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Lincoln County Health Department Hosting Community Conversations on Substance Use

Published on 02/24/2026 under News The Lincoln County Health Department continues their efforts and outreach related to substance use including some upcoming public discussions. The Lincoln County Health Department, in partnership with the Lincoln County Opioid Task Force, will be holding three community conversations about substance use and the importance of community support. The first is coming up Wednesday. These events are part of a larger effort to reduce stigma around substance use and promote harm reduction. Stigma, negative attitudes or beliefs about substance use, are often a hurdle in people seeking help. Erin Ray, Opioid Grant Coordinator for the Lincoln County Health Department said, "Our community assessment showed that stigma is a major reason people who use substances do not seek treatment in Lincoln County. Ray says, "We can reduce that stigma by having open, respectful conversations that build understanding and support within our communities." Community members are encouraged to attend, share their perspectives, listen and learn. They called these conversations are an opportunity to connect with others and help build a healthier, more supportive community for individuals and families. The first opportunity will be a virtual Town Hall on Wednesday, February 25 at 5:30pm. They also have in-person events planned in Merrill March 17 and Tomahawk April 8. A link to the virtual town hall is available here: https://bit.ly/LincTownHall

Published on 02/24/2026 under News On Friday, Lincoln County deputies were dispatched to an injury crash involving a Lincoln County Plow truck and a passenger car on US Highway 51 in the Town of Skanawan. Upon arrival, the deputies were advised that the plow truck being operated by a 34 year old man from Irma, WI was actively engaged in plowing operations heading northbound on US Highway 51 when the truck was struck in the rear by a passenger car being operated by a 56 year old man from Merrill, WI. Both the driver and passenger of the car reported injuries, and the driver of the plow truck reported back pain.

Published on 02/24/2026 under News Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that can affect the entire family. Many people associate them with food or weight changes, but the impact often reaches beyond eating habits and into relationships, routines, and emotional well-being. "It's not just eating too much or eating too little," said Jessica Schiek, LPC, Behavioral Health Director at Aspirus Health. "It's a comprehensive mental health condition that affects behaviors, moods, physical health, and attitudes related to food." The early warning signs are not always physical. Families may notice changes in routines or social habits, and those shifts can feel confusing at first. Mood shifts or irritability may follow. Eating disorders also intersect with anxiety, depression, trauma, or substance use, which can make a loved one's behavior difficult for families to interpret and can strain communication at home. Schiek encourages families to seek professional guidance when something feels different rather than waiting for symptoms to worsen. "Come at it with a supportive, caring approach," she said. "Set aside dedicated time in a private space and open up communication. It might not always be well received, but it can be a place to start." Treatment typically involves coordinated care from medical and mental health professionals. Families are often an important part of that process. Resources for caregivers and siblings are available through organizations such as the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) at nationaleatingdisorders.org. "The most important thing to know is that recovery is possible," Schiek said. "It might take time, and relapse can be part of recovery, but there is hope."

Published on 02/23/2026 under News On Saturday, the 8th annual Chili Cook-off was held at the Nokomis Fire Station. Celebrity judges from the area rated the chili from 1-10 in different categories. The cook-off helped raised money through various raffles featuring over 70 items. Some of the proceeds will go the Kinship of Tomahawk. The rest will be split between Northwoods Veterans, the Oneida County Aging and Disability Resource Center, and the Nokomis Fire Department. The Aspirus MedEvac team took first place in the mild chili category and the Arbor Vitae Fire Department took first place in the hot chili category. Other winners include; Chairman's Choice Aspirus MedEvac, Best Presentation to Minocqua Fire Department and People's Choice to Arbor Vitae Fire Department. There we're a total of 12 chili contest entries.

Published on 02/23/2026 under News Aspirus Tomahawk Hospital honored Francis Smazal, RN, with the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses in recognition of his commitment and patient-centered approach to care. The award is part of the DAISY Foundation's program to recognize the super-human efforts nurses perform every day. Aspirus Tomahawk Hospital DAISY Award recipients are nurses recognized for going above and beyond patient expectations by providing service with respect, compassion, and integrity; generating enthusiasm and energy while carrying out everyday duties and responsibilities; significantly making a difference and listening not only with ears but also with heart. Smazal works in the Medical-Surgical Unit and was nominated for the DAISY Award by a grateful patient. Established in 1999, the family of J. Patrick Barnes created the DAISY (Diseases Attacking the Immune System) Award to honor his memory with a tribute to the skillful and compassionate care he received from his nurses during his hospitalization. Nurses may be nominated by patients, families, visitors and colleagues and they are chosen by a multi-disciplinary team to receive the DAISY Award. The DAISY Award recognizes the outstanding and extraordinary care nurses provide every day. Aspirus DAISY Award winners and nominees exceed the needs and expectations of patients and families by displaying the Aspirus core values of: Compassion, Accountability, Collaboration, Foresight and Joy.

Published on 02/20/2026 under News A new grant program is being created in Langlade County to address substance abuse use through funds received from opioid lawsuit settlements. The Langlade County Opioid Taskforce is announcing a new funding opportunity to support local efforts aimed at preventing, reducing, and responding to the impacts of opioid use in their community. Funding priorities are based on community input. These priorities are outlined in the Community Impact Report. In announcing the program, the taskforce said, "We are committed to supporting initiatives that reflect the needs and voices of our community. This funding opportunity is designed to help local partners create meaningful, sustainable impact." Details about the funding opportunity, eligibility, and application materials can be found on the Langlade County Health Department website at: the deadline to apply is April 1st.

Published on 02/20/2026 under News A Northwoods grocer is being recognized by a national trade publication. Trig's was among 17 grocery retailers selected as Progressive Grocer's 2026 Outstanding Independents. In showcasing the winners, they note they all have 'two key things in common: a deep passion for and connection to the communities that they call home.' They said noted these factors help them compete in a world with multi-state chains. For Trig's specifically, they wrote, 'is more than a grocery store chain – its locations are the hubs of their local communities.' They mentioned local sourcing initiatives, Love it Local, efforts to introduce specialty products often unavailable in rural markets to create connections between people and food in meaningful ways. They also highlighted efforts for food donation partnerships and outreach to address food insecurity. Trig's was the only Wisconsin grocer to make the list.

Published on 02/19/2026 under News Discover Wisconsin is kicking off a new season of their popular show, and another Northwoods community will be the focus of the first episode. The 39th season of Discover Wisconsin premieres this weekend with an episode on Rhinelander. In the episode, titled Rhinelander-It's Legendary, hosts Andrea Boehlke and Eric Paulsen follow the trail of the hodag, the mythical beast that's become a symbol of the community's creativity and charm. The episode was a year in the making, showcasing all four season. It was done in partnership with the Rhinelander Chamber. And while the hodag is featured prominently, they also showcase local destinations, eateries, outdoor recreation and popular events such as the Hodag Country Festival and Lights of the Northwoods. The Rhinelander Chamber actually held a special screening of the episode earlier this month. It debuted on Discover Wisconsin YouTube channel Wednesday, and will air on Discover Wisconsin TV affiliates this weekend.

Published on 02/19/2026 under News While many students attending Nicolet College are preparing for careers, the school also offers courses and opportunities for learning, experience, and connection. Nicolet recently unveiled their new spring and summer arts and enrichment line up. They said the new season of classes, events and exhibits will inspire creativity, well-being and connection through a busy season at the theatre, gallery, and classroom or beyond. Starting in the Theater, they have two productions planned, Fahrenheit 451 and Cinderella. They also host concerts, author talks and artists. Speaking of the art, the Nicolet Gallery will have three exhibits including the 39th Northern National Art Competition. And inside and outside of the classroom, more than 30 courses are being offered in a wide range of creative and practical skills related to nature, cooking, health, and gardening. A few they highlighted include culinary ceramics, knife sharpening, fly fishing, yoga, and a loon paddle. Many of the classes are free, or a small fee to cover course materials. Those interested can visit the Nicolet website for more information.

Published on 02/19/2026 under News Law enforcement partners are looking to shed some light on safe driving. The Wisconsin State Patrol law of the month in February is focused on headlights...that they're being used in limited visibility conditions, and that they're working properly. State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan says, "When visibility is reduced, drivers have less time to react to others on the road. Headlights help everyone stay safe. Headlights not only helps a driver see what is ahead of their vehicle; it also allows other drivers to see your vehicle. State law requires driver use their headlights during hours of darkness as well as times when there is insufficient natural light to clearly see 500 feet. This includes fog, rain, or snow, when drivers may need to manually turn on lights, even if the vehicle is equipped with automatic lights. Carnahan also reminded drivers to make sure headlights are clean, checking for snow, ice, or other debris. According to the release, high beams help drivers see clearly in good weather conditions, but remember to always dim your lights within 500 feet of approaching or following another vehicle, even on a divided highway.

Published on 02/19/2026 under News Lincoln County will look to use a portion of opioid response funding from the state to keep medications out of the wrong hands. The Lincoln County Health Department is eligible to receive up to $4,500 in state opioid response funding through the Northwoods Coalition. At their meeting Tuesday, the Lincoln County Board unanimously approved a resolution accepting the grant. The funds will be earmarked for drug security and disposal. This includes providing community members with drug deactivation units as well as medication lock boxes or lock bags. The goal is to ensure that medications are being used properly and by people they have been prescribed to. The County also has an Opioid Task Force which has provided leadership and guidance in investing settlement dollars the county has received over the years.

Published on 02/19/2026 under News It won't be long before state campgrounds are buzzing once again. The DNR is recruiting people to serve as volunteer campground hosts during the season. Hosts stay in a campsite at the campground and volunteer a few hours per day. Tasks include greeting and assisting fellow campers about the park and facilities, assisting in daily operations, cleaning and maintenance. The DNR notes that volunteers are an integral part of the programming, operations and management services of Wisconsin's state parks, forests, recreation areas and trails. Opportunities are available at DNR properties in all parts of the state from May through November, with dates varying by property. A 1- to 2-month service period is preferred.

Published on 02/18/2026 under News Council Grounds is a hidden gem here in the Northwoods. And now park-goers have a more convenient option to purchase their park passes. Friends of Council Grounds, a volunteer group who support, assist, and promote the state park property here in Lincoln County, recently unveiled a brand-new, electronic park pass sales kiosk. The kiosk offers both daily passes and the year-long passes for residents, seniors, and non-residents. The convenience allows purchase outside of park office hours, or having to deal with mailing or online purchases. The funding to purchase the kiosk came from two sources. The Friends group was awarded a Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Grant. The Friends matched with money raised through merchandise sales, watercraft rental fees, and sales of firewood harvested and processed by their Wood Team volunteers. Council Grounds near Merrill is approximately 500 acres, located right along the Wisconsin River.

Published on 02/18/2026 under News At their meeting Tuesday, the Lincoln County Board approved future compensation packages for three elected offices. The positions impacted by the resolution include the Clerk of Courts, the Coroner, and the Sheriff. The compensation is for the years 2027-2030 and features a 3% annual increase. Ahead of the vote, Board Chair Jesse Boyd noted that, based on preliminary numbers from other counties, the Lincoln County Sheriff position would be below the state average. It ranges from $98,000 next year to $107,000 in 2030. Ultimately, no changes were made to the initial resolution, which was approved unanimously. This process to set compensation must be completed prior to the earliest time nomination papers can be filed. These positions will all appear on the November ballot. Elected Office2027202820292030Clerk of Courts $75,7777.66$78,050.99$80,392.52$82,804.29Sheriff$98,424.89$101,377.64$104,418.97$107,551.54Coroner (1,040 Hours)$33,143.90$34,138.21$35,162.36$36,217.23

Published on 02/18/2026 under News When it comes to an emergency, every second counts...and that includes the time before professionals arrive on the scene. As part of February being National Heart month, the American Red Cross is encouraging people participate in lifesaving skills courses such as First Aid, CPR and AED use. The training equips participants with the knowledge and skills to better identify and respond to heart-related emergencies. Statistics show more than 300,000 people experience cardiac arrest outside of hospitals each year, yet only about one-third of adults say they feel confident and ready to act. Kathryn Halvorsen, executive director of the North Central Wisconsin chapter of the American Red Cross says, "Learning first aid and CPR skills may make a lifesaving difference for your child, family member, or even a stranger." Across the Wisconsin Region, nearly 19,000 people were trained in lifesaving skills last year through the Red Cross last year.The Red Cross has options for both in-person and online classes across more than a dozen categories. You can visit their website for more information.

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