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Additional Counties Follow Lincoln County, Pass Redistricting Resolutions Published on 05/19/2017 under News

Back in March, the Lincoln County Board passed an advisory resolution calling on legislators to draw district boundaries in a nonpartisan way. Now a handful of other counties have followed with similar measures.

That resolution aims to end gerrymandering, a process where the party in power redraws irregular political lines to their benefit. Those lines are drawn at the state level, here in Wisconsin by the legislature. Several states in the country use a nonpartisan board to draw those lines including neighboring Iowa.

Hans Breitenmoser, a Lincoln County Supervisor lead the push for the resolution in Lincoln County which passed by an 18-4 margin earlier this spring. At Tuesday's meeting he updated the board on other counties that have passed similar advisory resolutions.

According to a Wisconsin Public Radio report, that list now includes Jefferson, Wood and Dunn Counties.

Whether any changes are made in Madison remains to be seen. The state is currently appealing a ruling that found the 2010 Republican drawn lines as unconstitutional.

In Other News

Arbor Vitae House Fire Ends in Total Loss After Busy Morning for Local Firefighters

Published on 08/27/2026 under News A home in Arbor Vitae was destroyed early Wednesday morning in a fire, one of two responses across the Lakeland area. Arbor Vitae Fire and Rescue was dispatched to the scene just 45 minutes after a blaze broke out at an establishment in neighboring Minocqua. (read more: Fire Destroys Sheri's Pub N Grub in Minocqua) Several Arbor Vitae units that had just arrived to assist at the Minocqua scene were immediately redirected back to their home district following initial concerns that occupants might be trapped inside. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy flames spreading rapidly through the house. Crews pushed through intense heat to perform a primary search, confirming that no residents were inside. Shortly after the search was completed, the roof collapsed under severe fire damage. While the home was deemed a total loss, no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Minocqua Fire & Rescue and Arbor Vitae Fire and Rescue both highlighted the vital role played by the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS) during the simultaneous incidents, thanking the neighboring volunteer departments for their swift assistance.

Published on 08/27/2026 under News Night owls across the Northwoods may want to keep their eyes on the skies tonight. A full moon paired with a partial lunar eclipse will sweep across the region Thursday evening into the early morning hours of Friday. August's full moon, traditionally known as the Sturgeon Moon, will see Earth's shadow cover roughly 96% of its surface, casting a striking, deep rusty-red glow over the lunar landscape. While skywatchers shouldn't expect much aurora activity tonight due to minimal forecast predictions, Northern Lights conditions look slightly more promising for Friday night. Local viewers won't need telescopes or special glasses to take in the near-total eclipse. For the best view of the red moon, head away from city lights around 11:00 p.m.

Published on 08/27/2026 under News State health and wildlife officials have issued an updated guide to help anglers safely enjoy Wisconsin fish. The DNR and Department of Health Services released the latest edition of their Choose Wisely guide on Tuesday. While fish offer great lean protein and healthy omega-3s, they can absorb environmental pollutants like mercury and PFAS over time. DNR toxicologist Sean Strom says staff regularly test fish across state waterways to update recommendations, noting it's critical for frequent fish-eaters to check for new advisories. Depending on the body of water, fish species, and individual health factors, recommendations may suggest limiting fish meals to once a week, once a month, or avoiding consumption altogether. While most Wisconsin waters have no restrictions, several local lakes and rivers do carry specific guidelines. The full 2026–2028 Choose Wisely guide is available online, with advisory signs posted at popular public boat launches.

Published on 08/26/2026 under News A new feature-length documentary exploring the rich history of Tomahawk is set to make its big-screen debut next month. Tomahawk: City in the Pines will premiere on Saturday, September 12, at the Tomahawk High School Auditorium. Created by Tomahawk native Clay Schmit and Academy Award-winning filmmaker John Newcombe, the project spent more than two years in development, tracing the area's roots from its early days prior to incorporation, through its founding in 1886, and into the modern era. The 90-minute film highlights the region's timber origins, the dangerous logging era along the Wisconsin River, historic sawmills, and iconic local landmarks like the former Mitchell Hotel and the Tomahawk Boat Company. Schmit credits tremendous support from local residents, the Tomahawk Historical Society, and community members who contributed photographs, stories, and historical records. Tomahawk Mayor "Hob" Habeck, who attended an advance screening, praised the project: "When people see this film, they'll gain a whole new perspective on Tomahawk. It shows just how much hard work and determination went into building this community." Organizers encourage attendees to wear flannel to the premiere in honor of the town's logging heritage. Schmit noted that the documentary is dedicated to those who lost their lives working in the timber industry. We'll have more coverage leading up to the premiere here on WJJQ, including an upcoming conversation with Newcombe.

Published on 08/26/2026 under News A new Veterans Memorial Mural is in the works for Antigo, and the local artist behind the project is seeking the public's help to bring the vision to life. Artist Danna Gabriel is collaborating with Antigo Visual Arts and Bradley Funeral Home to create the piece. From a distance, the mural will resemble a traditional American flag, but up close, it reveals a detailed mosaic composed of 305 individually customized red, white, and blue ceramic tiles. Project organizers are inviting community members to purchase and dedicate individual tiles to complete the design. Each tile can be personalized with a veteran's name, photograph, military details, or a message of gratitude. Proceeds from the project will support the Langlade County chapter of Disabled American Veterans. "This project is about honoring the people who served, preserving their stories, and creating something our community can be proud of," Gabriel shared. "Whether you are honoring a family member, remembering a friend, or simply want to say thank you to a veteran, there is a place for you in this mural." While 32 tiles have already been reserved, all 305 must be claimed before final assembly can begin. Once completed, the mosaic will be permanently installed inside Bradley Funeral Home. Those interested in sponsoring a tile or supporting the project can contact Antigo Visual Arts or Bradley Funeral Home.

Published on 08/26/2026 under News There's plenty of incentive to head down to WaWui bingo this evening, featuring a special promotion and a growing prize pot. First up, it's WJJQ Night at bingo! Our very own Gregg Albert will be on the microphone calling numbers for the evening. Even if you don't score a bingo, you might still walk away with some cool Big Q gear. If that isn't enough to get you out the door, WaWui's Blackout Progressive Game features a pot that grows every week and is now up to nearly $1,700. As always, all WaWui bingo proceeds directly support operations and improvements at the SARA Park facility. Doors open at 5:00 p.m., and games begin at 6:30 p.m. at SARA Park.

Published on 08/26/2026 under News It was a routine night of committee meetings for the City of Tomahawk, with few action items on the agenda. The Health and Safety Committee approved special event applications for two upcoming events which are unrelated, but fall on the same weekend: the annual Tomahawk High School Homecoming Parade on October 2 and the WaWui Beer and Bacon Bash on October 3 at SARA Park. The Finance Committee re-approved borrowing resolutions to purchase two new squad cars and several pieces of Public Works equipment. Because these items had been previously approved, a renewed application was required. The committee spent the majority of its time scheduling upcoming sessions to discuss a potential fall levy referendum, the city's room tax, and the 2027 municipal budget. Meanwhile, the Board of Public Works reviewed monthly updates from department heads and briefly discussed signage for the South Tomahawk Avenue boulevard between Wisconsin and Somo avenues. The location currently displays the Tomahawk Main Street sign, with future plans to add a Wisconsin Historical District sign. No action was taken as members gather additional details on sign dimensions and potential Department of Transportation height restrictions.

Published on 08/26/2026 under News With the new school year kicking off next week for most districts, local health experts are encouraging tired students to focus on basic wellness rather than reaching for energy drinks. Aspirus Health Nurse Practitioner Rachel Rindt emphasizes that caffeine only masks fatigue instead of providing what growing bodies actually need: rest, hydration, and proper nutrition. Experts note that caffeine remains in the body for hours, creating a cycle of exhaustion that undermines focus and academic performance. Rindt says, "The goal is to help families understand the risks while encouraging healthier habits that support learning, athletics, and overall well-being." Rather than relying on energy drinks, health professionals recommend parents help kids build sustainable habits—such as consistent sleep schedules, balanced meals, daily hydration, and limited screen time before bed. Major health organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the CDC, warn that high levels of caffeine, sugar, and stimulants can trigger severe sleep disruption, anxiety, dehydration, and heart issues. Parents and guardians are reminded that if a student experiences a racing heartbeat, chest pain, or fainting after consuming caffeine, they should seek immediate medical care.

Published on 08/26/2026 under News Gov. Tony Evers made a stop in the Northwoods yesterday to highlight local clean energy initiatives and mark the release of the state's 2026 Clean Energy Plan Progress Report. During the visit, Evers joined members of Wisconsin Public Service to tour the 7.5-megawatt Hodag Solar Park near Rhinelander, the first large-scale solar facility in the region. Spanning 50 acres with 21,000 solar panels, the site is operated in partnership with WEC Energy Group to deliver affordable, reliable, and clean power to Northern Wisconsin residents. The stop coincided with the release of the progress report, which highlights key pathways for Wisconsin: accelerating clean energy technology, maximizing efficiency, modernizing buildings and industry, and innovating transportation. Governor Evers said he's proud of the efforts to move these priorities forward. He added, "By lowering energy costs for working families, creating good-paying jobs in innovative industries, and bolstering our efforts to lower carbon emissions, we're building the healthier, cleaner, and more sustainable state and future that Wisconsinites deserve."

Published on 08/26/2026 under News A two-vehicle crash in Lincoln County last week occurred when a driver pulled over to collect mail from a roadside mailbox. According to the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, the incident happened on County Highway E in the Town of Rock Falls. Investigators say both vehicles were traveling eastbound when the lead vehicle pulled onto the shoulder to check a mailbox. As a second vehicle attempted to pass on the left, the lead driver pulled back onto the roadway, causing the two vehicles to sideswipe each other. Minor injuries were reported at the scene, no further details were provided. Other incidents highlighted in the Sheriff's Report: -Two individuals were arrested for first offense OWI: one following a traffic stop, the other following a single vehicle crash. -The number of vehicle vs. deer collisions remains low with 4 reported this past week on Lincoln County Roadways.

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