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Hatchets Sports Recap - Weekend Published on 10/25/2021 under Sports

FOOTBALL

The Tomahawk Hatchets Football season came to an end on Friday night with a 54-12 loss to Wittenberg-Birnamwood in the first round of the WIAA Tournament.

The Chargers used more than 580 yards of offense to propel themselves to the blowout win.

The Tomahawk Hatchets finish the season with a 4-7 record. They made their first postseason appearance since 2015.

STATS:

RB Logan Bishop - 7 Carries, 42 Yards

WR Jake Kaminski - 3 Catches, 42 Yards, 1 TD

DB Addison Peissig - 1 INT

CROSS COUNTRY

On Saturday, Tomahawk traveled to Colby High School, the site of WIAA Division 2 Sectional Cross- Country Meet. Ideal conditions greeted the 16 teams as they competed to earn the right to advance to Wisconsin Rapids next weekend for the State Championships.

In the opening event of the day, the Tomahawk boys had one of their best scoring split efforts of the year as they placed 5th overall with 156 points. For the Hatchets, they were led by sophomore Owen Dickrell with his 23rd place finish in a time of 18:17. Sophomore Presley Gutbrod, freshman Sam Zastrow and senior Arden Ziert all crossed together in 18:30 (placing 32,33, and 34 respectively), with a PR for Zastrow.

In the final event of the sectional, sophomore Rachael Reilly led her team and punched her individual ticket to the State Meet in Rapids next weekend with her 7th place overall finish in a seasonal best time of 20:21 for the 5K distance.

Her teammates put together a valiant effort, but couldn't overcome state-ranked teams from Medford and West Salem. Placing for the Hatchets was senior Macey Mann (15th-20:28 SB), freshman Alli Palmer (18th-21:12 PR), seniors Kate Reilly (35th-21:56), Ava Dragosh (40th-22:19 PR) and Emily Lacina (44th-22:22). Junior Serena Reinke had her 2nd fastest time of the year as she placed 46th in 22:35. There were 86 finishers in the girl's race.

With Rachael Reilly's individual Tomahawk continued their rich tradition in being represented at the state meet for the 27th time in the last 30 years (28 qualifying teams and 16 individual qualifiers).

The boys finished their season with a W-94 L-25 (Pct. 790) record and the girls concluded with a W-107 L-8 (Pct. 930).

In Other News

Tomahawk Police, Nokomis Fire Receive WPS Rewarding Responders Grants

Published on 08/27/2026 under News First responders across the Northwoods have been receiving new emergency response tools this week to help keep their communities safe. The Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) Foundation has been awarding grants of up to $2,000 to law enforcement, fire, rescue, and EMS agencies across the region through its Rewarding Responders grant program. That generosity included a pair of stops right here in the Tomahawk area. The Tomahawk Police Department received a grant to purchase additional Automated External Defibrillator (AED) units for cardiac emergencies. As highlighted during Tuesday's Health and Safety Meeting, the department's current units are nearing the end of their service life and the model discontinued. AEDs typically have a lifespan of 8 to 10 years and require regular maintenance. A bit further north, the Nokomis Fire Department was also selected for a Rewarding Responders grant. They will use the funds to purchase an adaptable piercing nozzle kit—a specialized tool designed to quickly direct water into confined spaces such as engine compartments, semi-trailers, or basements. During this cycle, the WPS Foundation is distributing $75,000. Since Rewarding Responders was established in 2014, the program has awarded $750,000 to emergency responders across its service area, primarily focusing on the Northwoods and Fox Valley.

Published on 08/27/2026 under News With school bells set to ring across the Northwoods in the coming days, state and local law enforcement agencies are reminding parents and students to prioritize traffic safety, starting right at the bus stop. Officials encourage families to review the "SAFE" guidelines to keep children secure during their morning and afternoon commutes. S – Stay back: Keep at least five giant steps (10 feet) away from the curb while waiting for the bus.A – Always wait: Wait until the bus comes to a complete stop and the driver signals that it is safe to board.F – Face forward: Find a seat quickly and remain seated facing front for the entire ride.E – Exit carefully: Watch your step when getting off, and look left-right-left before crossing the street.Officers strongly recommend that parents of younger or first-time students take a trial walk to their assigned bus stop before the first day of class to practice these safety habits together. Motorists are also urged to stay alert for children near bus stops and walking to school. We'll have a few additional reminders before the first day of class.

Published on 08/27/2026 under News A local establishment is considered a total loss following a heavy commercial structure fire early Wednesday morning along State Highway 70. Minocqua Fire & Rescue was dispatched to Sheri's Pub N Grub shortly before 2:00 a.m. Crews arrived on the scene to find the building fully engulfed in flames. Initial suppression efforts were hindered by a ruptured gas line, which kept the fire fueled until crews from Wisconsin Public Service arrived to secure the utilities. While the emergency utility shutoff triggered power outages for surrounding residents, officials noted the step was essential to ensure firefighter safety. More than a dozen area departments assisted in the five-hour operation, relying on multiple water supplies and specialized equipment to extinguish the blaze. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. The blaze was one of two major fires in the Lakeland area early Wednesday morning. Just 45 minutes into the operation, mutual aid resources were stretched as crews were called to a second emergency nearby. (Arbor Vitae Fire Claims Home) Both lead departments praised the critical role of the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS) during the dual emergencies and expressed gratitude to the many regional agencies that stepped up to assist.

Published on 08/27/2026 under News A home in Arbor Vitae was destroyed early Wednesday morning in a fire, one of two responses across the Lakeland area. Arbor Vitae Fire and Rescue was dispatched to the scene just 45 minutes after a blaze broke out at an establishment in neighboring Minocqua. (read more on Fire Destroys Sheri's Pub N Grub in Minocqua) Several Arbor Vitae units that had just arrived to assist at the Minocqua scene were immediately redirected back to their home district following initial concerns that occupants might be trapped inside. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy flames spreading rapidly through the house. Crews pushed through intense heat to perform a primary search, confirming that no residents were inside. Shortly after the search was completed, the roof collapsed under severe fire damage. While the home was deemed a total loss, no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Minocqua Fire & Rescue and Arbor Vitae Fire and Rescue both highlighted the vital role played by the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS) during the simultaneous incidents, thanking the neighboring volunteer departments for their swift assistance.

Published on 08/27/2026 under News Night owls across the Northwoods may want to keep their eyes on the skies tonight. A full moon paired with a partial lunar eclipse will sweep across the region Thursday evening into the early morning hours of Friday. August's full moon, traditionally known as the Sturgeon Moon, will see Earth's shadow cover roughly 96% of its surface, casting a striking, deep rusty-red glow over the lunar landscape. While skywatchers shouldn't expect much aurora activity tonight due to minimal forecast predictions, Northern Lights conditions look slightly more promising for Friday night. Local viewers won't need telescopes or special glasses to take in the near-total eclipse. For the best view of the red moon, head away from city lights around 11:00 p.m.

Published on 08/27/2026 under News State health and wildlife officials have issued an updated guide to help anglers safely enjoy Wisconsin fish. The DNR and Department of Health Services released the latest edition of their Choose Wisely guide on Tuesday. While fish offer great lean protein and healthy omega-3s, they can absorb environmental pollutants like mercury and PFAS over time. DNR toxicologist Sean Strom says staff regularly test fish across state waterways to update recommendations, noting it's critical for frequent fish-eaters to check for new advisories. Depending on the body of water, fish species, and individual health factors, recommendations may suggest limiting fish meals to once a week, once a month, or avoiding consumption altogether. While most Wisconsin waters have no restrictions, several local lakes and rivers do carry specific guidelines. The full 2026–2028 Choose Wisely guide is available online, with advisory signs posted at popular public boat launches.

Published on 08/26/2026 under News A new feature-length documentary exploring the rich history of Tomahawk is set to make its big-screen debut next month. Tomahawk: City in the Pines will premiere on Saturday, September 12, at the Tomahawk High School Auditorium. Created by Tomahawk native Clay Schmit and Academy Award-winning filmmaker John Newcombe, the project spent more than two years in development, tracing the area's roots from its early days prior to incorporation, through its founding in 1886, and into the modern era. The 90-minute film highlights the region's timber origins, the dangerous logging era along the Wisconsin River, historic sawmills, and iconic local landmarks like the former Mitchell Hotel and the Tomahawk Boat Company. Schmit credits tremendous support from local residents, the Tomahawk Historical Society, and community members who contributed photographs, stories, and historical records. Tomahawk Mayor "Hob" Habeck, who attended an advance screening, praised the project: "When people see this film, they'll gain a whole new perspective on Tomahawk. It shows just how much hard work and determination went into building this community." Organizers encourage attendees to wear flannel to the premiere in honor of the town's logging heritage. Schmit noted that the documentary is dedicated to those who lost their lives working in the timber industry. We'll have more coverage leading up to the premiere here on WJJQ, including an upcoming conversation with Newcombe.

Published on 08/26/2026 under News A new Veterans Memorial Mural is in the works for Antigo, and the local artist behind the project is seeking the public's help to bring the vision to life. Artist Danna Gabriel is collaborating with Antigo Visual Arts and Bradley Funeral Home to create the piece. From a distance, the mural will resemble a traditional American flag, but up close, it reveals a detailed mosaic composed of 305 individually customized red, white, and blue ceramic tiles. Project organizers are inviting community members to purchase and dedicate individual tiles to complete the design. Each tile can be personalized with a veteran's name, photograph, military details, or a message of gratitude. Proceeds from the project will support the Langlade County chapter of Disabled American Veterans. "This project is about honoring the people who served, preserving their stories, and creating something our community can be proud of," Gabriel shared. "Whether you are honoring a family member, remembering a friend, or simply want to say thank you to a veteran, there is a place for you in this mural." While 32 tiles have already been reserved, all 305 must be claimed before final assembly can begin. Once completed, the mosaic will be permanently installed inside Bradley Funeral Home. Those interested in sponsoring a tile or supporting the project can contact Antigo Visual Arts or Bradley Funeral Home.

Published on 08/26/2026 under News There's plenty of incentive to head down to WaWui bingo this evening, featuring a special promotion and a growing prize pot. First up, it's WJJQ Night at bingo! Our very own Gregg Albert will be on the microphone calling numbers for the evening. Even if you don't score a bingo, you might still walk away with some cool Big Q gear. If that isn't enough to get you out the door, WaWui's Blackout Progressive Game features a pot that grows every week and is now up to nearly $1,700. As always, all WaWui bingo proceeds directly support operations and improvements at the SARA Park facility. Doors open at 5:00 p.m., and games begin at 6:30 p.m. at SARA Park.

Published on 08/26/2026 under News It was a routine night of committee meetings for the City of Tomahawk, with few action items on the agenda. The Health and Safety Committee approved special event applications for two upcoming events which are unrelated, but fall on the same weekend: the annual Tomahawk High School Homecoming Parade on October 2 and the WaWui Beer and Bacon Bash on October 3 at SARA Park. The Finance Committee re-approved borrowing resolutions to purchase two new squad cars and several pieces of Public Works equipment. Because these items had been previously approved, a renewed application was required. The committee spent the majority of its time scheduling upcoming sessions to discuss a potential fall levy referendum, the city's room tax, and the 2027 municipal budget. Meanwhile, the Board of Public Works reviewed monthly updates from department heads and briefly discussed signage for the South Tomahawk Avenue boulevard between Wisconsin and Somo avenues. The location currently displays the Tomahawk Main Street sign, with future plans to add a Wisconsin Historical District sign. No action was taken as members gather additional details on sign dimensions and potential Department of Transportation height restrictions.

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