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Tomahawk:City in the Pines; Historical Documentary to Premiere September 12

Published on 08/26/2026 under News A new feature-length documentary exploring the rich history of Tomahawk is set to make its big-screen debut next month. Tomahawk: City in the Pines will premiere on Saturday, September 12, at the Tomahawk High School Auditorium. Created by Tomahawk native Clay Schmit and Academy Award-winning filmmaker John Newcombe, the project spent more than two years in development, tracing the area's roots from its early days prior to incorporation, through its founding in 1886, and into the modern era. The 90-minute film highlights the region's timber origins, the dangerous logging era along the Wisconsin River, historic sawmills, and iconic local landmarks like the former Mitchell Hotel and the Tomahawk Boat Company. Schmit credits tremendous support from local residents, the Tomahawk Historical Society, and community members who contributed photographs, stories, and historical records. Tomahawk Mayor "Hob" Habeck, who attended an advance screening, praised the project: "When people see this film, they'll gain a whole new perspective on Tomahawk. It shows just how much hard work and determination went into building this community." Organizers encourage attendees to wear flannel to the premiere in honor of the town's logging heritage. Schmit noted that the documentary is dedicated to those who lost their lives working in the timber industry. We'll have more coverage leading up to the premiere here on WJJQ, including an upcoming conversation with Newcombe.

Published on 08/26/2026 under News A new Veterans Memorial Mural is in the works for Antigo, and the local artist behind the project is seeking the public's help to bring the vision to life. Artist Danna Gabriel is collaborating with Antigo Visual Arts and Bradley Funeral Home to create the piece. From a distance, the mural will resemble a traditional American flag, but up close, it reveals a detailed mosaic composed of 305 individually customized red, white, and blue ceramic tiles. Project organizers are inviting community members to purchase and dedicate individual tiles to complete the design. Each tile can be personalized with a veteran's name, photograph, military details, or a message of gratitude. Proceeds from the project will support the Langlade County chapter of Disabled American Veterans. "This project is about honoring the people who served, preserving their stories, and creating something our community can be proud of," Gabriel shared. "Whether you are honoring a family member, remembering a friend, or simply want to say thank you to a veteran, there is a place for you in this mural." While 32 tiles have already been reserved, all 305 must be claimed before final assembly can begin. Once completed, the mosaic will be permanently installed inside Bradley Funeral Home. Those interested in sponsoring a tile or supporting the project can contact Antigo Visual Arts or Bradley Funeral Home.

Published on 08/26/2026 under News There's plenty of incentive to head down to WaWui bingo this evening, featuring a special promotion and a growing prize pot. First up, it's WJJQ Night at bingo! Our very own Gregg Albert will be on the microphone calling numbers for the evening. Even if you don't score a bingo, you might still walk away with some cool Big Q gear. If that isn't enough to get you out the door, WaWui's Blackout Progressive Game features a pot that grows every week and is now up to nearly $1,700. As always, all WaWui bingo proceeds directly support operations and improvements at the SARA Park facility. Doors open at 5:00 p.m., and games begin at 6:30 p.m. at SARA Park.

Published on 08/26/2026 under News It was a routine night of committee meetings for the City of Tomahawk, with few action items on the agenda. The Health and Safety Committee approved special event applications for two upcoming events which are unrelated, but fall on the same weekend: the annual Tomahawk High School Homecoming Parade on October 2 and the WaWui Beer and Bacon Bash on October 3 at SARA Park. The Finance Committee re-approved borrowing resolutions to purchase two new squad cars and several pieces of Public Works equipment. Because these items had been previously approved, a renewed application was required. The committee spent the majority of its time scheduling upcoming sessions to discuss a potential fall levy referendum, the city's room tax, and the 2027 municipal budget. Meanwhile, the Board of Public Works reviewed monthly updates from department heads and briefly discussed signage for the South Tomahawk Avenue boulevard between Wisconsin and Somo avenues. The location currently displays the Tomahawk Main Street sign, with future plans to add a Wisconsin Historical District sign. No action was taken as members gather additional details on sign dimensions and potential Department of Transportation height restrictions.

Published on 08/26/2026 under News With the new school year kicking off next week for most districts, local health experts are encouraging tired students to focus on basic wellness rather than reaching for energy drinks. Aspirus Health Nurse Practitioner Rachel Rindt emphasizes that caffeine only masks fatigue instead of providing what growing bodies actually need: rest, hydration, and proper nutrition. Experts note that caffeine remains in the body for hours, creating a cycle of exhaustion that undermines focus and academic performance. Rindt says, "The goal is to help families understand the risks while encouraging healthier habits that support learning, athletics, and overall well-being." Rather than relying on energy drinks, health professionals recommend parents help kids build sustainable habits—such as consistent sleep schedules, balanced meals, daily hydration, and limited screen time before bed. Major health organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the CDC, warn that high levels of caffeine, sugar, and stimulants can trigger severe sleep disruption, anxiety, dehydration, and heart issues. Parents and guardians are reminded that if a student experiences a racing heartbeat, chest pain, or fainting after consuming caffeine, they should seek immediate medical care.

Published on 08/26/2026 under News Gov. Tony Evers made a stop in the Northwoods yesterday to highlight local clean energy initiatives and mark the release of the state's 2026 Clean Energy Plan Progress Report. During the visit, Evers joined members of Wisconsin Public Service to tour the 7.5-megawatt Hodag Solar Park near Rhinelander, the first large-scale solar facility in the region. Spanning 50 acres with 21,000 solar panels, the site is operated in partnership with WEC Energy Group to deliver affordable, reliable, and clean power to Northern Wisconsin residents. The stop coincided with the release of the progress report, which highlights key pathways for Wisconsin: accelerating clean energy technology, maximizing efficiency, modernizing buildings and industry, and innovating transportation. Governor Evers said he's proud of the efforts to move these priorities forward. He added, "By lowering energy costs for working families, creating good-paying jobs in innovative industries, and bolstering our efforts to lower carbon emissions, we're building the healthier, cleaner, and more sustainable state and future that Wisconsinites deserve."

Published on 08/26/2026 under News A two-vehicle crash in Lincoln County last week occurred when a driver pulled over to collect mail from a roadside mailbox. According to the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, the incident happened on County Highway E in the Town of Rock Falls. Investigators say both vehicles were traveling eastbound when the lead vehicle pulled onto the shoulder to check a mailbox. As a second vehicle attempted to pass on the left, the lead driver pulled back onto the roadway, causing the two vehicles to sideswipe each other. Minor injuries were reported at the scene, no further details were provided. Other incidents highlighted in the Sheriff's Report: -Two individuals were arrested for first offense OWI: one following a traffic stop, the other following a single vehicle crash. -The number of vehicle vs. deer collisions remains low with 4 reported this past week on Lincoln County Roadways.

Published on 08/25/2026 under News First responders across the region will be better equipped during emergency calls thanks to continued support from the Wisconsin Public Service Foundation. As part of its Rewarding Responders program, the WPS Foundation is visiting law enforcement, fire, EMS, and rescue agencies throughout the Northwoods this week, delivering a combined $75,000 in grants for crucial equipment, safety gear, and training. One of the first stops was the Minocqua Fire and Rescue Department, where officials unveiled new medical supplies to stock the department's mass-incident emergency response kit. The new gear will allow firefighters to provide lifesaving care if injuries occur during large public events or gatherings. "This grant comes to us at a time when we are facing new challenges in public safety," said Fire Chief Rich Carani. "It means we are able to purchase the equipment we need to respond quickly and treat members of the public when needed." Other local agencies selected to receive funding during this cycle include the Tomahawk Police Department and the Nokomis Fire Department. We will highlight additional grant recipients later this week. With this latest round of funding, the WPS Foundation's Rewarding Responders program has now surpassed $750,000 in total support distributed among 240 agencies.

Published on 08/25/2026 under News Atrial fibrillation affects millions of Americans each year, yet the condition often goes undetected and untreated, significantly increasing the risk of serious health issues like stroke. To help raise awareness, the Aspirus Heart Care team is hosting a free community discussion in Minocqua on Thursday. The presentation will be led by cardiothoracic surgeons Dr. John Johnkoski and Dr. Stephen Thorp, alongside electrophysiologist Dr. Andrew Mykytsey. The team has hosted similar discussions in past years, drawing strong turnouts and positive community feedback. Earlier this month, Dr. Johnkoski joined the WJJQ Morning Show to offer a preview of the upcoming event. Recent research shows that A-fib is on the rise among adults under 65. The trend is often attributed to a combination of risk factors, including smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, hypertension, and sleep apnea. During Thursday's presentation, the medical team will cover the link between A-fib, stroke, and heart failure, as well as both traditional and innovative treatment options. The program is free to attend, but pre-registration is required. Registration is requested by calling 800-847-4707 or visit aspirus.org/classes-events

Published on 08/25/2026 under News Multiple arrests were made following a search warrant execution at a Merrill home last week. According to the Merrill Police Department, officers working alongside the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office executed the warrant in the 800 block of Grand Avenue after learning Nicholas Teal was inside. Teal was wanted on an active warrant for 1st-degree reckless homicide by drug delivery. He was taken into custody and appeared in Lincoln County Circuit Court on Friday facing multiple drug-related charges. An adjourned initial appearance is scheduled for September 4. Several others were also arrested as part of the operation. Jacqueline Terry made an initial appearance in Lincoln County Circuit Court on Friday facing six drug-related charges. She is due back in court later this week. Homeowner Edward Duellman is also facing six charges, including maintaining a drug trafficking place. Noting previous drug raids at the property, Lincoln County Circuit Court Judge Galen Bayne-Allison ordered the residence to remain vacant until further notice.

Published on 08/25/2026 under News With the first day of class quickly approaching, campuses across the Northwoods are putting the finishing touches on their back-to-school preparations. Here in Tomahawk, a group of volunteers recently teamed up to ensure the playground at St. Mary's School is safe and ready for young learners ahead of recess. More than a dozen community members turned out to answer the school's call for help spreading fresh wood chips across the playground surface. The chips, donated by the local PCA Mill, provide a softer, safer landing area for students. Following the evening effort, school officials expressed their gratitude, sharing: "Even though there is still work to do, we did a great job working together. The volunteers' time, hard work, and willingness to help made a big difference."

Published on 08/25/2026 under News Wisconsin manufacturers produce a wide array of innovative products, and an annual statewide competition is once again looking to crown the coolest among them. The appropriately named "Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin" contest officially launched nominations this week. Hosted by Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce (WMC), the annual contest celebrates state-made products and the workers who produce them, while highlighting manufacturing's vital role in the state's economy. WMC President and CEO Kurt R. Bauer, "For more than a decade, this contest has helped spotlight the innovation and talent that make Wisconsin a manufacturing powerhouse." Over the years, several Northwoods favorites have made deep runs in the competition, including St. Croix Fishing Rods, Minocqua Popcorn, and Thorogood work boots. Members of the public can submit nominations through September 11. Finalists will be announced ahead of public voting later next month, with the overall winner crowned in October during Wisconsin Manufacturing Month.

Published on 08/25/2026 under News With the fall deer season right around the corner, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is looking for experienced outdoor enthusiasts to help train the next generation of hunters across the state. The DNR is actively recruiting volunteer instructors to lead hunter education and practical skills workshops in all regions of Wisconsin. Volunteers work alongside DNR staff and partner organizations, such as Pheasants Forever and the National Deer Association, to teach hands-on topics including basic marksmanship, deer processing, game cooking, and dog training. Beyond the classroom, opportunities are also open for volunteers and landowners to host "Learn to Hunt" mentored events. These classes provide additional instruction and continuing education to hunters of all experience levels. The DNR has additional information on their website.

Published on 08/24/2026 under News The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office K-9 program is adding new recruits thanks to a generous grant. During its meeting last week, the Lincoln County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a resolution accepting $35,315 from the Bierman Family Foundation to fund the acquisition and training of two new K-9 officers. The new dogs will replace K-9s Poncho and Nina, who both recently retired after years of service to the county. One of the new dogs has plenty of local experience already. Dasty, who spent five years as a K-9 with the Merrill Police Department, is moving to the Sheriff's Office along with his handler, Josh McCaskill. McCaskill previously worked for the Sheriff's Office in Corrections, prior to his 15 years with the Merrill PD. The Sheriff's Office recently highlighted Deputy McCaskill and Dasty. According to those discussions at the meeting, as part of an inter-agency Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), $5,000 will be provided to the City of Merrill. Acquiring a new K-9 and training a handler typically costs roughly $30,000. Bringing Dasty on board alongside a second new dog allows the department to rebuild its unit efficiently within the grant's budget—ensuring the program continues with zero impact on local tax levy dollars. The Lincoln County K-9 program was originally reestablished in 2014, also largely funded by a Bierman Family Foundation grant.

Published on 08/24/2026 under News A suspect is in custody following a hit-and-run crash that injured a pedestrian in Lincoln County last weekend. On Friday, the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office announced the arrest of 28-year-old Edgar resident Brandon Karlen. He is charged with Hit and Run–Causing Great Bodily Harm. Early on August 16, responders were called to County Highway K near Lake Pesobic Road in the Town of Merrill, where they discovered a man lying in the road with severe head injuries. The victim was hit by a southbound vehicle while walking along the west side of the road. Rushed to a nearby hospital, he told officers he remembered little about the crash. Investigators recovered evidence at the scene pointing to a truck with passenger-side mirror damage, eventually identifying Karlen as the suspect. According to reporting from WSAW-TV, Karlen is a State Patrol Trooper who was off-duty at the time of the alleged incident. The State Patrol stated he is currently on paid administrative leave. A judge set a $10,000 signature bond during Karlen's initial court appearance on Friday. His bond conditions require absolute sobriety and prohibit driving at night. He is scheduled to return to court for an adjourned initial appearance on September 14.

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