WJJQ Radio

Local & Area News

Tomahawk National Night Out Returns Tuesday; Continues to Grow

Published on 08/04/2026 under News Tomahawk residents will once again have the chance to meet local first responders and enjoy a family-friendly evening as National Night Out returns to Veterans Memorial Park on Tuesday. National Night Out is part of a nationwide campaign spanning more than four decades aimed at strengthening relationships between community members and public safety agencies. Two years ago, the Tomahawk Regional Chamber of Commerce led the effort to bring the campaign to the area. Now in its third year, the local event continues to grow, featuring more than 20 interactive booths with obstacle courses, bounce houses, coloring stations, games, and activities for all ages. Attendees can also meet members of local law enforcement, fire crews, and EMS. Tomahawk Chamber Director Charis Lau says the event's success is made possible by strong support from local businesses, organizations, volunteers, and community members. Proceeds from the first two years have been donated to Tomahawk's volunteer fire departments to support their work in the area. Beyond public safety agencies, several other community groups and organizations will be present, including the WJJQ booth, along with a variety of local food vendors. National Night Out is free to attend and runs from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday evening at Veterans Memorial Park.

Published on 08/04/2026 under News One person is dead and another is in custody following a single-vehicle rollover early Saturday morning in Taylor County. According to the Taylor County Sheriff's Office, first responders were dispatched shortly after 1:00 a.m. to Highway 73 in the Town of Aurora. Investigators say the vehicle left the roadway and entered the ditch before re-entering the highway, rolling over, and coming to rest in the middle of the road. Authorities identified the victim as 36-year-old Nathan Burke of Black River Falls, who was ejected from the vehicle and later succumbed to his injuries. The second occupant, 45-year-old Bradley Olson, also of Black River Falls, was treated for injuries before being taken into custody on drug-related charges. Investigators noted that neither occupant was wearing a seatbelt. The crash remains under investigation and was the first of two fatal crashes in Taylor County within a few hours of each other early Saturday morning.

Published on 08/04/2026 under News One person is dead following a multi-vehicle crash involving a house being transported along a Taylor County road early Saturday morning. The Taylor County Sheriff's Office reported that the crash occurred just after 3:00 a.m. on County Highway O near Oak Drive in the Town of Holway. According to investigators, a tractor pulling a house westbound was struck on the corner by an oncoming eastbound car. The car traveled beneath the house structure and collided with a pickup truck following behind the load. The driver of the car, 19-year-old Dylan Mickelson of Abbotsford, died at the scene. His passenger was transported to a local hospital for medical treatment. Authorities stated that the tractor operator and the pickup driver, both men from Thorp, were uninjured. The Wisconsin State Patrol is assisting with the ongoing investigation. This was the second of two fatal crashes in Taylor County occurring within a few hours of each other early Saturday.

Published on 08/04/2026 under News Members of the Merrill Fire Department recently traveled south to Wisconsin Rapids for a special assignment. Year-round, firefighters from across Wisconsin donate their time to keep the Wisconsin Fire and EMS Memorial pristine. Volunteers assist with mowing, landscaping, and maintenance around the park grounds and museum. This past week was Merrill's turn to step up. A team of current firefighters, department retirees, and family members made the trip to lend a hand. In a message thanking the crew, memorial organizers noted that their hard work ensures the grounds remain a dignified, beautiful place to honor Wisconsin's fallen heroes. The project hits close to home for Merrill firefighters. Former Chief Adlord Talbot, who led the department in the 1930s and '40s, is among those honored at the memorial.

Published on 08/04/2026 under News The Kwahamot Water Ski Team is helping introduce the next generation to the sport in Tomahawk. With the team's competition season complete, dozens of young skiers have spent the past several days learning the basics during the club's annual youth ski camp. Organizers say many participants got up on water skis for the very first time. Ahead of tonight's regular Ski Show, the public will have a chance to see what the campers have learned during a Junior Show Tuesday evening at 6:30 in Kwahamot Bay. The free performance will showcase the new skills the young skiers have developed over the course of the camp while giving family, friends, and the community a chance to cheer them on.

Published on 08/04/2026 under News Fair season is in full swing, and one of the oldest and largest in the area kicks off today. The Wisconsin Valley Fair in Wausau got underway a bit earlier this morning. Over the past few weeks, organizers have been preparing Marathon Park for the tens of thousands of fair-goers expected over the next six days. The fair is rich in history, this marks the 158th edition. All the classic fair elements will also be back from fried food and carnival games to rides and 4-H exhibits. Many pick their date to attend the fair based on the grandstand performance. Those performances kick off this evening with Chris Janson. Another country act follows Wednesday with Shenandoah. On Thursday rockers Skillet will take to the stage. Musicians will give way to cowboys and cowgirls with a rodeo on Friday and Saturday. The Fair will wrap up on Sunday matinee demolition derby. The Wisconsin Valley Fair runs through Sunday.

Published on 08/04/2026 under News A Merrill man is facing charges after deputies clocked a UTV traveling nearly double the speed limit over the weekend. According to the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, a deputy pulled over a UTV Saturday on County Highway C and Norwegian Road in the Town of Merrill after catching it traveling 64 miles per hour in a 35-mile-per-hour zone. The deputy noted signs of impairment, but the driver refused to perform field sobriety tests. After obtaining a blood draw warrant, deputies arrested the driver for operating a UTV while intoxicated. According to the report, the man was initially uncooperative until the threat of further charges. He was later released to a responsible party. A couple of other quick notes from the Sheriff's Report… A Milwaukee woman was arrested for 1st offense OWI following a traffic stop in Tomahawk. Charges have been recommended following an investigation into a domestic disturbance in southern Lincoln County which turned physical. The number of vehicle versus deer collisions fell significantly with just 3 reported this past week.

Published on 08/04/2026 under News A second person has now died following a three-vehicle crash in Langlade County over the weekend. In update provided by the Langlade County Sheriff's Office, officials says a 67-year-old Chicago man, who was driving one of the vehicles involved, died at a local hospital from injuries sustained in the crash. The crash happened shortly after 5:00 Saturday evening at the intersection of Highway 45 and County B in the Town of Upham, north of Antigo. A 61-year-old Tigerton man was pronounced dead at the scene, while four other people were taken to area hospitals with injuries. Authorities have not released the names of either victim. The crash remains under investigation. _____ One person is dead following a multi-vehicle crash in Langlade County over the weekend. According to the Langlade County Sheriff's Office, responders were called to the intersection of Highway 45 and County B in the Town of Upham, north of Antigo on Saturday evening. The call, which came in at shortly after 5pm indicated three vehicles were involved. According to the report, a 61 year old Tigerton man was pronounced dead at the scene. Four other vehicle occupants were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment of undisclosed injuries. No other information was provided. The crash remains under investigation.

Published on 08/03/2026 under News It was another warm summer weekend here in the Northwoods, but things got extra sizzling in downtown Tomahawk for the annual rib cook-off. The Tomahawk Lions Club hosted the 16th edition of Thrilla on the Grilla on Saturday. Ten teams fired up their smokers, turning out hundreds of racks of mouthwatering ribs alongside delicious sides and desserts. With high-caliber barbecue across the board, three different champions ultimately emerged across four categories. The judges named Outboards as the top rib winner, followed by a tie for second place between Big Dawgs BBQ and Century 21. Those same three teams claimed top honors in the judge's side category, with Big Dawgs taking first place and Outboards tying with Century 21 for second. The public had its say as well. In the People's Choice Rib division, Big Dawgs edged out Loop Hole and LP. Meanwhile, the People's Choice Side awards went to LP, B's Nest, and Outboards. Beyond the great food, the event served as a major fundraiser for the Tomahawk Lions Club. Organizers extended a heartfelt thank you to all the competing teams, the hardworking volunteers, and everyone who came out to show their support.

Published on 08/03/2026 under News As parents gear up for another school year, health officials say one of the most important back-to-school essentials isn't found on a supply list: it's a good night's sleep. While the first day of class is still a few weeks away, it's not too early to start planning school routines. Dr. Kevin Morgan, a pediatrician with Aspirus Health, says sleep plays a critical role in children's learning, behavior, brain development, and overall health. However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 35 percent of children from infancy through age 14 don't get enough sleep. With summer routines often leading to later bedtimes and sleeping in, Dr. Morgan recommends families start adjusting schedules now rather than waiting until the night before school begins. He suggests gradually moving bedtimes earlier in 10- to 15-minute increments. It's also a great opportunity to establish a consistent bedtime routine, which Dr. Morgan notes signals to the brain that it is time to relax and prepare for sleep. About an hour before bedtime, encourage children to brush their teeth, take a bath or shower, put on pajamas, and complete other evening tasks. Dr. Morgan also emphasizes putting away phones, tablets, and other electronics during this wind-down period. He adds that these simple steps can help children return to the classroom rested, focused, and ready to learn when the new school year begins.

Published on 08/03/2026 under News Two people suffered minor burns Sunday evening after a boat caught fire on Lake Minocqua. At approximately 5:45 p.m., the Minocqua Police Department Dispatch Center received multiple 911 calls regarding a boat on fire near the East Park Lot J boat landing. When police and fire crews arrived on the scene, the boat was fully engulfed in flames. First responders treated two victims, a 36-year-old male and a 17-year-old female, for burn injuries, and both were subsequently transported to the hospital. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is leading the ongoing investigation. Several neighboring agencies provided assistance on the scene.

Published on 08/03/2026 under News The Oneida County District Attorney has determined a sheriff's deputy was legally justified in using deadly force during an officer-involved shooting in the Town of Lake Tomahawk earlier this year. District Attorney Jillian Pfeifer announced that, after reviewing an independent investigation by the Wisconsin Department of Justice, she concluded Deputy Justin Orth acted lawfully during the June 17 incident. According to the report, two deputies went to a home on Lumen Lake Drive to arrest 48-year-old John Krga on child sexual assault allegations. Investigators say Krga resisted arrest, produced a handgun during a struggle on the front porch, ignored repeated commands to drop the weapon, and fired a shot. Deputy Orth returned fire, striking Krga multiple times. Krga was pronounced dead at the scene. Wisconsin state law mandates an independent investigation for all officer-involved deaths. Following her review of the evidence, District Attorney Pfeifer concluded there is no basis to prosecute Deputy Orth. The second officer, Deputy Alyssa Knabenbauer, did not fire her weapon out of concern that she might hit Deputy Orth during the physical struggle.

Published on 08/03/2026 under News With the school year right around the corner, Feed Our Rural Kids (FORK) is kicking off its 7th annual CashFORKids fundraiser to ensure area students have the nutritional support they need both inside and outside the classroom. Funds raised during the campaign directly support FORK's core nutritional programs across the Northland Pines, Three Lakes, and Phelps school districts: FORK NOW: Provides emergency nutritional assistance to families experiencing sudden changes in food security.FORK Cares: Delivers food support during school breaks and weekends when traditional school meals aren't available.FORK Pantry: Operates 12 area food pantries to give school staff, guardians, and parents immediate access to nutritional resources for students.FORK Extra: Provides bonus food benefits to help local pantries welcome and assist first-time visiting families with children.To make donating easy during the August collection, FORK has teamed up with eight financial institutions across their service area to accept in-person contributions. They said, "This type of collaboration between competitors sends a powerful message to the community about the importance of helping children from food-insecure homes." (Community members can drop off donations at any Eagle River location of Great North Bank, BMO Harris, Associated Bank, Peoples State Bank, Nicolet National Bank, Incredible Bank, or Ripco Credit Union, as well as Forward Bank locations in St. Germain and Three Lakes.)

Published on 07/31/2026 under News Downtown Tomahawk transforms into "Rib Town" this weekend as the annual Thrilla on the Grilla returns for its 16th year. Organized by the Tomahawk Lions Club, the popular rib cook-off brings together nine teams of grill masters from local restaurants, businesses, and community organizations. The competitive field includes defending champion LP Building Solutions, which swept all four competition categories in 2025. Among this year's top challengers is Winding Trail Grill and Bar, fresh off its recent "Best Burger in Paradise" title. Teams will spend hours tending smokers and perfecting their recipes to serve up hundreds of racks of mouthwatering ribs. In addition to the main event, pitmasters will battle in a side dish category, where past entries have featured everything from specialty potato salads and gourmet mac and cheese to unique twists on classic cookout fare. While bragging rights are on the line, the event is ultimately about great food and giving back. Thrilla on the Grilla serves as a major fundraiser for the Tomahawk Lions Club, supporting year-round community initiatives, including the annual Pow Wow Days Fourth of July celebration. Thrilla on the Grilla runs from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. this Saturday in downtown Tomahawk. Any remaining tasting tickets will be available for purchase at the event, while supplies last.

Published on 07/31/2026 under News A Nicolet College staffer and veteran will use her experiences to help others who've served following her appointment to a state legislative committee. Casey Lehmann, financial aid manager and Veterans Affairs School Certifying Official at Nicolet, has been named a Public Member of the Legislative Council Study Committee on State Veterans' Benefits. Nominated by the college, Lehmann joins a bipartisan panel made up of five state lawmakers and four other public members from across Wisconsin. Meeting this summer and fall, the committee is tasked with reviewing state veteran laws and legislative proposals to improve benefits for former service members. Lehmann says, "Supporting veterans in the Northwoods is a cornerstone of my life. I'm excited to serve on the committee and ensure Wisconsin is honoring their service, sacrifice, and resilience. A Tomahawk native and six-year veteran of the Wisconsin Army National Guard, Lehmann deployed to Iraq in 2003–2004 and later supported military families through the Guard's civilian family program. For the past eight years, she has served as Nicolet College's Veterans Affairs School Certifying Official, helping student veterans and their families navigate education benefits. Lehmann also remains deeply engaged in local veteran advocacy, actively participating in AMVETS Post 724 and the NCO Club of Tomahawk and Rhinelander, and was a key figure in bringing the traveling Vietnam War Memorial known as "The Wall That Heals" to Nicolet in 2023.

+ Read More