2/27/2026

VILAS COUNTY - The Eagle River Pickleball Association (ERPA) is actively looking for 1.5-2 acres within 3-5 miles of downtown Eagle River to build 10 new, state-of-the-art outdoor pickleball courts with utilities. The existing Riverview Park courts, built around 2009, are inadequate, causing long waits and lacking space and parking, according to ERPA VP Denny Erardi. ERPA is prepared to purchase the land but welcomes donations. The new public courts will offer ERPA members who pay a $25 annual fee, exclusive use, typically 8:00 to 11:00 AM. Erardi emphasizes the courts’ value for sport growth, community, and economic benefits. Contact Denny Erardi or Jane Jones with land options.

2/26/2026

ASHLAND COUNTY  (AP) — After years of legal wrangling, energy company Enbridge has finally started rerouting an aging oil pipeline around a tribal reservation in northern Wisconsin. The Bad River Band of Lake Superior sued Enbridge in 2019 to force the company to remove about 12 miles of Line 5 that crosses their reservation. A judge gave the company until this June to comply. Enbridge spokesperson Juli Kellner said workers began clearing trees Tuesday for a new 41-mile segment that circumvents the reservation. The tribe and conservationists filed separate lawsuits over the last week seeking orders that would immediately halt the work, saying the construction will irreparably harm the environment. But the judges in both cases have yet to take any action.

2/26/2026

WAKEFIELD - The Wakefield Chamber of Commerce board voted to temporarily suspend operations (“hibernate”) instead of permanently closing due to low participation and the inability to replace its retiring president, secretary, and treasurer since October 2025. The Chamber, a financially stable 501(c)(6) nonprofit, will cease all functions and fundraising after a final meeting on May 21st, legally distributing remaining assets, including $10,000 recently earmarked for local causes. The Western U.P. Convention and Visitor’s Bureau is negotiating to lease the Chamber’s Visitor’s Center from the city. All memberships expire March 1st, as no 2026 drive occurred. The Chamber will not organize the 2026 Community Garage Sale and seeks a replacement organizer.