WJJQ Radio

Story Details

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

Hatchet Hockey Team Loses in Regional Final

Published on 02/20/2026 under Sports On Thursday night, the Hatchet Hockey Team traveled to Hudson for a WIAA Regional Final game. The host Raiders are the #1 seed in Sectional One and also the top ranked division one team in Wisconsin. The Raiders jumped out to an early lead on Tomahawk, scoring six minutes into the game on an even strength goal. Then with 7:21 remaining in the first, Hudson scored another even strength goal to lead 2-0. The Raiders would add their third goal of the first, 00:22 later and led 3-0. The Hatchets would respond with their first goal of the game, with 5:51 left in the first, Jonah Dickens scored on a power play goal from the high slot. The Dickens goal was assisted by Brayden Lamer and Jake Albert. No more scoring would occur, and Hudson led Tomahawk 3-1 after one. The Raiders out-shot Tomahawk 21-5 in the first period and Hudson Seymour had numerous huge saves to keep Tomahawk in it. The second period would see two goals for each team, with Hudson scoring 00:47 in on a power play and led 4-1. Tomahawk would respond when Jake Albert hit Jett Reilly on a stretch pass, Reilly would bury the puck and the Hatchets cut the lead to 4-2. Hudson came back with an even strength goal a minute and a half later to regain a three goal advantage. Tomahawk would close out the scoring on a nifty goal from Cole Peterson with just 00:07 remaining. The Peterson goal was assisted by Beau Stromberg. The Raiders led 5-3 after two. The Raiders again out-shot Tomahawk 15-6. Tomahawk would come out firing in the third period, scoring just 00:15 in to cut the deficit to 5-4. Brayden Lamer with a snipe from the left face-off dot. Just over three minutes later, Jonah Dickens scored his second of the night and Tomahawk tied it at five apiece. The goal assisted by Jett Reilly. Dickens would complete his hat trick 3:30 later at the 7:04 mark of the third on a power play goal. That goal assisted by Lamer and Albert. Tomahawk scoring four unanswered goals to get a 6-5 lead with 9:54 remaining in the game. Hudson would respond with three unanswered goals to advance in the playoffs. The Raiders got a power play goal with just 2:26 remaining in the game to tie it 6-6. The Raiders took the lead, 7-6 00:57 later and would add an empty net goal with under 00:40 to play for the 8-6 win. Shots were even, 7-7 in the third. Jonah Dickens (three goals), Brayden Lamer (one goal, 2 assists) and Jake Albert (three assists) all had three points, Jett Reilly had two points (one goal, one assist), while Cole Peterson had a goal and Beau Stromberg had an assist. It was an exciting game as Tomahawk's season comes to an end with a 22-4 record. The Hatchets are champions of the Great Northern Conference for the third straight year finishing 10-0 in league play. Hudson advances to the sectionals and will host Superior on Tuesday. The Spartans defeated Eau Claire Memorial to advance. The Hatchets graduate from the program Jonah Dickens, Brody Hilgendorf, Rex Reilly, Beau Stromberg, Caiden Reichelt, Landyn Seymour, and Michael Samundsen (pictured above).

Published on 02/20/2026 under News A new grant program is being created in Langlade County to address substance abuse use through funds received from opioid lawsuit settlements. The Langlade County Opioid Taskforce is announcing a new funding opportunity to support local efforts aimed at preventing, reducing, and responding to the impacts of opioid use in their community. Funding priorities are based on community input. These priorities are outlined in the Community Impact Report. In announcing the program, the taskforce said, "We are committed to supporting initiatives that reflect the needs and voices of our community. This funding opportunity is designed to help local partners create meaningful, sustainable impact." Details about the funding opportunity, eligibility, and application materials can be found on the Langlade County Health Department website at: the deadline to apply is April 1st.

Published on 02/20/2026 under News A Northwoods grocer is being recognized by a national trade publication. Trig's was among 17 grocery retailers selected as Progressive Grocer's 2026 Outstanding Independents. In showcasing the winners, they note they all have 'two key things in common: a deep passion for and connection to the communities that they call home.' They said noted these factors help them compete in a world with multi-state chains. For Trig's specifically, they wrote, 'is more than a grocery store chain – its locations are the hubs of their local communities.' They mentioned local sourcing initiatives, Love it Local, efforts to introduce specialty products often unavailable in rural markets to create connections between people and food in meaningful ways. They also highlighted efforts for food donation partnerships and outreach to address food insecurity. Trig's was the only Wisconsin grocer to make the list.

Published on 02/19/2026 under News Discover Wisconsin is kicking off a new season of their popular show, and another Northwoods community will be the focus of the first episode. The 39th season of Discover Wisconsin premieres this weekend with an episode on Rhinelander. In the episode, titled Rhinelander-It's Legendary, hosts Andrea Boehlke and Eric Paulsen follow the trail of the hodag, the mythical beast that's become a symbol of the community's creativity and charm. The episode was a year in the making, showcasing all four season. It was done in partnership with the Rhinelander Chamber. And while the hodag is featured prominently, they also showcase local destinations, eateries, outdoor recreation and popular events such as the Hodag Country Festival and Lights of the Northwoods. The Rhinelander Chamber actually held a special screening of the episode earlier this month. It debuted on Discover Wisconsin YouTube channel Wednesday, and will air on Discover Wisconsin TV affiliates this weekend.

Published on 02/19/2026 under News While many students attending Nicolet College are preparing for careers, the school also offers courses and opportunities for learning, experience, and connection. Nicolet recently unveiled their new spring and summer arts and enrichment line up. They said the new season of classes, events and exhibits will inspire creativity, well-being and connection through a busy season at the theatre, gallery, and classroom or beyond. Starting in the Theater, they have two productions planned, Fahrenheit 451 and Cinderella. They also host concerts, author talks and artists. Speaking of the art, the Nicolet Gallery will have three exhibits including the 39th Northern National Art Competition. And inside and outside of the classroom, more than 30 courses are being offered in a wide range of creative and practical skills related to nature, cooking, health, and gardening. A few they highlighted include culinary ceramics, knife sharpening, fly fishing, yoga, and a loon paddle. Many of the classes are free, or a small fee to cover course materials. Those interested can visit the Nicolet website for more information.

Published on 02/19/2026 under News Law enforcement partners are looking to shed some light on safe driving. The Wisconsin State Patrol law of the month in February is focused on headlights...that they're being used in limited visibility conditions, and that they're working properly. State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan says, "When visibility is reduced, drivers have less time to react to others on the road. Headlights help everyone stay safe. Headlights not only helps a driver see what is ahead of their vehicle; it also allows other drivers to see your vehicle. State law requires driver use their headlights during hours of darkness as well as times when there is insufficient natural light to clearly see 500 feet. This includes fog, rain, or snow, when drivers may need to manually turn on lights, even if the vehicle is equipped with automatic lights. Carnahan also reminded drivers to make sure headlights are clean, checking for snow, ice, or other debris. According to the release, high beams help drivers see clearly in good weather conditions, but remember to always dim your lights within 500 feet of approaching or following another vehicle, even on a divided highway.

Published on 02/19/2026 under News Lincoln County will look to use a portion of opioid response funding from the state to keep medications out of the wrong hands. The Lincoln County Health Department is eligible to receive up to $4,500 in state opioid response funding through the Northwoods Coalition. At their meeting Tuesday, the Lincoln County Board unanimously approved a resolution accepting the grant. The funds will be earmarked for drug security and disposal. This includes providing community members with drug deactivation units as well as medication lock boxes or lock bags. The goal is to ensure that medications are being used properly and by people they have been prescribed to. The County also has an Opioid Task Force which has provided leadership and guidance in investing settlement dollars the county has received over the years.

Published on 02/19/2026 under News It won't be long before state campgrounds are buzzing once again. The DNR is recruiting people to serve as volunteer campground hosts during the season. Hosts stay in a campsite at the campground and volunteer a few hours per day. Tasks include greeting and assisting fellow campers about the park and facilities, assisting in daily operations, cleaning and maintenance. The DNR notes that volunteers are an integral part of the programming, operations and management services of Wisconsin's state parks, forests, recreation areas and trails. Opportunities are available at DNR properties in all parts of the state from May through November, with dates varying by property. A 1- to 2-month service period is preferred.

Published on 02/18/2026 under News Council Grounds is a hidden gem here in the Northwoods. And now park-goers have a more convenient option to purchase their park passes. Friends of Council Grounds, a volunteer group who support, assist, and promote the state park property here in Lincoln County, recently unveiled a brand-new, electronic park pass sales kiosk. The kiosk offers both daily passes and the year-long passes for residents, seniors, and non-residents. The convenience allows purchase outside of park office hours, or having to deal with mailing or online purchases. The funding to purchase the kiosk came from two sources. The Friends group was awarded a Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Grant. The Friends matched with money raised through merchandise sales, watercraft rental fees, and sales of firewood harvested and processed by their Wood Team volunteers. Council Grounds near Merrill is approximately 500 acres, located right along the Wisconsin River.

Published on 02/18/2026 under News At their meeting Tuesday, the Lincoln County Board approved future compensation packages for three elected offices. The positions impacted by the resolution include the Clerk of Courts, the Coroner, and the Sheriff. The compensation is for the years 2027-2030 and features a 3% annual increase. Ahead of the vote, Board Chair Jesse Boyd noted that, based on preliminary numbers from other counties, the Lincoln County Sheriff position would be below the state average. It ranges from $98,000 next year to $107,000 in 2030. Ultimately, no changes were made to the initial resolution, which was approved unanimously. This process to set compensation must be completed prior to the earliest time nomination papers can be filed. These positions will all appear on the November ballot. Elected Office2027202820292030Clerk of Courts $75,7777.66$78,050.99$80,392.52$82,804.29Sheriff$98,424.89$101,377.64$104,418.97$107,551.54Coroner (1,040 Hours)$33,143.90$34,138.21$35,162.36$36,217.23

+ Read More