WJJQ Radio

Local & Area News

Snowmobile Derby Weekend; World Championships Return to Eagle River

Published on 01/17/2025 under News Some of the fastest snowmobiles in the world are converging in the Northwoods for an iconic race weekend. World Championship Snowmobile racing at the classic ice oval in Eagle River is back for a 62th edition. Following a successful Vintage Derby last week, the older sleds are making way for more powerful and contemporary machines over the next few days. In a typical year, tens of thousands of sled-heads travel to the Northwoods to not only take in the races but ride themselves boosting the local economy. They got some last minute good news; the Vilas County trails opened Friday morning. After a slow start to the winter recreation season, this weekend's derby and anticipated crowds will be a welcome sight for local businesses. As we shared yesterday, the 'Ride with the Cup' tour has been passing through Northwoods communities. They'll arrive at the track this evening, just in time for the opening ceremonies. Races continues across multiple classes, with the World Championship Race Sunday afternoon. This year's field includes Matt Goede ('23 and '24) and Blaine Stephenson (2018-21) who have combined to win the past 6 Championships. There are also a number of local hopefuls attempting to qualify.

Published on 01/17/2025 under News Competitors in the World Championship Derby won't be the only ones riding snowmobiles in the Eagle River area this weekend. The Vilas County Forestry, Recreation, and Land Department announced the opening of the Vilas County Snowmobile Trail System as Friday morning. The decision comes after a review of trails and vote by the eleven clubs that make up the Vilas County Snowmobile Alliance. Most sleds in the state remained parked last riding season due to the mild weather and lack of snow. And there's still not a whole lot of snow in the base, with the Department warning that trails will be in early season riding conditions. Vilas County follows their neighbors to the west, Iron County trails opened on Thursday morning. Meanwhile Oneida and Lincoln County Trails are still closed, and riders are reminded to keep off until they're open.

Published on 01/17/2025 under News While it isn't a common occurrence, TSA officers at Central Wisconsin Airport caught several firearms at their checkpoint last year. The Transportation Security Administration released their 2024 data for airports in the state of Wisconsin. It shows that three travelers at Central Wisconsin Airport in Mosinee were stopped with guns last year. That's after a single incident in the previous four years combined. Wisconsin TSA Federal Security Director Mark Lendvay said. "When individuals bring firearms to our checkpoints, they are introducing a risk to everyone in the area." He also noted that it slows down the screening process for all travelers. The state's busiest airport in Milwaukee also saw the highest total of firearms detected at 16. That's down from last year and below the national average based on the number of travelers. As for other Wisconsin airports, Madison had 6, Appleton 3, and Green Bay 1. TSA does have a process that allows passengers to travel with a firearm in their checked baggage. Travelers planning to do so are encouraged to review all of those steps to ensure they are followed.

Published on 01/17/2025 under News Each holiday season, students in the Rhinelander FBLA/DECA host a collection drive known as 'Jeans for Teens.' As the name implies, they collect new or gently used pairs of jeans. They are then donated to Frederick Place Temporary Housing Shelter. As they wrapped up earlier this week, their collection space was overflowing with denim. When all the jeans were counted, they once again topped more than 400 pairs. Jeans in good shape are distributed for wearing, while older jeans are re-purposed for use such as cleaning materials. Since starting the program nine years ago, the Rhinelander community has contributed several thousand pairs of jeans. The students were grateful, adding in their announcement, "From the bottom of our hearts, (we) would like to sincerely thank you for all of your participation in this project. We could not have had the amazing success we did without the help of the area businesses and all those who donated."

Published on 01/17/2025 under News Whether tip-ups, jigging, or casting a line; Wisconsin anglers can hit the ice for some fishing this weekend without a license. The DNR has brought back their OutWiGo Winter Free Fishing weekend. Coupled with a summer free fishing weekend in June, the campaigns are an attempt to introduce new participants to the sport of fishing and provide former anglers a chance to renew their interest. Coinciding with the license waiver, groups are hosting fishing clinics and activities on select waterways. And if equipment cost is an issue, the DNR has loaner equipment available at a number of state properties. All of the information is posted on the DNR website. While landing a fish is fun, the sport is about more than the catch. It allows participants a chance to make memories, spend time with friends and family, and enjoy the state's natural resources. While you don't need a license, anglers must still follow all other fishing regulations including size and bag limits. For those heading onto the ice, the DNR did offer a reminder to dress appropriately for the chilly weather in the forecast, use caution, and remember no ice is 100% safe.

Published on 01/17/2025 under News Marshfield Medical Center-Park Falls recently added a unique, new option for pharmacy services. A remote dispensing pharmacy site or RDS operates as an extension of a traditional pharmacy. They are staffed with trained pharmacy technicians. The main difference is that a pharmacist checks the orders and talks with patients via a two-way video connection instead of in person. When a patient's medicine is ready, the technician will offer them to step in front of the TV screen. The pharmacist will be able to see and hear them to explain the medication and answer any questions. Ty Erickson, regional president says, "We are happy to be able to expand our services to the community by offering medication pick-up onsite with our new remote dispensing site." The RDS opened earlier this month and is located near the main entrance at Marshfield Medical Center-Park Falls.

Published on 01/16/2025 under News It's not exactly ice cream season, but a popular Northwoods destination is receiving some publicity this week. The Tomahawk area has been the focus of a number of documentary shorts over the past few months. And now the latest episode of PBS 'Wisconsin Life' features a segment on the Windmill Ice Cream Shop on Lake Nokomis. The line of locals and visitors alike often stretches out the door during the summer months as folks await a scoop. And like the many flavors of ice cream served, the segment features many different angles. In six short minutes they cover a quick history of business and how the Berg family acquired it, along with its operations, location, and customers. But the overarching theme and overall focus is on the multi-generational family business. That includes interviews with three generations of Bergs who've stood behind the counter including matriarch Pat, her sons, and grandchildren. According to the family, the idea pitched in August of 2023. It helped that the PBS producer has a cabin in the area and has been a Windmill customer. The segment is currently streaming on the PBS website and their YouTube Channel. Otherwise, the segment will be featured in the season finale of 'Wisconsin Life' Thursday at 7pm on PBS.

Published on 01/16/2025 under News It's Derby Weekend up in Eagle River. Before a grand champion is crowned, the trophy will make a tour through the Northwoods. Today kicks off the return of the 'Ride with the Cup', a spin off from the former Torch Ride. Rather than a flame, participants now take the Champion's Cup on a 200 plus mile, two day tour through the Northwoods. Like last year's inaugural ride, Mother Nature once again forced a truck and trailer rather than a snowmobile tour as envisioned. Beyond this weekend's celebration, organizers have also established a mission to promote safe snowmobiling in Northern Wisconsin. The tour kicked off Thursday morning in Wausau and after a few stops in Merrill arrive in Tomahawk midday. Their local stops include the Knight Owls club garage, Tomahawk Sports Center, and the Northwoods Passage Shed in Nokomis. They'll continue up the Highway 51 corridor to Minocqua this afternoon. Friday's route continues through St. Germain, Sayner, Rhinelander and Three Lakes. They'll eventually make their way to Eagle River and the Derby Track just in time for the Opening Ceremony tomorrow evening.

Published on 01/16/2025 under News Voters in a number of Northwoods communities will see school referendum questions on their spring ballots. Over the past week we talked about upcoming public informational sessions hosted by the Rhinelander and Tomahawk School Districts. Northland Pines is also seeking additional funding this spring, and their outreach campaign picks up this evening. The district is looking for an operational referendum of up to $5.6 million annually over the next three years. This would be a seventh 3-year referendum for the district. Property owners are actually seeing a bit of relief after the 2006 capital referendum for the high school came off the books last year. They've scheduled four informational meetings in the lead up to the vote, the first coming up Thursday evening. •Thursday, January 16-Land O'Lakes Elementary-6:30pm•Thursday, January 23-Northland Pines -6:30pm•Thursday, January 30-St. Germain Elementary-6:30pm•Tuesday, February 4- Walter Olson Library-2pm The district has also established an informational website. The Northland Pines referendum, like Tomahawk, will appear on the February 18 spring primary ballot. Rhinelander and Wausau have questions in April.

Published on 01/16/2025 under News While snowmobile season is stuck on pause, ice fishing is in full swing. Frozen lakes don't mean that aquatic invasive species are hibernating, and officials are reminding ice anglers to take steps to avoid transporting aquatic hitchhikers. Just like the summer months, there are several ways invasive species jump from lake to lake. That includes plants, seeds, mud, and debris that get stuck on equipment. For ice fishing in particular, that includes augers, sleds and lures and even boots and gloves. They recommend wiping down equipment after using it to ensure there isn't any hidden AIS. Another risk comes from the transport of live bait. Anglers should follow Wisconsin's live bait laws and dispose of unused minnows, worms and other live bait properly. As long as no lake or river water has been added to the container, the DNR says minnows may be used on a different waterbody. If lake or river water was added, the minnows cannot be used at other fishing locations and should be disposed of before going to a new site. And a quick reminder it's the DNR's Winter Free Fishing weekend on Saturday and Sunday. We'll have a preview coming up on our Friday show.

Published on 01/16/2025 under News It was a record setting day on the ice for a popular fishing tournament that supports local veterans groups and organizations. Lake Nokomis was the site of the annual AMVETS Post 724/NCO Club ice fishing tournament. With the event in the rear-view mirror, organizers took a look back at what was an overwhelming success. Thankfully they were able to return to the ice after last year's mild winter forced them onto dry land. With no concerns this year, the fishing was back on and they had more than 850 people registered which was an all-time high. Speaking of impressive numbers, they nearly doubled last year's fundraising total by bringing in more than $40,000. All proceeds go to benefit Northwoods veterans organizations and programs. In addition to the registration and fishing, the afternoon includes raffles, drawings and other entertainment. NCO Club Commander, Dan Keck, said, "Thanks to all of you, we can change lives of some of our veterans and give back to our communities."

Published on 01/15/2025 under News January is Radon Awareness Month, and local health departments are encouraging residents to check their home levels every few years. According to the Oneida County Health Department, radon is a colorless and odorless gas found naturally in soil and rock. It can enter homes through cracks in the foundation or gaps around pipes. It occurs in as many as 1 in 10 Wisconsin homes. There are areas of the state that are more susceptible including a pocket in North Central Wisconsin. Studies also show that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer behind smoking. Oneida County Health Officer Linda Conlon offered a succinct message, "Protect your family, test your home for radon." Winter is considered the best time to test for radon because homes are sealed up. With doors and windows closed, it provides a more accurate reading of home levels. Several local health departments are offering discounted kits in January, otherwise they can be purchased for around $20 at most home improvement stores. Both the state and local health departments have additional information if those readings come back elevated for mitigation solutions.

Published on 01/15/2025 under News With a referendum just over a month away, the Tomahawk School District will be taking a multi-prong approach to reach out to the public. The Tomahawk school referendum will appear on the spring primary ballot next month. As we previously covered, the district is seeking to extend their expiring referendum, at $3.25 million annually, for another four years. Communication is often key when it comes to the success of a referendum. At Tuesday's meeting of the Tomahawk School Board, district administrator Wendell Quesinberry provided a quick update on the many ways they'll make information available to the public in the coming weeks. The district has already established a referendum website, and they are also working to schedule public informational meetings in the lead up to the vote. We'll share those times and locations as they are confirmed. But the district is utilizing their blueprint from their last successful effort. That includes meeting with community leaders as well as attending town board meetings. They've also been communicating with staff members to ensure they have answers to frequently asked questions as it relates to the referendum. Even last night's hockey game included a referendum fact sheet in the program. Ultimately it will come down to the voters on February 18. Tomahawk isn't the only Northwoods school on the ballot next month. Northland Pines is also seeking additional funding.

Published on 01/15/2025 under News In recent years, virtual schools have grown in popularity. Tomahawk jumped on that trend with a partnership last year with a trial run. Now they're set to extend and expand a recent agreement. Back in the fall of 2023, the Tomahawk School District joined an online education consortium known as Rural Virtual Academy or RVA with offers remote learning curriculum. They're based in Medford, but have more than 60 member school districts. Tomahawk initially signed on as one year trial member. At last night's school board meeting, Administrator Wendell Quesinberry gave a brief overview, as well as his support to become an invested member. January 27, 29 February 13 auditorium Virtual learning offers a number of students benefits including convenience and flexibility. With a growing number of online options, this particular agreement allows the participating student to remain part of the district. Quesinberry estimated around ten Tomahawk students utilized RVA this year as an alternative education opportunity. He explained that joining RVA as an invested member doesn't carry any upfront costs, but rather uses a tuition based on student participation. It allows more student aid to remain within the host district. The invested member agreement is for 5 years, though Quesinberry said the district can opt out by providing a one year notice. After the brief presentation, the School Board voted unanimously to become an invested member in RVA. Tomahawk School Board Notes: Just a few other quick notes from Tuesday's Tomahawk School Board meeting... The board began by recognizing the passing of Bob Skubal, a long-time teacher and coach in Tomahawk, who also served on the school board in his retirement. The board offered a moment of silence and approved a resolution honoring Skubal for his life-long commitment to the district and the community. In a brief school board election update, Quesinberry noted that there are no candidates for a seat representing the City of Tomahawk and encouraged interested individuals to reach out to the district to learn more. That will ultimately be determined by write-in. Fittingly with Skubal's ties to the Tomahawk wrestling program, the board approved the growth of the nascent girl's wrestling program as the WIAA begins to better establish the sport in the state. That included a February deadline to officially declare the team allowing them to participate in state programs. Tomahawk has nearly 30 girls out this year. We'll have a bit more in the coming days. The board approved a curriculum rate increase for participating staff members who are part of that planning process, and they also continue to review and update various district policies.

Published on 01/15/2025 under News There's a bit of hope for Northern Wisconsin snowmobilers, as long as you have a trailer or live in Iron County. The Iron County Forestry and Parks Department announced that their snowmobile trail system will be opening on Thursday morning at 7am. The trails are expected to be in 'very early season conditions' and riders are encouraged to use caution. Riders should also monitor updates from local clubs on trail conditions. While a delayed opening, it is certainly welcome after most trails remained closed throughout last season. Outside of Iron County, no other trail systems in the Northwoods have opening dates as of Wednesday morning as the area awaits more snow.

+ Read More