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Local & Area News

Published on 04/03/2026 under News As cleanup continues from yesterday's ice storm, thousands are still without power, and another round of winter weather could be on the way. According to an update provided by Wisconsin Public Service last evening, crews had already restored electricity to more than 44,000 customers. As of daybreak Friday, more than 21,000 customers remain in the dark. Spokesman Matt Cullen says crews are working around the clock to repair widespread damage caused by heavy ice and strong winds, including downed lines, broken poles, and trees tangled in electrical equipment. The hardest-hit areas include parts of central and northeast Wisconsin, though outages are scattered across the Northwoods as well. Adding to the challenge, another round of ice is in the forecast for Friday night into Saturday morning, which could bring additional outages, especially further north in the service area. WPS says it appreciates the public's patience as crews continue working nonstop to get the lights back on. Customers can track restoration updates through the WPS app or online outage map, though officials warn repair times may change as crews assess damage. (Photo provided by Wisconsin Public Service: Icy storm damage in Stevens Point on April 2, 2026)

Published on 04/03/2026 under News The recent stretch of weather may have created a challenging situation for migrating birds, and a local rescue is asking residents to be on the look out for any loons that wind up on land. Local loon rescue duo Kevin and Linda Grenzer put out a message to their followers on social media warning of what is known as 'loon fall out'. This occurs when migrating loons develop ice on their bodies. It interfering with their flight ability, and they fall out of the sky. Loons have limited mobility on land and are unable to take off into the air. We've experienced this phenomenon on several occasions in recent years. The Grenzers encourage people to watch for any loons in unusual spots like roads, parking lots, fields, or small ponds. If you come across a stranded loon, call a local expert like REGI, Loon Rescue, or your local wildlife center to advise on the next steps. The bird likely needs to be checked out for injuries before a return to the wild.

Published on 04/03/2026 under News The spring election is just days away, and voters across the Northwoods will be heading to the polls to weigh in on local races, from city councils to school boards and county leadership. In Tomahawk, the spotlight is on the mayor's race, where the city will see new leadership for the first time in a decade. Current mayor Steve Taskay is not seeking re-election after serving since 2016. With the seat open, two newcomers to elected city office, Michael 'Hob' Habeck and Jeffery Koth, are making their final case to voters. Both recently joined WJJQ's morning conversation program to discuss key issues like housing, city finances, and the future of Tomahawk. Those conversations are available now in the WJJQ Audio Center for voters to check out before cast a ballot. Tomahawk isn't the only community with a closely watched mayoral race. In Merrill, incumbent Steve Hass is facing a challenge from former mayor Derek Woellner. And in Rhinelander, current mayor Kris Hanus is running against city council member Thomas Barnett. Election Day is Tuesday, April 7.

Published on 04/03/2026 under News Somo Avenue in Tomahawk is one of the roughest stretches to drive in the city. As they await a long-term fix, the city may work with the county on a temporary solution. The segment doubles as State Road 86, and the city has been awaiting a full reconstruction from the state for years. At Tuesday's Board of Public Works meeting, during his monthly report, Street Lead Nick Rosenmeier briefly discussed a possible plan. Recently, the previous overlay has started to come up, leaving large potholes that are difficult to fill and maintain. Rosenmeier had preliminary discussions with the county to wedge the top layer and put down an overlay. The project would likely take a couple of days, and ideally be completed ahead of the summer tourism season. It would likely require another project planned this year, on Bradley Farm Road, to be pushed into 2027. Details still need to be worked out with the county, and the Board of Public Works would need to approve the project.

Published on 04/03/2026 under News A new investment could help breathe fresh life into the Northwoods forestry industry. Governor Evers signed the Forestry Revitalization Act into law, a bipartisan measure co-authored by local Senator Mary Felzkowski. The legislation provides tax credits to support a proposed, new facility that will convert woody biomass into sustainable aviation fuel. Officials say the project is expected to bring billions of dollars in economic impact to Northern Wisconsin, while creating thousands of jobs, not only at the plant itself, but across supporting industries like logging, trucking, and forest management. That's welcome news for the region's forestry sector, which has seen declines in recent years due to changing markets and mill closures. Leaders say the new demand for woody biomass could help stabilize and grow the industry by creating a new, long-term market for forest products. Felzkowski called it transformative for the Northwoods economy and forest products sector, noting she was 'thrilled that, after months of hard work from all our Northwoods legislators, we were able to get this across the finish line." Governor Tony Evers says the move positions Wisconsin as a leader in the growing sustainable aviation fuel market, where demand is expected to rise sharply in the coming decades.

Published on 04/03/2026 under News Anglers across the Northwoods are gearing up for an early start to trout season this weekend. The DNR says the inland trout season opens April 4th this year, about a month earlier than in the past. The early start is for the state's inland streams and springs. The early open harvest season for trout does not apply to inland lakes and ponds. Officials say trout populations are strong statewide, and the earlier opener was supported by the public to expand spring fishing opportunities. Langlade County continues to stand out for high-quality trout streams, with clear, cold waters that attract anglers from across the region. Areas like the Wolf River and its tributaries are known for healthy trout populations and scenic fishing spots. The DNR reminds anglers they'll need a valid fishing license and trout stamp, and to check updated bag and length limits for the new season. They're also encouraging everyone to help protect local waterways by cleaning gear and preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species.

Published on 04/02/2026 under News An Athens man accused of cutting the brake lines of another man's vehicles on multiple occasions will spend four years in prison. Back in December, David Genrich pleaded no-contest to one count of attempted first-degree recklessly endangering safety and three counts of criminal damage to property. In exchange 5 other charges were dismissed, but were considered during sentencing. The 24 year old was arrested in the spring of 2023 after an investigation into multiple instances of vehicle brakelines being cut. Court documents show Genrich later admitted to cutting the brakelines and stating he wanted to date the younger man's girlfriend. Following the four year prison sentence, Genrich will also have 5 years of extended supervision. He was also ordered to pay restitution to the victims.

Published on 04/02/2026 under News More than 80 seniors and their advocates came together in Lincoln County over the weekend for the Northwoods Senior Breakfast, part of the Senior Empowerment Project...and the conversation was just as important as the meal. Attendees at the Saturday morning breakfast in Merrill shared their top concerns affecting local seniors. Transportation continues to be a challenge, especially to other communities and weekends. Social isolation was another major topic of concern, particularly for seniors who feel left behind by technology and struggle to stay connected to community resources. Access to healthcare, along with caregiver support and respite care, also ranked high on the list. Organizer Eileen Guthrie says the work doesn't stop there. The group will now take what they heard over the weekend and begin working toward solutions to better serve seniors in the Northwoods. The Senior Empowerment Project has grown into a statewide movement, building on efforts in several Wisconsin counties to preserve and expand services for older adults. Here in Lincoln County, the group emerged out of the efforts of People for Pine Crest. Organizers say they were encouraged by the strong turnout in Merrill and are eager to keep the momentum going. As for the meal, they asked for a $1 donation for the Merrill Area Food Pantry and raised more than $250. If you'd like to get involved, you can learn more by visiting their website at Senior-Empowerment.org, their Facebook page, or revisit our earlier conversation with Guthrie in the WJJQ audio center.

Published on 04/02/2026 under News Students at Rhinelander High School got a chance to experience some real world financial situations in a fictional setting. On Wednesday, the district collaborated with Rhinelander Partners in Education to offer their annual Mad Money learning event. They provided a full day of opportunity for students to learn more about home budgeting and job hiring process. The morning session was focused on finances. The students were assigned to fictional lives including jobs, families, bills, medical and childcare needs, and other real-world expenses. The students had to balance a budget within their assigned life. Then in the afternoon session, those same students experienced a job search which included mock interviews. The district brought in more than 30 local business professionals to conduct the interviews. The session also included a Shark Tank-inspired game and a presentation from speaker Michael McGowan. In addition to Rhinelander, students from Three Lakes were able to participate.

Published on 04/02/2026 under News Wednesday marked the official start of the new Wisconsin fishing season. Before casting a line, anglers are reminded to review any new rules that may affect their favorite fishing spots and grab a new license. Although Wisconsin's general inland fishing season doesn't open until May 2, the DNR notes there are still some outstanding angling opportunities available throughout the state. That includes both catch-and-release options or species-specific options on select waterways. Anglers can check out the DNR regulation guide to see which waters are open, as well as checking for any new regulations. It's also time to purchase a new fishing license, which runs from April 1 to March 31 of the following year. (A single license for a Wisconsin resident will run $20; spouses get a discount when purchased together at $31.) And anglers are also encourages to do a preseason check on fishing gear, boats, and trailers to ensure they are in good working order while aquatic invasive species aren't hitchhiking.

Published on 04/02/2026 under News A Lincoln County man is behind bars after an investigation into child pornography. According to a news release from the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, investigators executed a search warrant at a home in the Town of Merrill on Wednesday morning following a tip from the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. They traced activity to an IP address connected to the home. According to the release, deputies discovered numerous child sexual abuse materials during the search. As a result, a 59 year old man was booked into the Lincoln County Jail on multiple counts of possession of child pornography. The man's name was not immediately released. The Sheriff's Department says there is no information to suggest the individual victimized anyone within the community. The investigation is ongoing.

Published on 04/02/2026 under News After more than a decade of service, a longtime food assistance program in the greater Rhinelander area has come to an unexpected end. Ruby's Pantry announced it is ending its monthly pop-up food distribution efforts across Wisconsin and Minnesota effective April 1. The program had served families in the Rhinelander community for over 12 years, including the past eight and a half years through Calvary Baptist Church. Pastor Rod Ankrom says the closure came without warning, calling it a surprise to both organizers and volunteers. He added the ministry is grateful for the many people who stepped up over the years to help provide food and support to local families. In a statement, Ruby's Pantry leadership says the decision follows months of internal restructuring, aimed at better aligning their mission and resources. While the loss leaves a gap in local food distribution, residents in need are reminded that support is still available through the Rhinelander Area Food Pantry, which continues to serve the community. Local leaders say they're hopeful other efforts will step in to help meet the ongoing need.

Published on 04/01/2026 under News A wintery mix of precipitation isn't unusual at this time of year, and with an ice storm in the forecast overnight officials are reminding residents to take some precautions. In addition to a potentially difficult Thursday morning commute, icing can also lead to power outages. The weight of ice can weigh down or break branches which can fall on power lines or electric equipment. Wisconsin Public Service offers a handy online guide for those looking to cover all the bases before, during, and after a major storm that may result in power outages. We frequently cover home emergency kits, and that remains important. It should include food, water, flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit. WPS recommends downloading their app and storing their phone number for any emergency communication. It's a good idea to charge up phones when severe weather approaches. If you have a generator; check that it is accessible, working, and full of gas. Coincidentally, we had a similar ice storm one year ago, almost to the day, that left more than 100,000 people without power, some for several days.

Published on 04/01/2026 under News Last week we highlighted the success of downtown Tomahawk in the Wisconsin Main Street Awards, but they weren't the only Northwoods community that shined. In Eagle River, local businesses and community leaders earned multiple Wisconsin Main Street honors highlighting their impact on downtown revitalization. Andy's Pontoon Saloon took home the Best Business Marketing Campaign award for its popular "Run Club." What began as a simple two-mile group run quickly grew into a weekly event drawing more than 1,500 participants over the season, boosting foot traffic and business activity throughout downtown. This is the second year in a row that Andy's Pontoon Saloon has been recognized; last year, it was named Best New Business. Longtime community leader Jim Holperin was inducted into the Wisconsin Main Street Hall of Fame. Holperin was recognized for decades of leadership, volunteerism, and investment in Eagle River's downtown, including his work with multiple committees and fundraising efforts that helped strengthen the local economy. Another Eagle River honoree, Byron McNutt, was named a 2025 Wisconsin Main Street Community Champion for his ongoing contributions to projects like Rotary Square and his continued support of downtown initiatives. The success of Tomahawk and Eagle River is more impressive competing against 37 Main Street Districts including in larger cities like Wausau, Green Bay and Milwaukee. Local leaders say the awards reflect the strength of community involvement across northern Wisconsin, with volunteers, businesses, and organizations all playing a key role in building vibrant downtowns. Elsewhere, Wausau was also recognized, with the Wausau Night Market earning Best Special Event. The monthly summer gathering has grown into a major attraction, drawing more than 2,000 visitors per event and featuring dozens of vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment.

Published on 04/01/2026 under News Families in the Northwoods have a fun incentive to plan a museum visit this week, with a little baseball bonus. The Northwoods Children's Museum in Eagle River has been selected to participating site for a new statewide promotion through the Milwaukee Brewers Community Foundation. As part of the promotion, children ages 17 and under who visit a participating museum this week can receive two free ticket vouchers to select Milwaukee Brewers home games at American Family Field. Coinciding with the start of the MLB season, organizers say the promotion is designed to encourage family learning and play during spring break, while also making it easier for kids to experience Major League Baseball at AmFam Field. The Northwoods Children's Museum is open daily during the promotion, which runs through Saturday. The Children's Imaginarium is also participating in this program.

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