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Nicolet Offers Online Transfer Program; Enrollment Remains Strong Published on 05/29/2020 under News

Nicolet College continues to expand their online learning options, and the school recently announced the their 60-credit University Transfer program can be completed entirely online.

Even before the coronavirus pandemic forced virtual learning, Nicolet had been expanding their online offerings to allow students greater flexibility. Nicolet University Transfer Liberal Arts Dean Laura Wind-Norton says, "This is an excellent option for students who need the flexibility online classes offer and also for those who simply prefer online learning."

Northwoods students interested in earning a bachelor's degree can now complete the first half of that credential entirely online with classes starting at Nicolet College this fall. The 60-credit college credential transfers to all University of Wisconsin campuses, as well as many other colleges.

Previous Online Offerings Benefit Nicolet During Covid-19 Campus Closure

Nicolet has been offering various online coursework for more than 15 years now, which was beneficial when campus closed earlier this year due to the Coronavirus. Wind Norton called the transition seamless, saying "It really was impressive to see how effectively we were able to make the shift."

The school says that enrollment remains strong for both the summer and fall terms. Admissions manager Katie Ourada noted that they're seeing some students looking to stay closer to home. At the moment, the college plans to hold a full complement of face-to-face University Transfer classes in the fall.

Wind-Norton says, "We're monitoring the situation closely and we'll adapt as conditions dictate.There are a number of unknowns at the moment but one thing we do know for sure is that student safety is and always will be a top priority at Nicolet College."

In Other News

Northern Duck Zone Opens Saturday

Published on 09/25/2026 under News Fall in Wisconsin means hunting season is in full swing, with almost weekly openers. This coming Saturday marks the start of the Northern Zone duck season. Highway 10 serves as the boundary between the northern and southern zones across most of the state. Hunters in the Northern Zone get to start a week earlier, giving them better opportunities ahead of the fall migration. The spring survey indicated stable population numbers and strong habitat conditions for migratory birds. Surveyors estimated the state's breeding duck population at 571,000 birds—a slight increase over last year's totals, the 10-year average, and long-term historical averages. Mallards are the most abundant species in Wisconsin, accounting for roughly 32% of the state's total duck harvest. Hunters are reminded to review all current regulations and safety guidelines before heading out. The statewide daily bag limit is six ducks, with additional species-specific restrictions. Opening day shooting hours begin 30 minutes before sunrise, and the Northern Zone season will run through late November.

Published on 09/25/2026 under News The mouthwatering smell of slow-roasted beef will once again fill the Northwoods air this Saturday as downtown Minocqua hosts the annual Beef-A-Rama festival. A beloved local tradition for over six decades, the streets will once again be packed for bovine-themed fun, live entertainment, and plenty of delicious food. The festivities kick off early Saturday morning with a pair of races, the Rump Roast Run and Calf Mile, followed by the Prime Choice Craft Fair. Throughout the day, dozens of roaster teams will line the streets to compete for bragging rights in the annual roaster cooking competition. Attendees looking to grab a bite have three official beef sandwich varieties including shaved prime rib, brisket, and shredded beef. With an estimated 10,000 attendees each year, event organizers will once again offer park and ride shuttle services, including a handicap-accessible shuttle at the Trig's RV Lot. For full schedules, shuttle routes, and event maps, visit the Minocqua Visitor's Bureau website. They've also got a dedicated Facebook Page and even a Beef-A-Rama App.

Published on 09/24/2026 under Sports Hatchet Cross Country Places in Top 5 at Three Lakes Tomahawk's cross country squads finished in the top three of the Three Lakes Invitational Thursday afternoon. The Hatchet girls placed second out of nine teams in the invite, placing only behind GNC Favorite Lakeland. Charlee Lund and Elise Gibeault each finished in the top five individually. Lund placed fourth with a time of 20:19. Gibeault was fifth with a time of 20:49. As for Tomahawk's boys, they would finish tied for third with Laona-Wabeno in the invite. The Hatchets only placed behind Florence and Lakeland. Three Hatchet boys placed in the top 20. They were Jordyn Carew at 14th, Connor Zorn at 15th, and Dawson Jones at 20th. The Hatchets' next meet is next Thursday as they head to Athens. Events begin at 4:00. Girls Team Results: Lakeland - 1st Tomahawk - 2nd Three Lakes/Phelps - 3rd Northland Pines - 4th Antigo - 5th Boys Team Results: Lakeland - 1st Florence - 2nd Tomahawk 3rd Laona-Wabeno - 4th Northland Pines - 5th Antigo - 6th Crandon 7th Tomahawk Girls Swimmers Suffer Narrow Loss to Antigo The Hatchet Girls swimmers came up just short in their Great Northern Conference Dual Thursday in Antigo, losing to the Red Robins, 68-56. Despite the loss, the Hatchets had six first-place finishes in the GNC Dual meet. Kaylee Roberts would place first in the 50 and 100 Freestyles. Roberts would finish with times of 35.84 seconds and 1:17.67, respectively. Aubrey Tollefson took first in the 400 freestyle with a time of 5:44.29. Kourtney Busterud placed first in the 200 Freestyle and 100 backstroke. The final first-place finish came from Sloane Eisenmann in the 100 breaststroke. The loss drops Tomahawk to 0-7- in Dual action. The Hatchets are back in the pool Tuesday for a double dual with Wausau East and Medford. Events begin at 5:30. Hatchet Volleyball Upsets Prentice at Home, Goes 1-2 at Quad Tomahawk's volleyball squad would go 1-2 in their home quad Thursday night. The Hatchets would start the night off with an upset of #5 in Division 5 Prentice in three sets. After the victory, Tomahawk would get swept in straight sets by defending Division 5 State Champion Newman Catholic and #3 in Division 3 Marathon. The Hatchets now stand at 5-16 on the season and 0-4 in GNC Play. Tomahawk heads out on the road this weekend for an invite at Abbotsford. Their matches will be against Mondovi, Adams-Friendship, Abbotsford, Spencer, and Rosholt. Matches begin at 9:00.

Published on 09/24/2026 under News Over the past six years, the Tomahawk Community Thrift Shop has handed out more than a quarter of a million dollars to support local non-profits. But now the group is looking for a little community support. While the volunteer-run organization usually hands out grant checks twice a year, recent unexpected building repairs have forced them to temporarily shift funds to address immediate maintenance. Work has included heating, air conditioning, water heater, and masonry work. To ensure long-term stability, board members Joe and Bonnie Trapp are focusing on building up a dedicated building, and if all goes well could potentially raise enough to purchase their building. Supporters can contribute through donation jars at the registers, by scanning the digital donation link on the shop's Facebook page, or simply continuing to shop at the store. In addition to construction campaign, they are also accepting applications for the volunteers that keep the store running, especially with winter coming as many of their staff are snowbirds who head south for at least a portion of winter. Despite these sudden expenses, the shop remains committed to its core mission: their winter grant period will still run from November 1st through the end of December. That conversation with the Trapps is available in the WJJQ Audio Center.

Published on 09/24/2026 under News Some retired medical equipment right here in Tomahawk is getting a second life, helping train the next generation of healthcare workers. Aspirus Health announced they have donated two ultrasound systems, previously in service at the local hospital, to Concordia University's sonography program. Instead of simply decommissioning the machines during recent technology upgrades, health leaders decided to pass them along to students for real-world practice. Aspirus Imaging Manager Laurie Lemke says they wanted to ensure the equipment kept providing value by giving students hands-on time with the exact tech they'll use in their future careers. Along with the ultrasound units, Aspirus is sending over extra probes and transducers—helping build a stronger pipeline for future imaging professionals across northern Wisconsin.

Published on 09/24/2026 under News Several people were injured late Wednesday morning after an SUV crashed into the Tomahawk Family Restaurant on North 4th Street. Responders were dispatched to the popular eatery after the vehicle struck the south side of the building, with its front half plowing completely into the dining area. Fortunately, witnesses report that no diners were sitting directly in the path of the vehicle at the time of the crash. However, several individuals received treatment for undisclosed, non-life-threatening injuries. Crews spent several hours on the scene removing the SUV and boarding up the damaged wall. There is no immediate word on what caused the crash. After initially saying they would be closed a few days, Tomahawk Family Restaurant announced they will actually re-open Thursday afternoon. This marks the second time in a week that a vehicle has struck a business along the North 4th Street corridor, following an SUV crashing into a local car wash last week.

Published on 09/24/2026 under News Numerous published authors call the Northwoods home, and an upcoming event in Rhinelander aims to showcase their work. The Rhinelander District Library is partnering with Rhinelander High School to host its fourth annual Local Author Fair. Having nearly doubled in size, this year's event features 24 writers representing a wide array of styles and genres—from short stories and children's books to full-length novels. One common thread among the participants is their connection to Wisconsin and the Northwoods, a region that frequently serves as the setting or inspiration for their work. Event organizers note that attendees will have the opportunity to interact with authors directly to learn more about their backgrounds, writing processes, and creative influences. Following the meet-and-greet, New York Times bestselling Wisconsin author and humorist Michael Perry will deliver a keynote speech. Best known for works such as Population 485 and Truck: A Love Story, Perry will share insights from his storied career as a writer, speaker, and rural firefighter. The fair begins at 10:00 a.m. this Saturday at Rhinelander High School, with the keynote address taking place at noon.

Published on 09/24/2026 under News With thousands of hunters hitting Wisconsin waters for duck and goose season, the Department of Natural Resources is issuing a reminder on water safety. Around 75,000 hunters participate in the state's waterfowl season each year. Beyond basic boating safety, officials note that late-season hunting introduces extra hazards that require added caution. Safety starts on land. Overloading a boat can cause instability and increase the risk of capsizing. DNR Lt. John Sinclair notes, "A balanced boat is a stable boat." Weight should be evenly distributed throughout the craft, and gear must be loaded so it doesn't obscure navigational lights. Sinclair also emphasized that wearing a life jacket is the best defense against unexpected mishaps, recommending bright, easily visible colors. Other essential safety tips include:Watch for environmental hazards: Keep an eye out for sudden weather changes; and with low water levels this fall, keep an eye out for stumps, rocks, sandbars, and floating debris.Stay connected: Bring a fully charged cell phone and always let someone know your destination and expected return time.

Published on 09/24/2026 under News Seniors across Wisconsin have been gathering over the past year to raise their voices on key issues. Later today, Wausau takes center stage as local older adults gather for the North Central Wisconsin Senior Summit. The event runs this afternoon, September 24th, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Lakeview Conference Center in Wausau. The summit gives area seniors a direct platform to share their daily struggles, discuss regional hopes, and connect with neighbors face-to-face. Across previous statewide events, recurring concerns have centered on housing, isolation, healthcare, and transportation—with healthcare and transit consistently ranking highest. Organizers stress that while these challenges exist statewide, meeting in person is crucial to understanding how they uniquely impact local communities. Local organizer Tony Omernik says, "It's one thing to look at reports and figures, and another to look one another in the eye." Omernik added, "We share the issues and opportunities we see for our communities, and then we create a path forward." The summit opens with a keynote presentation from Ben Lee, CEO of United Way of Marathon County, highlighting the area's most pressing needs to kick off community discussions.

Published on 09/23/2026 under News Fresh off the Fall Ride, one of the area's biggest tourism events of the year, Tomahawk's Finance Committee took a closer look at how one specific category of visitor dollars is spent. The City currently collects a 4% room tax, which is administered through a partnership with the Tomahawk Regional Chamber of Commerce. At a special meeting last night, the Finance Committee recommended establishing a Tourism Commission to provide an added layer of guidance and oversight for those funds. State law restricts how room tax revenue can be spent, requiring the majority to be earmarked for tourism promotion. During the meeting, Chamber Director Charis Lau gave a presentation detailing current marketing efforts, which range from targeted digital advertising to regional partnerships with Discover Wisconsin. While only the City of Tomahawk and the Town of King currently collect a room tax locally, there is a growing push to include neighboring townships like Harrison, Nokomis, and Bradley. Regional adoption could eventually allow the Chamber to transition into a Visitors Bureau, a specific state designation with separate operational and funding guidelines. The Finance Committee acted on two ordinance proposals, recommending both for final approval by the City Council. This includes creating the Tourism Commission, though the original draft was amended to expand the body from five to seven members, combining city officials and representatives from the local lodging industry. If approved by the full Council, the local commission may ultimately be short-lived. Should neighboring townships adopt their own room taxes, the next logical step would be forming a joint municipal commission to oversee the shared funding.

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