11/13/2025

IRONWOOD - Ironwood Area Schools posting on their official Facebook page that they have elected to disable comments on their Facebook posts to help maintain a respectful and focused online environment.  The school district says that they welcome open communication and that can be done by calling the school’s main office.

11/13/2025

ONEIDA COUNTY - The Oneida County Board of Adjustment approved a second conditional use permit for Minocqua Brewing Company owner Kirk Bangstad last night, reversing a planning committee's denial that called the application a "carbon copy" of his revoked permit. Bangstad's attorney, Fred Melms, argued past non-compliance issues were resolved, but county attorney David Jones and a resident cited persistent violations. The BOA unanimously approved the CUP, conditioned on an eight-foot fence being installed on the property's south and west sides before the May 1, 2026, opening, or risk enforcement.

11/13/2025

MADISON - The Assembly Committee on State Affairs discussed a new bill that would amend and create new regulations for hemp-derived cannabinoid (HDC) products in Wisconsin.  The new bill would rename the Division of Alcohol Beverages to the Division of Intoxicating Products, allowing HDC products to be regulated the same way alcohol is in Wisconsin.  Changes will also be made to age, packaging, and health labels on products. Only people 21 and over can purchase or sell HDC products. Labels would include serving size, an ingredient list, and several health warnings.  The bill would place new taxes on hemp products, making them similar to alcohol products. It also modifies the definition of a restricted controlled substance, related to how crimes involving HDCs are prosecuted in court.  The new bill will also install a three-tier system for HDC products, meaning manufacturers, distributors and retailers would all operate independently.  All members of the committee approved the bill, but say there needs to be more discussion on the topic moving forward.