Heartland Financial USA Inc., the parent company of Madison-based Wisconsin Bank & Trust, announced today it has closed on the purchase of First Shares Inc. (FSI), parent company of First National Bank of Platteville.

The Wellness Council of America (WELCOA), with its local affiliate, the Wellness Council of Wisconsin, recently presented 11 additional recipients of the Well Workplace Award in Wisconsin for 2012.

In September at the National Governors Association meeting, a 12-point action plan was launched to focus on growing state economies. Eight of the 12 action steps related to building and expanding an entrepreneurial culture. Why? Because startup firms that develop organically have a major, long-term impact on strengthening the overall state economy, specifically in creating new jobs.

IndependenceFirst has announced the creation of the IndependenceFirst Mobility Store, thanks to a merger between IndependenceFirst and the Wheelchair Recycling Program.

Bother Bob Smith announced his resignation from his position as president and chief executive officer of Messmer Catholic Schools Friday morning.

BMO Harris Bank will offer underprivileged students greater access to educational programming, mentoring opportunities and leadership skills training through a five-year, $600,000 working relationship with Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee and Marquette University, according to an announcement Tuesday.

An online version of the new 2013 BizTimes Giving Guide is now live.

The Brewers Community Foundation (BCF) and the Milwaukee Brewers Baseball Club raised more than $3.5 million during the 2012 season, with support coming from Brewers ownership, fans, players and other sponsors.

*Friday, Nov. 16, the City of Glendale and Bayshore Town Center will host and present the 7th annual tree...

Milwaukee-based Professional Dimensions, a network organization serving professional women, is seeking nominations for the 2013 Sacagawea Award.

As expected, Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker announced today that he will not attempt to create a state health care insurance exchange for Wisconsin residents and will instead defer that chore to the federal government.

The public is invited to help BizTimes Media salute the first responders to the mass shootings in Oak Creek and Brookfield by attending the 2012 Health Care Heroes Awards Breakfast.