WJJQ Radio

Story Details

National Guard Testing in Merrill Published on 09/18/2020 under News

The Wisconsin National Guard will return to the Northwoods this afternoon for another community testing event in Lincoln County.

According to the Lincoln County Health Department, the Guard will be staging a drive-thru style nasal swab testing at the Merrill Festival Grounds in Merrill. This is the third testing event held in Lincoln County this summer and will follow a similar format.

In recent months, the guard has launched their Covid-Connect website which allows those being tested to register online ahead of time to help speed up the process. They will also take registration on the grounds.

They do ask that everyone attending wear a face covering and remain in their vehicle.

Anyone tested who has symptoms will be expected to self-isolate until test results come back.

That testing event runs from 11am to 7pm while testing supplies last.

In Other News

Local Roads Update: Hwy 51 near Tomahawk; Minocqua Hwy 51 Info Meeting, Oneida County Weight Limits

Published on 03/23/2026 under News Road construction season is right around the corner, and updates and announcements have been coming quickly. We have a few additional details on a highway project we first told you about earlier this year north of Tomahawk. Construction is set to begin in April on a $2.8 million improvement project along US 51 between US 8 and County L in the towns of Nokomis and Woodboro. The project, announced by Tony Evers, will include concrete repairs, asphalt resurfacing, and bridge work. Chippewa Concrete Services is the prime contractor for the project. Once the project begins next month, that segment of Highway 51 will be closed through Memorial Day. Following that holiday weekend, Highway 51 will remain open while construction continues with flagging operations and single-lane closures during the summer months. The work is scheduled to wrap up by mid-September, weather permitting. Officials noted this project is separate from a proposed roundabout project at Highway 51 and County K, which is currently planned for 2027.___ The DoT is hosting a public informational meeting this evening on the Highway 51 project planned in the Minocqua area this summer. Crews will be working on Hwy 51 between the Lake Minocqua Bridge and Front Street. Before work begins, the public will have a chance to learn more at a construction information meeting next Monday at 6pm at the Minocqua Public Library. That project is set to begin next week and continue through October. ___ And the Oneida County Highway Department announced that seasonal weight limits will take effect at 8am Wednesday. The list of roads impacted can be found on the Oneida County website, Highway Department page. 6 TON/AXLE 18 TONS GROSS CTH "A"...Entire LengthCTH "B"...Entire Length (CTH G to USH 45 posted year round)CTH "D"...CTH E to Prairie RoadCTH "E"...Entire LengthCTH "G"...Germond Rd to USH 45CTH "H"...Entire LengthCTH "M"...Entire LengthWEST CTH "N"...Entire LengthEAST CTH "N"...Crescent Road to USH 8CTH "O"...Entire LengthCTH "Q"...USH 45 to Langlade County LineCTH "W"...Golf Course Road to STH 17CTH "Y"...South County Line - USH 51CTH "Z"...Entire LengthNO POSTING CTH "C"...Entire LengthEAST CTH "D"...Prairie Road to STH 17WEST CTH "D"...USH 51 to CTH ECTH "G"...Germond Rd to Rhinelander city limitsCTH "J"...Entire LengthCTH "K"...Entire LengthCTH "L"...South County Line - JCT USH 51EAST CTH "N"...CTH "K" to Crescent RoadCTH "P"...Entire Length

Published on 03/23/2026 under News Energy customers in the Northwoods could see long-term benefits following approval of a new solar project in southern Wisconsin. The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin unanimously approved a plan for Wisconsin Public Service to purchase a portion of the Dawn Harvest Solar Energy Center in Rock County. The solar facility will be developed by Invenergy, co-owned by WPS, We Energies and Madison Gas and Electric. Under the plan, WPS will own 15 megawatts of solar generation, enough to power more than 4,500 homes. Utility officials say the project is part of a broader effort to maintain reliable service while diversifying energy sources, while helping reduce fuel costs and keeping energy rates more stable. Construction and testing are expected over the next few years, with the project scheduled to begin serving customers in 2028.

Published on 03/20/2026 under News Like other communities here in the Northwoods, the Tomahawk area has plenty of good food and drinks. Coming up this weekend, the Chamber will highlight the local offerings with the return of the Taste of Tomahawk. As the name implies, Taste of Tomahawk offers participants a chance to sample foods and drinks with a focus on local. Over the past few weeks, the Chamber has been using their Facebook page to highlight the nearly two dozen participants. Taste celebrates local cuisine from apps to entrees to desserts along with Wisconsin based breweries and wineries". It is described as "a great event to sip, snack, and socialize." It's also a good way for people to get out after being cooped up during the winter months, essentially 'a cabin fever reliever.' Those who've attended in the past know that there is typically a theme, and this year is no different. It's actually a birthday celebration with Taste of Tomahawk turning 21. It also happens to fall on the March 21st making it a golden birthday. As of Friday Morning, they had a few tickets remaining, which can be purchased Friday at Trig's or the Chamber. Any remaining tickets will be sold at the door. Doors open Saturday at 1pm at Inshalla.

Published on 03/20/2026 under News The Lincoln County Board is calling on state leaders to take action on transportation funding. Supervisors unanimously approved a resolution at their meeting Tuesday urging the state legislature to adopt a long-term, sustainable funding plan for roads and bridges. The resolution states that local governments maintain about 90 percent of Wisconsin's roads, but state aid has not kept up with inflation and rising construction costs, leaving many counties and municipalities struggling to handle improvements or even basic maintenance. The resolution also highlights concerns about aging infrastructure, including thousands of small bridges across the state, and warns that without stable funding, communities may be forced to borrow more or delay critical projects. Supervisors are now asking the state to create a reliable funding system that supports long-term planning and keeps Wisconsin's transportation network safe and competitive. The measure passed by voice vote with little discussion and will be sent to state officials including the Governor and legislators representing Lincoln County down in Madison.

Published on 03/20/2026 under News In Wisconsin, the return of spring also means one thing—orange barrels and road construction season aren't far behind. Governor Tony Evers announced upgrades to a stretch of US 8 near Rhinelander. Crews will be working on Highway 8 between Highway 47 and Highway 17 North. Musson Brothers has been selected as the primary contractor for the $6.2 million project. The project will include new asphalt, along with the installation of centerline rumble strips to improve safety. Two key intersections along the corridor, Highway 17 South at County G and WD Boyce Drive, will be reconstructed into single-lane roundabouts. Drivers should plan for significant impacts. The segment of US 8 will be closed during construction, with traffic detoured along Highway 17 North through city streets in Rhinelander. Temporary pavement and signals will also be installed at some intersections. Construction is scheduled to begin in April and run through November. Before work begins they will have a public informational meeting. That's scheduled for 5pm, April 2 at Rhinelander City Hall. Or you can visit the DoT project website.

Published on 03/20/2026 under News With spring planting season approaching in northern Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is encouraging residents to consider adding native plants to their yards and gardens. DNR officials say native plants play an important role in supporting local ecosystems by providing food and habitat for pollinators like butterflies, bees, and birds. They're also well adapted to Wisconsin's climate, making them a good fit for home gardens across the Northwoods. DNR conservation biologist Amy Staffen says introducing native plants to a yard is an easy way for both beginner and experienced gardeners to help wildlife thrive. The DNR maintains a statewide list of native plant sales and a directory of native plant nurseries on its Native Plants webpage, along with information on pollinator gardens, rain gardens, and planting guides.

Published on 03/20/2026 under News While many people celebrated St. Patrick's Day this week, one Northwoods group is embracing their ties to Finland. Preparation is underway in Brantwood for their annual Saint Urho Day celebration. The tongue-in-cheek holiday isn't part of traditional Finnish lore. It was actually created in the 1950's, and tells of the legend of Saint Urho. He is said to have freed Finland's grape crops from invading grasshoppers on March 16. The Knox Creek Heritage Center is one of the groups that participates each year. Their organization is dedicated to preserving the heritage of the Scandinavian pioneers that settled the Northwoods. Coming up on Saturday they'll be serving a soup buffet with traditional Finnish foods. The event will double as the group's annual meeting. The Knox Creek St. Urho Day celebration will take place Saturday at the Brantwood Community Center starting at noon.

Published on 03/20/2026 under News As spring cleaning gets underway, there's a chance to clear out old electronics responsibly. Good News Project is hosting a Global Recycling Day event on Saturday. The event encourages residents to safely dispose of unwanted electronics...anything with a cord or battery including computers, phones, TVs and even small appliances like air conditioners and dehumidifiers. Christine Daniels, Executive Director says, "Many people don't realize that their unused electronics hold materials that can be reused." The event helps keep harmful e-waste out of landfills while allowing valuable materials to be recycling. The nonprofit adds that holding the event on a Saturday makes it easier for more people to take part while tackling their spring cleaning. More information is available through the Good News Project. Fees will be charged by weight and type of item. The recycling will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at the Good News Project on North 5th Street

Published on 03/19/2026 under News Despite the recent winter weather, Friday is the first day of spring. Coming up this afternoon members of the Tomahawk community are looking to spread a little 'Sunshine in the Street'. Now in it's tenth year, Sunshine in the Street is a simple concept with a goal of bringing a positive impact to the community on or around the first day of spring. During today's lunch break (12:30-1:30pm), people are encouraged to head to the sidewalks carrying signs decorated with words of encouragement. Sunshine in the Street started in 2017 as an idea from the late Dr. Bobbi Voermans and the staff at Hometown Chiropractic hoping to spread positive messages, motivation, and sunshine to the community. That idea has now become a tradition that continues each year. The staff at Hometown Chiropractic again encourage people to ring in spring with sunshine, signs, and smiles. It's not unusual for participants to receive waves, shouts of encouragement, or a honk of a horn. People can also tag photos on social media to spread the message online as well.

Published on 03/19/2026 under News Fresh off the Oscars, another awards celebration is shining a spotlight a little closer to home...this time on Wisconsin's downtown districts. Wisconsin Main Street is hosting its 35th annual awards ceremony this evening, and Tomahawk Main Street will be well represented. With around two dozen categories, the awards celebrate the achievements of downtown and historic district revitalization, business growth, building renovations, and community events. Tomahawk Main Street has produced a number of winners over the years. They have eight nominations for the upcoming awards. They include: Best Placemaking Project: Andy Gorestski - Welcome Sculpture RestorationBest Event – Main Street Memories ChristmasBest Marketing Campaign – Sideways Wine & Craft BeerBusiness of the Year – Crossbridge Community BankBest Total Building Transformation – Rae's Barbershop and Walker's General StoreBest Interior Renovation – Locks and LoaderCommunity Champion 'Volunteer of the Year' – The Rainmakers (who water the downtown flower baskets)This year's awards ceremony will take place down in Wausau at the Grand Theater. A good luck to the local nominees, and we'll announce any local winners.

+ Read More