WJJQ Radio

Local & Area News

Published on 09/01/2025 under News One person is dead following a motorcycle crash in Vilas County. According to the Sheriff's Office, that call came in early Sunday morning, just a few minutes after midnight. Responders were paged to Gross Road and Milton Lane in the Town of Arbor Vitae. The reporting party came across the motorcycle, but didn't immediately locate the operator. Indicating the crash was relatively recent, they described the bike as still warm to the touch. The deputy quickly arrived on the scene, finding the unresponsive victim who was pronounced dead. The Sheriff's Office did say it was a 33 year old Arbor Vitae man. His name has not been released pending notification of family. The crash remains under investigation.

Published on 09/01/2025 under News Sunday was Opioid Awareness Day, and Aspirus took the opportunity to educate people on an important life-saving tool. Narcan, or naloxone, is becoming more readily available here in the Northwoods. According to Aspirus pharmacy resident Natalie Wilkin, naloxone reverses the effects of an overdose by neutralizing the opioid. It does so by binding to the same receptors in the body. An advantage of naloxone is that it doesn't impact a person that hasn't been using an opioid. Wilkin says it's important to know the warning signs of an opioid overdose which includes respiratory depression, or slowed breathing. Naloxone is considered safe, widely available, and easy to use. There are nasal spray or an injectable. Most first responders now carry doses of naloxone on calls. It's also available, over-the-counter in most pharmacies, and has even been introduced in other public spaces such as health vending machines. It is still advised to contact 911 after administering Narcan during an overdose.

Published on 09/01/2025 under News It's the first Monday in September, and that means Labor Day. Many workers have the day off and a long weekend. Labor Day became a federal holiday in the US in 1894 as a way to honor and recognize the American labor movement and celebrate the contributions of workers. While some celebrate with cookouts and cabins here in the Northwoods, Merrill recognizes Labor Day with a couple of annual community events. The festivities get underway this morning with the annual Labor Day Parade set to begin at 10am. After wrapping up near the courthouse, activities shift to the Merrill Festival Grounds for the rest of the day. That's where the Lions Club will host their 45th annual Labor Day Car Show. Organizers says the show typically draws between 200 and 250 entries. While vehicles from the 60's and 70's are most prevalent, they expect cars from the 1920's to modern classics.

Published on 09/01/2025 under News With the calendar flipped to September, the fall hunting season is officially underway. That includes the early goose season which opens today. According to the DNR, this two week-long season has an increased daily bag limit of five Canada geese. It targets Wisconsin's resident goose population before the fall migration crosses the state. The current population estimate for Wisconsin-breeding Canada geese is 131,567 birds. That is slightly lower than last year, but still 20% higher than the long-term average. Following the two-week, early goose season is the regular goose season, opening September 16. In addition to the early goose season, early teal and mourning dove seasons also open today. And officials encourage safe hunting practices whenever heading out this fall.

Published on 09/01/2025 under News Officials are warning parents about sharing too much back-to-school information on social media. Over the next week or so, social media feeds will be filled with kids holding 'first day of school' signs or chalkboards. The photos provide a memorable look at a child throughout their school years. While it can be a fun way to celebrate and share these milestones with friends and families online, it can also provide private information to scammers and other unsavory characters. Officials say you should limit the amount of personal information shared on social media, especially when it comes to kids. That means leaving off information about their school, teacher, and address. That information can be used to gain a child's trust. It is also frequently used for security questions on banking and credit card accounts. Another tip they offered if you do want to share with friends and family...turn on the privacy settings to limit who can see posts.

Published on 08/29/2025 under News The summer is quickly winding down, and in the coming weeks folks will be closing up cabins, camps, and resorts for the winter. An area food pantry is encouraging people to check for any food can be donated rather than discarded. We recently heard from the folks up at the Lakeland Pantry. They note that food insecurity is an ongoing problem in the Northwoods and any help the local food pantries and other food distribution programs receive is greatly appreciated. Whether closing up over the Labor Day holiday or a bit later this fall, they're asking seasonal property owners to review food and consider donating to an outreach organization to help restock their shelves heading to the fall and winter. Non-perishables are always needed, but pantries may have different policies for refrigerated and frozen foods, along with fresh produce. It's best to reach out to your local pantry to see if they accept these items.

Published on 08/29/2025 under News In just a few days, students will be heading back-to-class. Parents are reminded that choosing the right backpack and using it properly can help keep kids happy and healthy during the school year. We recently caught up with Nate Maday an Aspirus physical therapist here in Tomahawk. He says, "Choose a good backpack, make sure it fits well, and remind kids to keep the load light and snug. Those small steps can make a big difference over time." He also shared a few simple tips. The traditional two strap backpack is much better than the single strap varieties for weight distribution. Look for wider shoulder straps and ones that include padding and keep the straps snug. Once a backpack is picked out, make sure not to overload it. General guidance suggests around 15 percent of a child's body weight. To lighten the load, occasionally check for unnecessary items that are being toted back and forth. Maday says it's a good idea to make sure the backpack doesn't impact the way the child walks. And if the child complains of neck or back pain, their backpack could be the culprit.

Published on 08/29/2025 under News Two people died in crash in Price County Thursday morning. According to the Sheriff's Office, responders were called to a crash involving a semi and a pick-up truck at the intersection of Highways 13 and 111 in the Town of Worcester, just south of Phillips. The call came in at around 9:45am Thursday morning. Officials said there were three occupants in the pick-up. Two died in the crash. Their names are being withheld pending notification of family. No other information was provided and the crash remains under investigation. Traffic was detoured for much of the afternoon as crews cleared the scene.

Published on 08/29/2025 under News Wisconsin waterways will be filled with folks trying to enjoy the last few days of summer. Officials are urging responsible boating over the holiday weekend. Major April Dombrowski is Wisconsin DNR recreational safety and outdoor skills bureau director. She says, "Labor Day weekend is a time to relax and enjoy Wisconsin's natural beauty." She notes that waterways may be crowded so its crucial that everyone makes smart decisions to keep themselves and others safe. Start by respecting others and being courteous to others sharing the water in boats large and small. The DNR says good decision-making is just as important as good equipment. That means sober operation, traveling at a safe speed, keeping focus on the waters ahead. They once again emphasized life jackets, with the agency notes is one of the most effective ways to prevent drowning. Additional safety resources and educational materials are available on the DNR's boating safety webpage.

Published on 08/29/2025 under News Civil War buffs will be testing their marksmanship at a unique event coming to the Rhinelander area this weekend. The American Civil War Shooting Association is hosting the Vacant Chair Memorial Skirmish on Saturday and Sunday. The ACWSA is regional organization established in the Midwest back in 1999. They compete in what is known as a 'skirmish.' At these weekend events, participants, most in period-appropriate uniforms, compete in a series of marksmanship competitions featuring Civil War era firearms such as revolvers and muskets. There are a number of locals participating in this weekends skirmish, one of the final this season. In addition to the friendly competition, the ACWSA also helps preserve some of the history and details of the Civil War. Organizers say spectators are welcome to attend and it is free. It takes place up in Pelican Lake at 3943 Shingle Mill Road. They recommend ear and eye protection if attending. The event takes gets underway Friday afternoon and continues through Sunday morning. They have a website with additional information and full schedule.

Published on 08/28/2025 under News Those heading out on ATVs or UTVs over the holiday weekend should be on their best behavior. As part of the 'Think Smart Before You Start' safety campaign, DNR wardens will be teaming up with county recreation deputies to increase patrols along ATV/UTV trails and routes. Their goals are to monitor for risky driving while educating operator by providing safety tips. DNR Lt. Jake Holsclaw called these efforts an effective tool in addressing some of the contributing factors that lead to crashes. He says, "At the end of the day, our goal is to prevent fatalities and make our trail and route systems safer for all users." Unfortunately, there have been 27 fatal ATV/UTV crashes around the state this year. During this weekend's patrol, they'll be watching for OWIs, speed and careless operation, as well as helmet and seatbelt use. For the safety equipment, Holsclaw says, "This gear takes very little effort to wear but makes a huge difference in the event of a crash." And while the added enforcement is planned for the weekend, they're hoping it results in year-round safe driving habits.

Published on 08/28/2025 under News An ongoing partnership between Lincoln County and Discover Wisconsin will include some giveaways with a local flair. Last summer, the Lincoln County Board extended their promotional agreement with Discover Wisconsin. While best known for the weekly television program, their outreach extends well beyond the shows. That includes regular contests and giveaways, and there are some Lincoln County-themed drawings in the works. At their meeting this past week, the Lincoln County Board approved a resolution accepting eight donations from Merrill area businesses that will be featured in the first prize package. The value adds up to around $1,000, and includes a pair of Thorogood boots, dining opportunities at several Merrill restaurants, and even a day on the water with a local fishing guide. Administrative coordinator Renee Krueger explained that following the fall promotion, there will be additional contests run in the winter and another in the spring. They're planning a Tomahawk-themed package for one of those future drawings. The County Board has made a number of strategic investments over the past several years to attract visitors to Lincoln County, along with the possibility of new residents or businesses moving into area. This has included investing ARPA funding into improvements to outdoor recreational amenities, as well as promotions and outreach like the Discover Wisconsin partnership. According to the resolution, this contest guarantees 100,000 impressions on Discover Wisconsin platforms.

Published on 08/28/2025 under News Officials are expecting a busy holiday travel weekend and encourage motorists to follow the rules of the road. Labor Day weekend traditionally marks the final travel weekend of the summer. Traffic is expected to be heavy at times as many people come North to either enjoy the long weekend or begin to close up their cabins for the season. DoT secretary Kristina Boardman offered a number of reminders whether you are traveling near or far. That includes giving emergency responders plenty of room, eliminating distractions behind the wheel, never driving impaired, and allowing extra travel time and taking it slow in construction zones. To open as many lanes as possible, the DoT notes that many road construction projects will pause over the holiday weekend. But, motorists are reminded that some work zones may still have lane closures or reduced speed limits. For those planning their trip to avoid the busiest travel times, typical patterns show Northbound traffic should be heaviest late Friday afternoon into the evening, with southbound traffic is typically steady throughout the day on Monday. Motorists will save about a quarter a gallon at the pump when compared to last year. The statewide average gas price is hovering at just over three dollars a gallon according to Triple A.

Published on 08/28/2025 under News While it wasn't the Megabucks or Powerball, thousands of dollars were handed out in Tomahawk last night at a weekly bingo game. Throughout the summer, WaWui Bingo in Tomahawk concludes each weekly session with a progressive coverall game. If the player completes their card in the set number, they win the prize. If the prize isn't claimed, the money is added into the pot for the following week. Without a winner for nearly two months, that progressive prize had grown just shy of $4,800. Last night two lucky players actually split the winnings. Both Cindy Andren and Miah Faust bingoed on the 55th and final number. As a result, each will receive half, or $2,398. This is the second time the progressive prize has been won this summer, and the prize will reset for next week. Proceeds of WaWui Bingo help in operations and improvements for SARA Park and the facilities at the park.

Published on 08/28/2025 under News Earlier this month, hot air balloons filled the Northwoods skies, and now several local agencies and organizations will benefit. That event was part of the inaugural Saluting Heroes Hot Air Balloon Rally in Rhinelander. The event doubled as a fundraiser with donations going to Northwoods groups. The Rally organizers announced that they raised more than $38,000, and in recent days they've been busy handing out the checks. Camp American Legion in Lake Tomahawk received the largest portion of funds, $30,000. They're in the process of replacing one of their cabins to continue their mission of offering Northwoods experiences to veterans and their families. Another recipient was the Pine Lake Fire Department. They'll utilize their $2,000 to purchase a thermal imaging camera. The remaining funds will be presented as smaller donations to additional non-profits. As for the Rally, with year one an overwhelming success, they're already planning year two next summer.

+ Read More