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Manitowoc, WI - In his State of the State Address, Governor Scott Walker asked every small business in WIsconsin to hire at least one new worker. So are small business owners on board? It's an idea, that was put to the test in Manitowoc, as Lieutenant Governor Rebecca Kleefisch toured the state, promoting businesses and the jobs they create.

Lieutenant Governor Rebecca Kleefisch says the governor's plan will create a "tidal wave" of employment. And for businesses big and small, it may be good to hear, but it remains to be seen, if and when any hiring will begin.

At Orion Energy Systems in Manitowoc, 250 workers are on the line. The governor's call to hire, comes as good news.

"We have to drive the economy. I think it's coming along pretty well. We're in a growth mode at Orion, and as long as the economy is strong, we're gonna be able to put more people to work," said Kevin Crawford, Senior Vice President, Governmental Affairs & Corporate Communications at Orion Energy Systems.

And just up the road, Gary Hoppe runs the Hop Shop for twenty years, out of his backyard garage. And for the past four months, his wife Susan Hoppe has worked at home as well.

"I just have myself. I do financial planning and investment sales," said Susan Hoppe, owner of Susan Hoppe Investments.

So at this rotary luncheon in Manitowoc,

"We need to improve," said Lieutenant Governor Rebecca Kleefisch.

Lieutenant Governor Rebecca Kleefisch is asking people to hire. Businesses big and small, are looking for a break in the economy.

"Anytime you can bring progress in as far as employment and business, it's gotta be an outstanding thing," said Joe McClafferty, of the Manitowoc Noon Rotary Club.

 "Small businesses are close to the earth, ear to the rail, and they will know if they can put people on or not," said Crawford.

"We need to have people that are going to, the small businesses to grow, because you have to start somewhere. If you don't start somewhere, you'll never get big," said Hoppe.

  The governor hopes to create a quarter of a million jobs in his first term in office. So far those numbers are falling short. The adminstation hopes this plan can help jump start the small business economy.