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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

Dozens Food Trucks Coming to Merrill for 'Food Truck-a-Palooza'

Published on 05/15/2026 under News The popularity of food trucks has exploded in recent years with these mobile restaurants now present in most Northwoods communities. Many are heading to Merrill this weekend for the third annual 'Food Truck-a-Palooza.' Organizers said, "The event continues to grow each year and provides a fun opportunity for residents and visitors to experience everything Merrill has to offer." Back in 2024 the city put out a call for food trucks to park at the Merrill Festival Grounds for a day-long smorgasbord. They had around a dozen participants in that first year, doubled in size last year. Now, the third edition, 35 food trucks signed up. Many of the Lincoln County-based trucks will be in attendance, while other chefs will be putting on the miles, coming from the Northwoods, central Wisconsin and even the Fox Valley. Whether you like Mexican, Asian or American classics like burgers and BBQ they'll have something for everyone including drinks and desserts focused-trucks. Between bites, attendees can burn off a few calories by walking through the Merrill Festival Grounds for a craft and vendor show, live entertainment, and other fun activities. The third Annual Food Truck-a-Palooza runs from 11am to 6pm.

Published on 05/15/2026 under News The Tomahawk School Board received an update this week on the district's School Resource Officer (SRO) program, which was first approved in 2018. Now eight years into the initiative, the board heard a presentation from Officer Brett Susa, who served as the district's first SRO and remains the only officer in the role. Susa explained that his mission is to foster a safe learning environment through a three-pronged approach: law enforcement, mentoring, and teaching. In his capacity as an on-campus officer, Susa handles student violations such as truancy and substance use. He shared the positive news that the number of referrals and citations has decreased this year compared to last. Beyond enforcement, Susa's report emphasized the importance of "positive interactions" to build trust with the student body, which he noted is essential for preventing issues before they arise. He highlighted several examples of these efforts, including providing classroom education and participating in a "lunch buddy" program at the elementary school. In addition to his work with students, Susa collaborates with the buildings and grounds crew to assess and address safety concerns across the campus. When school is not in session, he continues his service by working directly with the Tomahawk Police Department.

Published on 05/15/2026 under News The DNR is encouraging fire safety as Northern Wisconsin contends with elevated wildfire conditions through the weekend. Officials say ongoing dry vegetation, low humidity, warm temperatures, and strong winds are all contributing to the increased risk, particularly in Northern and Western Wisconsin. Twelve counties are listed in extreme fire danger as of Friday morning. Crews have already responded to 69 wildfires around the state this week. In coordination with the National Weather Service, a Red Flag Warning has been issued for Friday afternoon and evening in several northern counties, including Vilas and Iron Counties in our listening area. The DNR has already suspended burning permits in 31 counties and says additional restrictions are possible if conditions worsen. People are being asked to avoid debris burning, which is traditionally the cause of half of all wildfires in the state. Officials also ask for caution with other common activities that can lead to sparks, such as using tools like chainsaws and lawnmowers; recreational activities like camping, grilling, and operating ATVs or UTVs; and even ensuring trailer chains are not dragging on pavement. The elevated wildfire conditions are expected to continue through Saturday evening.

Published on 05/15/2026 under News Rhinelander and the Hodag are synonymous. This week has been set aside to celebrate the mythical beast. The Rhinelander Chamber and their many community partners have been busy preparing for the 6th annual Hodag Heritage Festival. The event brings plenty of fun, history, and whimsy with hodag-themed activities. Among the popular returning highlights are the hodag calling contest and Hodag Historical Bus Tours . They also keep it fresh with new attractions, this includes Paul Bunyan Lumberjack shows. The tale of the Hodag emerged from the times when logging reined king in the Northwoods. Rachel Boehlen, Chamber Director of Events and Strategic Initiatives says, "We're so excited to bring these fun and unique features to the Hodag Heritage Festival." Activities are centered around Pioneer Park. Earlier this year, the Chamber also launched a new Hodag Heritage Festival website with information, schedules, and more.

Published on 05/15/2026 under News Earlier this week, a major renovation project began at the century-old Grand Theater in Wausau. Just days into the work, the project received a significant fundraising boost: the Performing Arts Foundation announced it has been awarded a $1.1 million grant from the State of Wisconsin. Sean Wright, Executive Director of The Grand Theater, noted that the state's investment serves as a testament to the theater's vital role as both a cultural and economic driver. He says, "As we approach our 100th anniversary, this funding provides the necessary resources to ensure our facility remains a premier destination for world-class performing arts while maintaining the historic integrity of this community landmark," Wright said. The renovation aims to modernize the venue while preserving its heritage. Key highlights include: • Enhanced Patron Experience: Installation of new seating and upgraded lighting and AV equipment. • Infrastructure Improvements: Significant work on accessibility, structural restoration, and the installation of a new roof. With the addition of the state grant, the campaign has now raised $15.5 million toward its $17.5 million goal. The facility will remain closed throughout the summer to accommodate construction. The community can look forward to the grand reopening, with the first performance in the upgraded theater scheduled for November 7.

Published on 05/15/2026 under News Local lawmakers expressed disappointment after a budget surplus deal fell apart in the State Senate earlier this week. The proposal, crafted by Governor Evers and Republican Legislative leaders would have utilized the surplus to provide a tax rebate, along with an increase in state funding for k-12 schools and special education. While defeated by three votes in the senate, the bill cleared the Assembly. Among the 'yes' votes was Assemblyman Calvin Callahan who represents the 35th district. The local representative provided comments on the bill's demise. He said, "While this deal wasn't perfect, it did provide property tax relief and put money directly back into the pockets of taxpayers, where it never should have left. Many objections to this proposal were that it didn't do enough, and I agree, but you can't get everything you want in a negotiation." Callahan said, "I am disappointed that some people let that stand in the way of delivering affordability to the people of Wisconsin."

Published on 05/14/2026 under Sports Tomahawk Softball Wraps Up 2026 With Extra Innings Thriller The Hatchet softball squad would wrap up Great Northern Conference play Thursday evening with a thrilling victory over the Merrill Blue Jays in eight innings, 8-6. Tomahawk would notch their first six runs of the day in the fifth and sixth innings. Sophie Olsen ripped a two-run double to tie the game at two. Averi Petta would follow that up with a two-run home run to put the Hatchets ahead. The other runs scored were on wild pitches. After Merrill tied the game and forced extra innings, the Hatchets would score their final two runs in the top of the eighth on errors. Camryn Kraklow allowed just two earned runs in the victory. Cracklow and Ellie Micke crossed the plate twice in the game. The Hatchets improve to 10-11 and 6-8 in Great Northern Conference play. Tomahawk wraps the regular season Tuesday at St. Croix Central. First pitch is at 4:00. Sixth-Inning Rally Leapfrogs Tomahawk Baseball Over Merrill Tomahawk baseball's bats woke up Thursday night at Tyler Kahle Memorial Field as they would come back to defeat Merrill, 8-4. The Hatchets trailed 4-3 headed into the bottom of the sixth inning before rolling off five runs to seal the victory. Tomahawk tied the game on a run scored by Wally Horabik off of Nick Arndt reaching on an error. However, The unsung hero was Hudson Evans, who hit a pinch-hit two-run single to put Tomahawk ahead. The Hatchets would add two more runs with a Logan Norman RBI double and a run scored by Jasper Ertl on a passed ball. Wally Horabik would pick up the win on the mound, pitching three scoreless innings. The win puts Tomahawk to 6-9 on the season and 5-7 in Great Northern Conference play. The Hatchets are back on the diamond tonight for a non-conference showdown with Crandon at TK Field. First pitch is at 6:30. Childers Takes Top Spot, Hatchet Golf 5th in Lakeland The Hatchet Golfers would place fifth in their Great Northern Conference Invite at Trout Lake Golf Course in Minocqua Thursday afternoon. Tomahawk would finish with a team score of 338, two strokes behind the host, Lakeland. However, the biggest bright spot came from Oliver Childers, who took the top spot in the meet with a 75. Jake Albert was second on the team and 11th overall with an 82. Tomahawk is back on the course today with an invite at the St. Germain Golf Club today. Tee-off is at Noon.

Published on 05/14/2026 under News The Lincoln County Health Department continues to target opioids through education and outreach. Coming up this evening, The Lincoln County Health Department, alongside the Lincoln County Opioid Task Force, is hosting another free community training focused on recognizing and responding to an opioid overdose using Naloxone, or Narcan. Narcan can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose within minutes, potentially saving lives. It is most commonly administered as a nasal spray, and can be carried without a prescription. Public Health Nurse Deanna Engel says the goal is simple: to give people the knowledge and confidence to act in a critical moment. They'll walk attendees through how to spot the signs of an overdose and properly administer the medication. Earlier this month, the partners hosted a similar event down in Merrill that was well-received. Tonight they'll be offering a class in Tomahawk, at the Public Library. It begins at 5pm and takes around an hour.

Published on 05/14/2026 under News With construction season now in full swing, another highway project is getting underway in Lincoln County. The Department of Transportation announced a bridge replacement as part of improvements to Highway 17 between Merrill and Rhinelander in the Town of Merrill. Work will include the removal and replacement of the Barnes Creek bridge, with crews installing a new concrete girder bridge. According to the DoT, Sheet Piling Services has been selected for the $870,000 project. During construction, Highway 17 will be closed at the bridge, and traffic will be detoured using County G. Work is scheduled to begin later this month. The project is expected to be completed in August, depending on weather and construction progress.

Published on 05/14/2026 under News An orphaned black bear cub is being cared for thanks to some law enforcement officers and a local animal rehabilitation center. According to the Marathon County Sheriff's office, deputies responded to Highway 29 near Wausau. A bear cub was left alone after the mother was struck by a passing vehicle. With help from Wausau Police, they were able to secure the cub who was turned over to Wild Instincts. The rehabilitators brought the cub back to their Rhinelander facility. In an update, they said the cub is doing well and strong enough to spend time in their outdoor enclosure. Their hope is to eventually return the cub to the wild. And while highlighting this specific situation, the Sheriff's Office also reiterated the Keep Wildlife Wild message. The campaign generally encourages people not to approach young animals in the wild. And if you believe the animal has been abandoned, like this Wausau cub, contact an animal rehabilitation facility for guidance.

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