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Rhinelander Chamber Director Receives 'Rising Star' Tourism Award Published on 03/21/2022 under News

A Northwoods chamber director has been dubbed a 'Rising Star' by the state's tourism department.

At the Wisconsin Governor's Conference on Tourism, eight individuals and organizations were presented with Tourism Awards. Among them was Lauren Sackett from the Rhinelander Chamber of Commerce. Sackett received one of two 'Rising Star' awards.

In the announcement panel said of Sackett, "Her leadership played a crucial role in helping many local tourism businesses survive through the pandemic. Described as the perfect blend of local pride, fearless advocate and compassionate peer, Sackett works tirelessly to bring tourism in the Northwoods to the next level."

In addition to her position with the Rhinelander Chamber, Sackett also contributes to the Northwoods Tourism Council.

Tourism secretary-designee, Anne Sayers. "As tourism continues to rebound, it's the inspired work and brilliant execution from these individuals and organizations that keep Wisconsin on the right path toward recovery. Congratulations to our award winners and all of this year's nominees."

2022 Governor's Tourism Awards winners:

Arts, Culture and Heritage Award - Create Waunakee Committee, Village of Waunakee 

The Village of Waunakee and its "Create Waunakee" Committee celebrate its innovators, creators and artists that make Waunakee a vibrant place to live and explore. Since February 2020, this committee of nine dedicated community volunteers and four village staff members has gone above and beyond to bring amazing programs, ideas and opportunities to Waunakee. Examples include, "Waunakee is Home", a series of monthly interviews with local community members, and the Waunakee Artisan Market, which emphasizes the talents of local artists.

Arts, Culture and Heritage Award - Jim Kress Maritime Lighthouse Tower, Door County Maritime Museum and Lighthouse Preservation Society 

As a recent expansion of the Door County Maritime Museum in Sturgeon Bay, the landmark Jim Kress Maritime Lighthouse Tower offers ten floors of interactive educational exhibits highlighting maritime history, people and industries. The space is designed to provide accessibility to a lighthouse experience that can accommodate everyone regardless of physical abilities and provides a must-see maritime experience that will draw visitors and create a significant economic boost to the region.

Diversity, Equity, Accessibility and Inclusion Award - Unique Unites, VISIT Milwaukee 

Unique Unites is an ongoing campaign designed to highlight Milwaukee's eclectic and diverse community with a focus on inclusivity and representation for all who live, work and visit the city. The campaign encourages visitors and locals alike to branch out, explore the city, learn about its diverse community and find their Milwaukee. With this initiative, visitors from all walks of life can feel like they belong in a city where they are represented and included. 

Innovation Award - Wisconsin River Trail Organization 

The Wisconsin River Trail Organization (WRTO) Board formed in 2014 to create a 20-mile hiking and biking trail in the Boscobel/Woodman/Wauzeka area. In addition to the trail creation, there are plans to continue to reinvent the community by converting old feed buildings into a hostel, brew pub, theater, indoor farmers market and much more. The WRTO is made up of community members including nurses, insurance representatives, teachers and secretaries who together serve as mentors in the community and will leave a legacy that will be built upon for years to come.  

Rising Star Award - Amy Albright, Oshkosh Convention and Visitors Bureau 

Amy Albright continuously displays her passion for Oshkosh while leading the Oshkosh Convention and Visitors Bureau to ensure economic development through tourism. She has elevated the marketing strategy for the Oshkosh area by jumpstarting its presence on social media, radio and other media outlets. Her unwavering commitment to establish partnerships and foster relationships have longstanding impacts throughout the community.

Rising Star Award - Lauren Sackett, Rhinelander Area Chamber of Commerce 

Since becoming Executive Director of the Rhinelander Area Chamber in June 2018, Lauren Sackett has served as the Treasurer of the Oneida County Tourism Commission and has worked to uplift the entire area by advocating for increased commitment in tourism investment. Her leadership played a crucial role in helping many local tourism businesses survive through the pandemic. Described as the perfect blend of local pride, fearless advocate and compassionate peer, Sackett works tirelessly to bring tourism in the Northwoods to the next level. 

Service Excellence Award - The Racine Zoo 

The Racine Zoo is a 28-acre, accredited zoo along the shores of Lake Michigan that works to create a safe, fun, enriching and educational place for all ages. The Zoo incorporates animals and wildlife conservation education into every part of their work. From guided scout hikes and preschool classes to summer camps and special events, they strive to connect the community with nature. As a result of its ongoing efforts to remove barriers to access, the Racine Zoo recently became the first certified sensory inclusive zoo in Wisconsin.

Legacy Award - Sherry Quamme, Mississippi River Parkway Commission/WI Great River Road 

Sherry Quamme has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to serving and uplifting numerous municipalities, including her own community of Ferryville. She has been a driving force for tourism and economic development in southwest Wisconsin and has collaborated with more than eight destination marketing organizations to promote the region. She has served on the Mississippi River Parkway Commission/Wisconsin Great River Road, including as Chair, since 2008. Quamme led the efforts to author Wisconsin's first successful All American Road application to the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration, with the designation being awarded in 2021. No matter the project, Quamme is a forward-thinking leader, and her efforts go above and beyond.

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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