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Snowy, Icy Winter Stressing Tomahawk Salt/Sand Budget

Published on 01/28/2026 under News This week is dedicated to smarter use of road salts. In addition to the environmental impacts, salting also has an impact on city budgets. This week is Salt Awareness Week. Coincidentally, the City of Tomahawk salt and sand budget was a conversation at Tuesday's Finance and Board of Public Works meetings. With a few bills outstanding, Street Lead Nick Rosenmeier anticipated the city will exceed their 2025 salt/sand budget. He also noted that they are already halfway through their 2026 budget and we're only a few weeks into the year. When budgeting for road salt, it is a guessing game at the whim of Mother Nature. The City of Tomahawk uses a 20 year average to provide the best recent estimate. After a couple of mild winters, this winter has been a challenge. In addition to needing more salt, the cost has also been on the rise, doubling over the past decade. Rosenemeier says salt prices are currently $127 a ton. The city gets their supply from the county. The local crews do take steps to more effectively use road salts. Rosenmeier says they have been scraping a lot more to remove the layers of snow and ice, which reduces the amount of salt needed. During this cold stretch they have primarily used sand, which is not only cheaper, but works better. That is because salt loses its melting effectiveness the further temperatures drop below freezing. The sand, however, could have some additional costs come spring, as the crews will likely have to do more street sweeping to remove.

Published on 01/28/2026 under News Women seeking mammograms at Aspirus Tomahawk Hospital have a newer option. As of December, the local hospital now offers 3d mammography providing improved imaging and potentially better outcomes. Radiology technologist Courtney Oberg performs these scans, and she stopped by the WJJQ studios to talk about 3d mammography. While the traditional 2d mammography was comprised of two images, Oberg says the 3d mammogram provides 20 to 50 images. She likened it to a loaf of sliced bread, allowing the radiologist to review each cross-section. The additional imagery allows the medical team an opportunity to catch cancers early, when the masses are smaller. Oberg noted early detection can result in better treatment outcomes. The 3d imagery also provides a more accurate reading, not only in detecting small masses, but also in avoiding callbacks for false detection particularly for women with dense breast tissue. Oberg said some patients have traveled to Aspirus facilities in Wausau or Rhinelander. Bringing this option to Tomahawk will allow patients to get the screening closer to home. As for what patients can expect, Oberg said it is almost identical to the 2d mammogram. She noted there will still be a little discomfort from compression, but this is necessary to hold the breast in place. On her end, after two months, Oberg called it has been a wonderful and beneficial experience. Coupled with self-exams, Oberg encouraged regular screenings. She says, "It's going to be a half an hour of your day, but the whole idea is to catch these things earlier when they're easier to treat."

Published on 01/28/2026 under News Following another successful report on Lincoln Hills from a court appointed monitor, Governor Evers plans to request a federal court end the consent decree. The decision comes after a second consecutive report in which the monitor found they have met all 50 requirements governing the operations at the youth correctional facility . That would require a judges ruling. Governor Evers said in a Wednesday news release, "This has been a goal a decade in the making, and it's tremendous to be able to celebrate the completion of reforms at Lincoln Hills and Copper Lake schools today. Ending the consent decree marks a step in the right direction, and it is a testament to those who got us to this point today, but our work is not done." This comes as the state has been working towards building new, smaller facilities around the state in an effort to house youth offenders closer to their homes and support networks. Once complete, Lincoln Hills would be converted into an adult facility.

Published on 01/28/2026 under News One person is dead following a crash in Vilas County Tuesday morning. According to the Wisconsin State Patrol, responders were called to Highway 51 near Trapp Road in Arbor Vitae for a head-on collision. The call came in at around 10:30am Tuesday morning. Based on their preliminary investigation, they said the southbound pick-up truck likely lost control and crossed over the center-line where it struck an on-coming dumptruck. The driver of the pick-up truck, a 34 year old Three Lakes man was pronounced dead at the scene. The report indicates he was not wearing a seat-belt at the time of the crash. His name is being withheld pending notification of family. The driver of the dump truck was not injured in the crash. Crews were on the scene for more than 5 hours. The crash remains under investigation.

Published on 01/28/2026 under News To kick off the New Year, more than two dozen state properties hosted First Day Hikes. Despite a bitterly cold day, it was well-attended. The DNR provided some of the participation numbers. Overall, there were 32 First Day Hikes across 28 properties. There were more than 2,161 total participants, who hiked a combined 3,543 miles. Partner organizations and Friends Groups organized, led and supported many of these hikes and provided hot drinks, warming fires and even baked goods to those braving the conditions. First Day Hikes are part of a national effort organized by the National Association of State Park Directors. Across the country, there were 1,399 First Day Hikes nationwide. More than 73,000 people showed up, tracking more than 150,000 miles.

Published on 01/27/2026 under News The Town of Boulder Junction is turning 100 next year, and the community is planning to celebrate. To recognize this milestone anniversary of their founding, the town established a Boulder Junction Centennial Committee plan festivities. In the works are a town-wide birthday party, a historical theater performance, a special Musky Jamboree parade, an art installation, a commemorative plaque, and a history publication. They're also looking for the community to help by providing memories. On Monday, the Committee put out a call for people to share photos and stories of their times in Boulder Junction that will be used throughout the celebration. They even provided a list of potential story topics like favorite places, first memories, falling in love (with the town or another person), funny stories, or even animal encounters. The committee did remind people to make sure the stories are true and kept PG-13. They've already got a Facebook page and a website at BoulderJunctionHistory.org with updates, information, and contacts.

Published on 01/27/2026 under News The City of Tomahawk is encouraging residents to be mindful of what they're flushing down toilets and dumping in drains. The warning comes from the Waste Water Department after several issues at the treatment facility due to improper items being placed into the system. Among items of concern are grease, paper toweling, sanitary products, and even flushable wipes. Crews note that these items do not easily break down and can cause major clogs in pipes, pumps and other equipment. That results in overtime calls, emergency repairs, and even home backups. These items should instead be placed into the garbage.

Published on 01/27/2026 under News Aspirus Health facilities in the region have once again been recognized for their efforts when it comes to trees. The Arbor Day Foundation recently named all 18 Aspirus Health hospitals as 2025 Tree Campus institutions. That becomes even more impressive considering fewer than 75 hospitals in the entire country are designated as Tree Campus institutions. The program recognizes healthcare facilities, along with schools and universities for their dedication to enhancing community well-being through tree investment, education and community engagement. For health care facilities specifically, trees and green spaces have been shown to improve health outcomes and reduce stress for both patients and caretakers. Michelle Saulnier, Vice President of Programs at the Arbor Day Foundation said, "By integrating trees and green spaces into their campuses, Aspirus hospitals are not only creating healing environments today, but they are also building a foundation for healthier, more resilient communities in the future." There are certain criteria facilities must meet to receive the recognition. That includes maintaining a tree advisory committee, investing in a tree campus program, and completing a community forestry project.

Published on 01/27/2026 under News A popular chocolate bar promotion is returning to the downtown Rhinelander, just in time for Valentine's Day. Monday marked the start of Downtown Rhinelander Inc's annual Taste of Chocolate fundraiser. They've once again partnered with Fun Factory Sweet Shoppe to produce 1,200 bars of chocolate in 12 specialty flavors for the promotion. Just a few examples include chocolate waffle cone, sea salt caramel, and dark chocolate amaretto. Taste of Chocolate is one of the DRI's largest fundraising efforts, while also bringing people into the district to visit the more than two dozen participating businesses. And they also took a page from Willie Wonka by hiding golden tickets into the packaging twelve chocolate bars. The lucky recipients will be entered into a drawing for Downtown Rhinelander Bucks, the district's promotional currency. While the promotion runs through February 14th, it is while supplies last. With just 1,200 bars, they typically go quickly. Additional information including participating businesses are found on the Downtown Rhinelander Facebook.

Published on 01/27/2026 under News A Tennessee man convicted of shooting a Lincoln County man in the shoulder last year was ordered to serve 12 years in prison. Bobby Dabbs was back in Lincoln County Court Monday for his sentencing hearing. In November, the 27 year old pleaded no contest to 1st degree reckless injury and resisting or obstructing an officer. As part of the plea agreement, three other charges dismissed, but were considered during yesterday's sentencing. Deputies initially investigated a shooting in the Gleason area last February. The victim was hospitalized with a gunshot wound to the shoulder. The suspect, identified as Dabbs, had left the scene. He was arrested the following month in Tennessee and extradited back to Wisconsin. After the initial 12 year prison sentence, Dabbs was ordered to serve 8 years of supervised release. He'll be ordered to pay court costs, and restitution will be determined.

Published on 01/27/2026 under News Those flying out of the Rhinelander-Oneida County Airport will be able to check out artwork created right here in the Northwoods by student artists. The airport partners with ArtStart to host rotating art displays throughout the year, highlighting local artists and entertaining weary travelers. The latest airport exhibit features the work of artists currently studying at Nicolet College. It includes a variety of mediums and highlights the next generation of creativity here in the Northwoods. The exhibit opened last weekend, and it will remain on display through the end of February. The exhibition is open to non-travelers as well, and parking at the airport is free up to 4 hours making a visit easy.

Published on 01/26/2026 under News More than a dozen community organizations in Tomahawk are receiving belated Christmas gifts, and its all thanks to the Tomahawk Community Thrift Shop. Over the past 6 years, the Tomahawk Community Thrift Shop has gifted more than a quarter million dollars ($270,000 since 2019) to local non-profits through their twice yearly profit distribution. After taking care of their operational costs, the return approximately 75% of their profit to the community. Ahead of their ceremonial check presentations, Joe and Bonnie Trapp stopped by to discuss the store and the latest grant recipients. The Trapps serve on the Board and also as volunteers in the store. The January cycle was record-setting. Eighteen grant recipients will share in $52,000, ranging from $650 to $6,000. Joe said the board considers need and impact on the community in reviewing applications. This includes everything from the TAIV-transportation program and Hometown Christmas to Music on the River and Lincoln County Health Community Baby Shower. (Full list of recipients below) People can help in this mission by continuing to shop at the Thrift Store, or even consider volunteering. This past year, volunteers, including the Trapps, provided more than 7,000 hours of service. For non-profits, the next rounds of grants will be awarded in July. The application period opens May 1-June 30. Recipients and a short description: Tomahawk Boy Scouts-hosting the regional Pinewood Derby; Tomahawk Boy Scouts-transportation to leadership conference; Tomahawk Area Interfaith Volunteers-transportation program; Christmas in July; Apex Angels and Warriors; Islands of Brilliance-program for neurodivergent youth; Our Sisters House-temporary housing shelter; Tomahawk School District-summer school; Newborn Supply Closet-diapers and wipes; Hometown Christmas-additional decorations around the community; Tomahawk Food Pantry, Veterans' Honor Guard-cold weather uniforms; St Marys School-music equipment; Kinship-additional transportation services; Tomahawk Public Library-items and programing; Lincoln County Health Department-community baby shower; Music on the River-additional week of music; Tomahawk Historical Society; and WaWui-upgrades to bleachers.

Published on 01/26/2026 under News Communities across the state of Wisconsin are working to more efficiently use salt during the winter months. This week is dedicated to that cause. It's Wisconsin Salt Awareness Week, which is a joint effort to reduce the amount of salt being used to remove ice from roadways. Partners include Wisconsin Saltwise; the Wisconsin DNR; the Wisconsin DoT; and county and municipal road departments. Among the reasons for the campaign, excess salt can wind up in our waterways or along the roadside causing environmental damage. It can also prematurely age roads and bridges causing billions of dollars in infrastructure damage, while also causing corrosion our vehicles. Shannon Haydin, DNR Storm Water Section Manager says, "Chlorides persist in the environment forever and cause significant impacts to fish, aquatic life and human health." Haydin noted that they have seen evidence of fresh water salinization, adding, "Now is the time to make a change and reduce salt use when we can." At a local level, street crews and highway departments look to follow smart salting practices for a number of reasons such as safety and cost. Efforts include equipment calibration, educating operators, and strategic application. For example, according to the DoT, the practice of pre-wetting salt keeps 30% more salt on the road where it is intended, while also helping it work more quickly. And if you notice a lack of salt trucks during extreme cold, that is because salt loses effectiveness as temperatures drop. While road crews carry a larger impact, residents can make a difference right at home, by using salt more effectively on driveways and sidewalks. We'll have more on winter salt throughout this week.

Published on 01/26/2026 under News Tourism entities in Vilas and Oneida County are teaming up to share a message of safe riding during the snowmobile season. The partners maintain a website, SnowmobileNorthwoods.com, which is a one-stop shop for snowmobile information in the region. Riders can access trail info, maps, club details, and up-to-date trail conditions. But they also have a page specifically dedicated to rules and safety. Collette Sorgel, Director of Vilas County Tourism & Publicity notes that each year there are unfortunate accidents that happen on the trails. She says, "SnowmobileNorthwoods.com is a great place for riders to brush up on the rules and riding etiquette so we can all make the Northwoods a safer place to ride." On the site, users will find Wisconsin snowmobiling laws and safety tips, a short video from the Vilas County Snowmobile Alliance, and the Ride Right snowmobiling safety pledge, which reminds riders of easy ways they can commit to protecting their safety and the safety of others on the trails. It also includes club trail reports, which are an important tool for riders. Jacqui Sharpe, Chair of the Oneida County Tourism Council. "Our hardworking club volunteers are dedicated to ensuring access to the latest trail conditions and closures so riders know what's safe and where to avoid, all in the name of sledder safety." In addition to the digital messing, the partners also have printed materials, safety checklists, reflective decals, and other swag available at participating Chambers and Visitors Bureaus.

Published on 01/26/2026 under News Investigators have concluded their investigation into a death in Price County in November, determining it to be accidental. Back on November 24, responders were called to a Park Falls home where 61 year old Vicki Hirtreiter was found dead outside of her home. Her body were partially burned. According to a news release from the Park Falls Police Department, investigators collected evidence, interviewed witnesses, and an autopsy. The investigation found Hirtreiter's cause of death to be severe burn injuries. Her death was determined to be accidental. No other information was provided. The Park Falls Police Department was assisted by the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, the Marathon County Medical Examiner's Office and the Wisconsin State Crime Lab.

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