Around the Web takes a look at some of the other interesting news stories being reported on other websites.

The economic picture in Wisconsin continues to be grim as Wisconsin’s March unemployment rate hits 9.4%, surpassing the national rate of 8.5%.  Things could get worse yet before they get better, Wisconsin based Harley Davidson this week announced plunging profits resulting in additional layoffs. Land O’ Lakes is also closing its Wisconsin butter plant, laying off 120 people.  Wisconsin foreclosures also continue to rise, up over 27% from February.

Neighboring states also saw increases in unemployment with Minnesota at 8.2%, and Illinois at 9.1%.  Another Midwestern state, Michigan, topped the nation with 12.6% unemployment.  Our neighbor to the southwest is weathering the economic storm a little better, Iowa’s March unemployment numbers came in at 5.2%.

Debate on the governor’s budget is beginning, hopefully it will not come in overdue this time around.

Is the down economy causing Wisconsin residents to think twice about their beer and wine consumption?  Nah, they are just choosing to stay home rather that visit the bar as often.

Is there any encouraging news out there? Perhaps. A high speed rail project that includes Madison is in President Obama’s strategic plan for rail projects.