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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

Aspirus Urges Residents to Take Precautions with Wildfire Smoke

Published on 07/16/2026 under News Stepping outside may feel more like walking into a campfire this week as thick wildfire smoke from Canada and Minnesota continues to blanket the Northwoods. The smoky conditions are expected to linger through at least today, bringing periods of unhealthy air quality across the region. Aspirus Health is urging residents to limit their time outdoors when air quality drops. Dr. Tony Malik says wildfire smoke contains fine particles that can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat; worsen asthma and other lung diseases; and even increase the risk of heart-related problems. Air quality conditions can change quickly, so residents are encouraged to monitor local forecasts until the smoke clears. It's a good idea to keep windows and doors closed, use HEPA air filters when possible, and consider a properly fitted N95 respirator if extended time outdoors is unavoidable. Dr. Malik says, "Summer is a time when people naturally want to be outdoors... When air quality is poor, it's best to postpone those activities if possible or reduce the amount of time you spend outside." People with asthma or other chronic health conditions should keep their medications close at hand and contact their healthcare provider if symptoms worsen. Anyone experiencing persistent coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, or chest pain should seek medical attention promptly.

Published on 07/16/2026 under News While school may be out for the summer, class is in session for water conservation. Each summer, stakeholders from across the region gather for the Northwoods Six-County Lakes and Rivers Meeting. The annual conference brings together environmental experts and community members to discuss local water resources and how to protect them. The six participating counties include Oneida, Vilas, Iron, Forest, Langlade, and Lincoln. Under this year's theme, "What's Your Lake's Report Card?", presenters will focus on the key indicators of lake health. Topics will include water quality, fisheries, aquatic habitat, shoreline stewardship, nighttime light pollution, and wild rice as an ecological health indicator. Organizers emphasize that healthy lakes require ongoing, active stewardship. They hope the meeting will provide practical, actionable information for anyone who lives on, plays on, or simply cares about Northwoods waters. It'll take place tomorrow morning at James Williams Middle School from 8am to 12:30pm. While registration is appreciated, walk-ins are welcome.

Published on 07/16/2026 under News A late-night house fire was narrowly averted in Vilas County thanks to a quick-thinking bystander, and it prompted a timely warning from local firefighters about the proper disposal of smoking materials. According to Arbor Vitae Fire and Rescue, a passerby spotted flames on a cedar porch at a home off Highway 51 in Arbor Vitae overnight Tuesday. The alert citizen immediately called 911 and managed to knock down the flames before emergency crews arrived. Firefighters quickly extinguished the remaining hot spots, limiting the damage to the porch structure. The fire department said in a statement, "Although the outcome was positive in terms of an early notification, it could have been much worse, potentially catastrophic given the time of night." Investigators determined the fire was caused by carelessly discarded smoking materials. Officials warn that porches and balconies are among the most common areas for these types of fires, emphasizing that they are completely preventable. First responders are urging everyone to exercise an extra degree of care when disposing of smoking materials to help keep the community safe.

Published on 07/16/2026 under News It's not the kind of topic that grabs headlines every day, but it's one that touches every Wisconsin community. State Representative Calvin Callahan of Tomahawk announced this week that he has been appointed to chair the Legislature's Study Committee on Cemeteries. The committee will review and update Wisconsin's cemetery laws, including policies covering abandoned cemeteries and burials on non-cemetery property. Callahan says cemeteries and burial sites are sacred places that deserve dignity and respect. He says discussions with constituents, stakeholders and legislative attorneys have shown broad agreement that the state's cemetery laws need updating. The study committee will include citizen experts who will help lawmakers develop recommendations for possible changes to state law.

Published on 07/16/2026 under News Art lovers will have plenty to explore this weekend with an exciting local exhibition. The Manito Art League's 61st annual Art Show and Sale kicks off this morning at the Manitowish Waters Community Center. Organizers say this year's event features roughly 200 original pieces of art submitted by 86 regional artists, spanning a wide variety of subjects and mediums. This year's exhibition will be judged by acclaimed watercolor artist and instructor Dale L. Popovich, who brings more than 45 years of professional experience and a longtime connection to Wisconsin's Northwoods. In addition to browsing the gallery, visitors will have the chance to take a piece of Northwoods creativity home. A silent auction will feature original artwork donated by league members, with all proceeds directly supporting the league's Young Artist Scholarship Program. For the upcoming school year, the program awarded $26,000 to local students. The scholarship area stretches as far south as Tomahawk, where two local students received awards. Following the private patron's preview last night, the Art Show is open to the public starting today through Sunday. Admission is free.

Published on 07/15/2026 under News Today is July 15, or 7/15, a date that doubles as a celebration of Wisconsin's scenic Northwoods and the vibrant communities that call the 715 area code home. The Tomahawk Regional Chamber of Commerce is marking 715 Day by highlighting everything that makes the region so special, from its scenic landscapes and rich community traditions to its local businesses and residents. Chamber Director Charis Lau says, "715 Day is about celebrating the pride we have in our community and sharing that pride with others." How to ParticipateThe Chamber offers several easy ways for the community to get involved today: Support Local: Shop, dine, and explore the independent businesses that keep Tomahawk thriving.Show Your Pride: Represent the area by sporting custom 715 Tomahawk merchandise.Share the Love: Highlight your favorite local spots and scenic views on social media.Join the Chamber's 715 Photo Contest by submitting pictures that capture the true spirit of the Tomahawk area.Lau added, "Whether you've called Tomahawk home for decades or you're discovering the Northwoods for the first time, we hope you'll join us in celebrating what makes our corner of the 715 so unforgettable." The Chamber encourages everyone to follow along on social media throughout July as they continue to showcase featured attractions, hidden gems, local stories, and photo contest submissions all month long.

Published on 07/15/2026 under News The Tomahawk community is rallying behind one of their own. David Bethel Jr. was diagnosed with glioblastoma last month. As he undergoes treatment, neighbors and local business owners are stepping up to support his family. To mark Glioblastoma Awareness Day, The Rock Church organized a gray ribbon campaign. The color is traditionally used for brain cancers to represent the brain's "gray matter." Meanwhile, community members are sporting T-shirts that read, "Moving Heaven and Earth to Support Dave"—a nod to his local excavation business. Local businesses, including Boomba Bar and Simply Stitched, are also donating a portion of their sales to the family. As Bethel fights his diagnosis, Tomahawk is making sure he and his family don't have to do the heavy lifting alone. Community members are encouraged to purchase campaign T-shirts, patronize participating shops, or display a gray ribbon to show their solidarity.

Published on 07/15/2026 under News As the hot and humid stretch continues, another weather concern is moving into the Northwoods. Residents looking toward the sky today may notice a familiar summer haze. Smoke from wildfires burning in northern Minnesota and Ontario is expected to drift into Wisconsin, creating hazy skies and, at times, a noticeable smoky smell. In recent years, wildfire smoke has become an increasingly common and unwelcome summertime visitor across the state. An Air Quality Advisory remains in effect until noon Thursday. The greatest concern is for sensitive groups, including young children, older adults, and people with asthma or other respiratory conditions. These individuals are encouraged to limit prolonged or strenuous outdoor activity. For everyone else, the main impacts will likely be hazy conditions and a smokey smell. The Wisconsin DNR offers an air quality map on its website for those who want to track conditions.

Published on 07/15/2026 under News After some country last week, Tomahawk's Music on the River is tuning its dial to the blues. This evening, the community will welcome back Johnny and the MoTones. The Central Wisconsin-based band has been delivering their signature mix of blues, R&B, and soul for more than two decades. No stranger to the local stage, the band has been a regular performer at Music on the River over the years. They have released a number of albums, including one with a title that will sound very familiar to the Northwoods: Highway 51. Tonight's performance marks the midway point of the nineteenth season's seven-concert run. The weather forecast is looking promising, after several straight rainy Wednesdays have impacted the Music on the River schedule. Johnny and the MoTones will take the stage at 6:00 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Park pavilion.

Published on 07/15/2026 under News Authorities in Eagle River are investigating a suspected drug overdose death after an early morning call Tuesday. Police were dispatched to a city residence just after 2:15 a.m. for an unresponsive person. Despite life-saving efforts by first responders, the individual was pronounced dead at the scene. The victim's identity is being withheld pending notification of family, and the official cause of death will be determined after an autopsy and toxicology testing. Police say there is no threat to the public as investigators work to determine the source of the suspected drugs involved. They also remind residents that naloxone, or Narcan, is available at the Eagle River Police Department and can save lives in an overdose emergency.

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