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Tomahawk High School Senior Class Giving Back with 'Service Day' Ahead of Graduation

Published on 05/20/2026 under News Before they receive their diplomas this weekend, the Tomahawk graduating class is giving back to the community. Throughout the day, the THS seniors are set to participate in their annual Community Service Day. The project has become a pre-graduation tradition that began with the Class of 2016. Over the past decade, the students have tackled a number of projects in the Tomahawk community such as outdoor maintenance at the Senior Center, city park clean-ups, volunteering at senior living facilities, and assisting with preparations with Memorial Day ceremonies. The students will are splitting up and will be assigned to work with various community groups and organizations that need a helping hand. The Senior Service Day has been described as a way for the students to give back and offer a thank you to the community's support during their learning years. It's also part of a busy week for those soon-to-be graduates. They've got their Senior Awards night this evening, then on Friday they'll cross the stage for the THS Commencement. We'll have our annual graduation preview coming up on Friday.

Published on 05/20/2026 under News Lincoln County is named for Abraham Lincoln, and now the coin that bears his faces is being removed from county transactions. Like many businesses have already done, Lincoln County will no longer use physical pennies in cash transactions. At their meeting Tuesday, the Lincoln County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a new cash-rounding policy in response to the nationwide elimination of the penny. Under the new policy, cash-only purchases made through Lincoln County departments will now be rounded down to the nearest nickel after taxes and fees are calculated. Non-cash payments will not change. County officials say the change follows guidance from Wisconsin's Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection and the Department of Revenue. The resolution was described as self-explanatory; the vote was taken with minimal discussion. The policy takes effect immediately, and departments will post notices at cash payment locations explaining the new rounding procedure. The US Treasury minted its final penny on November 12 of last year.

Published on 05/20/2026 under News While the snow from a late-winter blizzard has long-since melted, Lincoln County is looking to recoup some of the clean-up cost. Lincoln County Emergency Management announced it has coordinated a countywide reimbursement request through the Wisconsin Disaster Fund following the March 14th through 16th storm. In the weeks that followed, the county worked with local municipalities, county departments, and state emergency management officials to collect and submit documentation for eligible storm-related expenses that created hazardous travel conditions, heavy snowfall, and operational challenges for communities across the county. . The reimbursement request totals $343,888.51 and has now been submitted to Wisconsin Emergency Management for review. Final reimbursement decisions will be made by the state through the Wisconsin Disaster Fund process. Lincoln County Emergency Management Director Tyler Verhasselt says disaster recovery takes a "whole community approach," noting that coordination between local governments and state agencies helps communities recover financially while preparing for future emergencies. County officials say while emergency response often gets the spotlight during major storms, recovery efforts like reimbursement coordination are an important step in protecting taxpayers and strengthening long-term community resilience.

Published on 05/20/2026 under News As May marks High Blood Pressure Education Month, Aspirus Health is reminding people to know their numbers and be aware that small changes can make a big difference. Studies show millions of people are living with high blood pressure without realizing it because symptoms may not appear until serious health problems develop. According to Aspirus cardiologist Michael Zevitz, some people can feel completely normal even with dangerously high readings. Untreated hypertension can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and vascular disease. Risk factors include aging, diabetes, kidney disease, poor diet, lack of exercise, and excess alcohol use. Beyond medications, changes in lifestyle can help lower those numbers; this includes: regular physical activity, reducing sodium intake, managing stress and limiting alcohol consumption. Shedding a few pounds can also help. Zevitz says, "You don't have to lose a lot of weight to make a big difference in lowering your blood pressure," he said. Aspirus encourages people to talk with their health care provider about regular blood pressure screenings.

Published on 05/20/2026 under News Older adults in Merrill took steps toward staying steady on their feet Tuesday during the 2nd Annual "Improve Your Balance: Prevent Falls Resource Fair." The event, held at the Merrill Enrichment Center, brought together local health and community organizations in recognition of Older Americans Month and this year's theme, "Champion Your Health." Organizers say the fair helped raise awareness about the dangers of falls among older adults. According to the Wisconsin Institute for Healthy Aging, more than one in four older adults fall each year, and Wisconsin has the highest death rate from older adult falls in the nation. Attendees completed fall-risk screenings and visited booths offering information on balance exercises, home safety, vision care, medications, assistive devices, and other resources designed to help aging adults remain safe and independent. Additional screenings for hearing, bone density, strength, and balance were also available. The event was organized through a partnership between the ADRC of Central Wisconsin, Aspirus Health, the Lincoln County Health Department, and the Merrill Enrichment Center. Those who missed out on yesterday's event can reach out to any of these organizations for information and resources.

Published on 05/20/2026 under News The state continues to roll out new road construction projects in the region, the latest announcement for highway 45 in Oneida County. Governor Evers signed and announced a contract to improve Highway 45 between Highway 8 and 32. Crews will resurface the highway connecting Monico and Three Lakes, along with the replacement of 22 culverts, guardrail improvements, and install center-line rumble strips. During construction, US 45 will remain open to traffic as a single lane with flagging operations during construction hours. Both directions of travel will be restored at the end of each day. Work is scheduled to begin following the Memorial Day holiday, Tuesday of next week. They're aiming to complete the project by October.

Published on 05/19/2026 under News Northwoods law enforcement agencies are joining partners around the state in encouraging motorists to buckle up when hitting the road. This week marks the return of the annual Click-It or Ticket campaign an effort to increase the use of seatbelts. Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan says, "With an influx of travel expected for Memorial Day weekend, the Click It or Ticket campaign is a timely reminder to motorists that wearing a seatbelt is one of the best ways to protect yourself on the road." Carnahan added, "Whether it's just a quick trip or you're traveling across the state, always make sure everyone in the vehicle is buckled up." Violators may be cited, but the goal of the campaign is to encourage a long-term change in driver and passenger behavior. In addition to increased enforcement during Click It or Ticket, the DoT will also increase public messaging including through traditional and social media as well as electronic road signs. The annual campaign coincides with Memorial Day weekend, which traditionally kicks off the summer travel season. As more vehicles are out on the roads during this holiday and throughout the summer, law enforcement officials are asking all drivers to buckle up, slow down, and remove any distractions behind the wheel. Aerial Enforcement Planned this Week: Speaking of State Patrol Safety campaigns: the agency also announced plans to conduct aerial enforcement around the state this week, watching for speeders and reckless drivers from above. That includes a local patrol heading into the weekend. An eye in the sky above Highway 51 in Oneida County on Friday. We'll have a bit more on these efforts later this week. Tuesday, May 19 · I-94 – Kenosha County Friday, May 22 · WIS 57 – Door County · US 51– Oneida County Sunday, May 24 · I-41 – Outagamie County

Published on 05/19/2026 under News Summer recreation season is right around the corner, and a new video highlights some of the opportunities right here in Lincoln County. In the latest installment of an ongoing partnership with Discover Wisconsin, host Lindsay Hayes takes visitors on tour of several hidden gems of Lincoln County. 'A Family Getaway in Lincoln County', begins in Camp New Wood County Park in Merrill, a scenic sixteen-acre spot right on the Wisconsin River. Thanks to recent county investments, the park now features upgraded electrical campsites, new restrooms, a kayak launch, and direct access to the Ice Age Trail. After a quick round of mini-golf and some food, Hayes heads to the Prairie River for a fly-fishing adventure with local angler Joe Krznarich. Krznarich was featured in a previous Discover Wisconsin short. Over the years, Lincoln County and Discover Wisconsin have teamed up to produce a number of video segments focused on the people, locations, events and activities of Lincoln County. A dog-sled production won a regional Emmy Award last fall. The latest video was released Friday on the Discover Wisconsin YouTube Channel. We'll include a link in the online version of the story.

Published on 05/19/2026 under News The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office is seeking the public's help in an ongoing investigation into a series of copper wire thefts. According to the Lincoln County Sheriff's Report, investigators are looking into thefts of copper wire from approximately ten Frontier roadside work sites in Lincoln County over the last few weeks. They noted that similar thefts have been reported outside of the county as well. Detectives are actively investigating the cases and are collaborating with outside law enforcement agencies to gather evidence and identify the suspects. The Sheriff's Office asks the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious vehicles, individuals, or activities near roadside work sites to local law enforcement.

Published on 05/19/2026 under News A 'jiggly junco' outlasted a massive meadowlark, tubby tree swallow, and ginormous goldfinch in the annual Wisconsin Fat Bird Week fan vote. The annual event is put on by the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin and Save Out Song Birds. But beyond the social media fun and "junc in the trunk" jokes is an important mission. Organizers say the competition aims to raise awareness for Wisconsin's native birds and their diet, critical for their twice-annual migration. They encourage people to help local birds reach champion weight right at home by planting native trees and wildflowers, which provide the high-fat seeds and insects they need. You can also protect them by treating your windows to prevent collisions, or by joining the Great Wisconsin Birdathon. Shelly Torkelson from the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin says, "It can be easy to become overwhelmed and apathetic when you hear about loss of wildlife habitat, invasive species, etc. But Wisconsin Fat Bird Week tries to inspire action through fun and friendly competition." Additional information including all of the photos is available on the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin website.

Published on 05/19/2026 under News It's National EMS Week, and the Pine River First Responders have a major reason to celebrate, and residents will be safer. Thanks to a state grant of over $15,000, the department has purchased critical new equipment including three new AEDs. This means every single first responder in the township, along with several front-line fire vehicles, is now equipped with a lifesaving defibrillator. Formed in 2006, the Pine River First Responders team handles about 75 medical calls a year, and they're looking to invest remaining funds into growing their team through recruitment, training and equipping additional first responders Pine River residents interested in learning more can stop by their monthly meetings, the second Wednesday of each month at 6pm at the fire station.

Published on 05/19/2026 under News Those looking to cast a line this summer in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest may have some new fishing docks. Utilizing funding from the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act, Forest Service crews installed new fishing docks on five lakes located within the forest lands. That includes three spots in Price County at Sailor, Round, and Blockhouse lakes in Price County. The upgrades were funded through the CNNF staffer Chris Geidel says, "These improvements help provide safe, reliable, and accessible recreation opportunities for residents and visitors enjoying National Forest lands." The new docks are designed with durable, low-maintenance materials that can stand up to Wisconsin weather while improving safety and accessibility for anglers of all ages and abilities. Recreation leaders say the project not only improves outdoor access, but also supports tourism and rural communities that rely on visitors enjoying the Northwoods experience.

Published on 05/18/2026 under News As Mental Health Month continues in May, the Langlade County Health Department is working to raise awareness about mental health resources and encourage residents to reach out for support when needed. The department has launched a county-wide awareness campaign featuring informational displays, posters and social media outreach throughout Langlade County including the Health Department, Senior Center, the library, and local business partners. Officials are highlighting the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, a free and confidential service available 24 hours a day. They are also promoting CredibleMind, a free online mental health platform which offers articles, videos and tools on topics like stress, anxiety, depression, sleep, and building healthy habits. Karen Marten, a public health nurse with Langlade County, said mental health deserves the same attention as physical health. She added, "It is okay to ask for help, and no one should feel alone. Small steps, like talking to someone or using helpful tools, can make a big difference." The Langlade County Health Department encourages residents to check in with loved ones, learn more about available services, and make use of local mental health resources.

Published on 05/18/2026 under News With summer riding season getting underway, the DNR is reminding ATV and UTV operators to make safety a priority before heading out on the trails. That includes taking a safety course and going over new riding rules. The ATV/UTV safety courses are required for operators born in or after 1988, but encouraged about all operators. DNR Off-Highway Vehicle Administrator Lt. Jacob Holsclaw said Wisconsin continues to see a high number of ATV and UTV crashes involving riders who have never taken a safety course. The classes focus on crash prevention and provide practical skills designed to help riders operate safely. Holsclaw compared the safety certification to getting a driver's license. In addition to the safety class, the DNR also highlighted some new regulations related to ATV and UTV operation. That includes a seatbelt requirement for all operators and passengers in a UTV. Operators and passengers are all required to wear a seatbelt in a UTV. Intentionally causing damage with an ATV or UTV can cost you more than a fine – up to three times the cost to repair the damage.ATV or UTV operators may not tow objects bearing any person on a trail or route. Towing persons on ice is limited to 10 mph.UTVs now have window tint restrictions.The DNR will soon release a new regulations pamphlet detailing these updates and more.

Published on 05/18/2026 under News Heading into the weekend, the DNR issued a warning about elevated fire risk. Those conditions kept fire firefighters busy. According to the DNR wildfire tracker, crews responded to 40 wildfires around the state this weekend which burned approximately 51 acres of land. Here in the Northwoods there were four wildfires listed in Vilas County, two in Oneida, and one each in Price, Iron, Forest, and Langlade Counties. Debris burning remains the leading cause of wildfires, accounting for around half Overnight rains in the Northwoods should help improve conditions. The DNR reminds people to check burn restrictions, updated daily at 9am.

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