Racine-based Johnson Outdoors Inc. announced it has closed on its acquisition of Jetboil Inc., the world's No. 1 brand of outdoor cooking systems.

The Wisconsin economy is expanding at a somewhat sluggish pace and has struggled to gather any sustained momentum given declining factory activity, according to the State Monitor report released today by BMO Capital Markets Economics.

Grafton-based Kapco Inc., which is projecting 20-percent annual sales growth in each of the next several years, is launching a new initiative to expand its vendor base and augment its growth.

Blackthorne Partners Ltd., a Mequon-based private equity firm, announced it has acquired Berlon Industries, a Hustisford-based manufacturer of buckets and attachments for skid loaders, telehandlers and compact utility tractors.

The Medical College of Wisconsin's board of trustees has authorized its leadership to begin contract negotiations to establish new program site locations in the Green Bay and central Wisconsin regions for the college's community-based medical education programs.

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.