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Weekend Drowning on Mercer Lake in Minocqua Published on 06/09/2021 under News

Minocqua Police are investigating a drowning on Mercer Lake over the weekend.

According to a news release, responders were called to lake at around 8:30 Sunday evening. The victim has been identified as 18 year old Maxwell Pipp of Ixonia, Wisconsin.

Based on witness statements, investigators say Pipp had been boating with friends and wanted to swim in the lake. They said Pipp was holding on to a rope being pulled behind the pontoon when he went under and did not resurface. Officials say he was not wearing a flotation device at the time.

The incident remains under investigation.

In Other News

DPI Releases General School Aid Estimates; Tomahawk Sees ~$500k Drop

Published on 07/14/2025 under News While schools are on summer break, July is an important time for district financials. That's when the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction releases an estimate of the general school aid each district will receive for the upcoming school year. General school aids are the largest source of state support for public schools. The funds help offset local property taxes which are restricted under revenue limits. The estimated general aid for all school districts for the upcoming school year is almost identical to the previous year, but for individual districts that isn't the case. Unfortunately for the Tomahawk School District, it's a significant drop in state aid. Last school year, the district received a little more than $2 million in general aid. For next year, the estimate is $1.5 million. The $494,000 drop is approximately 25%. By percentage, it's the fourth largest cut in the state. The drop in state aid, ultimately shifts the burden onto the local tax role. At the Tomahawk School Board meeting this past week, District Administrator Wendell Quesinberry explained that they'll work to minimize the local impact as best they can. The estimated numbers are released during the summer when most school districts are working on their budgets. The finalized figures are certified in mid-October. General Aid does not include other state funding including 'per pupil,' sparsity, and transportation aid.

Published on 07/14/2025 under News Troopers with the Wisconsin State Patrol will be getting a new vantage point this week in an effort to crack down on distracted driving. The State Patrol is once again partnering with the Wisconsin Motor Carrier Association to conduct a week-long enforcement campaign known as "Trooper in a Truck." Borrowed from other states, assigned troopers will ride in the passenger seat of partner semi-trucks and other commercial vehicles. That elevated view gives troopers a better perspective to spot distracted driving dangers such as texting behind the wheel, as well as safety violations like seat belt use. If a violation is spotted, the trooper will radio another unit in a squad to conduct a traffic stop. "We're grateful for the partnerships that support Trooper in a Truck and strengthen our goal of zero preventable deaths on Wisconsin's roads," Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan says they are grateful for the partnerships that support Trooper in a Truck. He added, "Safe roads rely on everyone to do their part and drive responsibly." This is the fourth summer the Wisconsin State Patrol conducted 'Trooper in a Truck,' and a half dozen other states utilize similar campaigns. The enforcement effort will take place throughout this week. For northern motorists, they're planning to work out of the Wausau State Patrol Post on Friday.

Published on 07/14/2025 under News Expecting families have a lot on their plate. The Oneida County Health Department is looking to make it easier for new parents, with a little help from the community. In early July, the Oneida County Health Department has been hosting a community wide diaper drive. In addition to diapers, they're also collecting other items including wipes, newborn hygiene items, postpartum care essentials and baby clothes. The goal is help out families with a new addition. They note that costs have been rising and one in two families struggles to afford diapers. The Health Department has teamed up with a number of local businesses to serve as drop-off spots, the collection runs through the end of this week. Then a bit later this month, on Saturday July 26, they'll be hosting a Community Baby Shower at the Hodag Dome.

Published on 07/14/2025 under News Wisconsin is known for it's outdoor recreation, so it's only fitting that the state recognize those who contribute to the industry. The Wisconsin Office of Outdoor Recreation was created in 2019, and this year they partnered with Governor Evers to create the Wisconsin Governor's Outdoor Industry Awards. Two of the inaugural recipients were from right here in the Northern Wisconsin. That includes Bill Bertram, who was received the Big Tent Award. An outdoor recreation advocate in Marathon County, they highlighted his leadership adding he "approaches every event and initiative with a focus on community, personal encouragement and removing barriers to participation." Just a few of his projects include: the Badger State Games, the Rib Mountain State Park Expansion, and the Great Pinery Heritage Waterway. We had previously shared the First Ascent for Innovation Award went to the Glide, an ice skating trail up in Boulder Junction. Gov. Evers said in announcing the recipients, "The folks we're recognizing with these awards go above and beyond to keep Wisconsin's outdoors a premier destination, and their work is helping to build a brighter, healthier and more prosperous future for our communities and our state." In all, there were seven award recipients. The committee received around 75 nominations for awards.

Published on 07/14/2025 under News The Rhinelander Kiwanis continue to make progress on their fundraising efforts for a new all-inclusive playground and splash pad. They recently announced another donation, this time from the Wisconsin Public Service Foundation. They donated $10,000, specifically earmarked for the splash pad portion of the project, which the Kiwanis noted brings them another step closer to breaking ground. Kiwanis Club president Sandy Klima says, "Their investment in the splash pad will directly impact local families by providing a free, safe, and inclusive place for kids to cool off, play, and connect with others." Leah Van Zile is the WPS Foundation President. She says they are honored to support the project, adding, "Parks are invaluable resources that unite people and neighborhoods together. Our donation is part of our commitment to strengthen the communities we serve."

Published on 07/11/2025 under News The Tomahawk Kinship program continues to receive support in their effort to relocate to a larger space. A recent match pledge from a local Credit Union and their Foundation amplified donations. Tomahawk Kinship has been raising money to purchase a new building after outgrowing their current location. The Park City Cares Foundation, in partnership with Park City Credit Union announced a matching fundraiser, of up to $10,000. The full match was quickly met and an additional $20,218 was recently donated. Melissa Wrycha, President of Park City Cares Foundation Board says, "Kinship of Tomahawk plays a vital role in mentoring and empowering local youth," said "We're honored to support their mission and help create a space where young people can thrive." In the announcement they wrote: "The Park City Cares Foundation and Park City Credit Union extend their heartfelt thanks to everyone who has contributed to this amazing organization. This campaign is a testament to what's possible when a community comes together to invest in its future."Last month, Kinship reached their phase 1 goal which will allow them to purchase the former Bradley Bank building. Phase 2 fundraising is focused on retrofitting the space to better suit their needs as a youth mentorship program.

Published on 07/11/2025 under News A Merrill man charged in a roadside knife attack last fall has reached a plea agreement. Bradley LaBarge was back in Lincoln County Court Thursday for that hearing. The 32 year old was arrested last October following an altercation along Corning Road in the Town of Corning. Investigators said LaBarge was following a vehicle with an ex-girlfriend and another man. The incident escalated and LaBarge allegedly sliced the other man with a utility knife. LaBarge was initially facing a half dozen charges. According to court records, at yesterday's hearing, LaBarge pleaded guilty to two charges: 1st degree reckless injury with the use of a dangerous weapon and resisting or obstructing an officer. In exchange, 4 other charges were dismissed including attempted homicide. The case was scheduled to go trial next week, instead LaBarge will be back for a sentencing hearing. That's been scheduled for next Wednesday, July 16.

Published on 07/11/2025 under News Just an update and reminder of an upcoming detour in the Nokomis area north of Tomahawk. Crews are scheduled to begin work on a two phase project on County Road L in Oneida County next week. Phase 1 will focus on the Bearskin Creek Bridge at the very north end of County L near the Highway 51 intersection. (*This is not the Lake Nokomis bridge near the Windmill/Tilted Loon*) During this work, the Bearskin Creek bridge will be closed to all traffic, and a detour will be in place on Highway 8 and Highway 51. The Oneida County Highway Department provided another update, they expect the closure will take effect next Thursday, July 17th. The rest of County L will remain open. The goal is to complete phase 1 ahead of the Fall Ride. Phase 2, resurfacing the remainder of Oneida County Road L will be completed in mid-to-late September following the motorcycle rally. County L is expected to remain open with flagging during phase 2 We'll continue to offer updates on this project as we receive them.

Published on 07/11/2025 under News Nicolet College and Superior Diesel have a long-standing, collaborative relationship which was recently recognized by the Wisconsin Technical College System. The TWCS Board was in the Northwoods this week for a meeting, where they presented Superior Diesel with a Futuremaker Partner Award. It's state-wide recognition of local businesses and organizations that collaborate with one of Wisconsin's technical colleges. WTCS Board president Sara Rogers said, "Superior Diesel exemplifies what it means to be a community-minded employer, and their partnership with Nicolet College is a true win for the entire region." She highlighted the collaboration including internships and apprenticeships, providing hands-on equipment for student learning, participation on Nicolet program advisory committees, as well as financial contributions and scholarships. Rogers said, "Nicolet College's deep roots in the community are a direct result of the strong, lasting relationships its leaders have cultivated with local businesses and community partners."Photo (from left to right): Sara Rogers, president of the Wisconsin Technical College System Board, Layla Merrifield, president of the Wisconsin Technical College System, Austin Hoffmann, director of OEM engine sales and marketing at Superior Diesel, Brian Wendt, president and CEO of Superior Diesel, Inc., Kate Ferrel, president of Nicolet College.

Published on 07/11/2025 under News A two week campaign focused on preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species wraps up this weekend, but the groups behind the outreach are hoping the lessons learned become life-long habits. The Great Lakes Landing Blitz kicked off back on June 30. It's a collaborative effort comprised of local, state, and provincial leaders in the Great Lakes Region. Over the past few weeks, these volunteer inspectors have been set up boat landings, helping educate boaters about the important role everyone plays in keeping water ways free of AIS. Some of the tips they've emphasized including always inspecting boats, trailers and equipment for these aquatic hitchhikers; removing attached plants, animals, and even mud where they can hide. In addition to these boat landing educators, there have been growing efforts in recent years to place signs to serve as a visual reminder and even cleaning stations where boats can be rinsed or scrubbed. Here in Wisconsin, Clean Boats-Clean Waters works with county conservationists and local lake/river groups or organizations on outreach. The Landing Blitz continues through Sunday.

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