Ideas

Wisconsin banks have increased their small business lending by $16.9 million since receiving capital through Small Business Lending Fund (SBLF), according to a new report by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

As it celebrates its 20th anniversary, the Northwestern Mutual Foundation plans to donate $16.7 million to charities in fiscal 2012.

American consumer spending increased for the third consecutive month, indicating that the economic recovery is gathering steam.

The remainder of the possessions bought with embezzled money by Sue Sachdeva, former Koss Corp. vice president of finance, will be sold April 21-22 by Ivana's Trunk, a Mequon consignment store.

Gov. Scott Walker announced that statewide property taxes for the typical homeowner have gone down for the first time in 12 years.

Toronto-based BMO Financial Group, the parent company of BMO Harris Bank, announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire CTC Consulting LLC of Portland, Ore.

Associated Banc-Corp has hired Randall J. Erickson as executive vice president, general counsel and corporate secretary for the corporation, Associated Bank, National Association and Associated Trust Company, National Association.

The Charles Schwab Corporation has opened a new, independent branch in Mequon. It is one of the first franchised locations opened since the company decided to franchise in early 2011.

Wisconsin has many soldiers bravely serving our country all over the world. When they return, it is time for us to serve them.

As social media and its effects permeate the workplace, one recent phenomenon is continuing to attract attention: employers asking job applicants and existing employees for their social media passwords in order to delve into their personal backgrounds.