MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- Former Wisconsin Assembly Speaker John Gard and his wife have purchased a lobbying company.

Gard and his wife, Cate Zeuske (zoo' - ski) say they bought Wisconsin Independent Businesses Inc. from founders Tom and Nancy Dohm. The firm lobbies legislators on behalf of small businesses and farmers.

Gard and Zeuske say they also have bought a subisdiary, ExploreWisconsin.com, a shopping and Internet portal that specializes in Web site design, hosting and marketing.

Gard, a Republican from Peshtigo, served as speaker and co-chairman of the Legislature's powerful finance committee. He also made two unsuccessful runs for Congress.

Zeuske is a former state representative as well. She also worked as state treasurer and secretary of the Department of Revenue under former Gov. Tommy Thompson.