EPHRAIM, Wis. (AP) — In a state known for its beer-brewing roots, there’s a small picturesque tourist village in northeastern Wisconsin where you can’t buy a drop of alcohol. But Ephraim might not be dry for much longer. Locals have gathered enough signatures to spark a referendum on the issue April 5. One question asks whether the village should issue licenses to allow beer to be sold for consumption on or off premise. The other asks about wine being sold for consumption in restaurants. The village of about 300 has been dry since Norwegian Moravians founded it in 1853. Supporters want the change to bring more tourists to local businesses. Those who oppose it are afraid it will spoil the quaint feel of the area and spurn village history.
