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Northwoods Covid-19 Cases Continue to Climb Published on 07/10/2020 under News

Positive cases of Covid-19 are becoming more frequent in the Northwoods, with additional cases announced Thursday.

The Lincoln County Health reported two new cases, bringing the overall total to twenty positive tests. Both individuals are in their 50's and are currently in isolation. Those who have been exposed to these individuals have been contacted.

When we spoke with Lincoln County Health Director Shelley Hersil Thursday, she encouraged those individuals who have been identified as having been exposed to a person who has tested positive to contact their healthcare provider regarding testing regardless of symptoms. This is based on guidance from the State Department of Health.

Oneida County reported another new case, the 28th overall. The health department notes the person had close contact with another person who has tested positive.

Vilas County reported another case, the 14th overall. The health department confirmed it is a person in their 70's.

Price County has two additional cases, bringing their overall total to six, including four this week.

In Other News

Tomahawk Community Thrift Shop Raising Funds of Building Improvements

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.

Published on 09/23/2026 under News Mental health and substance use disorders affect every community, family, and age group. A gathering in Rhinelander this evening aims to break the stigma and celebrate recovery. Community partners in Oneida County are hosting "Light Up the Night for Recovery" as part of National Recovery Month this September, serving as a reminder that recovery is possible for everyone. Because support is a vital piece of the recovery journey, the family-friendly event will feature a community resource fair, games, refreshments, and a space for story-sharing. Attendees will have the opportunity to celebrate recovery, honor those lost, and connect with peer support networks. Jenny Chiamulera, Oneida County Community Health Specialist and event co-organizer says, "Recovery looks different for everyone, but no one should have to walk the journey alone. Light Up the Night for Recovery brings our community together to celebrate hope, share stories, and remind people that support is available." Light Up the Night for Recovery takes place tonight at Hodag Park in Rhinelander from 4:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Published on 09/23/2026 under News More than 1,300 Oneida County residents are currently living with dementia—and over the weekend, many of those individuals, their families, and local supporters came together to walk for a cure. Rhinelander hosted its annual Walk to End Alzheimer's at the Hodag Dome on Saturday morning. According to event organizers, nearly 400 walkers participated, helping to raise more than $200,000. That fundraising total is expected to grow, as organizers will continue accepting donations through the end of the year. Dave Grams, Executive Director of the Alzheimer's Association Wisconsin Chapter, called the turnout "nothing short of extraordinary." He says, "To see so many people come together, each with their own story and their own reason to walk, was incredibly moving." In addition to funding critical research, the proceeds directly support local families by providing access to education, community resources, and support services.

Published on 09/23/2026 under News Leaves are beginning to change across the Northwoods, and Wisconsin's tourism arm is making it easier to time your leaf-viewing trips. Coinciding with the arrival of autumn, Travel Wisconsin has launched its annual Fall Color Report. The interactive online map tracks real-time color progression across all 72 counties, fueled by localized updates from roughly 100 volunteer reporters statewide. In addition to color percentages, the site highlights nearby amenities, regional attractions, designated "selfie stations," and popular viewing destinations (like nearby Timm's Hill, the highest point in Wisconsin). Visitors can also view photos, videos, and aerial drone footage from around the state. "Fall is spectacular but short, and there's not a moment to miss," said Tourism Secretary Anne Sayers. "The Fall Color Report takes the guesswork out of planning a trip. Visitors know where to go, what to expect, and how to make the most of their time when they get there." A combination of factors influences the timing and intensity of autumn foliage, including tree health, daylight hours, soil moisture, and seasonal temperatures. Most of the Northwoods is currently reporting 10% to 25% color change, with peak vibrancy expected during the first full week of October. The Fall Color Report is available on the Travel Wisconsin website, where travelers can also sign up for email updates.

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