Erin Toner

Kalamazoo, Mich., is getting a little help from some wealthy friends to solve a growing financial crisis. Two local philanthropists have pledged $70 million to help the city end chronic budget deficits and cut property taxes. While private donors have rescued programs governments can no longer afford, such as public art and parks, rarely do people give millions directly to a city's general fund with no strings attached. But some question the donors' motivations and fear the arrangement could fundamentally change how government functions.

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.

Several bio-tech companies are developing exoskeletons that give people superhuman abilities. But these robotic suits are also doing something simpler: They're helping paralyzed veterans walk again.

The state's Republican governor, Scott Walker, rejected federal funds to expand Medicaid coverage. But Wisconsin is also bringing more people into Medicaid while moving others to private insurance on the health exchanges under the Affordable Care Act.

As mobile devices dominate our work and personal lives, people are buying fewer pens, especially high-end ones. That's doomed many mom-and-pop pen shops, but a few are still holding on, relying on those who treat pens like jewelry.

Nationwide, many cash-strapped cities have raided funds intended for retirees or have chronically underfunded their pension systems. But despite a budget crunch, Milwaukee's fund has consistently ranked among the nation's top pension programs. Even so, some changes lie ahead for city workers.

As the school year begins, many principals are leading their schools for the first time. Keeping principals is a problem in many schools, and high-poverty, urban districts often have particularly high rates of turnover. Some experts say that revolving door can hurt student achievement.

Last August, a Sikh community in Wisconsin lost six of its members in a mass shooting before Sunday services. Some local Sikhs say they've become more devoted in the year since the tragedy, and have begun wearing turbans and long beards in an effort to raise awareness and understanding of the faith.

Army veteran Justin Claus of Wisconsin has been looking for work, unsuccessfully, for two years. He suspects his military disability may be keeping him from getting hired. And research shows his suspicions have some basis in fact.