Erin Toner

Wisconsin Republicans are fast-tracking a "right to work" bill to Gov. Scott Walker. The law aims to weaken private sector unions by letting employees opt out of paying dues.

After years of cutbacks, Milwaukee Public Schools are re-hiring teachers for classes beyond the basics. They are hoping to retain students as well as boost attendance and test scores.

With the country still digging its way out of the recession, banks have severely tightened lending to small firms — making it harder for many to get back on their feet. But Daphne Wilson, an entrepreneur in Milwaukee, Wis., didn't let being turned down by four banks stop her.

The U.S. Bowling Congress is considering moving its headquarters out of Milwaukee, a city where bowling is as popular as beer. The group says the cost of doing business in Milwaukee is too high. If it moves, it would be another blow to a city that has lost much of its blue-collar industrial heritage, from manufacturing to brewing.