Grapevine: Jack Lew's unique signature

autograph be printed on U.S. A look at autograph of potential treasury secretary

And now some fresh pickings from the Political Grapevine...

How Proud Is She?

New Massachusetts Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren will not identify herself as the Bay State's first Native American senator.

The Boston Herald reports Warren does not plan to contact historians at the Senate Historical Office -- even though the office says it would be happy to list her.

Warren insists that she is Native American on her grandmother's side. She used that to claim minority status in the 1980s and 90s yet has not been able to provide proof when challenged.

Twila Barnes, a Cherokee and consistent critic of Warren, says it is more proof her claims are suspect. Quote -- "I think she just wants this to go away because she knows she has no proof. I think it was something she did to get a job, and it was temporarily convenient."

Flagged

The attorney for a Wisconsin teacher who reportedly stomped on an American flag in class, says the man was trying to teach his students about symbolism.

The lawyer tells a local TV station his client meant no disrespect but was attempting to show his classes America is an inspirational idea greater than the material objects that represent it.

One parent says, telling students the 50 stars symbolize the 50 states and that the red and white stripes represent the original 13 colonies might have been a better way.

District officials say teachers know better, following the suspension of one instructor for having a political sign in her classroom.

Money Guy

Finally, we told you earlier Jack Lew is President Obama's nominee to become the next treasury secretary.

Well, have a look at Jack Lew's signature, which first appeared publicly in a memo back in September 2011.

New York magazine says it has been called the worst autograph in Washington. President Obama ribbed Lew about it this afternoon.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA: I considered rescinding my offer to appoint him. Jack assures me, that he is going to work to make at least one letter legible, in order not to debase our currency.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

One of our producers found what could be the true inspiration for the treasury secretary nominee's unique signature. These cupcakes here.

We're not total penmanship snobs on the Grapevine, though it is worth noting that if Lew is confirmed, that loopy signature would be on the lower right hand corner of every new bill you carry.