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Local & Area News

Published on 04/16/2026 under News It's Severe Weather Awareness Week, which typically culminates with mock tornado drills on Thursday afternoon and evening. However with the recent severe weather in Wisconsin this week, the drills have been canceled. We, at WJJQ, typically take part in the yearly drill which includes watches and warnings. According to Ready Wisconsin, the decision to cancel this year's drill comes as emergency management, local agencies, and people are actively responding and recovering from the impacts of these recent storms. They said proceeding with the scheduled drills would place additional strain on already stretched resources as many communities continue to deal with storm impacts. Families are still encouraged to go over tornado safety including locations and plans.

Published on 04/16/2026 under News While tornado safety is the main focus of Severe Weather Awareness Week, Wisconsinites will likely encounter other weather-related occurrences like flooding. Many areas of the state are dealing with flooding this week after several rounds of storms. Flooding is one of the most common natural disasters in Wisconsin, causing millions of dollars in property damage each year. Beyond the expense, flood waters can be more dangerous than they seem. Officials note that you should never attempt to walk or drive through a flooded roadway using the phrase "Turn around, Don't Drown!" Just six inches of flowing water can knock over an adult, and a small vehicle can be swept away by 12 inches of moving water. Floodwaters can also damage or wash away the road, often hidden below the surface. The waters may also contain contaminants and hazards. At home, store important records and other water prone items in a waterproof container in upper levels rather than the basement. If your home experiences flooding, your local health department can provide proper cleaning and disinfection guidelines and other resources. While you can't stop rising waters, Ready Wisconsin shared some home tips that can help. That includes cleaning your gutters regularly, direct downspouts away from your home, and improve the grading and landscaping to keep water from flowing away from your home.

Published on 04/16/2026 under News A Rhinelander educator is being honored for helping students branch out beyond the classroom. School Forest Manager Mike Cheslock has received a Wisconsin School Forest Award from the LEAF Program for his work at the Cedric A. Vig Outdoor Classroom, the district's primary school forest. Cheslock was recognized for his leadership and vision in expanding the program across grade levels and subject areas, giving students hands-on learning experiences in forestry, conservation, and ecology. Under his direction, the outdoor classroom has become a key part of the district's curriculum, supporting science education while promoting environmental stewardship and real-world skills. Rhinelander Superintendent Eric Burke says, "Mike's leadership of our school forest and the CAVOC learning center is truly exceptional. He has created opportunities for authentic, hands-on learning that simply cannot be replicated in a traditional classroom, and our entire district is better because of his vision and dedication." He was recognized at a statewide environmental education conference earlier this month. The district also plans to have a local award presentation at CAVOC later this month.-Photo provided by the Rhinelander School District

Published on 04/16/2026 under News Giving back in Rhinelander just got a little easier and a lot more convenient. The Personal Essentials Pantry at First United Methodist Church is teaming up with Trig's Rhinelander store to launch a new "grab-and-go" donation program. The effort is part of a Leadership Oneida County project. They held a kick-off event this week. Shoppers can now purchase prepackaged donation bags filled with items like hygiene items, cleaners, and other household products, set aside for the pantry. Organizers say the effort helps provide essentials that aren't typically covered by assistance programs, while making it simple for the community to support families in need. The volunteer-run pantry relies entirely on donations and says initiatives like this help ensure neighbors have access to everyday necessities for health and dignity. The Personal Essentials Pantry has two distribution days each month.

Published on 04/16/2026 under News A couple of Northwoods students showed off their professional skills in a statewide competition, and were recognized for their efforts. Earlier this month, more than 1,700 students were in Madison for the 53rd edition of Skills USA. This included middle school, high school, and technical college students. The participants qualified through regional competitions for one of 65 events based on career-ready skills. They were judged by experts and professionals in the respective fields. Among the local medalists were the Tomahawk High School Commercial sUAS Drones (Team) of Brock Fischer and Bodie Olsen who were runners-up. And Rhinelander's Brookelynn Martin also earned a silver medal in the high school cosmetology competition. And there was one gold medal returning to the Northwoods: Lola Beach of Rhinelander High School topped the Baking & Pastry Arts competition. Gold winners are eligible to compete in the National SkillsUSA Championships which will be held in Atlanta the first week of June.

Published on 04/16/2026 under News Whether you're a regular Johnny Appleseed, or you're struggling with your red delicious; there's an opportunity to learn more about home apple trees in the Northwoods this weekend. Just one week after hosting a maple syrup demonstration, the Kemp Natural Resources Station is inviting the public to its "Apple School" this Saturday. The free workshop runs from 9 to 2 and will cover everything from choosing the right apple varieties for the region to pruning, pest control, and long-term tree care. It's led by horticulture experts from University of Wisconsin–Madison and its agricultural research programs. Organizers say the event is perfect for anyone thinking about starting an orchard, or figuring out why their apple trees aren't producing. While the workshop is free, they do ask that people register online.

Published on 04/15/2026 under News It's Tornado and Severe Weather Awareness Week, and part of the outreach is on preparedness. Local emergency management officials are encouraging every resident to take time to identify a safe and secure location to go when a tornado strikes, whether in your home, work, or school. The goal is to stay away from windows, doors, or outside walls. For most homes, a basement or cellar is best. If that isn't possible, select a small interior room on the ground or lowest level of your home/building. If you're outside when severe weather arrives, you're safest heading indoors. If that's not possible locate a low-lying, flat location and take cover there. Use your arms to protect your head and neck. It's also a good idea to go over these tips with your family. Once a location is identified, people are encouraged to share a #safeplaceselfie on social media. Wisconsin averages 23 tornadoes each year. Last year, the National Weather Service (NWS) confirmed 39 tornadoes in the state.

Published on 04/15/2026 under News The spring bird migration is well underway, and with it an annual observation and fundraising challenge returns. The 14th annual Great Wisconsin Birdathon kicks off today and will continue through June 15th. The effort is organized by the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin and participants includes local libraries, schools, bird organizations or individuals simply interested in our feathered friends. There are two parts to the Birdathon...First, they're encouraging people to break out binoculars to spot and record as many bird species as possible. Participants can search anywhere in the state, and organizers noted there are no shortage of birding opportunities and habitat here in the Northwoods. Last year, a record setting 620 birders across 91 teams participated, identifying 283 bird species. They're also encouraging participants to collect pledges in exchange for sightings. Last year they collected $127,000 for organizations and projects dedicated to bird related causes such as habitat improvement and protection. The Tomahawk Public Library is one of those groups that is participating. They've also got some ongoing bird-themed reading challenges and activities including Bird Bingo; a birding class; a bird walk; and even some bird/window deterrent kits.

Published on 04/15/2026 under News Following Lincoln County Sheriff Ken Schneider's retirement announcement at the end of the current term, the first candidate has entered the race to succeed him. Andy Vanderwyst formally declared his candidacy for the November election, while congratulating Schneider's 36 years of law enforcement service. Vanderwyst, himself, has spent more than two decades with the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, serving in roles including patrol deputy, sergeant investigator, and patrol lieutenant, along with leadership positions on the county's Special Response Team and Honor Guard. He says he's been encouraged by support from colleagues and community members to seek the position, noting he looks forward to meeting with citizens to talk about his vision is for the future of the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office.

Published on 04/15/2026 under News A Northwoods assemblyman will seek another term in Madison. Representative Calvin Callahan (R-Tomahawk) announced he is running for a fifth term in office. The release says, "Calvin came to you seven years ago with a vision that families should be able to afford to live where they love, right here in the Northwoods." It continued, "Together, we can continue to make the 35th Assembly District a great place to live, work, and raise your families, and we can build a better Wisconsin!" The 35th Assembly District includes all of Lincoln and Langlade Counties and portions of Marathon, Oneida, Oconto, and Shawano counties.

Published on 04/15/2026 under News Nicolet nursing students recently got some hands-on training of a response to a fire scenario. The college recently hosted a "Burn Simulation Day," giving students a realistic look at emergency care. The training began with presentations from fire and EMS faculty, explaining how crews respond to fires and treat burn victims in the field. From there, students moved into the simulation lab, where the mock "patients" arrived by ambulance with realistic burn injuries created using prosthetics, make-up, and live acting. Nursing students stepped into action, dressing wounds, administering medication, and monitoring oxygen levels using high-tech manikins designed to mimic real-life responses. The training also included the Life Link medical helicopter, where the students practiced patient reports and transport preparation, along with flight medicine. College officials say the immersive experience helps prepare future nurses for the fast-paced, high-pressure situations they'll face on the job.

Published on 04/15/2026 under News After a weekend dedicated to youth hunters, the state turkey hunting season opens today. Ahead of the opener, the DNR reminded hunters and outdoor recreationists to keep safety in mind. Officials are encouraging hunters to be certain of their target and their surroundings, noting the importance of positively identifying a turkey and ensuring it's a safe shot. As always, hunters should follow firearm and hunter safety guidelines. Clothing color is also key. While camouflage is common, hunter may want to consider wearing some blaze orange; the same goes for non-hunters who may be sharing public lands. There are also some colors to avoid including small glimpses of reds, blues, and whites which official note may look like a turkey's head. The spring turkey season includes six, week-long periods that will continue through May. Success for hunters has been on the rise. Last year, nearly 50,000 birds were registered during the spring season.

Published on 04/14/2026 under News Tomahawk will once again be represented at the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America or FCCLA National Leadership Conference this summer. More than 700 Wisconsin high school students participated at the Wisconsin FCCLA state conference this past week at the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells this past week. In addition to educational sessions and networking opportunities, students also present their annual projects. According to the Tomahawk School District, three students were awarded gold medal scores and also an invite to the National Conference: Emma Hoff (Promote and Publicize FCCLA); Aubrianna Seubert (Career Investigation); and Siennah Calkins (Nutrition and Wellness). Calkins and Hoff are three time qualifiers. While not a national qualifier, Zoey Finn earned a silver medal and was selected to receive a grant supporting her 'Inside Out' of Separation Project. Two other THS students return with silver medals Abbigail Doleshal and Camryn Kraklow. As for the National Conference, it will be held in Washington this summer. According to the organization, more than 7,000 students attended last year's conference.-Photo provided by Tomahawk School District: (left to right) Zoey Finn, Abbigail Doleshal, Siennah Calkins, Emma Hoff, Aubrianna Seubert, and Camryn Kraklow

Published on 04/14/2026 under News Officials are investigating a potential tornado touching down in Taylor County Monday evening. Severe weather crossed central Wisconsin bringing thunderstorms, heavy rains, hail, and strong winds. That included a report of a tornado near Gilman in northwestern Taylor County. Initial reports from emergency responders and 911 callers indicated a tornado on the ground in the area of Elder Drive, north of Highway 64. This was confirmed with visual evidence include photos and video. An initial survey indicated downed trees and damage to a cattle barn. Local officials will work with the National Weather Service to assess the storm damage and verify the tornado including wind speeds, size, and time on the ground. In addition to the potential tornado, areas reported hail of more than an inch in diameter. Now the focus will turn to flooding, with elevated river warnings around the region with the recent precipitation.

Published on 04/14/2026 under News During severe weather, meteorologists provide critical information, but it's important to know some of the descriptions they're using. As part of Wisconsin's Tornado and Severe Weather Awareness Week, we're covering a variety of topics including some vocabulary, specifically watches and warnings. While they may seem interchangeable, there is a difference. According to the National Weather Service, a watch generally comes first. It means that conditions are right for that particular alert. Watches are issued by storm prediction centers and generally cover large areas. When a watch is issued, you should prepare for the possibility of severe weather. When a warning has been issued, the National Weather Service says that particular weather event has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. Warnings are issued by local forecast office using information from radar and trained storm spotters. Warnings typically encompass a much smaller area. Thursday's mock tornado drills will incorporate both watches and warnings.

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