I’ve hitherto loudly lamented that one had to surry on down to the stoned soul Glasshouse in the Wannabe State to obtain a glimpse of briefs and like filings, the same not being available via PACER.

But COVID-19, the proverbial ill wind, may have blown a scintilla of good.

Though the “small court,” notoriously shy and best known for the large bushelbasket under which it keeps its light, has kept this a well-hidden secret, I hasten to play the Matthew 10:27 gambit.

Here’s the story: “Until further notice, requests for copies of Court records from non-parties (copy requests) must be made by telephone and will be fulfilled electronically by email. The Court’s fees with respect to these copy requests will be $0.50 per page, with a per-document cap of $3.00. The Records Department can be reached at (202) 521-4688.”

Cheaper than PACER, given the three-buck cap. Any document you want, for the price of a bottle of Trader Joe’s famous plonk. 

My colleague Peter Reilly, CPA, sent me the following request, asking that I would circulate it on this my blog. While I do not generally refer my readers to other sources, Mr Reilly is a valued colleague, and I am glad to oblige him.

He writes: “I am soliciting nominations for best Tax Court decision of 2020.  Any criterion at all is acceptable.  I go by humor, practical significance and broader meaning.”

Send your suggestions to him by commenting on his blog http://blogs.forbes.com/peterjreilly/

I have already given him my choice, but to avoid tainting the jury pool I will not mention it here.

Edited to add, 12/1/20: Please use yourtaxmatterspartner.com  for comments. Forbes doesn’t take comments, for whatever reason.

As I said back in September, 2012 B.C. (Before Corona), “This was the title of the fictional rogue General Flashman’s memoirs, as discovered in a saleroom by the late G. M. Fraser.” But it suits the departure of Judge Ruwe, finally retired as of last Wednesday.

Here’s the skinny: https://ustaxcourt.gov/resources/press/11302020.pdf

I had suspected this was in the works, but hesitated to break the news without some confirmation. The stillness from Public Affairs should have given me a clue. See my blogpost “From My Notebook – Part Deux,” 7/21/20.

Howbeit, I and all my readers with Judge Ruwe a happy retirement.