required to seek no-action relief from the SEC. The Staff Legal Bulletin is intended to streamline the process for these companies. Wed, 21 Apr 2010 15:21:00 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Corporate_Finance_Alert__Delaware_Court_Redefines_Stockholder_of_Record_and_Addresses_Vote_Buying_and_Director_Removal.aspx In Kurz v. Holbrook, No. 5019-VCL (Del. Ch., Feb. 9, 2010), the Delaware Chancery Court addressed for the first time whether a bylaw amendment may reduce the size of a board of directors, redefined the meaning of "stockholder of record" and clarified "vote buying" under Delaware law. Wed, 21 Apr 2010 16:01:06 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Nonprofit_Tax_Exempt_Alert__Small_Not-for-Profits_Need_to_File_Form_990-N_to_Keep_Exempt_Status.aspx The Pension Protection Act of 2006 (PPA) made several significant changes to the reporting requirements for tax-exempt organizations. While these changes have been the subject of prior e-alerts, we wanted to inform small not-for-profit organizations of one of these changes again, as it has particular importance in 2010. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 13:24:44 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Real_Estate_Alert__ALTA_No_Longer_Sanctions_Creditors’_Rights_Endorsement_on_Title_Insurance_Policies.aspx In response to a growing number of major claims suffered by the title insurance industry, the American Land Title Association Board of Governors met on February 3, 2010, and took action to decertify its creditors’ rights title endorsement form (ALTA Form 21-06). The decertification action is now in a 30-day comment period which will conclude on March 8, 2010, before final publication. Wed, 21 Apr 2010 16:11:35 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/General_Business_Alert__Supreme_Court_Opens_Corporate_Treasuries_for_Political_Advertising.aspx The U.S. Supreme Court decided Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission, holding that the First Amendment provides free speech protections not only to individuals, but also to corporations, unions and other associations. Sat, 24 Apr 2010 19:03:36 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Property_Tax_Issues_and_Valuation_Appeals_Alert__Missouri_Property_Tax_Appeals_in_2010.aspx In Missouri, 2010 is not a real property reassessment year. With limited exceptions (primarily in cases of new construction), the value as determined  on January 1, 2009 will remain the same for 2010.  However, parties continue to have the right to appeal valuations in 2010. Wed, 21 Apr 2010 16:19:51 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Employee_Benefits_Alert__Department_of_Labor_Issues_Model_Notices_to_Comply_With_COBRA_Premium_Subsidy_Requirements.aspx Recently, the Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2010 (the 2010 DOD Act), modified the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) in major respects. Wed, 21 Apr 2010 16:25:30 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Compensation_Alert__Are_You_Giving_Employees_Incentives_to_Place_Your_Company_at_Risk_.aspx It might be a very good time to take a look at your compensation policies and practices to see whether your company might actually be giving employees incentives that put your company at risk. There has recently been regulatory attention to that very question. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 02:50:12 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Financial_Services_Alert__Emerging_Market_for_Pre-Paid_FDIC_Assessments.aspx Given the financial instability in the banking sector, the FDIC's recent rule requiring all insured depository institutions to prepay, on December 30, 2009, their quarterly insurance premiums for all of 2010-12, has placed even greater stress on financial institutions. Tue, 27 Apr 2010 23:48:02 /Publications/Articles/2010_Articles/Karen_Garrett_Authors_Social_Media_Article_for_ABA_Banking_Journal.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP partner Karen Garrett authored, "Social media damage control: Why you must plan now," for the ABA Banking Journal web site. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 12:53:39 /Publications/Articles/2010_Articles/The_Big_Eight_in_University-Industry_Partnerships.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Partner Lana Knedlik authored, "The Big Eight in University-Industry Partnerships," for the Missouri Life Sciences Summit. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 12:57:27 /Publications/Articles/2009_Articles/The_Truth_About_the_Bank_Bailout.aspx In October 2008, Congress and the U.S. Treasury worked together to create the Troubled Asset Relief Program, a $700 billion fund. One component of TARP is the Capital Purchase Program (CPP), through which the U.S. Treasury purchases preferred securities issued by financial institutions. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 13:00:45 /Publications/Articles/2008_Articles/Larry_Block_Authors_a_Chapter_of_Government_Contracts_Settlements___Negotiations.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker Partner Larry Block recently authored a chapter of a new authoritative book on government contracts. Published by Aspatore Books, Government Contracts Settlements & Negotiations outlines the best practices for negotiating contract terms and settling disputes between government agencies, contractors, and commercial companies. Sat, 24 Apr 2010 19:08:42 /Publications/Articles/2007_Articles/Relationships_Matter_in_Government_Contracting.aspx According to the Small Business Administration, $77.7 billion in federal contracts was awarded to small businesses in fiscal 2006. Interestingly, this happened with only half the federal agencies meeting their small business contracting goals. Sat, 24 Apr 2010 19:10:34 /Publications/Articles/2006_Articles/Feds_Issue_Guidance_on_Concentrations_in_Commercial_Real_Estate_Lending.aspx On December 6, the federal bank regulatory agencies issued final guidance to remind institutions of the substantial risks posed by commercial real estate (CRE) lending concentrations. The agencies issued the guidance in response to their observation that commercial real estate lending has increased sharply over the last decade and that some banks have relaxed their underwriting standards as a result of strong competition for business. Wed, 21 Apr 2010 17:21:39 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Corporate_Finance_Alert__DOJ_and_SEC_Actively_Hunting_for_Violations_of_the_FCPA.aspx Companies with operations or sales outside of the United States may be targets for enforcement of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA). The FCPA, which became law in 1977, makes it a felony to give anything of value to a foreign official to induce him to assist your company in obtaining or retaining business, among other things. This might include direct payments of cash to land a contract with a foreign government, donations to an official's favorite charity to influence whether he will recommend your company, or treating visiting officials to entertainment at places like Disneyworld when they come to view your products in action. The bribes might be given directly, through employees, or, more frequently, given indirectly through agents, consultants or other intermediaries. And more people in foreign countries are considered officials under the FCPA than most would think. A mid-level manager or professional at a commercial business is probably a foreign official if her company happens to be owned or controlled by a foreign government;likewise for a doctor at a hospital owned or controlled by a foreign government. Fri, 27 Aug 2010 09:17:57 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Corporate_Finance_Alert__Delaware_Chancery_Validates_use_of_Shareholder_Rights_Plan_to_Protect_Corporate_Asset.aspx The Delaware Court of Chancery recently issued an opinion that validated the use of a shareholder rights plan for a purpose other than as a takeover defense. On February 26, Vice Chancellor Noble issued his opinion in Selectica, Inc. v. Versata Enters., Inc., (C.A. No. 4241-VCN (Del. Ch. Feb. 26, 2010)), upholding the use of a net operating loss (NOL) shareholder rights plan or poison pill, suggesting that shareholder rights plans serve as viable mechanisms for boards of directors to respond to perceived threats not only to a company as a whole, but also to a company's individual assets. Although rights plans will continue to be subject to careful review, as noted in the decision, the opinion provides a level of comfort and guidance to directors of Delaware corporations who may consider implementing such plans. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 19:06:35 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/E-Discovery_Alert__Written_Litigation_Holds__Why_You_Need_One.aspx In the world of litigation holds and e-discovery (which require parties to properly preserve and produce electronic evidence for litigation), a landmark decision was issued by Judge Scheindlin of New York, the author of the prior Zubulake decisions. In fact, Judge Scheindlin has entitled the decision "Zubulake Revisited: Six Years Later." Mon, 26 Apr 2010 19:12:05 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Property_Tax_Issues_and_Valuation_Appeals_Alert__2010_Kansas_Property_Tax_Appeals.aspx Kansas county appraisers are sending written notices of classification and valuation for property tax purposes to Kansas real estate property owners. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 13:26:23 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Corporate_Finance_Alert__Proposed_Federal_Sentencing_Guidelines_Impact_Corporate_Compliance_Programs.aspx The United States Sentencing Commission (the Commission) has proposed amendments to its Organizational Sentencing Guidelines (the Guidelines) that could affect corporate compliance programs. These proposals address document retention policies, suggest the retention of an independent monitor for oversight and require a truly independent corporate monitor in cases of probation. The Commission also issued for comment whether sentence reductions should be made available to organizations if, among other things, the top compliance officer reports directly to the board level. Public comments to this issue and these proposals are due March 22, 2010. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 19:33:31 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Corporate_Finance_Alert__SEC_Issues_Corrections_to_Proxy_Disclosure_Enhancement_Rules.aspx On February 23, 2010, the SEC made corrections to Forms 10-Q and 10-K to retain the current numbering of the items appearing in each form. Reporting companies are no longer instructed to delete the item number for stockholder voting results and renumber the remaining items. The retained items should be marked as “Reserved.” In addition, the SEC made certain corrections to Form 8-K regarding stockholder voting results.  The amendments take effect February 28, 2010. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 19:36:32 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Corporate_Finance_Alert__SEC_Staff_Issues_Updated_Guidance_on_Non-GAAP_Financial_Measures.aspx Regulation G and Item 10(e) of Regulation S-K govern the use of non-GAAP financial measures in public disclosures by reporting companies. A "non-GAAP financial measure" is a numerical measure of a company's historical or future financial performance, financial position or cash flows that (i) excludes amounts, or is subject to adjustments that have the effect of excluding amounts, that are included in the most directly comparable measure calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP in the statement of income, balance sheet or statement of cash flows (or equivalent statements) of the company; or (ii) includes amounts, or is subject to adjustments that have the effect of including amounts, that are excluded from the most directly comparable measure so calculated and presented. Both Regulation G and Item 10(e) require that when a company discloses material information containing a non-GAAP financial measure, it must accompany the measure with the most directly comparable GAAP measure and also must provide a reconciliation between the GAAP measure and the non-GAAP measure. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 19:40:57 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Corporate_Finance_Alert__SEC_Announces_Initiatives_to_Encourage_Individuals_and_Companies_to_Cooperate_With_Investigations.aspx To reward and encourage cooperation by individuals and entities in Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) investigations and related enforcement actions, the SEC utilizes many tools, ranging from taking no enforcement action to pursuing reduced charges and sanctions in its enforcement actions. The SEC recently released its analytical framework regarding the assessment of an individual’s cooperation with the SEC, authorized the use of three new cooperation tools and granted its Enforcement Division the authority to seek prosecutory immunity for cooperating witnesses. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 19:44:36 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Corporate_Finance_Alert__Lower_HSR_Jurisdictional_Thresholds_Announced.aspx On January 19, 2010, the Federal Trade Commission (the FTC) approved new lower notification thresholds under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976 (the Act). The Act applies to acquisitions of assets or voting securities if the parties are of significant size, the transaction exceeds jurisdictional thresholds and no exception applies. The Act requires the FTC to make annual adjustments to the various thresholds to reflect changes in the gross national product. Wed, 19 May 2010 12:58:24 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Climate_Change_Alert__SEC_Will_Require_Companies_to_Disclose_Global_Warming_Risks.aspx On January 27, 2010, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) voted to provide publicly traded companies with interpretative guidance regarding disclosure requirements relating to climate change. The guidance, which will be published on the SEC Web site and in the Federal Register, states such companies must take into consideration the impacts of climate change when disclosing risks to investors. Click here to read the press release and to see Chairperson Schapiro's discussion of the interpretative guidance. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 02:49:33 /Publications/Alerts/2009_Alerts/Corporate_Finance_Alert__SEC_Adopts_Enhanced_Proxy_Disclosure_Requirements_for_2010_Proxy_Season.aspx On December 16, 2009, the Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC) adopted amendments to SEC rules that will enhance information required to be provided in connection with proxy solicitations and in other reports filed with the SEC. Wed, 19 May 2010 12:59:34 /Publications/Alerts/2009_Alerts/Corporate_Finance_Alert__RiskMetrics_Group_Issues_2010_Corporate_Governance_Policy_Updates.aspx On November 19, 2009, RiskMetrics Group (RMG) released updates to its corporate governance proxy voting policy, which will apply to shareholder meetings held on or after February 1, 2010. Changes were made to a wide array of recommendations, including those relating to director independence, the adoption of poison pills, executive compensation and equity plan proposals. When preparing for the 2010 annual meeting, a company's counsel, as well as its secretaries and directors, should review the policy updates and determine the effect the changes could have on the upcoming annual meeting. Wed, 19 May 2010 12:58:55 /Publications/Alerts/2009_Alerts/Public_Law_Alert__Kansas_Clarifies_Law_on_Initiative_Statute.aspx In 2005, a group of citizens organized two petition drives to initiate two separate ordinances in reaction to the City of Fairway's attempt to find a new location for its city hall. The first petition, the City Hall Petition, proposed an ordinance that would prohibit the City from locating a new city hall in specified locations within the City, totaling 90% of the City's land area. A second petition, the Eminent Domain Petition, proposed an ordinance that would have prevented the City from exercising the power of eminent domain, or changing zoning to any use but single family residential, anywhere within the City. Both ordinances were proposed by the citizens’ group through Kansas' initiative and referendum statute, K.S.A. 12-3013, which authorizes citizens who obtain a specified percentage of electors' signatures on a petition to require the Governing Body either to adopt the ordinance proposed in the petition, or to put it to a vote of the people. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 10:35:20 /Publications/Alerts/2009_Alerts/e-Discovery_Alert__Metadata_Subject_to_Inspection_Under_Arizona_s_Public_Records_Law.aspx On October 29, 2009, the Arizona Supreme Court unanimously ruled that a "public record" under Arizona's public records law includes hidden data associated with the electronic version of the record. This buried data - known as metadata - can show how and when a document was created or revised and by whom. It is not typically visible when an electronic file is printed, nor is it visible on-screen in normal settings. Rejecting the City of Phoenix's argument about the practical problems this ruling might cause, the court offered that providing the native format of the electronic documents would be the solution rather than printing and producing hard copies. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 10:33:15 /Publications/Alerts/2009_Alerts/Property_Tax_Issues_and_Valuation_Appeals_Alert__Second_Opportunity_to_Appeal_Real_Estate_Valuations_in_Kansas.aspx Kansas law provides property owners a second opportunity to appeal real estate and personal property valuations for property tax purposes. Taxes for the current year are due on or before December 20. The taxpayer has the option of paying all of the taxes or paying half  by the December 20 date and the remaining half by May 20, 2010. If a taxpayer did not appeal in March as a part of an Equalization Appeal, the taxpayer can still appeal a property's valuation by protesting the payment of the taxes. This requires the filing of a special form. If payment is made on December 20, the form must be filed at the time of payment. If payment is made prior to December 20, the form can either be filed with the payment or by December 20. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 13:32:55 /Publications/Alerts/2009_Alerts/Health_Care_Alert__FTC_Further_Delays_Enforcement_of_Red_Flags_Rule.aspx At the request of Members of Congress, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced on October 30, 2009 that it would further delay enforcement of the Red Flags Rule (the Rule) until June 1, 2010. This enforcement delay provides creditors additional time to develop and implement written identity theft prevention programs required by the Rule. Thu, 24 Jun 2010 12:43:09 /Publications/Alerts/2009_Alerts/Financial_Services_Alert__Accidental_Creditors_Beware__FTC_Identity_Theft_Red_Flags_Program_Deadline_is_November_1,_2009.aspx Do you bill customers after providing goods or services? If so, you may be unaware that you are considered a “creditor” under the Federal Trade Commission’s Identify Theft Red Flags Rule, and must determine if you are required to implement an identity theft prevention program by November 1, 2009. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 13:36:59 /Publications/Alerts/2009_Alerts/Employee_Benefits_Alert__No_Increases_for_Qualified_Plan_Limitations_in_2010.aspx Generally, there are dollar limitations on the annual compensation recognized by a qualified retirement plan, on elective deferrals to plans and on many other aspects of qualified retirement plan operations. These dollar limitations are subject to adjustment for increases in cost of living indexes. The IRS announced that the various dollar limitations for qualified retirement plans in effect in 2009 will be in effect in 2010, with three minor exceptions. The exceptions are for adjusted gross income limitations on traditional or Roth individual retirement account contributions and on eligibility for the Internal Revenue Code Section 25B tax credit for a retirement savings contribution. IRS Information Release 2009-94sets forth all of these dollar limitations for 2010. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 10:30:09 /Publications/Alerts/2009_Alerts/Employee_Benefits_Alert__Relief_From_2009_Required_Minimum_Distributions.aspx Rules for qualified employee benefit plans generally require participants who are aged 70½ or who retired after that age to receive required minimum distributions each year the amount of which is calculated based on the account balance at the previous year end. A 2009 required minimum distribution would be based on a 2008 year end account balance which may well have fallen materially in value with the 2008 stock market decline. Such a 2009 required minimum distribution may reduce the chance of a participant's accounts recovering over time from the market decline because the amount of the distribution is no longer invested in the participant's account. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 10:29:26 /Publications/Alerts/2009_Alerts/Real_Estate_Alert__Kansas_Supreme_Court_Expands_Compensation_Obligations_for_Municipalities.aspx Municipalities and their contractors should be aware of a recent Kansas Supreme Court case in which the Supreme Court expanded the type of damage that may be compensable in an inverse condemnation case. In Estate of Kirkpatrick v. City of Olathe, 215 P.3d 561 (Kan. 2009), the Supreme Court, applying the express language of the Kansas Eminent Domain Procedure Act (the EDPA), recently held that where property is damaged as a direct result of a public improvement project, such damage is a "taking" under Kansas law and is therefore compensable. The Supreme Court had previously required that the damage be "necessary" for completion of a public improvement project for it to be compensable under Kansas law. The damage that was at issue in the Kirkpatrick case occurred in 2000 when the City of Olathe (the City) began constructing a roundabout. This construction caused a change in the grade of the affected property, which then changed the flow of groundwater in the area. This ground water flow damaged the basement of Archie Kirkpatrick (Kirkpatrick). Thu, 29 Apr 2010 10:28:39 /Publications/Alerts/2009_Alerts/Corporate_Finance_Alert__Compliance_with_Section_404_of_Sarbanes-Oxley_Beginning_for_Small_Public_Companies_in_June_2010.aspx Based on extensions of the compliance deadline, small public companies (those with a public float of less than $75 million) have not been required to comply with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, which requires companies to report the effectiveness of their internal controls over financial reporting. However, on October 2, 2009, the SEC announced that these small public companies will be required to comply beginning with their annual reports for fiscal years ending on or after June 15, 2010. Small reporting companies will now have to comply with Item 308 of Regulation S-K, rather than Item 308T, which requires their independent registered public accounting firm's attestation report on internal control over financial reporting. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 10:27:42 /Publications/Alerts/2009_Alerts/Corporate_Finance_Alert__SEC_Indicates_It_Does_Not_Plan_to_Vote_on_Proxy_Access_Rules_Prior_to_the_2010_Proxy_Season.aspx On October 2, 2009, SEC Commissioner Elisse B. Walter indicated the proposed new proxy rules are not likely to be voted on before the 2010 proxy season. Earlier speculation indicated that the proposed new rules would be voted on prior to the 2010 proxy season; however, in her October 2nd speech, Commissioner Walter noted that she expects movement in early 2010 and, as a result, the new rules would not be effective for the 2010 proxy season. As proposed, new Rule 14a-11 would require public companies to facilitate election contests by allowing shareholders to use a company’s proxy materials to solicit other shareholders for director elections, except in cases where a shareholder is seeking to gain more than a limited number of seats on the board. Under the current rules, shareholders seeking to run a competing slate of directors must pay for the preparation and mailing of proxy materials soliciting votes for their director nominees. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 10:26:57 /Publications/Alerts/2009_Alerts/Corporate_Finance_Alert__NYSE_Amends_Initial_Listing_Requirements.aspx In August and September of this year, the New York Stock Exchange LLC (NYSE) made two significant amendments to its initial listing requirements. First, the NYSE reduced the aggregate market capitalization of a company's publicly-held shares (public float) necessary for initial listings. Second, the NYSE amended the initial listing fee structure. All other requirements and standards relating to an initial listing remain unchanged, including the requirements that a company have a minimum stock price of $4 and at least 1.1 million publicly-held shares at the time of the initial listing. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 10:26:06 /Publications/Alerts/2009_Alerts/E-Discovery_Alert__Sanctions_Imposed_Against_In-House_Counsel_and_Two_Employees_for_Failure_to_Preserve_Evidence_after_Pre-Litigation_Demand_for_Preservation.aspx In-house counsel's duty to implement and monitor a proper litigation hold was re-emphasized in Swofford v. Eslinger, (M.D. Fla. 2009). The U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida imposed sanctions against Seminole County's in-house counsel and two deputy sheriffs for their failure to preserve evidence. Plaintiff Robert Swofford brought suit to recover for personal injury suffered when he was shot by both of the officers (Swofford survived but spent six weeks in the hospital). The officers encountered Swofford while they were chasing a burglary suspect. At the time, Swofford was in his own backyard checking on the noise being made by the officers. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 10:24:40 /Publications/Alerts/2009_Alerts/Health_Care_Alert__HIPAA_Breach_Notification_Rules_Compliance_Imminent.aspx Covered entities should be prepared to comply with HIPAA's new breach notification rules that go into effect on September 23, 2009. Despite the effective date, HHS has stated that it will use its "enforcement discretion" and refrain from imposing sanctions for noncompliance with the new rules until February 22, 2010. During this sanction-free period, however, health care providers and other covered entities are still expected to comply with the new rules, and HHS intends to resolve noncompliance issues through other means, such as technical assistance and voluntary corrective action. Thu, 24 Jun 2010 12:44:04 /Publications/Alerts/2009_Alerts/Employee_Benefits_Alert__Reminder_-_Register_with_CMS_by_End_of_September.aspx The Medicare, Medicaid and SCHIP Extension Act of 2007 requires many employers and insurance companies to begin reporting claims for work-related injuries involving Medicare beneficiaries. Because Medicare generally pays secondary with respect to medical expenses associated with work-related injuries, the new reporting requirement is designed to prevent Medicare from inadvertently paying primary and then seeking reimbursement through its subrogation rights. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 10:22:46 /Publications/Alerts/2009_Alerts/REMICs__More_Flexibility_Provided_for_Modifications_of_Commercial_Mortgage_Loans.aspx As anticipated, the United States Department of Treasury (Treasury) relaxed certain restrictions with respect to modification of commercial mortgage loans held by a Real Estate Mortgage Investment Conduit (REMIC). The Treasury also clarified when retesting for the "principally secured by real property test" is required and how retesting is conducted. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 10:21:41 /Publications/Alerts/2009_Alerts/Corporate_Finance_Alert__FASB_s_Codification_to_Impact_Disclosure_in_SEC_Filings.aspx On June 30, 2009, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Statement No. 168, The FASB Accounting Standards Codification and Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (the "Codification"). The Codification supersedes FASB Statement No. 162, The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. The Codification reorganizes the standards applicable to financial statements of nongovernmental entities that are presented in conformity with GAAP. As a result of the Codification, public companies should revise disclosures that include references to pre-Codification GAAP in all filings that reference or include financial statements for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 13:50:52 /Publications/Alerts/2009_Alerts/Corporate_Finance_Alert__The_SEC_Proposes_Compensation_and_Corporate_Governance_Disclosure_Enhancements_for_the_2010_Proxy_Season.aspx On July 10, 2009, the Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC) proposed amendments to SEC rules to enhance the compensation and corporate governance disclosures registrants are required to make about (1) their overall compensation policies and their impact on risk-taking, (2) stock and option awards of executives and directors, (3) director and nominee qualifications and legal proceedings, (4) company leadership structure, (5) the board's role in the risk management process, and (6) the potential conflicts of interest of compensation consultants that advise companies. In addition, the proposed amendments would require registrants to report the results of shareholder votes on Form 8-K as opposed to Forms 10-Q and 10-K. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 10:17:39 /Publications/Alerts/2009_Alerts/Financial_Services_Alert__FTC_Again_Delays_Enforcement_of_Identity_Theft_Red_Flags_Rule_and_Issues_FAQs.aspx On July 29, 2009, the Federal Trade Commission (the FTC) announced that it would further delay enforcement of the Red Flags Rule (the Rule) until November 1, 2009. The FTC also issued a set of frequently asked questions (the FAQs) that address: (1) who is covered by the Rule, (2) designing an identity theft prevention program, and (3) compliance and enforcement. Thu, 24 Jun 2010 12:45:17 /Publications/Alerts/2009_Alerts/Financial_Services_Alert__Are_you_a_creditor_.aspx Do you bill customers after providing goods or services? If so, you may be unaware that you are considered a creditor under the Federal Trade Commission's Identity Theft Red Flags Rule, and must determine if you are required to implement an identity theft prevention program by August 1, 2009. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 13:45:20 /Publications/Alerts/2009_Alerts/Corporate_Finance_Alert__NYSE_Listing_Requirements_Relief.aspx Recently, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) approved two rule changes proposed by the New York Stock Exchange LLC (NYSE) to provide certain companies with relief from receiving a non-compliance or delisting notification or from being delisted due to the continuing market volatility. First, on July 9, 2009, the SEC approved the NYSE's proposed rule change to extend, through July 31, 2009, the NYSE's temporary suspension of its $1.00 minimum stock price standard applicable to stocks of listed companies. Second, on July 14, 2009, the SEC approved the NYSE's proposed rule change to permanently adopt a lower $15 million minimum average market capitalization standard. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 10:11:01 /Publications/Alerts/2009_Alerts/Employment_and_Construction_Law_Alert__A_Few_Short_Steps_to_Avoid_ARRA-Funded_Construction_Project_Pitfalls.aspx As those of you who attended our recent seminar on doing business with public owners already know, all ARRA projects must comply with the prevailing wage requirements set forth under the Davis-Bacon Act. As stimulus projects get underway, it is important that this compliance element not be overlooked. The Department of Labor (DOL), which enforces the prevailing wage requirement, is focusing on ARRA-related projects and specifically whether contractors and subcontractors are complying with this requirement. The DOL recently issued guidelines related to ARRA and the additional requirements mandated for these projects, which qualify as public works. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 10:10:04 /Publications/Alerts/2009_Alerts/Tax,_Trusts___Estates_Alert__Stinson_Partner_Obtains_Key_Tax_Court_Victory.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Partner Jeffrey Toberer recently obtained a significant tax victory in favor of taxpayers holding interests in limited liability companies (LLCs) and limited liability partnerships (LLPs). On June 30, 2009, the United States Tax Court granted partial summary judgment in favor of a Nebraska couple who challenged a long-held IRS position that LLP and LLC interests are "limited partner" interests for purposes of the passive loss rules. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 10:09:09 /Publications/Alerts/2009_Alerts/Employment_Alert__SSN_No-Match_Rule_Rescinded_-_DHS_Will_Pursue_Federal_Contractor_E-Verify_Rule.aspx The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on July 8, 2009, announced its position on two controversial immigration rules -- rescinding one and moving forward on the other. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 10:08:24 /Publications/Articles/2009_Articles/Health_Care_Group_Offers_Red_Flags_Rule_Information.aspx If you are a health care provider, financial institution or business that does not collect at the time of service it is likely you are a creditor under the Red Flags Rule (the Rule) and must comply with the Rule's obligations. Because many entities covered by the Rule learned of this obligation only recently, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has delayed the initially proposed November 1, 2008, enforcement date until August 1, 2009. This allows health care providers needed time to implement policies and procedures to come into compliance. Thu, 24 Jun 2010 12:48:01 /Publications/Articles/2009_Articles/Morgan_Stanley_Capital_Group,_Inc__v__Public_Utility_District_No__1_Revisits_the_Mobile-Sierra_Doctrine__Some_Answers,_More_Questions.aspx In Morgan Stanley Capital Group, Inc. v. Public Utility District No. 1 of Snohomish County, Washington, the Supreme Court provided its most detailed exposition of the Mobile-Sierra doctrine since the Court decided the doctrine‘s namesake cases in 1956. This article describes the Morgan Stanley ruling, including the relevant aspects of the underlying proceedings before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 13:07:52 /Publications/Articles/2009_Articles/What_Have_We_Done_to_the_Lien_Waiver__Way_Too_Much.aspx The concept of the mechanic's lien is little known outside the construction industry and is further limited to certain industrialized nations. The concept is encountered every day, however, by the attorneys representing parties to a construction project-whether such parties be owners, lenders,title or escrow companies, contractors, subcontractors, or vendors. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 13:10:48 /Publications/Articles/2009_Articles/Counting_Every_Drop__Measuring_Surface_and_Ground_Water_in_Washington_and_the_West.aspx Virtually every region of the United States has experienced a water shortage within the last five years and at least thirty-six states anticipate some sort of water shortage within the next five years. Although water shortages have long occurred in the United States, especially in the West, evidence suggests these shortages will continue to worsen due to climate change. Inadequate implementation of the doctrine of prior appropriation, the most popular water system in the western United States, exacerbates water shortages by failing to measure the amount of water a user diverts, a process known as "source metering." Wed, 02 Jun 2010 13:12:26 /Publications/Articles/2009_Articles/Community_Banks_Will_Thrive,_Big_Banks_Weighing_Down_Industry.aspx In the fourth quarter of 2008, the banking industry posted a collective $26.2 billion loss, the industry's first quarterly loss since 1990. (By comparison, it earned $575 million in the relatively heady days of fourth quarter 2007). Average return on assets for this past quarter was the worst since the second quarter of 1987. Loss provisions constituted more than half of the industry's net operating revenue, the highest since the second quarter of 1987. Net income for the banking industry in all of 2008 declined 83.9 percent from 2007 to $16.1 billion, its lowest total since 1990. To put it mildly, fourth quarter 2008 was not a banner one for banks. Fri, 28 May 2010 13:10:08 /Publications/Articles/2009_Articles/Enforceability_of_Oral_Franchise_Agreements.aspx Whether alleged oral franchise agreements are enforceable is a question that affects both franchisors and franchisees. The issue arises most often when a purported franchisee seeks to enforce an alleged oral franchise agreement and thus gain protection under state franchise laws. But franchisors also may seek to enforce oral agreements, particularly those related to guarantees. Wed, 28 Apr 2010 19:26:34 /Publications/Articles/2009_Articles/Outlook_for_Increased_Regulatory_Scrutiny_Shows_Importance_of_Compliance_Programs.aspx The California energy crisis at the turn of this century and the large-scale electrical blackouts in the eastern United States a few years later shook the public’s confidence in the electric energy industry. These events are also largely why the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (EPAct 2005) included provisions giving the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC or Commision) substantially increased enforcement powers to regulate the natural gas pipeline and electric utility industries. FERC has embraced those new powers enthusiastically. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 13:16:43 /Publications/Articles/2009_Articles/You_Don_t_Need_to_be_a_Weatherman___.aspx “You Don’t Need to be a Weatherman… to know which way the wind blows. Get sick, get well. Hang around.…” Bob Dylan’s lament in “Subterranean Homesick Blues” is certainly apropos to the tax-exempt healthcare sector given recent events. Wed, 28 Apr 2010 19:32:10 /Publications/Articles/2009_Articles/The_Community_Benefit_Standard–The_Future_is_Now!.aspx If a hospital qualifies for federal tax exemption, it must, in addition to other obligations, meet the requirements of the community benefit standard. This standard has been the focus of great interest in recent years, and there is no sign that focus is about to change. Perhaps this attention is due to the growing number of uninsured/underinsured persons, or the publicity surrounding incidences of some exempt hospitals’ aggressive attempts to collect for unpaid bills, or for other reasons. Regardless of the reason regulators, legislators and the like state they cannot distinguish a difference between exempt and for-profit hospitals. Wed, 28 Apr 2010 19:34:28 /Publications/Articles/2009_Articles/IRS_Focus_on_Tax-Exempt_Corporate_Governance_Continues.aspx Leaders of Tax-exempt organizations need to assess their organizations’ corporate governance. The Internal Revenue Service, at the urging of Senator Charles Grassley (the ranking Republican on the Senate Finance Committee), has devised a tool for assessing the quality of corporate governance of tax-exempt entities. Wed, 28 Apr 2010 19:36:49 /Publications/Articles/2009_Articles/IRS_2009_Work_Plan_Shows_Self-Assessment_of_Executive_Compensation_Warranted.aspx A new year ushers in continued IRS scrutiny of tax-exempt executive compensation. The IRS recently released its FY 2009 Work Plan, and not surprisingly, the IRS has maintained its focus on executive compensation within tax-exempt organizations. Wed, 28 Apr 2010 19:38:46 /Publications/Articles/2009_Articles/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_s_Self-Assessment_Guide_for_Tax-Exempt_Hospitals.aspx The Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA) has posted the Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Self-Assessment Guide for Tax-Exempt Hospitals Wed, 28 Apr 2010 19:41:12 /Publications/Articles/2009_Articles/Excess_Benefit_Transactions–The_IRS_Sanction_of_Choice__A_Time_For_Change.aspx The IRS tools for investigating and penalizing Excess Benefit Transactions (EBTs) have evolved in the past decade. Prior to 1996, a tax-exempt hospital providing an EBT—also known as a private inurement—could be penalized by having its tax-exempt status revoked by the IRS (which penalty the IRS seldom applied). Wed, 28 Apr 2010 19:43:37 /Publications/Articles/2008_Articles/Arpaio_vs__The_Law.aspx Shortly after Sheriff Arpaio took office he wrote that he wanted the Arpaio-era jails to be “places of punishment.” Lawyers, judges, legislators, and professional law enforcement personnel know that statement announces a dangerous constitutional violation; jails in our Country are never permitted to be “places of punishment.” Jails are for pretrial detainees awaiting trial and for minor misdemeanor inmates. Our prisons are for felons and dangerous criminals. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 08:54:02 /Publications/Articles/2008_Articles/International_Business_Law.aspx The focus of the national legislative and regulatory environment during the earlier months of 2008 has been heavily oriented towards security, and, to a lesser extent, protectionism. Recent developments of interest to international businesses are summarized below. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 08:57:46 /Publications/Articles/2008_Articles/Bird_Flu_and_Banks__Pandemic_Planning_Required.aspx Federal regulators require banks to maintain business/disaster continuity plans so that banks hopefully will be able to operate and stay open in communities affected by destruction caused by tornadoes, flooding, hurricanes, windswept fires and other natural disasters. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 09:45:23 /Publications/Articles/2008_Articles/ConsensusDOCS__Consensus_of_Whom_.aspx Contracts, the foundation of any construction project, always involve risk. So, with multiple sets of contract forms now available, are contrators more at risk? Wed, 02 Jun 2010 13:19:28 /Publications/Articles/2008_Articles/Exemption_of_Tax-Exempt_Hospitals_Again_Questioned_–_Self-Assessment_Recommended.aspx These days, tax-exempt hospitals find themselves front and center in a national debate questioning the propriety of the tax-exempt status they are granted. On April 4, 2008, the Wall Street Journal published a front page article criticizing nonprofit hospitals for disregarding the charitable obligations that should accompany their nonprofit tax-exempt status. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 10:19:12 /Publications/Articles/2008_Articles/Five_Software_Licensing_Trends_From_2007_And_How_To_Adapt_For_2008.aspx With an emphasis on the need for increased efficiency and reform of the health care system, demands to automate routine processes will continue. The electronic health record is, and will remain, a focus for years to come. Improving accuracy and timelines in the delivery of medicine has been identified as one of the driving forces for the need to expand the use of automation. For these reasons, many clients are finding themselves in the midst of contract negotiations with software vendors. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 10:41:17 /Publications/Articles/2008_Articles/Corporate_Practice_of_Medicine_–_A_Trap_For_The_Unwary.aspx Health care is a significant segment of today’s economy. Consequently, health care offers attractive financial opportunities to non-professionals. While non-professionals increasingly seek to enter the health care market to take advantage of such opportunities, those non-professionals must tread carefully. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 10:46:54 /Publications/Articles/2008_Articles/Nebraska_Health_Care_Reform_Task_Force_Releases_Survey,_Recommendations.aspx On May 29, 2008, the Nebraska Health Care Reform Task Force, formed by the Nebraska Medical Association, publicly released a survey revealing that many Nebraskans either skip or delay medical treatment because of rising healthcare costs. Thu, 24 Jun 2010 12:51:34 /Publications/Articles/2008_Articles/In_Tough_Times,_the_Tough_Protect_Themselves.aspx This is not the first economic downturn that most contractors will have experienced. This one, however, seems to have hit construction first rather than other segments of the economy. Due to the sub-prime mortgage situation, the residential construction market was one of the first to be seriously impacted, but many others have followed. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 10:50:54 /Publications/Articles/2008_Articles/Protect_Your_Business_from_Digital_Intrusion.aspx In 2007, TJX Companies Inc., the parent company of retailer TJ Maxx, began settling lawsuits resulting from a security breach that led to the disclosure of an estimated $94 million customer credit and debit card records. With the increased focus on identity theft, consumers want organizations to be held responsible when their identities are stolen. Currently, the legal requirements of businesses to protect consumer information are unclear. What is clear, however, is that to avoid a claim of negligence in handling of sensitive information, businesses must take steps to protect consumer data. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 10:53:20 /Publications/Articles/2008_Articles/So_You_Think_Commercial_Development_is_Immune_to_the__Sub-Prime__Crisis_.aspx Uncertainty in the financial markets causes commercial real estate lenders to become more cautious. Clearly, commercial real estate lenders have become skeptics out of fear that the residential mortgage crisis will spread to their portfolios. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 13:22:59 /Publications/Newsletters/2010_Newsletters/Executive_Briefing_-_Employment___Labor_Law/Employee_Benefits,_March_2010.aspx Executive Briefing is an electronic newsletter that focuses on emerging developments in employment, labor law and employee benefits. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 11:39:52 /Publications/Newsletters/2010_Newsletters/Executive_Briefing_—_Employment___Labor_Law/Employee_Benefits,_February_2010.aspx Executive Briefing is an electronic newsletter that focuses on emerging developments in employment, labor law and employee benefits. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 12:27:00 /Publications/Newsletters/2009_Newsletters/Executive_Briefing_-_Employment___Labor_Law/Employee_Benefits,_November_2009.aspx Executive Briefing is an electronic newsletter that focuses on emerging developments in employment, labor law and employee benefits. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 12:34:39 /Publications/Newsletters/2009_Newsletters/Executive_Briefing_-_Employment___Labor_Law/Employee_Benefits,_October_2009.aspx Executive Briefing is an electronic newsletter that focuses on emerging developments in employment, labor law and employee benefits. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 12:36:20 /Publications/Newsletters/2009_Newsletters/Executive_Briefing_-_Employment___Labor_Law/Employee_Benefits,_September_2009.aspx Executive Briefing is an electronic newsletter that focuses on emerging developments in employment, labor law and employee benefits. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 12:38:03 /Publications/Newsletters/2009_Newsletters/Executive_Briefing_-_Employment___Labor_Law/Employee_Benefits,_August_2009.aspx Executive Briefing is an electronic newsletter that focuses on emerging developments in employment, labor law and employee benefits. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 12:39:00 /Publications/Newsletters/2009_Newsletters/Executive_Briefing_-_Employment___Labor_Law/Employee_Benefits,_July_2009.aspx Executive Briefing is an electronic newsletter that focuses on emerging developments in employment, labor law and employee benefits. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 12:40:02 /Publications/Newsletters/2009_Newsletters/Executive_Briefing_-_Employment___Labor_Law/Employee_Benefits,_June_2009.aspx Executive Briefing is an electronic newsletter that focuses on emerging developments in employment, labor law and employee benefits. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 12:40:50 /Publications/Newsletters/2009_Newsletters/Executive_Briefing_-_Employment___Labor_Law/Employee_Benefits,_May_2009.aspx Executive Briefing is an electronic newsletter that focuses on emerging developments in employment, labor law and employee benefits. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 12:45:14 /Publications/Newsletters/2009_Newsletters/Executive_Briefing_-_Employment___Labor_Law/Employee_Benefits,_April_2009.aspx Executive Briefing is an electronic newsletter that focuses on emerging developments in employment, labor law and employee benefits. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 12:48:58 /Publications/Newsletters/2009_Newsletters/Executive_Briefing_-_Employment___Labor_Law/Employee_Benefits,_March_2009.aspx Executive Briefing is an electronic newsletter that focuses on emerging developments in employment, labor law and employee benefits. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 12:50:47 /Publications/Blogs/Techknowledgy.aspx Techknowledgy Thu, 13 May 2010 15:52:26 /Publications/Newsletters/2010_Newsletters/Executive_Briefing_-_Employment___Labor_Law/Employee_Benefits,_May_2010.aspx Executive Briefing is an electronic newsletter that focuses on emerging developments in employment, labor law and employee benefits. Thu, 10 Jun 2010 13:49:47 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Financial_Institutions_Alert__OTS_Cracks_Down_on_Overdraft_Practices,_Proposes_New_Guidance.aspx On April 23, 2010, the Office of Thrift Supervision (OTS) reached agreement with Woodforest Bank, a thrift institution located in Refugio, Texas, concerning its overdraft protection program. The OTS also issued proposed Supplemental Guidance on abusive overdraft practices. Tue, 15 Jun 2010 15:28:20 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Real_Estate_Alert__House_Bill_No__2058.aspx The Missouri Legislature has amended Chapter 429 RSMo. to enact new procedures for asserting mechanic’s liens against residential real property, which is defined to mean (i) improved or unimproved real property used or intended to be used for the construction of owner-occupied residential structures and related improvements including dwellings of four units or less, condominiums, townhomes and cooperatives regardless of the number of units, and mixed-use or planned unit developments, and (ii) improvements which support the residential use of land such as streets, sidewalks, utility services and common areas. Mon, 24 May 2010 19:08:08 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Financial_Services_Alert__Public_Comment_Period_for_Proposed_Templates_for_Safe,_Low-Cost_Transactional_and_Basic_Savings_Accounts.aspx The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) is currently accepting public comments on proposed templates describing features for safe, low-cost transactional and basic savings account products for low- and moderate-income (LMI) consumers. At its April 1, 2010 meeting, the FDIC's Advisory Committee on Economic Inclusion (Committee) discussed potential benefits of safe, low-cost transactional and basic savings account products for LMI consumers. It was noted that such products have been successfully offered by insured financial institutions. Wed, 19 May 2010 21:06:33 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Labor_and_Employment_Alert__New_Employee_Notification_Requirements_for_Federal_Contractors_and_Subcontractors.aspx On May 20, 2010, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has issued its final rule regarding the new workplace notice about employees' rights to organize and bargain collectively and to engage in other protected activity under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), as required by Executive Order 13496. The rule requires all applicable federal contracts and modifications entered after June 19th to include a provision obligating federal contractors to post the new notice and to include the posting provisions in subcontracts (flow down clauses). The rule replaces the Bush Administration's "Beck notice" posting requirement. In addition, federal contractors generally must change their contracting procedures to add the posting requirement contact provisions in federal subcontracts. The new posting rule becomes effective June 19, 2010. Fri, 16 Jul 2010 11:01:17 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Financial_Services_Alert__Title_Insurance_and_Title_Defects.aspx 2010-06-04 Financial Services Alert: Title Insurance and Title Defects Title insurance provides a guarantee to a real estate buyer or lender that, in the case of loss due to a defect or flaw in title prior to the date of the policyholder's ownership of the real property, the policyholder will be indemnified b Fri, 04 Jun 2010 09:26:01 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Real_Estate_Alert__Property_Tax_Appeal_Deadlines.aspx Missouri real property owners who feel their current assessment is wrong, resulting in a tax bill that is too high, have the right to appeal in 2010. Deadlines for appeals to the Board of Equalization are rapidly approaching. In Clay and Platte Counties, the deadline is Monday, June 21, 2010. In Jackson and St. Louis Counties and in the City of St. Louis, the deadline is Monday, July 12, 2010.   Fri, 04 Jun 2010 09:35:15 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Alert__Identity_Theft_Red_Flags_Rule.aspx At the request of members of Congress, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced last Friday that it would, for the fifth time, delay enforcement of the Identity Theft Red Flags Rule. This time, the enforcement date has been pushed back until December 31, 2010. This affects a variety of non-financial institutions regulated by the FTC, including health care providers, construction companies and other merchants and service providers who bill customers after providing goods or services.  Fri, 04 Jun 2010 09:42:42 /Publications/Newsletters/2010_Newsletters/Executive_Briefing_-_Employment___Labor_Law/Employee_Benefits,_June_2010.aspx Executive Briefing is an electronic newsletter that focuses on emerging developments in employment, labor law and employee benefits. Tue, 29 Jun 2010 15:34:42 /Publications/Articles/2010_Articles/Compliance___Ethics_Professional_Features_Russ_Berland_Article_on_FCPA_Compliance.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Attorney Russ Berland authored, "The Secret’s Out: DOJ Endorses a Blueprint for FCPA Compliance," for the June  2010 issue of Compliance & Ethics Professional magazine. Thu, 10 Jun 2010 13:54:11 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/e-Discovery_Alert__Control_Discovery_Costs.aspx At the May 2010 Federal Rules Advisory Committee program at Duke University, DRI (The Defense Research Institute) proposed a rule change that would, along with other specifics, require courts to consider proportionality, comparing discovery costs to what is at stake in the litigation. Wed, 16 Jun 2010 15:57:05 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Financial_Services_Alert__Implementation_of_New_Gift_Card_Rules.aspx On August 22, 2010, the new gift card rules issued by the Federal Reserve Board (Fed) on March 23, 2010, will become effective (Final Rules). The Final Rules are available here. Many gift card processors and providers are ramping up their efforts to bring their products and agreements into compliance with the Final Rules now in order to have compliant agreements and plastics in place prior to the August 22, 2010, effective date. Wed, 16 Jun 2010 11:02:15 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Labor___Employment_Alert__Are_you_ready_to_be_smoke_free_in_Kansas_on_July_1_.aspx The Kansas Indoor Clean Air Act goes into effect July 1, 2010, and imposes new obligations on employers and businesses located within the state. Passage of the Act this past legislative session makes Kansas the 28th state to institute a state-wide smoke-free law. As summarized on the Kansas Smoke-Free website, which is sponsored by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, the purpose of the Act "is to protect the public health by reducing exposure to secondhand smoke in public places and places of employment." Wed, 16 Jun 2010 16:17:13 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Banking_and_Financial_Services_Alert__Banking_Regulators_Finalize_Compensation_Guidance.aspx On Monday, the Federal Reserve, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and the Office of Thrift Supervision (the Agencies) issued final Guidance on Sound Incentive Compensation Policies.  The guidance is designed to help ensure that incentive compensation policies at banking organizations do not encourage imprudent risk-taking and are consistent with safety and soundness. Mon, 28 Jun 2010 09:10:14 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Real_Estate_Alert__EPA_s_Lead_Based_Paint_Renovation,_Repair_and_Painting_Program.aspx The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Program rule (RRP rule) took effect on April 22, 2010, and established new requirements for firms and individuals performing renovations for compensation in pre-1978 residences, apartments, and child-occupied facilities, such as schools and day-care centers. The RRP rule applies to maintenance and repair activities with respect to target housing and child-occupied facilities where more than six square feet of lead-based paint in a room, or more than 20 square feet of lead-based paint on the exterior of a structure, will be disturbed.  Mon, 28 Jun 2010 09:11:38 /Publications/Newsletters/2010_Newsletters/Bioscience_Update_-_June_2010.aspx The first half of 2010 has produced mixed decisions regarding claim language in bioscience patents. A sampling of these cases is summarized below. Tue, 29 Jun 2010 15:31:00 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Property_Tax_Issues_and_Valuation_Appeals_Alert__Final_Property_Tax_Appeal_Deadline_Approaching.aspx The final deadline for filing property tax appeals to the Board of Equalization in Jackson and St. Louis Counties, and in the City of St. Louis is Monday, July 12, 2010. If you are a property owner (and that includes financial institutions that have recovered property) and you feel the value placed on your property by the assessing authorities is too high resulting in excessive taxes, now is the time to consider an appeal. Wed, 30 Jun 2010 11:59:08 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/IP_T_Alert__The_U_S__Supreme_Court_s_Bilski_Decision_Confirms_Business_Method_Patents_Are_Alive___For_Now.aspx The long-anticipated decision by the U.S. Supreme Court in Bilski v. Kappos confirms that business methods may be eligible for patent protection under § 101 of the Patent Act – a victory for patent owners in the financial services, software, and medical industries.  Tue, 06 Jul 2010 09:50:01 /Publications/Newsletters/2010_Newsletters/Executive_Briefing_-_Employment___Labor_Law/Employee_Benefits,_July_2010.aspx Executive Briefing is an electronic newsletter that focuses on emerging developments in employment, labor law and employee benefits. The full text version of Executive Briefing is available here. The following topics are included in the July issue: Tue, 06 Jul 2010 11:51:10 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Nonprofit_Tax-Exempt_Alert__Tax-Exempt_Colleges_and_Universities_Under_IRS_Microscope.aspx The Internal Revenue Service is stepping up its tax collection efforts against tax-exempt colleges and universities.  Despite their tax-exempt designation, colleges and universities routinely engage in a variety of transactions that may be subject to federal income tax and certain excise taxes.  Moreover, within the non-profit sector, colleges and universities are attractive audit targets because of their size and complexity.  Without proper planning, colleges and universities are increasingly likely to be liable for unanticipated taxes, interest, fees, and penalties. Fri, 27 Aug 2010 09:16:54 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Real_Estate_Alert__New_AIA_Bond_Forms.aspx After an approximately one-year process, the more than twenty-five year old AIA bond forms have been revised. The new editions are Bid Bond Form A310-2010, Performance Bond Form A312-2010, and Payment Bond Form A312-2010. The AIA will make the prior editions available also until late 2011 or early 2012 when it will phase out sales of those prior editions. Mon, 26 Jul 2010 09:43:06 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Financial_Services_Alert__Ten_Things_a_Community_Banker_Should_Know_About_the_Dodd-Frank_Act.aspx On July 21, 2010, President Obama signed into law the historic financial regulatory reform bill known as the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. While much of the Act applies to only very large banks, there are many provisions that apply to community banks. We have selected 10 provisions of the Act that will affect community banks.  Thu, 29 Jul 2010 14:05:16 /Publications/Articles/2010_Articles/Russell_Frisby_Authors_Article_on_National_Broadband_Plan.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Partner H. Russell Frisby, Jr., authored "The Broadband Plan: The Federal Communications Commisson Wants to Deliver the Benefits of the Smart Grid via Broadband," for the July/August 2010 issue of Electric Perspectives. Tue, 03 Aug 2010 09:29:36 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Real_Estate_Alert__Private_Offerings_and_Syndications_Alternative_Means_of_Raising_Capital.aspx Real estate loans are tougher than ever to get, and lenders want to see more and more cash invested in a project before making a loan. Developers are used to getting credit for the appraised value of their land as their capital contribution, while financing most of the balance of project costs with  traditional real estate loans. It may be a long time, if ever, before we see this type of real estate lending again. Mon, 09 Aug 2010 11:45:17 /Publications/Newsletters/2010_Newsletters/Executive_Briefing_-_Employment___Labor_Law/Employee_Benefits,_August_2010.aspx Executive Briefing is an electronic newsletter that focuses on emerging developments in employment, labor law and employee benefits. The full text version of Executive Briefing is available here. Fri, 13 Aug 2010 16:08:34 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Real_Estate_Alert__Kansas_Community_Association_Bill_of_Rights.aspx The 2010 Legislature of the State of Kansas recently enacted House Bill No. 2472, which is entitled the "Kansas Uniform Common Interest Owners Bill of Rights Act (the Act)." This Act is the Kansas version of the Uniform Common Interest Ownership Act. The Kansas version is intended to serve as a "Bill of Rights" for homeowners, condominium and cooperative apartment owners. The effective date of the Act is January 1, 2011. It does not apply retroactively, but the provisions of existing declarations or bylaws of a common interest community that are contrary to the mandatory provisions of the Act are not enforceable beginning January 1, 2011. Tue, 17 Aug 2010 16:14:45 /Publications/Articles/2010_Articles/Banking___Financial_Services_Special_Report__Historic_Changes_to_Banking_Industry.aspx Stinson Partner Barkley Clark co-authored a Special Report for Clarks' Bank Deposits and Payments Monthly entitled "Historic Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act Changes the Banking Industry." Thu, 26 Aug 2010 11:18:52 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Nonprofit_Tax_Exempt_Alert__At_Risk_Tax-Exempts_Have_Until_October_15_to_Preserve_Status.aspx The IRS announced in late July that small nonprofit organizations at risk of losing their tax exempt status due to not filing with the IRS for three consecutive years have two options under a special program:Those organizations having sufficient gross receipts to require filing an annual return must file Form 990 EZ under a voluntary compliance program and pay a compliance fee to retain their exempt status.Those organizations not required to file an income tax return must file a Form 990N electronically in order to retain their exempt status. Form 990N is an eight question electronic postcard.   Fri, 27 Aug 2010 09:15:54 /Publications/Newsletters/2010_Newsletters/Executive_Briefing_-_Employment___Labor_Law/Employee_Benefits,_September_2010.aspx Executive Briefing is an electronic newsletter that focuses on emerging developments in employment, labor law and employee benefits. The full text version of Executive Briefing is available here. Fri, 03 Sep 2010 10:11:19 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Tax_Alert__State_Taxes__Amnesty_Programs_Now_In_Effect.aspx Cash strapped states are resurrecting a form of revenue generation: amnesty programs, such as those in Kansas and Illinois. The Kansas amnesty program runs from September 1, 2010 to October 15, 2010. It covers nearly all types of taxes due the state of Kansas for periods ending on or before December 31, 2008, but excludes some in progress (e.g., criminal investigations and civil or criminal cases). Taxes are due, but penalties and interest are not required to be paid. Participation forms for this program are available on the Kansas Department of Revenue website. Fri, 03 Sep 2010 16:01:54 /Publications/Alerts/2010_Alerts/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Banking___Financial_Institutions_Alert__Federal_Reserve_Board_Announces_Final_Rules_on_Loan_Originator_Compensation_and_Steering.aspx The Federal Reserve Board recently announced final rules intended to protect mortgage borrowers from unfair, abusive, or deceptive lending practices that may arise from loan originator compensation practices. The final rules amend Regulation Z (12 CFR Part 226) which implements the Truth in Lending Act and the Home Ownership and Equity Protection Act. Fri, 03 Sep 2010 16:02:40 /CMSlogin.aspx?id=187 In The News Multimedia Firm Events Speaking Engagements Event Sponsorship Mon, 19 Apr 2010 14:17:11 /pressreleaselist.aspx?id=192 Obruo praemitto quadrum eu adsum, enim, hos mara. Foras at letatio neque mauris aliquip exerci eu pertineo acsi wisi. Obruo pertineo ratis ullamcorper. Obruo praemitto quadrum eu adsum, enim, hos mara. Foras at letatio neque mauris aliquip exerci eu pertineo Wed, 12 May 2010 18:41:30 /pressreleaselist.aspx?id=229 Below is the latest information involving the firm and our attorneys, including the firm developments and rankings, attorney accomplishments, new hire announcements and other noteworthy matters. Tue, 18 May 2010 19:18:13 /pressreleaselist.aspx?id=249 News Releases 2009 135 News Releases 2008 136 News Releases 2007 137 News Releases 2006 138 Wed, 19 May 2010 16:42:46 /CMSlogin.aspx?id=166 John Smith (816) 842-8600 johm.smith@stinson.com 157 Fri, 14 May 2010 16:20:47 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2006_News_Releases/Eight_Kansas_City_Attorneys_Named_“Best_of_the_Bar”_by_Business_Journal.aspx Eight Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP attorneys in the Kansas City office were recently selected to the Business Journal’s “Best of the Bar.” This annual survey recognizes the area’s top lawyers as chosen by a jury of their peers. Sat, 24 Apr 2010 18:16:19 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2007_News_Releases/Stinson_Advises_Euronet_Regarding_Bid_For_MoneyGram.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP is representing Euronet Worldwide Inc. in its offer to acquire MoneyGram International, Inc. in a tax-free, all-stock transaction valued at approximately $1.65 billion. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 14:09:15 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Chuck_Hatfield_Selected_as_Lawyer_of_the_Year_by_Missouri_Lawyers_Weekly.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP is proud to announce that Partner Chuck Hatfield was honored by Missouri Lawyers Weekly as Lawyer of the Year. Described as the "go-to-guy" in the state of Missouri, the publication recognized his involvement in several election law issues. Sat, 24 Apr 2010 19:01:20 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Supreme_Court_Justice_Cites_Article_Written_by_Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Associate.aspx U.S. Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens recently cited a law review article written by Stinson Morrison Hecker attorney Jeremy Root. In 2002, Root was an executive editor for the New York University Review of Law & Social Change, which published his article "Cruel and Unusual Punishment: A Reconsideration of the Lackey Claim." The article addresses the typically long delay between a capital sentence and a prisoner's execution. Sat, 24 Apr 2010 18:42:50 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2010_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Expands_Employment_Law_Division_in_Wichita.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP announces the addition of Kathie M. Haley to its Wichita office. Haley joins the Employment Law Division as Of Counsel and will focus her practice on providing business and human resource leaders with labor and employment legal guidance. Previously, Haley served as senior counsel of labor and employment for Wichita-based INVISTA/Koch Public Sector Companies, LLC. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 10:31:01 /News_and_Events/In_the_News/2010_In_The_News/Kansas_City_Business_Journal_Profiles_Deputy_Managing_Partner_Mark_Hinderks.aspx The Kansas City Business Journal profiled Deputy Managing Partner Mark Hinderks for its Newsmaker section. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 14:05:21 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Fifty-three_Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Attorneys_Named_2009_Missouri___Kansas_Super_Lawyers.aspx Fifty-three Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP attorneys have been selected for inclusion in 2009 Missouri & Kansas Super Lawyers®. In addition, 11 Stinson attorneys have been named "Rising Stars." Honorees include attorneys from the firm’s offices in Kansas City, Jefferson City and St. Louis, Mo.; and Overland Park and Wichita, Kan. Thu, 24 Jun 2010 12:23:21 /News_and_Events/In_the_News/2009_In_The_News/Law360_Appellate_Law_Q_A_with_Stinson_s_Matt_Verschelden.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP partner Matt Verschelden participated in a Q&A for the Appellate Law section of Law360. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 14:14:26 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Seven_Attorneys_Named_Best_of_the_Bar_by_Kansas_City_Business_Journal.aspx Seven Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP attorneys were recently selected to the Kansas City Business Journal’s Best of the Bar, including John Aisenbrey, Steve Cosentino, Paul Donnelly, David Everson, Mark Hinderks, Paul Hoffmann and Susan McGreevy. Sat, 24 Apr 2010 18:11:24 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stinson_Attorney_John_C__Aisenbrey_Inducted_to_American_College_of_Trial_Lawyers.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP attorney John C. Aisenbrey has become a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, one of the premier legal associations in North America. Sat, 24 Apr 2010 18:15:19 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Recognized_with_Top_Rankings_by_Chambers_USA.aspx Six practice areas of Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP ranked number one in the latest edition of Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business. In total, seven practice areas and 26 attorneys were recognized in this annual listing of top law firms and attorneys. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 11:23:14 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Three_New_Attorneys_Join_the_Phoenix_Office.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP announced three new attorneys in the Phoenix office, including Josh Kahn, Sarah K. Langenhuizen and Jesse M. Showalter.  Mon, 26 Apr 2010 13:58:45 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Former_Jackson_County_Director_of_Assessment_Rejoins_Stinson_Morrison_Hecker.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP announces Michael O’Flaherty will rejoin the firm in its Kansas City office, further strengthening the firm’s real estate practice. O’Flaherty, who has more than 40 years of legal experience and recently served four years as Director of Assessment for Jackson County, Mo., returns as Of Counsel and will chair the newly formed Property Tax Issues and Valuation Appeals group. Wed, 21 Apr 2010 11:24:05 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Len_Ruzicka_Signs_on_as_Corporate_Walk_Chairman_for_The_Leukemia___Lymphoma_Society_s_Light_the_Night_Walk.aspx Leonard R. Ruzicka, Jr., a partner in Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP’s St. Louis office, has signed on as Corporate Walk Chairman of the 2009 Light the Night Walk for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Gateway Chapter. Light the Night is an annual fundraising event held each fall to raise money for cancer research and patient services. Thu, 13 May 2010 13:41:23 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Scott_Smalley_Named_LLS_2009_Man_of_the_Year.aspx The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society recognized Scott Smalley as the 2009 Man of the Year. Smalley, a financial services attorney at Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP, received the title by being a top fundraiser in this year’s LLS Man & Woman of the Year campaign, raising more than $30,000. Wed, 21 Apr 2010 11:35:10 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Obtains_Successful_Verdict_in_Nursing_Home_Bed_Tax_Case.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Partner Chuck Hatfield successfully represented the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in a lawsuit against the Missouri Health Care Association. Wed, 21 Apr 2010 11:44:14 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Andrea_F__Sellers_Rejoins_Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP announces Andrea F. Sellers has rejoined the firm in its Kansas City office, further strengthening the firm’s intellectual property (IP) and bioscience practices. Wed, 21 Apr 2010 11:50:52 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/H__Russell_Frisby,_Jr__Joins_Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP announces H. Russell Frisby, Jr. will join the firm as partner in its Washington, D.C. office, further strengthening the firm’s regulatory practice. Wed, 21 Apr 2010 11:54:19 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Two_Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Partners_Named_Lawyers_of_the_Year_by_Best_Lawyers.aspx The Best Lawyers in America (2010), a peer-review publication for the legal profession, has named Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP partners Mark Hinderks and Jack Marvin "Lawyers of the Year." Sat, 24 Apr 2010 18:14:22 /pressreleaselist.aspx?id=489 Donna Alexander 816.691.3423 dalexander@stinson.com Mon, 10 May 2010 10:18:47 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2010_News_Releases/Stinson_Partner_Todd_LaSala_Named_to_2010_Class_of_Ingram_s_40_Under_Forty.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Partner Todd LaSala has been selected for the 2010 class of Ingram's 40 Under Forty. The magazine’s special section honors the most accomplished business and community leaders in the Kansas City region younger than 40 years old. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 14:39:47 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2010_News_Releases/Missouri_Mental_Health_Foundation_Recognizes_Stinson_Attorney_with_Lasting_Legacy_Award.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Attorney Gerald Zafft of the St. Louis office will receive the Lasting Legacy Award from the Missouri Mental Health Foundation and the Department of Mental Health. The award, which will be given at the Mental Health Champions' Banquet on April 7, 2010, in Jefferson City, Mo.,  recognizes individuals who have contributed to the mental health field. Wed, 19 May 2010 16:14:39 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2010_News_Releases/Stinson_Partner_Russell_Keller_Named_to_First-Ever_KC_Business_Rising_Stars_Class.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Partner Russell Keller has been named to KC Business magazine's first-ever class of Rising Stars. The award recognizes 44 of the "best and brightest" in Kansas City's business community. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 11:27:52 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2010_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Expands_Corporate_Finance_and_Financial_Services_Divisions.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP announces the addition of Karen Garrett, Russell Berland and Maria Macoubrie to its Kansas City office. Garrett joins the Financial Services Division as partner, Berland joins the Corporate Finance Division as of counsel, and Macoubrie joins the Financial Services Division as of counsel. Sat, 24 Apr 2010 15:55:04 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2010_News_Releases/Five_Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Partners_Named_2010_Washington_DC_Super_Lawyers.aspx Five Stinson Morrison Hecker partners have been selected for inclusion in 2010 Washington DC Super Lawyers. Wed, 12 May 2010 15:17:08 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2010_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Names_Bryan_Hatch_Managing_Partner_of_Omaha_Office.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP has named Bryan Hatch managing partner of the Omaha office of Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP. Tue, 04 May 2010 13:16:36 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2010_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Receives_Legal_Employer_Diversity_Recognition_Award.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP is honored to announce the Black Law Students Association (BLSA) at Washington University has selected the firm as the recipient of the Legal Employer Diversity Recognition Award. This award honors a legal employer for making tremendous efforts toward achieving diversity in the workplace. Sat, 24 Apr 2010 16:04:02 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2010_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Partner_Named_a_Top_Bankruptcy_Lawyer_by_The_Washingtonian.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Partner Darrell W. Clark of the Washington, D.C. office was recognized as a Top Bankruptcy Lawyer by The Washingtonian magazine. Touted as the region’s top source of information and trusted guide to living in the Washington, D.C. area, The Washingtonian's Top Lawyers recognizes the top 1 percent of the area’s 80,000 attorneys. Sat, 24 Apr 2010 16:06:08 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2010_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Elects_Two_New_Partners.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP has elected two new partners. Andrew Muller and Brian Sobczyk, both of the Kansas City office, will become partners effective January 1, 2010. Sat, 24 Apr 2010 16:08:29 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_s_St__Louis_Office_Plans_Move_to_Centene_Plaza.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP plans to relocate more than 100 attorneys and staff to Centene Plaza, a newly constructed building in Clayton, Mo. The law firm has signed a letter of intent with The Koman Group to occupy 46,500 square feet in the 17-story, all-glass office tower. The firm is scheduled to move into the building in October 2010. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 08:02:37 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Advises_Clients_on_Securities_Offerings,_and_M_A_and_Investment_Transactions_Totaling_More_Than_$8_3_Billion_Since_September_30,_2009.aspx Since September 30, 2009, Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP's Corporate Finance Division has advised clients with respect to securities offerings, and M&A and investment transactions totaling more than $8.3 billion. The transactions included public offerings and private placements of debt and equity securities, public and private company mergers and acquisitions, and venture capital and private equity investments. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 08:07:02 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Adds_New_Attorney_to_Omaha_Office.aspx Kristi J. Griess joins the firm as an associate in the general business division. Prior to joining Stinson, Kristi worked in the Nebraska Unicameral Legislature as an aide to Senator Pamela Redfield. She earned a J.D. from the University of Nebraska in 2009 and a bachelor's degree from the university in 2004. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 08:09:02 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Two_Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Partners_Recognized_as_Groundbreaking_Lawyers_of_2009.aspx Public Utilities Fortnightly has named Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Partners David D'Alessandro and Harvey Reiter to its list of Groundbreaking Lawyers of 2009. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 08:11:52 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/NAACP_Recognizes_Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Partner_Chuck_Hatfield.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Partner Charles W. Hatfield was recognized with the Presidential Choice Award from the Jefferson City Chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. He received the award at the chapter's 46th Annual Freedom Fund Dinner, Silent Auction and Centennial Celebration. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 08:15:08 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Adds_Eight_New_Attorneys.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP recently welcomed eight new attorneys to the firm. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 08:18:27 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Recognized_by_Benchmark_Litigation.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP has been named a top local litigation firm in Kansas and Missouri by Benchmark Litigation, a guide to America's leading business litigation firms and attorneys. Both the Kansas and Missouri litigation practices were "highly recommended," while eight Stinson attorneys also were recognized. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 08:24:42 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/NHL_Obtains_Successful_Verdict_in_Phoenix_Coyotes_Case.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP represented the National Hockey League (NHL) in U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Arizona regarding the Phoenix Coyotes' Chapter 11 case. The NHL recently received a favorable decision rejecting a proposed sale of the Coyotes franchise, preventing the team from leaving Phoenix. Stinson attorneys Taylor Ashworth and Alan Meda of the Phoenix office represented the NHL as co-counsel with lawyers from the New York, Delaware and Los Angeles offices of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 08:54:07 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Deputy_Managing_Partner_Mark_Hinderks_to_Chair_an_American_College_of_Trial_Lawyers_Committee.aspx The American College of Trial Lawyers recently appointed Mark Hinderks, deputy managing partner of Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP, chair of its Attorney-Client Relationships Committee for 2009-2010. His one-year appointment began Oct. 10, 2009. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 08:56:11 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Stinson_Wins_MARC_s_2009_Green_Commute_Challenge_for_Medium_Organizations.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP is proud to be a winner in the Mid-America Regional Council's 2009 Green Commute Challenge. The firm, which received the highest total points for medium organizations, had 45 participants from its Kansas City and Corporate Woods' offices logging their daily commute during an eight-week period. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 08:58:23 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_Partner_H__Russell_Frisby_Jr__Appointed_to_ABA_s_Governmental_Affairs_Committee.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker Partner H. Russell Frisby Jr. was appointed to the American Bar Association's Standing Committee on Governmental Affairs by ABA President Carolyn Lamm. Frisby will serve a three-year member term. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 09:00:49 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_Partner_Selected_for_Kansas_City_Tomorrow.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker Partner Jack Bowling has been selected for participation in Kansas City Tomorrow, a leadership development program sponsored by the Civic Council of Kansas City. Wed, 19 May 2010 13:01:34 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Ninety-One_Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Attorneys_Named_to_Best_Lawyers_in_America.aspx Ninety-one attorneys from Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP were recently named to the 2010 edition of Best Lawyers®, which is based on an extensive annual peer-review survey. Fifty-one of the firm's Kansas City attorneys were selected, making it the most represented firm in the region. In addition, 18 of the firm's lawyers have been listed in Best Lawyers for at least 10 consecutive years, and 14 were named to the list for the first time. Fri, 27 Aug 2010 14:38:35 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Partner_Selected_for_Centurions_Leadership_Program.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Partner Kyle McCurry has been selected for the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce's Centurions Leadership Program. He will participate in the program for the next two years. Wed, 19 May 2010 12:07:32 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Three_Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Attorneys_Earn_LEED_Accreditation.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP announces that Todd LaSala and Tim Laycock of the Kansas City office, and Dani Davis of the St. Louis office have achieved Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) accreditation from the U.S. Green Building Council. LEED Accredited Professionals (LEED APs) must demonstrate a thorough understanding of green building practices and principles, and the LEED rating system by passing a challenging exam on those practices and procedures. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 09:22:29 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Midwest_Real_Estate_News_Recognizes_Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_s_Real_Estate_Division.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker's Real Estate Division was recognized by Midwest Real Estate News as one of the "Best of the Best" transactional real estate firms in the Midwest. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 09:25:05 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Partner_Named_to_Wichita_Business_Journal_s_40_Under_40.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Partner Tyson Langhofer has been named to the Wichita Business Journal's 2009 40 Under 40 class. The selection committee, made up of four past honorees, placed a strong emphasis on community involvement this year. More than 200 people were nominated for the honor. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 09:27:19 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_Represents_FCStone_in_Merger_with_International_Assets_Holding_Corporation.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP represented FCStone Group, Inc. in its recently announced agreement to merge with a subsidiary of International Assets Holding Corporation in a stock swap that creates a combined company with a market capitalization of approximately $260 million. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 09:29:36 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Continues_Strong_Support_of_ArtsKC.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP continued its strong support of the ArtsKC Fund Campaign with more than 140 attorneys and staff members pledging more than $21,000, making the firm the top workplace giving campaign excluding corporate matching in 2009. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 09:31:11 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Tom_Dowling_Completes_KCMBA’s_Bar_Leadership_Academy.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Associate Tom Dowling has completed the Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association’s 2008-2009 Bar Leadership Academy. The academy is designed to facilitate the development of emerging leaders in the legal profession in the Kansas City area. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 09:43:18 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Stinson_Steps_Up_to_Save_the_Flame.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP is proud to be the July “Save the Flame” corporate sponsor for the Liberty Memorial. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 10:25:08 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Doug_Doerfler_Recognized_at_KC_Business_Journal_CFO_of_the_Year_Awards_Luncheon.aspx The Kansas City Business Journal recognized Doug Doerfler, the firm’s chief financial officer, as an honoree at its annual CFO of the Year awards luncheon June 12 at the Sheraton Overland Park. During his 10-year tenure, Doerfler has been integral in developing alternative fee arrangements that provide real value to Stinson’s clients. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 10:28:32 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Jamie_Boyer_Selected_by_FOCUS_St__Louis_for_2009-2010_Leadership_St__Louis_Class.aspx Jamie L. Boyer, an associate in Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP’s St. Louis office, has been selected to participate in the 2009-2010 Leadership St. Louis class offered by FOCUS St. Louis. Founded in 1976, the highly competitive program provides emerging and established leaders with an enhanced awareness of the critical issues facing the region. Participants explore complex issues like racism and regionalism while building practical skills in areas such as policy analysis, conflict resolution, collaboration and enabling change. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 10:37:35 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Three_Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Attorneys_Named_2009_Great_Plains_Super_Lawyers.aspx Three Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP partners have been selected for inclusion on the 2009 Great Plains Super Lawyers list, including Jeffrey D. Toberer a Patricia A. Zieg. Thu, 24 Jun 2010 12:37:30 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Samuel_Wilkerson_Joins_the_Kansas_City_Office.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP announces the addition of Samuel Wilkerson as an associate in its Kansas City office. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 10:47:42 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Three_Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Attorneys_Named_2009_Southwest_Super_Lawyers.aspx Three Stinson Morrison Hecker partners have been selected for inclusion in 2009 Southwest Super Lawyers, including C. Taylor Ashworth, Michael C. Manning and Micheal L. Parrish. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 10:51:21 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Stacy_J__Stotts_Named_to_Ingram’s_40_Under_Forty.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Partner Stacy J. Stotts was named to Ingram’s 2009 class of 40 Under Forty. The magazine’s special section honors the city’s brightest and most dedicated young leaders who are active in and committed to giving back to the Kansas City region. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 10:53:19 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Richard_N__Nixon_Named_Baron_of_the_Boardroom_by_Kansas_City_Metropolitan_Bar_Association.aspx The Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association has named Richard N. Nixon, a partner at Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP, a Baron of the Boardroom. The award recognizes the distinguished careers of attorneys who represent corporate and business clients. Nixon will accept the award at the KCMBA’s Bench Bar & Boardroom Conference on April 30. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 10:55:43 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Three_Stinson_Attorneys_Named_2009_Lawyers_of_the_Year_by_Best_Lawyers.aspx Three Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP attorneys have been named Best Lawyers Lawyer of the Year. For the first time, Best Lawyers is designating Lawyers of the Year in six high-profile legal specialties in large legal communities, and Stinson is well represented on the Kansas City list. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 11:00:15 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Three_Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Attorneys_Named_to_Washington_D_C__Super_Lawyers.aspx Three Energy and Environmental partners from Stinson Morrison Hecker have been selected for inclusion in 2009 Washington D.C. Super Lawyers, including David W. D'Alessandro, Kelly A. Daly and Harvey L. Reiter. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 11:07:42 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Jane_Dueker_Named_Women’s_Justice_Award_Winner.aspx The St. Louis Daily Record has recognized Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP’s Jane Dueker as a Women’s Justice Award winner in the “Business Practitioner” category. She is Of Counsel in the firm’s Business Litigation Division. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 11:09:51 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Forms_New_Stimulus_Group.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP announces the formation of a new temporary practice group, the Stimulus Strike Force. Comprised of nationally prominent attorneys with significant and diverse government experience, the group will help businesses analyze, understand and access federal stimulus funds and programs. Specifically, the Stimulus Strike Force will focus on legislative and executive branch lobbying, government procurement and compliance advice related to the stimulus. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 11:13:47 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Phyllicia_Hoffman_and_Matthew_Smilowitz_Join_Washington_D_C__Office_of_Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP announces the addition of Phyllicia M. Hoffman and Matthew Smilowitz as associates to its Washington D.C. office. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 11:15:53 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Kansas_City_Human_Rights_Campaign_Recognizes_Stinson_for_Leadership_in_Workplace.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP will be recognized by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) – Kansas City for supporting workplace equality for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (GLBT) employees. In addition to Stinson, 11 area businesses will be honored on Thursday, March 19, during the third annual Corporate Celebration of Equality. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 11:17:38 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/The_Daily_Record_Names_Mark_Foster_a_Legal_Leader.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Managing Partner Mark Foster was selected by The Kansas City Daily Record as a 2009 Legal Leader in the Law Firm Manager category. A panel composed of members from the Kansas City legal community selected this year’s list of honorees. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 11:19:49 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Joshua_M__Mistler_Joins_the_St__Louis_Office_of_Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP announces the addition of Joshua M. Mistler as Of Counsel to its St. Louis office. Mistler joins the Real Estate Division and will focus his practice in the areas of commercial real estate and finance. Mistler’s expertise in working with state and federal tax credit programs relating to commercial real estate development further strengthens the real estate practice in the St. Louis office. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 11:21:44 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_Elects_Six_New_Partners.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP announces the election of six new partners from the Kansas City, Phoenix and St. Louis offices. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 11:24:57 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2009_News_Releases/Stinson_Advises_on_More_Than_$29_4_Billion_in_Corporate_Finance_Transactions_During_2008.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP advised clients on corporate finance transactions totaling more than $29.4 billion in value during 2008. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 11:26:28 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Former_Deputy_General_Counsel_to_Governor_Blunt_Rejoins_Stinson.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP announces the return of Nicholas G. Frey to its office in Jefferson City, Mo. Frey was an attorney with the firm prior to being named as the Deputy General Counsel to Missouri Governor Matt Blunt. A position he held from January to November 2008. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 11:32:42 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Benchmark_Litigation_Recognizes_Stinson_as_a_Leading_Litigation_Firm.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP has been recognized as a leading litigation firm in the 2009 edition of Benchmark Litigation, a guide to America's leading business litigation firms and attorneys. In addition, eight firm attorneys were referenced in the guide. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 11:36:01 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stinson_Expands_Federal_Affairs_Practice.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP announces the addition of Phillip L. Fraas to its Washington, D.C., office, further strengthening the firm’s federal affairs practice. Fraas, who brings nearly 30 years of legal experience to the firm, joins as a partner and will work alongside another recent addition to the firm, H.R. Bert Peña. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 11:49:17 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/The_Leukemia_and_Lymphoma_Society_Honors_David_Frantze_with_Spiral_of_Life_Award.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Partner David Frantze will be honored by The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society with the Spiral of Life Award. Frantze is the former chairman of the LLS National Board of Directors. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 11:51:54 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Fifty-Four_Stinson_Attorneys_Selected_to_Missouri_and_Kansas_Super_Lawyers_List.aspx Fifty-four attorneys from Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP have been selected to Missouri & Kansas Super Lawyers 2008 list, while five attorneys were selected as Missouri & Kansas Rising Stars 2008. The honorees include attorneys from the firm’s offices in Kansas City and St. Louis, Mo.; and Overland Park and Wichita, Kan. Thu, 24 Jun 2010 12:40:44 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stephanie_Scheck_to_Lead_Employment_Division.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP has named Stephanie Scheck chair of the firm's Employment and Labor Law/Employee Benefits Division. She will be responsible for leading this division of nearly 25 attorneys located in five of the firm’s eight offices. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 12:15:05 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Adds_15_New_Attorneys.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP is pleased to announce 15 new attorneys recently joined the firm. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 12:20:00 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Law_Firm_Diversity_Discussion_Takes_Center_Stage.aspx Attorneys from five of the largest Kansas City law firms will gather together on Thursday, Oct. 23 for an extraordinary evening of theater and a candid diversity discussion. With  Kansas City Repertory Theatre’s production of August Wilson’s Radio Golf serving as the backdrop, the topic of law firm diversity and some contemporary politics will take center stage. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 12:21:29 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Eighty_Stinson_Attorneys_Named_to_the_2009_Best_Lawyers_in_America_List.aspx Eighty attorneys from Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP were recently selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® 2009 (Copyright 2008 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, S.C.). Every firm office had an attorney selected to the list. Wed, 19 May 2010 11:03:55 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stinson_Attorney_David_R__Tripp_Elected_into_Inaugural_Class_of_American_College_of_Environmental_Lawyers.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP attorney David R. Tripp has been elected a Fellow into the first class of the American College of Environmental Lawyers (ACOEL). This professional association was formed with the goal of bringing together lawyers distinguished by their experience and high standards in the practice of environmental law. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 12:33:40 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stinson_Attorney_Tricia_Workman_Named_Health_Care_Hero_Finalist_by_St__Louis_Business_Journal.aspx Tricia Workman, an associate with Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP, has been named a finalist in the Allied Health Professional category of the St. Louis Business Journal’s Health Care Heroes. She was recognized as a hero because “she successfully worked to legally protect the wishes of Missourians wanting to make organ and tissue donations that save lives.” Thu, 24 Jun 2010 12:42:00 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Driscoll_Honored_by_KU_Alumni_Association_with_Ellsworth_Medallion.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Partner Robert L. Driscoll was recently awarded the Fred Ellsworth Medallion by the Kansas University Alumni Association for his dedication to the university. The medallion was created in 1975 in memory of Ellsworth to recognize “unique and significant” service to KU. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 12:37:05 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stinson_Named_General_Counsel_for_American_Optometric_Association.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP has been retained by the American Optometric Association (AOA) to handle all the association’s legal needs. Partner Wayne Henry, who specializes in nonprofit and healthcare law, will serve as the external general counsel for AOA. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 12:38:29 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/AZ_RE_Names_Larry_Petrowski_as_one_of_1,000_People_to_Know_in_Commercial_Real_Estate.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Partner Larry Petrowski was named as one of the 1000 People to Know in Commercial Real Estate by AZ RE: Arizona Commercial Real Estate magazine in its August/September 2008 issue. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 12:40:28 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Eight_Attorneys_Named_Best_of_the_Bar_by_Kansas_City_Business_Journal.aspx Eight Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP attorneys were recently selected to the Kansas City Business Journal’s “Best of the Bar.” This annual survey recognizes the area’s top lawyers as chosen by a jury of their peers. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 12:43:45 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stinson_Advises_on_$15_Billion_in_Corporate_Finance_Transactions_Through_the_First_Eight_Months_of_2008.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP's Corporate Finance Division advised clients on corporate finance transactions totaling approximately $15 billion in value during the first eight months of 2008.  Mon, 26 Apr 2010 12:47:31 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stinson_Announces_Addition_of_Nationally_Prominent_Government_Attorney.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP announces the addition of H. R. Bert Peña to its Washington, D.C., office. Peña, who brings more than 30 years of legal experience in D.C., will lead the federal affairs practice at the firm. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 13:28:51 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Marc_McKay_Receives_David_J__Dixon_Appellate_Advocacy_Award_from_The_Missouri_Bar.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP attorney Marc D. McKay has been selected to receive the David J. Dixon Appellate Advocacy Award. This honor, given by The Missouri Bar Foundation each year, recognizes outstanding appellate advocacy work performed by young lawyer members of The Missouri Bar. Only three awards are given each year with one young lawyer recognized from each of the three appellate districts in Missouri. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 14:15:09 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Gerald_Zafft_Reappointed_to_Midwest_Special_Needs_Trust_Board.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP attorney Gerald (Jerry) Zafft was recently reappointed by Missouri Governor Matt Blunt to the Board of Trustees for the Midwest Special Needs Trust. His reappointment is subject to Senate confirmation for a term ending Oct. 25, 2010. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 14:17:24 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_Represents_Senator_Koster_in_Recount_of_Missouri_Attorney_General_Primary_Election.aspx Senator Chris Koster, Democratic nominee for Missouri Attorney General, has retained Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP to represent him and his campaign in an election recount requested by State Representative Margaret Donnelly. In the Democratic primary for attorney general, official results certified by Secretary of State Robin Carnahan show that Koster defeated Donnelly by 780 votes out of roughly 346,000 votes cast. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 14:19:26 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stinson_Advises_Entertainment_Properties_Trust_on_$96_8_Million_Public_Offering.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP advised Entertainment Properties Trust in connection with its $96.8 million public offering of common shares. The transaction closed on August 5, 2008. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 14:22:01 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stinson_Advises_Angelica_in_Connection_with_Transaction_Valued_at_$533_Million.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP advised Angelica Corporation in connection with its merger with an affiliate of Lehman Brothers Merchant Banking. This transaction and the related financing transactions are valued at $533 million. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 14:24:36 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Todd_LaSala_Named_an_Up_and_Coming_Lawyer_by_Missouri_Lawyers_Weekly_2008.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Partner Todd LaSala was named as an “Up and Coming Lawyer” by Missouri Lawyers Weekly. He is one of 48 attorneys selected to this 11th annual issue who “represent determination – in legal work, in community betterment, in improving their own law firms.” Mon, 26 Apr 2010 14:28:12 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Recognized_with_Top_Rankings_by_Chambers_USA.aspx Five practice areas of Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP ranked number one in the latest edition of Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business. In total, seven practice areas and 22 attorneys were recognized in this annual listing of top law firms and attorneys. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 14:33:40 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stinson_Attorney_Workman_Successfully_Lobbies_Missouri_Legislature_on_Organ_Donation.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker attorney Tricia Workman worked with Mid-America Transplant Services to successfully pass legislation enhancing opportunities for organ donation. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 14:35:33 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Andrew_Shanfeld_Chosen_to_Participate_in_Leadership_St__Louis.aspx Andrew Shanfeld, a partner at Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP, has been selected to participate in the 2008-2009 Leadership St. Louis program offered by FOCUS St. Louis.  Leadership St. Louis was founded in 1976 and is one of the most highly respected leadership development programs in the St. Louis region. The program was founded on the belief that the community, just as any business or organization, requires strong leadership to grow and improve. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 14:37:58 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stinson_Attorney_Parthy_Evans_Selected_as_a_Women_Who_Mean_Business_Honoree.aspx Parthy Evans,  a partner in Stinson Morrison Hecker's Energy & Environmental Division, was selected as one of 25 honorees for the Kansas CIty Business Journal's Women Who Mean Business for 2008. This respected program recognizes women in Kansas City businesses who are committed to excellence and have made significant contributions to their fields and communities. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 16:58:43 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Three_Stinson_Attorneys_Named_to_Southwest_Super_Lawyers.aspx Three attorneys from Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP have been listed among Southwest Super Lawyers 2008, including C. Taylor Ashworth, Michael C. Manning and Michael L. Parrish. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 17:02:32 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stinson_Advises_Quest_on_$384_Million_in_Related_Financing_and_Acquisition_Transactions.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP advised Quest Resource Corporation (NASDAQ) and Quest Energy Partners, L.P. (NASDAQ) on $384 million in related financing and acquisition transactions. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 17:06:52 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/St__Louis_Business_Journal_Selects_Stinson_Attorney_Jamie_Boyer_to_30_Under_30_List.aspx Jamie L. Boyer, an associate with Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP, has been recognized as one of the St. Louis Business Journal’s 30 under 30. The list honors young professionals who are the next generation of business leaders in the St. Louis area.  Mon, 26 Apr 2010 17:09:43 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Tracey_M__Ohm_Joins_Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker announces the addition of Tracey M. Ohm as an associate in the Bankruptcy and Creditors' Rights Division. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 17:12:22 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Penny_Slicer_Named_to_IP_Law_and_Businesses_Top_50_Under_45.aspx Penny R. Slicer, a partner at Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP was named to IP Law and Businesses “Top 50 Under 45”  The list was published in the May issue and honors the top IP attorneys under the age of 45. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 17:30:41 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Meyerson_Selected_to_Participate_in_Leadership_Omaha.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker Partner Scott A. Meyerson has been selected to participate in Leadership Omaha for 2008-2009. The mission of Leadership Omaha, a program of the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce, is to develop effective community leaders who will strengthen and transform the community. This 10-month program focuses on community trusteeship, leadership styles, and community awareness. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 17:34:35 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stinson_Announces_Seven_New_Partners.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP announces the election of seven new partners in their Kansas City and Phoenix offices. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 17:39:23 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stinson_Announces_the_Addition_of_Five_New_Attorneys.aspx Five new attorneys recently joined Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP in the Kansas City and Wichita offices. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 17:43:11 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/St__Louis_Offices_Combine_into_One_Location.aspx Effective May 12, 2008, the St. Louis offices of Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP have combined into one location at 168 North Meramec Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63105.  The St. Louis office has 60 attorneys, 10 paralegals, and 53 administrative staff. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 17:52:53 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stinson_Advises_Clients_in_CMBS_Securitizations_Totaling_More_Than_$3_8_Billion.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP advised Midland Loan Services, Inc. and PNC Bank, National Association in connection with registered public CMBS securitization transactions involving more than $3.8 billion in aggregate securities through May 2008. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 17:55:43 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stephen_J__Cosentino_Named_to_Ingram’s_Forty_Under_40.aspx Stephen J. Cosentino, a partner at Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP was named to Ingram’s Kansas City Business Magazine’s 2008 class of  “40 Under Forty.” This special section honors Kansas City’s brightest and most dedicated young leaders, who have earned the admiration and gratitude of their colleagues, associates and friends.  In addition to achieving professional success, honorees are active in and committed to giving back to the Kansas City region. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 17:58:05 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Thomas_J__Lynn_Joins_Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP announces the addition of Thomas J. Lynnas a partner to its Kansas City office. Lynn joins the Corporate Finance Division of the firm and will focus his practice on mergers and acquisitions, securities and general business law. He has represented privately- and publicly-held companies in corporate acquisitions, dispositions and mergers, as well as public and private placements of securities. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 18:00:51 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Zafft_Honored_with_the_Tice_Humanitarian_Award_from_Rainbow_Village.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP attorney Gerald (Jerry) Zafft has been honored with the Tice Humanitarian Award for his many years of service to Rainbow Village and his commitment to improve the residential services for people with developmental disabilities. Since 2000, Jerry has been a member of the Board of Directors of Rainbow Village and has been an active participant on several committees.  Rainbow Village, a non-profit organization, provides safe, comfortable and affordable homes in the St. Louis Metro Area for people with developmental disabilities. They currently house 225 people and have 46 homes. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 18:02:54 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_and_Premier_Sports___Entertainment_s_Gary_Uberstine_Join_Forces_to_Create_Powerhouse_Coach_Representation_Agency.aspx Two of the most successful coach representation practices in the nation are joining forces to create a powerhouse coaching agency. Gary Uberstine, of Premier Sports and Entertainment, and the coaching practice at law firm Stinson Morrison Hecker (SMH), led by Bob Lattinville, have combined to form Premier Stinson Sports. Collectively the firms represent more than 75 professional and collegiate coaches, including USC head football coach Pete Carroll, University of North Carolina head basketball coach Roy Williams and Oakland Raiders head coach Lane Kiffin. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 18:05:19 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stinson_Advises_Clients_on_More_Than_$800_Million_in_Public_Offerings_in_First_Quarter_2008.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP advised clients, including H&R Block, Inc., Block Financial Corporation and Entertainment Properties Trust, on more than $800 million of public securities offerings during the first quarter of 2008. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 18:08:30 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Expands_Construction_Law_Group.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP announces the addition of Susan McGreevy, Michael Callahan and Heath Hawk to its Kansas City office. McGreevy, Callahan and Hawk previously were part of the Construction Practice Group at Husch Blackwell Sanders LLP. Effective April 1, McGreevy and Callahan joined the firm’s Construction Law Group as partners, and Hawk as an associate. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 18:12:16 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stinson_Advises_Entertainment_Properties_Trust_on_$200_Million_Simultaneous_Public_Offerings.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP advised Entertainment Properties Trust regarding its $200 million simultaneous public offerings of common shares and Series E cumulative convertible shares. This increases the aggregate value of public offerings by Entertainment Properties Trust that Stinson served as issuer's counsel during the past 15 months to more than $500 million. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 18:15:00 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Hosts_an_Internal_Diversity_Forum.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP recently hosted a diversity forum featuring in-house counsel from three high-level Fortune 100 companies. More than 150 firm attorneys participated in the two-hour panel discussion, which provided valuable insight from a client’s perspective into the significance of diversity. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 18:17:06 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stinson_Adds_Three_Attorneys_to_Omaha_Office.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP announces the addition of three new attorneys in its Omaha office. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 18:18:39 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stinson_Represents_H_R_Block_in_$3_Billion_Line_of_Credit_Facility.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP represented Block Financial LLC in connection with a $3 billion revolving line of credit facility from HSBC Finance Corporation. The line of credit is to finance the purchase of participating interests in refund anticipation loans and is guaranteed by H&R Block, Inc. The transaction closed on Thursday, January 10, 2008. Wed, 19 May 2010 17:48:55 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stinson_Advises_H_R_Block_and_Block_Financial_Regarding_$600_Million_Public_Offering_of_7_875__Notes.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP advised Block Financial LLC and H&R Block, Inc. (NYSE) with respect to the public offering by Block Financial of $600 million of 7.875% notes, which are unconditionally guaranteed by H&R Block. This transaction closed on Friday, January 11, 2008. Wed, 19 May 2010 18:09:56 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Stinson_Advises_on_More_Than_$77_Billion_in_Corporate_Finance_Transactions_During_2007.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP advised clients on corporate finance transactions totaling more than $77 billion in value during 2007. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 18:28:54 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Kaplan_Named_to_the_Clayton_Chamber_of_Commerce_Board_of_Directors.aspx Howard H. Kaplan was recently named to the Clayton Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. He will serve on the Board of Directors for an initial term of three years and will then have an opportunity to be appointed for an additional three years. Kaplan also serves on the Legislative Committee for the Chamber of Commerce and was a graduate of the 2003 Leadership Clayton program. Fri, 30 Apr 2010 16:14:52 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/Two_Attorneys_Join_St__Louis_Office.aspx The St. Louis office of Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP announces the addition of two new attorneys.  Fri, 30 Apr 2010 16:13:50 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2008_News_Releases/John_Munich_Selected_as_a_Lawyer_of_the_Year_by_Missouri_Lawyers_Weekly.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Partner John Munich was selected by Missouri Lawyers Weekly as one of the publication's “Lawyers of the Year.” Karl Timmerman from Holden, Mo., was honored as the publication’s primary "Lawyer of the Year," and Munich was one of 10 other attorneys to be recognized for his professional accomplishments. Fri, 30 Apr 2010 16:11:57 /News_and_Events/In_the_News/2010_In_The_News/Russ_Berland_Featured_in_Compliance_Week_Podcast_on_FCPA_Compliance_Efforts.aspx Compliance Week recently interviewed Stinson Morrison Hecker attorney Russ Berland about how to use new guidance from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development as a blueprint for stronger Foreign Corrupt Practices Act compliance programs. Mon, 17 May 2010 16:38:11 /News_and_Events/In_the_News/2010_In_The_News/Table_Talk_Aims_to_Unite_All_Omahans.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Partner Patty Zieg was featured in "Table Talk Aims to Unite all Omahans" in the Winter 2010 edition of Today's Omaha Woman. Thu, 24 Jun 2010 12:52:32 /News_and_Events/In_the_News/2009_In_The_News/Stinson_Attorney_Recognized_as_a_Rainmaker_by_Ingram_s.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Partner Susan McGreevy was recognized as a rainmaker in the October 2009 edition of Ingram's Magazine. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 14:16:15 /News_and_Events/In_the_News/2009_In_The_News/The_Wall_Street_Journal_Highlights_Key_Tax_Court_Victory_Obtained_by_Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker Partner Jeff Toberer was quoted in the July 8, 2009, issue of The Wall Street Journal regarding a successful tax court judgment against the IRS. Mon, 17 May 2010 21:41:58 /News_and_Events/In_the_News/2009_In_The_News/Missouri_Lawyers_Weekly_Profiles_Firm’s_Federal_Stimulus_Strike_Force.aspx Missouri Lawyers Weekly profiled the new Stimulus Strike Force recently formed by Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP. This temporary practice group helps businesses analyze, understand and access federal stimulus funds and programs. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 14:17:50 /News_and_Events/In_the_News/2009_In_The_News/Missouri_Lawyers_Weekly_Honors_Chuck_Hatfield_as_its_Lawyer_of_the_Year.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Partner Chuck Hatfield was selected by Missouri Lawyers Weekly as its Lawyer of the Year. Described as the "go-to-guy" in the state of Missouri, the publication recognized his involvement in several election law issues. Fri, 30 Apr 2010 08:26:49 /News_and_Events/In_the_News/2008_In_The_News/Court_Challenges_Cheaper_Than_Convincing_Voters.aspx Chuck Hatfield discusses his involvement in the handling of legal challenges associated with several proposed ballot initiative petitions this year. Hatfield, a partner in the firm's Jefferson City office, is co-chair of the Government Solutions Group. Thu, 03 Jun 2010 16:01:08 /News_and_Events/In_the_News/2008_In_The_News/Leveling_the_Paper_Field.aspx Brian O'Bleness, chair of Stinson Morrison Hecker's Business Litigation Division, and Athelene Gieseman, Chief Information Officer, discuss law firm's use of electronic document management systems. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 14:22:26 /News_and_Events/In_the_News/2008_In_The_News/Missouri_Lawyers_Weekly_Interviews_Jane_Dueker_on_Juggling_Family_and_Career.aspx Missouri Lawyers Weekly interviewed Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Attorney Jane Dueker on how she balances motherhood with having a successful legal career. Fri, 30 Apr 2010 08:41:16 /News_and_Events/In_the_News/2008_In_The_News/Firm_s_Wellness_Program_Featured_on_NPR_station_KMUW.aspx To increase productivity and encourage healthy lifestyles, Stinson Morrison Hecker recently established a "Year of Wellness" program managed by Courtney Lorenz, the firm's wellness coordinator. She recently spoke with KMUW, the Wichita NPR station regarding the firm's wellness program. Fri, 30 Apr 2010 08:42:38 /News_and_Events/In_the_News/2008_In_The_News/John_Munich_Featured_by_Missouri_Lawyers_Weekly_as_a_Lawyer_of_the_Year.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Partner John Munich was selected by Missouri Lawyers Weekly as one of the publication's “Lawyers of the Year.” Wed, 02 Jun 2010 14:25:05 /News_and_Events/In_the_News/2009_In_The_News/Not_Child_s_Play.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Partners Phil Kaplan and Penny Slicer serve as counsel to Cepia, maker of the 2009 holiday season's hottest toy, the Zhu Zhu pet. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 14:13:09 /News_and_Events/In_the_News/2009_In_The_News/Merge_with_Caution.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker partner John Granda was highlighted in the Deal Maker section of KC Business. Granda is chair of the firm's corporate finance division and co-chair of the corporate accountability group. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 14:19:08 /pressreleaselist.aspx?id=1175 Stinson Morrison Hecker hosts a variety of specialized seminars and events for our clients, the legal community and other business leaders. Wed, 19 May 2010 16:29:27 /pressreleaselist.aspx?id=1176 Speaking events description Fri, 04 Jun 2010 09:21:41 /pressreleaselist.aspx?id=1177 Stinson Morrison Hecker is proud to sponsor a variety of legal, industry, community and charitable events. Fri, 04 Jun 2010 11:15:49 /pressreleaselist.aspx?id=1178 Firm Events description Wed, 12 May 2010 18:44:03 /News_and_Events/Events/Speaking_Events/2010_Speaking_Events/Stinson_Partner_Bob_Monroe_to_Present_at_MO_Independent_Bankers_Association_Workshop.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Partner Bob Monroe will present "When the Economy Turns...Planning Tips for CEOs and Directors" at the Missouri Independent Bankers Association's Community Banking Directors & Officers Workshop. Wed, 19 May 2010 12:07:59 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2010_Firm_Events/How_to_Keep_Your_CEO_Out_of_Jail.aspx Is your CEO at risk? How about your directors and officers? Could your company or organization be charged with a crime? Companies, CEO's, corporate officers and directors may be at risk from the actions of miscreant or even well-meaning company employees. A company may be charged with a crime or civil penalty as a result of a single employee's misconduct. And officers and directors can be personally liable for employees' acts, even if they were not personally involved in the misconduct.Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP invites you to join us for "How to Keep Your CEO Out of Jail" on May 19. Legal and compliance risk management attorney Russ Berland will address the preventative measures that companies can create today to protect them from employees' misguided actions or misconduct. In this CLE, through videos and real examples, you'll get to participate in crafting these protections yourself. This program is designed for any in house attorney, corporate compliance officer or corporate responsibility officer who currently has compliance responsibilities or who may be called on in the future to address legal and compliance risk management. Mon, 17 May 2010 13:57:29 /News_and_Events/Events/Speaking_Events/2010_Speaking_Events/Stinson_Partners_to_Speak_at_Energy_Bar_Association_s_Annual_Meeting.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Partners John McCaffrey and Jon Schneider will participate in the Energy Bar Association's annual meeting April 29, 2010, at the Capital Hilton Hotel in Washington, D.C. Fri, 07 May 2010 12:10:17 /News_and_Events/Events/Speaking_Events/2010_Speaking_Events/Stinson_Attorneys_to_Present_at_KC_Insight_Risk_Management_Summit.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Attorneys Chris Jones and Kyle McCurry will present, "Mitigating Exposure Thru Agreements,” at the KC Insight Risk Management Summit, which is organized by EPCOR. This two-day event, taking place April 21-22, will focus on effective enterprise risk management strategies. Wed, 19 May 2010 11:26:24 /News_and_Events/Events/Speaking_Events/2010_Speaking_Events/Stinson_Partner_Scott_Hecht_to_Moderate_at_National_Employee_Benefit_Plan_Conference.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Partner Scott Hecht will be a moderator at the Employee Benefit Plans Conference, organized by the American Conference Institute. The program, which will run May 24-25 in New York, NY, is designed to help participants minimize legal risks in the design, implementation and administration of employee benefit plans. Fri, 07 May 2010 13:19:50 /News_and_Events/Events/Sponsored_Events/2010_Sponsored_Events/Stinson_Sponsors_KBA_s_Curtain_Call_Celebration.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP is proud to be a Curtain Call Celebration sponsor for the Kansas Bar Association's Annual Meeting. Fri, 07 May 2010 15:51:10 /News_and_Events/Events/Sponsored_Events/2010_Sponsored_Events/Stinson_Sponsors_Arizona_Bankers_Association_Convention.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP is proud to be a sponsor of the Arizona Bankers Association's 107th Annual Convention and Meeting. Fri, 07 May 2010 15:50:30 /News_and_Events/Events/Sponsored_Events/2010_Sponsored_Events/Stinson_a_Silver_Star_Sponsor_of_Art_Feast_2010.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP is proud to be a Silver Star sponsor of Art Feast 2010. Fri, 07 May 2010 15:50:07 /pressreleaselist.aspx?id=1296 2009 In the News 140 2008 In the News 141 2007 In the News 142 2006 In the News 143 Wed, 19 May 2010 16:36:48 /News_and_Events/In_the_News/2010_In_The_News/Don_Ramsay_Discusses_Document_Review_Projects_on_the_ESI_Report_Podcast.aspx The March edition of the ESI Report featured Don Ramsay, Stinson Morrison Hecker business litigation attorney, along with Rhea Frederick and Gina Jytyla of Kroll Ontrack. The group discussed how to successfully tackle document review projects in order to increase cost-effectiveness and strengthen defensibility. Mon, 16 Aug 2010 10:47:03 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2010_News_Releases/Stinson_Advises_Entertainment_Properties_Trust_on_$141_3_Million_Public_Offering.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP advised Entertainment Properties Trust in connection with its $141.3 million public offering of common shares. The transaction closed on May 11, 2010. Thu, 03 Jun 2010 15:27:23 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2010_Firm_Events/Health_Care_Reform__What’s_An_Employer_To_Do_.aspx President Obama signed into law the health care reform bills, known as the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, on March 23, 2010, and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010, on March 30, 2010. The health care reform bills contain numerous provisions impacting employers.Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP invites you to join us for a seminar on June 8, 2010 to discuss the implications of the health care reform bills. The seminar will be tailored to address the most significant provisions of the health care reform bills that affect employers in 2010 and 2011. Thu, 24 Jun 2010 12:49:10 /News_and_Events/In_the_News/2010_In_The_News/Kansas_City_Business_Journal_Profiles_Craig_Evans_on_Being_a_Mergers_and_Acquisitions_Attorney.aspx The Kansas City Business Journal featured Stinson Morrison Hecker Attorney Craig Evans regarding the joys and challenges of being a mergers and acquisitions attorney. Tue, 25 May 2010 16:50:22 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2010_Firm_Events/Business_Law_Update_-_April_8,_2010.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker invites you to join us on April 8, 2010, for our 3rd Annual Business Law Update–Wichita. We will discuss developments in commercial and business transaction practices as well as updates in the latest legal developments. Wed, 11 Aug 2010 11:05:17 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2010_Firm_Events/Property_Tax_Basics_-_Part_I.aspx Property taxes represent a significant cost in the ownership and operation of real estate. If your value is set too high, you will pay more than your fair share of taxes. Valuation notices will soon be sent in Kansas, and although 2010 is not a reassessment year in Missouri, property owners can still appeal valuations. Tue, 18 May 2010 11:44:51 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2010_Firm_Events/Business_Law_Update_2010.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker invites you to join us on March 3, 2010, for our 23rd Annual Business Law Update. We will discuss developments in commercial and business transaction practices as well as updates in the latest legal developments. In response to feedback from prior seminars, we will devote more time to each of the topics covered. Fri, 16 Jul 2010 11:25:33 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2010_Firm_Events/Due_Diligence_for_Corporate_Transactions__An_Employee_Benefits_Perspective.aspx Please join us for lunch on Friday, January 29, 2010, as Phil McKnight and Ted Mitchell discuss the following: scope of benefits due diligence; general types of liability; review of retirement plans; review of executive compensation arrangements; withdrawal liability; review of health and welfare plans; labor and employment issues; and reporting findings. Tue, 18 May 2010 12:10:48 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2010_Firm_Events/New_Challenges_for_HR_in_2010.aspx Please join Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP in January for a special briefing where we will discuss changes, challenges and trends in employment, labor and employee benefits law expected in 2010 and beyond. This fast-paced briefing will be offered in our Kansas City, Wichita and St. Louis offices. Tue, 18 May 2010 12:14:52 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2010_Firm_Events/Director_s_Institute_and_2010_Proxy_Season_Workshop.aspx On January 14, Stinson Morrison Hecker and KPMG will hold both a Directors’ Institute and 2010 Proxy Season Workshop. At the Directors’ Institute, we will discuss the roles directors play in this turbulent economy. There will be a panel discussion featuring partners from Stinson Morrison Hecker and KPMG, as well as leading experts in corporate board member responsibility. We have also added our annual Proxy Season Workshop to the end of Directors’ Institute. Here we will highlight the latest disclosure and other developments in preparing proxy statements and annual reports. Wed, 11 Aug 2010 15:03:40 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2009_Firm_Events/Climate_Change__Senate_Bill_on_the_Ropes__Look_Out_for_EPA_s_Enforcement_Blitz.aspx The Senate, the President and the EPA are putting on pressure to get a new Greenhouse Gas bill. Will it pass? Or, will the EPA find new ways to enforce GHG limits under existing law? The law firm of Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP invites you to join us for an afternoon panel discussion and reception on December 10, 2009. Tue, 18 May 2010 12:35:27 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2009_Firm_Events/2009_Annual_St__Louis_Tax_Seminar.aspx Please join us on Wednesday, November 18, 2009, for our Annual Tax Seminar. Our agenda includes the following topics: year-end tax planning; asset protection planning and estate tax update; health care reform and how it may affect you; how you can get the government to work for you and your business, not against you. Tue, 18 May 2010 12:40:05 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2009_Firm_Events/Changes_to_HIPAA_Required_by_the_ARRA_of_2009.aspx The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 signed into law on February 17, includes changes to the HIPAA privacy and security regulations governing protected health information. This encompasses breach notification requirements as well as changes that will impact business associates and enhance enforcement and criminal penalties. Tue, 18 May 2010 12:43:31 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2009_Firm_Events/Going_Green__What_s_In_It_for_You,_and_Is_It_as_Easy_as_It_Looks_.aspx Green or environmentally-friendly construction is all the rage these days. It is hard to come up with a reason to be against it, but as with everything else in life, there are downsides. LEED-accredited attorneys Todd LaSala, Tim Laycock and Dani Davis from our Real Estate and Development Group will present the pros and cons of Going Green. Tue, 18 May 2010 17:00:46 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2009_Firm_Events/Patient_Identity_and_Medical_Privacy_Issues.aspx If you're a health care provider or business that doesn't collect at the time of service, it is likely you're a creditor under the Red Flags Rule. The Red Flags Rule requires creditors to have identity theft prevention programs in place by November 1, 2009. The prevention programs must identify, detect and respond to patterns, practices or specific activities that could indicate identity theft. Tue, 18 May 2010 12:52:21 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2009_Firm_Events/Tax_Aspects_of_Debt_and_Tax_Legislative_Update.aspx Please join us for lunch on Tuesday, October 20, 2009, as Ben Hobert discusses the following: tax aspects of debt; forbearance, modifications, cancellations and conversions; loss (bad debt) recognition by the lender; income (cancellation of debt) recognition by the borrower; COD income exceptions; partnership debt issues; impact on tax attributes; reporting obligations; tax legislative update; health care reform funding; and cap and trade. Tue, 18 May 2010 12:58:44 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2009_Firm_Events/Collections,_Coercion_and_CAMELS_–_A_Closer_Look_at_Workouts_and_Financing.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP invites you to attend an afternoon seminar on Wednesday, October 7. We will discuss real estate workouts and other strategies used in today's economy. Our speakers will also address current banking issues. Wed, 19 May 2010 12:02:16 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2009_Firm_Events/EPA_Accuses_You_or_Your_Company_of_Breaking_the_Law__What_Should_You_Do_.aspx Despite your best efforts at environmental compliance, a federal or state agency may charge that you or your company has violated the law. If that occurs, you and your company will be confronted with a myriad of issues which need to be addressed immediately. Please join Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP on September 10, 2009, for a luncheon seminar on this topic. Attorneys Doug Curran, Mark Johnson and Stephanie Lindsay will offer practical tips on how a company can prepare, respond and protect itself when faced with accusations and litigation by the government. Tue, 18 May 2010 13:06:22 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2009_Firm_Events/Responding_to_the_Securities_Lawsuit.aspx Today, any unusual drop in a public company's share price will trigger close scrutiny by the securities plaintiff's bar and may lead to initiation of one or more securities lawsuits. The plaintiff's bar also follows SEC and other government news releases for signs of potential securities law violations that might provide the basis for a civil lawsuit by private plaintiffs. In the event that a securities law claim or SEC investigation arises, companies should be prepared to respond quickly and take steps to minimize potential exposure. Tue, 18 May 2010 13:11:51 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2009_Firm_Events/Climate_Change__The_Waxman-Markey_Bill_and_What_it_Means_to_Your_Company.aspx The law firm of Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP invites you to join us for an afternoon seminar and reception on July 9, 2009, to discuss implications of the Waxman-Markey Bill. The focus will be on what the goals of the Waxman-Markey Bill will do to energy costs and availability. We will also explore how this will impact companies and other entities in the Midwest. Tue, 18 May 2010 13:15:06 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2009_Firm_Events/Jury_Trials_in_State_Court_–_A_Case_Study.aspx Please join us on Tuesday, June 30, as Chuck Hatfield presents a review of all aspects of state court jury trials from voir dire to closing arguments. The program will use an actual jury trial to review motions in limine, jury selection, opening statements, direct and cross-examination, closing statements and jury instructions. Because the underlying case was a contract action, specific attention will be given to breach of contract actions and the law surrounding those types of actions. The program will include videotapes of depositions that were shown to the jury and an explanation of why the testimony was allowed and how it was used to make the case. We will also review the actual opening and closing statements as well as the jury instructions given. Tue, 18 May 2010 13:17:39 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2009_Firm_Events/What_Successful_Negotiators_Need_to_Know_About_the_Roles_of_Gender,_Framing,_Adaptation_and_Reputation_in_Negotiations.aspx Please join us on either Monday, June 8, or Tuesday, June 9, as Carl Circo and Heather Woodson discuss the following topics: gender and negotiations; the frame is the thing; great negotiators adapt contrasting approaches to meet the circumstances; and reputation in negotiation. Tue, 18 May 2010 14:00:11 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2009_Firm_Events/What_Successful_Negotiators_Need_to_Know_About_the_Roles_of_Aspirations,_Irrational_Behavior_and_Relational_Identity_in_Negotiations.aspx Please join us on either Tuesday, May 19, or Wednesday, May 20, as Carl Circo discusses the following topics: successful negotiators aim high; how irrational behavior affects negotiations; and the role of relational identity in successful negotiations. Tue, 18 May 2010 14:03:50 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2009_Firm_Events/What_to_Do_When_the_Government_Comes_Calling.aspx Corporate fraud and misdeeds continue to dominate news headlines, prompting President Obama and Congress to decry corporate greed and demand businesses be held more accountable. In this era of economic upheaval and corporate mistrust, businesses and their executives need to anticipate and evaluate the potential of the government showing up on their doorstep. A misstep potentially could be quite damaging. Tue, 18 May 2010 14:07:26 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2009_Firm_Events/Administering_COBRA_Premium_Subsidies_in_the_Wake_of_the_American_Recovery_and_Reinvestment_Tax_Act_of_2009.aspx The Stimulus Bill signed by President Obama known as the American Recovery and Reinvestment Tax Act of 2009 (ARRA) includes a temporary subsidy of COBRA premiums for certain individuals. The short time period for compliance with ARRA has left many employers and plan administrators at a loss for how to handle the new subsidy. Thu, 20 May 2010 07:08:15 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2009_Firm_Events/Liability_Insurance_for_Banks_in_Times_of_Economic_Crisis.aspx Current economic conditions, characterized by drastic declines in the value of investments and collateral, doubts about the collectibility of receivables, increasing unemployment rates, and unsettling numbers of bankruptcies and bank failures, present substantial litigation risks to banks and their directors and officers. Does your liability insurance portfolio provide adequate protection? Thu, 20 May 2010 07:16:35 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2009_Firm_Events/What_if_You_Are_Not_Paid__Collection_Alternatives.aspx We have talked at many seminars about the laws, regulations, and contract/purchase order language that can help protect your legal rights. However, what good are those laws and words if you cannot collect what you are owed? Stewart Stein, our partner who works closely with banks and creditors on collection matters, will speak at our next breakfast seminar. Tue, 18 May 2010 14:28:35 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2009_Firm_Events/Business_Law_Update_-_Wichita_2009.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP invites you to join us on February 10, 2009, for our annual Business Law Update. We will discuss updates on developments in commercial and business transaction practices with an emphasis on issues raised by the current economic environment. The seminar will also address the latest legal developments and upcoming challenges that may affect you in the coming year. Tue, 18 May 2010 14:35:52 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2009_Firm_Events/Business_Law_Update_2009.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP invites you to join us on February 3, 2009, for our 22nd annual Business Law Update. We will discuss updates on developments in commercial and business transaction practices with an emphasis on issues raised by the current economic environment. The seminar will also address the latest legal developments and upcoming challenges that may affect you in the coming year. Tue, 18 May 2010 14:39:36 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2008_Firm_Events/2009_Proxy_Season_Workshop.aspx To kick off the upcoming proxy season, the law firm of Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP invites you to join us for our 2009 Proxy Season Workshop. Attorneys from our Corporate Finance Division will highlight recent trends in shareholder proposals. The workshop will also provide guidance on disclosure obligations and e-proxy. Thu, 20 May 2010 07:11:43 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2008_Firm_Events/Killer_Contract_Clauses.aspx Please join us for lunch on Monday, December 8, 2008, as construction attorneys Susan McGreevy and Mike Callahan discuss the most common "risk transfer" clauses in construction contracts. Tue, 18 May 2010 14:56:24 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2008_Firm_Events/What_Does_the_2008_Election_Mean_for_You_.aspx The law firm of Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP invites you to join us for a brief update on how the recent elections in Missouri may affect you. Attorneys from our Government Solutions Group will draw upon their experience in the political arena to discuss possible changes for those doing business in the State of Missouri. Tue, 18 May 2010 16:07:14 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2008_Firm_Events/Maintaining_a_Global_Workforce__What_Employers_Should_Know.aspx In addition to the many challenges U.S. employers already face in complying with U.S. employee benefit laws, U.S.-based employers with a global workforce face an equally complex task of navigating the benefits laws of foreign countries. Whether it is a U.S. worker on an international assignment or a foreign citizen working in the U.S., employers must have both a high-level understanding of the applicability of a foreign country's benefit laws and the practical issues that may arise in complying with those laws. Thu, 20 May 2010 07:17:31 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2008_Firm_Events/Annual_Tax_Seminar_-_St__Louis.aspx Please join us on Wednesday, November 19, 2008, for our Annual Tax Seminar. Thu, 20 May 2010 07:12:45 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2008_Firm_Events/Litigating_Against_the_Attorney_General_s_Office.aspx State attorneys general have broad regulatory and law enforcement authority over most types of businesses, both large and small. Their activities range from consumer protection actions to Medicaid fraud enforcement to authority over many types of licensed professionals and more. They are, in essence, large law firms with the ability to pursue vigorous investigations and criminal and civil lawsuits against businesses. Tue, 18 May 2010 16:21:16 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2008_Firm_Events/Banking_in_Troubled_Times_–_Financial_Institutions_Seminar.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP invites you to join us for an informational seminar on current issues facing banks. Presenters from Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP, the accounting firm of BKD, LLP and the investment banking firm of Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Inc. will provide information to help you cope in these difficult times. Thu, 20 May 2010 07:13:24 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2008_Firm_Events/Leadership_in_a_Nonprofit_World__What_You_Should_Know.aspx Nonprofit and tax-exempt organizations comprise a large and increasingly important segment of our business and economic community. This free seminar will feature representatives from the IRS, Greater Kansas City Community Foundation, UMKC Midwest Center for Nonprofit Leadership and the law firm of Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP who will discuss issues crucial to your organization. Don't miss out on this informative conference! Tue, 18 May 2010 16:28:31 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2008_Firm_Events/Financial_Institutions_Seminar_-_St__Louis.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP invites you to join us for an informational seminar on current issues facing banks and how to cope in these difficult times. Thu, 20 May 2010 07:14:48 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2008_Firm_Events/Estate_Planning_201.aspx Please join us for lunch on Friday, September 19, 2008, as Richard English, chair of Stinson Morrison Hecker's Tax, Trusts & Estates practice, will review several estate planning topics. Tue, 18 May 2010 16:34:54 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2008_Firm_Events/The_ABCs_of_D_and_O,_E_and_O_and_CGL_Insurance.aspx Whether as a result of tornado, flood or other natural disaster, the sub-prime mortgage meltdown or other financial crisis of the day, a defective product, or technical violation of complex law or regulation, substantial losses routinely threaten the financial viability of the enterprise and the personal assets of directors, officers and employees. Insurance is a primary tool for managing the risk of loss. It is vital that corporate managers, beyond the risk manager, have an understanding of insurance in order to maximize its effect when the worst happens. Tue, 18 May 2010 16:37:03 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2008_Firm_Events/What_The_EPA_Is_Saying_About_Storm_Water_Enforcement_And_Its_Impact_On_The_Construction_Sector_-_More_Storm_Clouds_Gathering_.aspx The construction sector is under close scrutiny by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Based on recent findings, the EPA has concluded that less than one third of construction sites apply for permits and file storm water runoff plans. As a result, the EPA has enacted a vigorous enforcement campaign, with hefty fines for failing to comply. A St. Louis contractor, for example, recently paid $590,000 in fines to the U.S. government, as well as $52,000 in penalties to the state and city. The buck doesn't stop with monetary penalties either - the EPA has initiated both criminal investigations and prosecutions over storm water violations. Tue, 18 May 2010 16:38:47 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2008_Firm_Events/Clean_Air_Update.aspx Please join us on August 26th for a discussion on current issues in Clean Air technology, EPA enforcement priorities and proposed rulemaking, as well as an overview of the latest lawsuits affecting climate change. Thu, 20 May 2010 07:14:06 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2008_Firm_Events/Negotiating_Tips_from_Empirical_and_Scholarly_Research.aspx Please join us for lunch on Monday, July 14, 2008, as Carl Circo, a Professor of Law at the University of Arkansas School of Law and an attorney with Stinson Morrison Hecker, reviews several reports of empirical and scholarly studies on negotiations strategy. Tue, 18 May 2010 16:43:35 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2008_Firm_Events/Who_Owns_the_Designs_and_Drawings__And_Who_Can_Use_Them_.aspx Most contracts for design and construction contain some kind of clause dealing with ownership and use of the design. Often, they say that the design belongs to the designer. But what if the designer is no longer around and the owner wants to make modifications? What if you have designs from an old project and cannot locate the applicable contract? Tue, 18 May 2010 16:45:23 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2008_Firm_Events/The_Weather_-_What_Are_You_Going_To_Do_About_It_.aspx Everyone connected with a construction project is affected when there is unusually severe weather – even an interior finish subcontractor can find itself pushed back in time or into a new wage-rate, if a job is delayed. We see the subject of weather delays treated very differently from one contract form to the next, and find that many people in the construction industry don't know how to deal with weather delays. Tue, 18 May 2010 16:47:36 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2008_Firm_Events/Business_Law_Update_-_St__Louis_-_May_21,_2008.aspx Please join us on Wednesday, May 21, 2008, to discuss developments in commercial and business transaction practices. The seminar will include topics that address the latest legal developments and challenges impacting businesses. Following the seminar, you are invited to attend a cocktail reception to network with other guests, the speakers and SMH attorneys. We hope to see you there. Tue, 18 May 2010 18:40:39 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2008_Firm_Events/2008_Wichita_Business_Law_Update.aspx We will discuss updates on developments in commercial and business transaction practices. The seminar will also address the latest legal developments and upcoming challenges that may affect you in the coming year. Tue, 18 May 2010 18:42:57 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2008_Firm_Events/Navigating_Through_Economic_Headwinds__Commercial_Real_Estate_Workout,_Foreclosure_and_Bankruptcy_Strategies_for_Lenders.aspx We will discuss pre-foreclosure workouts, trustee's sales, regulatory requirements and bankruptcy impacts. Tue, 18 May 2010 18:51:11 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2008_Firm_Events/Legal_Considerations_of_Hospital/Physician_Joint_Ventures,_Electronic_Health_Records_and_E-Prescribing_Safe_Harbors.aspx In today's highly regulated environment, physicians and health care professionals are under constant scrutiny. Please join us as we explore the legal considerations of hospital/physician joint ventures, electronic health records, e-prescribing safe harbors and exceptions under federal law. Thu, 24 Jun 2010 12:54:18 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2008_Firm_Events/Retainage_-_How_Much__How_Long__And_Other_Complexities.aspx Although it may be foreign to other industries, retainage is well known (if not well liked) in the construction industry. But that doesn't mean it's simple. Tue, 18 May 2010 18:53:49 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2008_Firm_Events/401(k)_Plans__The_Changing_Landscape_in_Investments_and_Litigation.aspx The relatively calm world of 401(k) Plans has experienced some choppy investment seas and stormy litigation fronts. One might ask, what are the current trends and themes driving the 401(k) Plan investment market? Is there a better investment provider model? How effective is the current configuration of your Plan's fund lineup? Tue, 18 May 2010 18:55:11 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2008_Firm_Events/2008_Business_Law_Update.aspx We will discuss updates on developments in commercial and business transaction practices. The seminar will also address the latest legal developments and upcoming challenges that may affect you in the coming year. Tue, 18 May 2010 18:57:13 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2008_Firm_Events/New_ConsensusDOC_Construction_Industry_Standard_Contract_Forms.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker and the Associated General Contractors of Kansas cordially invite you to join us for a panel discussion to explore and discuss the new ConsensusDOC construction industry standard contract forms. Tue, 18 May 2010 19:00:26 /News_and_Events/Events/Sponsored_Events/2009_Sponsored_Events/A_View_from_the_Bench.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP in conjunction with the Georgetown Club of Kansas City will host the chief justices of the Kansas and Missouri Supreme Courts on Thursday, April 23. Chief Justice Robert E. Davis of the Supreme Court of Kansas and Chief Justice Laura Denvir Stith of the Supreme Court of Missouri will provide informal remarks and answer questions on their “view from the bench.” The two are alumni of the Georgetown University Law Center. Tue, 18 May 2010 19:03:22 /News_and_Events/Events/Sponsored_Events/2008_Sponsored_Events/Firm_Sponsors_15th_Annual_Education_Law_Conference.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP (SMH) is pleased to be a sponsor of the 15th Annual Education Law Conference in Portland, Maine. The conference will be July 28-July 31 and will include workshops for educators and policy makers, as well as presentations by a number of education law experts. Tue, 18 May 2010 19:04:56 /News_and_Events/Events/Speaking_Events/2009_Speaking_Events/Harvey_Reiter_to_Present_at_Michigan_State_Institute_of_Public_Utilities.aspx Harvey L. Reiter, a partner in Stinson Morrison Hecker’s Washington D.C. office, will present at the Institute of Public Utilities’ 51st Annual Regulatory Studies Program at Michigan State University. The program, known as “Camp NARUC,” will run from August 3-14 and is designed specifically and exclusively to meet the needs of public sector regulatory professionals, particularly members of the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners. Tue, 18 May 2010 19:09:31 /News_and_Events/Events/Speaking_Events/2009_Speaking_Events/Harvey_Reiter_to_Teach_Summer_Session_at_Vermont_Law_School.aspx Harvey L. Reiter, a partner in Stinson Morrison Hecker’s Washington D.C. office, will teach “Legal Fundamentals of Energy Regulation” at the Vermont Law School Environmental Law Center’s Summer 2009 Session June 8-11. Reiter’s module will address the division of responsibility between federal and state governments, the legal framework for regulation of these industries, and the legal tools possessed by regulators to shape and implement energy regulatory policy. Tue, 18 May 2010 19:10:57 /News_and_Events/Events/Speaking_Events/2009_Speaking_Events/Mark_Iba_and_Marc_McKay_to_Speak_at_MOKAN_Trust___Financial_Services_Conference.aspx Mark Iba and Marc McKay will present “Unique and Recurring Ethical Issues Confronting Trustees: Ethical Rules and Common Problems” at the 30th MOKAN Trust & Financial Services Conference May 6-8 in Kansas City, Mo. The presentation will address a number of unique ethical issues that trust professionals may see on a recurring basis, including how to protect attorney-client privilege and uphold the duty of confidentiality. Tue, 18 May 2010 19:13:32 /News_and_Events/Events/Speaking_Events/2009_Speaking_Events/English_to_Speak_at_BAMSL’s_Annual_Estate_Planning_Institute.aspx Richard L. English, partner in Stinson Morrison Hecker’s Kansas City office, will present “Recent Developments in Federal and Missouri Law Affecting Estate Planners” at the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis’ Annual Estate Planning Institute to be held April 23. Tue, 18 May 2010 19:15:13 /News_and_Events/Events/Speaking_Events/2009_Speaking_Events/Michael_Tucci_to_Speak_at_The_FDIC_and_the_New_Banking_Crisis_Conference.aspx Michael Tucci, a partner with Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP, will participate in The FDIC and the New Banking Crisis: Litigation Challenges Past, Present and Future Conference to be held January 15-16 in Washington, D.C. Tue, 18 May 2010 19:16:51 /News_and_Events/Events/Speaking_Events/2008_Speaking_Events/A_Fresh_Look_Into_D_and_O_and_EPL_Coverages_for_Private_Companies.aspx Today's private companies face increasing liability exposure from the conduct of their directors, officers and employees. However, these companies also face special challenges in obtaining the appropriate Directors and Officers and Employment Practices Liability coverage, and handling claims when they arise. Tue, 18 May 2010 19:19:30 /News_and_Events/Events/Speaking_Events/2008_Speaking_Events/Bengtson_and_Marvin_to_Speak_at_KBA/KIOGA_33rd_Annual_Oil_and_Gas_Conference.aspx David Bengtson and Jack Marvin, partners in Stinson Morrison Hecker's Wichita office, will participate in the KBA/KIOGA's 33rd Annual Oil and Gas Conference, to be held October 24. Tue, 18 May 2010 19:21:27 /News_and_Events/Events/Speaking_Events/2008_Speaking_Events/Music_101__How_to_Run_Your_Band_Like_a_Business.aspx Andrew Scavotto, an entertainment lawyer with Stinson Morrison Hecker, will join a panel on September 20, 2008, to discuss "Music 101: How to Run Your Band Like a Business" at the PLAY:stl Music Festival and Conference. Tue, 18 May 2010 19:23:38 /News_and_Events/Events/Speaking_Events/2008_Speaking_Events/Document_Retention_and_Destruction_in_Kansas.aspx Mindy McPheeters and Don Ramsay, partners with Stinson Morrison Hecker, and John Benson, the firm's Practice Support Consultant for e-Discovery, will be members of the faculty. Tue, 18 May 2010 19:25:44 /News_and_Events/Events/Speaking_Events/2008_Speaking_Events/Harvey_Reiter_to_Present_at_Michigan_State_Institute_of_Public_Utilities.aspx Harvey Reiter, an Energy and Telecommunications attorney with Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP, will present at the Institute of Public Utilities 50th Annual Regulatory Studies Program at Michigan State University. The program, which is set for August 4-15, is known as "Camp NARUC" and is designed specifically and exclusively to meet the needs of public-sector regulatory professionals, particularly members of the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners. Tue, 18 May 2010 19:27:25 /News_and_Events/Events/Speaking_Events/2008_Speaking_Events/Lorman_s_Construction_Law_From_Contract_to_Closeout_in_Missouri_Seminar.aspx Contracts are a legally charged part of every construction project - they can impact the rights and remedies of different parties positively and negatively. Building a strong knowledge of construction contracts and law will go a long way in helping you avoid disputes. Tue, 18 May 2010 19:29:22 /News_and_Events/Events/Speaking_Events/2008_Speaking_Events/Infocast_s_FERC_Compliance_Summit_2008.aspx The Energy Policy Act of 2005 put some teeth into FERC's ability to investigate energy market and electric reliability transgressions. Since its January 2007 meeting, FERC has been aggressively enforcing its regulations. In addition to ten settlements ranging from one-half million to more than $10 million in penalties and other remedies, FERC and the CFTC have charged financial and physical energy markets participants with attempted market manipulation along  with other violations and are now seeking hundreds of millions of dollars in penalties. Tue, 18 May 2010 19:31:34 /News_and_Events/Events/Speaking_Events/2008_Speaking_Events/Energy_Bar_Association_Conference.aspx Harvey Reiter, a Stinson Morrison Hecker Partner in the firm's Energy Group, will present on the "Nuts and Bolts of a Gas Pipeline Rate Case" at the Energy Bar Association's March 2008 Conference. Tue, 18 May 2010 19:33:11 /News_and_Events/Events/Speaking_Events/2008_Speaking_Events/Stinson_Attorneys_Present_at_Women_s_Basketball_Coaches_Association_Conference.aspx Bob Lattinville and Scott Tompsett, both partners with SMH, were presenters at the 2008 WBCA National Conventionin Tampa, Florida. Their presentation was titled: “An Overview of the NCAA Infractions Process: How to Avoid Being Investigated and How to Proceed if You are Investigated.” Tue, 18 May 2010 19:34:58 /News_and_Events/Events/Speaking_Events/2008_Speaking_Events/Electronically_Stored_Information_and_the_Federal_Courts_and_An_Ethics_Potpourri.aspx Mark Iba will join several distinguished faculty, including the Honorable Fernando Gaitan, the Honorable John Lungstrum, the Honorable Carlos Murguia and the Honorable David Waxse at the upcoming "Electronically Stored Information and the Federal Courts and An Ethics Potpourri" presentation, sponsored by the Kansas Bar Assocication. Iba, a partner with Stinson Morrison Hecker and the firm's Assistant General Counsel, will provide and update on attorney-client privilege during the ethics portion of the program. Tue, 18 May 2010 19:39:47 /News_and_Events/Events/Speaking_Events/2008_Speaking_Events/Legal_Symposium_2008_-_For_the_Construction_Industry.aspx Michael Callahan and Susan McGreevy, Stinson Morrison Hecker Partners in the firm's Construction Practice, will be presenting on "Retainage & Prompt Pay Law" at the Builders' Association's 2nd Annual Construction Legal Symposium in Jefferson City, Springfield and Kansas City. Thu, 20 May 2010 07:20:50 /News_and_Events/Events/Speaking_Events/2008_Speaking_Events/John_Munich_to_Speak_on_School_Funding_at_National_Taxpayers__Conference.aspx John Munich, a partner with Stinson Morrison Hecker and leader of the firm's education litigation practice, will provide an update on national school funding issues at the 2008 National Taxpayers' Conference, to be held September 21-24 in New Orleans. Tue, 18 May 2010 19:43:05 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2010_News_Releases/Four_Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Partners_Named_2010_Southwest_Super_Lawyers.aspx Four Stinson Morrison Hecker partners have been selected for inclusion in 2010 Southwest Super Lawyers. The Stinson attorneys recognized include: C. Taylor Ashworth – Bankruptcy & Creditor/Debtor Rights; Jeffrey J. Goulder – Business Litigation; Michael C. Manning – Business Litigation; and Michael L. Parrish – Business Litigation. Thu, 10 Jun 2010 14:01:45 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2010_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Obtains_Successful_Verdicts_for_Auto_Financers_in_‘Negative_Equity’_Cases.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP has obtained multiple favorable decisions in "negative equity" cases across the country. Attorneys Barkley Clark and Katherine M. Sutcliffe Becker have represented leading U.S. auto financers  -- GMAC, Nuvell, Ford Motor Credit and Chrysler Credit – in this billion dollar issue for the auto finance industry. Wed, 19 May 2010 21:55:10 /News_and_Events/In_the_News/2010_In_The_News/Manning_Weighs_In_On_Maricopa_Courthouse_War.aspx Stinson Attorney Michael C. Manning was interviewed by the ABA Journal regarding the recent Maricopa courthouse showdown. Manning, who has secured multi-million dollar settlements and awards in several lawsuits against Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio, offered his perspective on the showdown over Arpaio's abuse of power. Wed, 26 May 2010 11:08:47 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2010_Firm_Events/Is_the_Bank_Crisis_Over_.aspx The Financial Institutions attorneys of Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP invite you to join us as we discuss these issues and more. Please encourage your directors to attend as well. Wed, 11 Aug 2010 16:28:41 /News_and_Events/Events/Speaking_Events/2010_Speaking_Events/Health_Care_Attorneys_Zieg___Bowman_to_Lead_Session_at_Nebraska_Hospital_Association_Meeting.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP partners Patty Zieg and Carl Bowman will speak at the Nebraska Hospital Association Mid-Year Meeting June 4th in Kearney, Nebraska. Thu, 24 Jun 2010 12:50:36 /News_and_Events/In_the_News/2010_In_The_News/Missouri_Lawyers_Weekly_Interviews_Chuck_Hatfield_on_Judicial_Review_of_Ballot_Changes.aspx Missouri Lawyers Weekly interviewed Stinson Attorney Chuck Hatfield regarding legislative efforts to set strict timelines for courts when ruling on legal challenges involving initiative petitions. Thu, 03 Jun 2010 11:04:46 /News_and_Events/Events/Speaking_Events/2010_Speaking_Events/FDIC-Assisted_Asset_Sales_Webinar_Features_Stinson_Attorney_Bob_Monroe.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Partner Bob Monroe will be a featured speaker for a webinar titled FDIC-Assisted Asset Sales: Leveraging Opportunities and Minimizing Risks in FDIC Loan Sales and Loss-Share Transactions." Fri, 04 Jun 2010 09:25:15 /News_and_Events/Events/Speaking_Events/2010_Speaking_Events/John_Munich_Featured_Speaker_at_TTARA_Research_Foundation_School_Finance_Symposium.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Partner John Munich presented "Assessing Adequacy: How Do We Know If Our Schools Are Constitutionally 'Adequate'" at the Texas Taxpayers and Research Association School Finance Symposium held at the state capitol in Austin. Fri, 04 Jun 2010 09:46:15 /News_and_Events/Events/Sponsored_Events/2010_Sponsored_Events/Stinson_Sponsors_ACG_Kansas_City_s_2010_Capital_Connection___Private_Equity_Forum.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP is proud to sponsor the Association for Corporate Growth's 2010 Capital Connection & Private Equity Forum, the Kansas City chapter's third annual conference energizing corporate growth. Fri, 04 Jun 2010 11:19:51 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2010_News_Releases/Stinson_Associate_Completes_KCMBA_Bar_Leadership_Academy.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Associate Megan McCurdy recently graduated from the Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association's Bar Leadership Academy. The nine-month program facilitates the development of emerging leaders in the Kansas City area legal profession. Fri, 04 Jun 2010 14:08:18 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2010_News_Releases/Stinson_Adds_New_Attorney_to_Washington,_D_C_,_Office.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP recently welcomed a new associate to its Washington, D.C., office.Jonathan P. Trotta joins the firm as an associate in the Energy and Environment Division.  Wed, 09 Jun 2010 08:42:25 /News_and_Events/Events/Speaking_Events/2010_Speaking_Events/Westerhaus_to_Speak_at_KCMBA_s_Corporate_Counsel_Institute.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker Partner Vicki Westerhaus will speak at the 24th Annual Corporate Counsel Institute sponsored by the KCMBA on Wed., June 23. She will present “New Developments in Corporate Governance and Securities Law.” This program qualifies for 7.0 hours CLE, including 1.0 hour ethics. For more information, or to register, click here. Wed, 09 Jun 2010 11:07:07 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2010_News_Releases/The_Leukemia_and_Lymphoma_Society_Mid-America_Chapter_Recognizes_Stinson.aspx The Mid-America Chapter of The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society recognized Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP with its Excellence in Corporate Partnering Award at its June 2 Volunteer Recognition Awards Dinner. The Chapter also recognized three Stinson attorneys for their fundraising and volunteer efforts. Wed, 09 Jun 2010 12:55:16 /News_and_Events/Events/Firm_Events/2010_Firm_Events/Business_Law_Update_2010_–_St__Louis.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker invites you to join us on Tuesday, June 22, 2010, for our Business Law Update CLE. The seminar will discuss developments in commercial and business transaction practices, as well as updates in the latest legal developments. Stinson Morrison Hecker invites you to join us on Tuesday, June 22, 2010, for our Business Law Update CLE. We will discuss developments in commercial and business transaction practices, as well as updates in the latest legal developments. In response to feedback from prior seminars, we will devote more time to each of the topics covered.Topics include:Corporate Compliance: How to Keep Your CEO Out of Jail Raising Equity in the Great Recession Everyday IP Issues for Businesses Employment Law Update Missouri Legislative Update e-Discovery and Litigation  WHENTuesday, June 22, 20101:45 p.m. Registration2:00 p.m. Program5:00 p.m. Reception Thu, 17 Jun 2010 09:39:37 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2010_News_Releases/Stinson_Receives_Top_Rankings_From_Chambers_USA.aspx Five Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP practice areas ranked number one in the latest edition of Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business. In total, seven practice areas and 29 attorneys were recognized in this annual listing of top law firms and attorneys. Thu, 24 Jun 2010 12:56:29 /News_and_Events/Events/Sponsored_Events/2010_Sponsored_Events/Stinson_Hosts_Special_Education_Legal_Advocacy_Training.aspx Legal Aid’s Volunteer Attorney Project has arranged for a half-day training by local experts Scott Wasserman (Your Child 1st) and Dan Underwood (Legal Services of Eastern Missouri) to provide the basics on special education law and concrete examples and instructions on how to handle these cases. If you plan to attend, please RSVP soon. Tue, 15 Jun 2010 13:22:47 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2010_News_Releases/Castor_Armesto_Selected_for_2010-2011_Leadership_St__Louis_Class.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP Attorney Castor Armesto has been selected to participate in the 2010-2011 class of Leadership St. Louis. Organized by Focus St. Louis, this highly competitive program provides emerging and established leaders with an enhanced awareness of the critical issues facing the region. Participants explore complex issues, such as racism and regionalism, while building practical skills in areas such as policy analysis, conflict resolution, collaboration and enabling change. Thu, 05 Aug 2010 10:07:05 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2010_News_Releases/Stinson_Continues_Strong_Support_of_ArtsKC_Fund.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP's Kansas City, Mo., and Overland Park, Kan., offices once again demonstrated their ongoing support of the arts in Kansas City. The firm raised more than $25,000 in May 2010 during the Arts Council of Metropolitan Kansas City's annual ArtsKC Fund workplace giving campaign. Wed, 23 Jun 2010 09:04:07 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2010_News_Releases/Stinson_Expands_Energy_and_Environmental_Division,_Adds_Partner.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP announces the addition of Sarah Toevs Sullivan to its Kansas City office. Previously with Bryan Cave LLP, Sullivan joins the Energy and Environmental Division as partner, further expanding and strengthening the firm’s services. Fri, 25 Jun 2010 09:59:21 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2010_News_Releases/Midwest_Real_Estate_News_Recognizes_Stinson_s_Real_Estate_Division.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker's Real Estate Division was recognized by Midwest Real Estate News as one of the "Best of the Best" transactional real estate firms in the Midwest. Fri, 25 Jun 2010 15:56:03 /News_and_Events/Events/Sponsored_Events/2010_Sponsored_Events/Stinson_Proud_Sponsor_of_MAHA_Music_Festival.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP is proud to sponsor The MAHA Music Festival, a one-day music festival in downtown Omaha, Neb. The July 24 event combines national, regional and local indie and rock artists. Wed, 07 Jul 2010 12:47:03 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2010_News_Releases/Stinson_s_Hoover_Named_Volunteer_of_the_Year_by_American_Lung_Association_of_the_Central_States.aspx The American Lung Association of the Central States has awarded Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP attorney Lynn Hoover its 2010 Volunteer of the Year Award. Hoover was selected for his significant contributions toward the American Lung Association mission, as well as his outstanding leadership and service. Tue, 29 Jun 2010 09:18:31 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2010_News_Releases/Stinson_Attorney_Lana_Knedlik_Receives_KBA_Outstanding_Service_Award.aspx Stinson Partner Lana Knedlik received the Kansas Bar Association's Outstanding Service Award during the Installation and Awards Dinner at the KBA Annual Meeting & Joint Judicial Conference. The event was held in Wichita, Kan., from June 9-11, 2010. Wed, 30 Jun 2010 15:14:25 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2010_News_Releases/Stinson_Morrison_Hecker_LLP_Announces_Mark_Hinderks_as_Incoming_Managing_Partner.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP has announced Mark Hinderks will assume the role of managing partner of the firm on July 1, 2010. Hinderks began serving as deputy managing partner in 2008 in preparation for his transition to managing partner. Tue, 06 Jul 2010 16:00:11 /Stinson_Advises_EPT_on_250_Million_Private_Offering.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP advised Entertainment Properties Trust in connection with its Rule 144A/Reg. S offering of $250 million 7.750% senior notes due 2020. The transaction closed on June 30, 2010. Tue, 06 Jul 2010 16:51:29 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2010_News_Releases/Stinson_Adds_Gregory_Hague_to_Phoenix_Office.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP announces the addition of Gregory Hague to its Phoenix office. Hague holds the distinction of achieving the top score for February’s Arizona Bar exam and, at 61, may be the oldest person in the nation to achieve the #1 score on any state bar exam. Tue, 27 Jul 2010 17:21:09 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2010_News_Releases/STAR_Bonds_Used_to_Reshape_a_Midwestern_Community.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP attorneys played a key role in the adoption of the new Illinois STAR Bonds Financing Act, which was signed by Illinois Governor Pat Quinn on June 24, and is expected to finance a "destination retail and entertainment" project in southern Illinois. The new legislation recently enacted by the State of Illinois strives to create the same kind of economic development opportunities created by a similar financing tool used at Kansas Speedway and Village West in Kansas City, Kan. Fri, 16 Jul 2010 11:32:50 /News_and_Events/News_Releases/2010_News_Releases/Stinson_Partner_Lana_Knedlik_Receives_LGBT_Honor.aspx Stinson Morrison Hecker Partner Lana Knedlik was named to the inaugural class of the 40 Best LGBT Lawyers Under 40 by the National LGBT Bar Association, an affiliate of the American Bar Association. Thu, 29 Jul 2010 14:01:45