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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

Taste of Tomahawk Turns 21 on Saturday

Published on 03/20/2026 under News Like other communities here in the Northwoods, the Tomahawk area has plenty of good food and drinks. Coming up this weekend, the Chamber will highlight the local offerings with the return of the Taste of Tomahawk. As the name implies, Taste of Tomahawk offers participants a chance to sample foods and drinks with a focus on local. Over the past few weeks, the Chamber has been using their Facebook page to highlight the nearly two dozen participants. Taste celebrates local cuisine from apps to entrees to desserts along with Wisconsin based breweries and wineries". It is described as "a great event to sip, snack, and socialize." It's also a good way for people to get out after being cooped up during the winter months, essentially 'a cabin fever reliever.' Those who've attended in the past know that there is typically a theme, and this year is no different. It's actually a birthday celebration with Taste of Tomahawk turning 21. It also happens to fall on the March 21st making it a golden birthday. As of Friday Morning, they had a few tickets remaining, which can be purchased Friday at Trig's or the Chamber. Any remaining tickets will be sold at the door. Doors open Saturday at 1pm at Inshalla.

Published on 03/20/2026 under News The Lincoln County Board is calling on state leaders to take action on transportation funding. Supervisors unanimously approved a resolution at their meeting Tuesday urging the state legislature to adopt a long-term, sustainable funding plan for roads and bridges. The resolution states that local governments maintain about 90 percent of Wisconsin's roads, but state aid has not kept up with inflation and rising construction costs, leaving many counties and municipalities struggling to handle improvements or even basic maintenance. The resolution also highlights concerns about aging infrastructure, including thousands of small bridges across the state, and warns that without stable funding, communities may be forced to borrow more or delay critical projects. Supervisors are now asking the state to create a reliable funding system that supports long-term planning and keeps Wisconsin's transportation network safe and competitive. The measure passed by voice vote with little discussion and will be sent to state officials including the Governor and legislators representing Lincoln County down in Madison.

Published on 03/20/2026 under News In Wisconsin, the return of spring also means one thing—orange barrels and road construction season aren't far behind. Governor Tony Evers announced upgrades to a stretch of US 8 near Rhinelander. Crews will be working on Highway 8 between Highway 47 and Highway 17 North. Musson Brothers has been selected as the primary contractor for the $6.2 million project. The project will include new asphalt, along with the installation of centerline rumble strips to improve safety. Two key intersections along the corridor, Highway 17 South at County G and WD Boyce Drive, will be reconstructed into single-lane roundabouts. Drivers should plan for significant impacts. The segment of US 8 will be closed during construction, with traffic detoured along Highway 17 North through city streets in Rhinelander. Temporary pavement and signals will also be installed at some intersections. Construction is scheduled to begin in April and run through November. Before work begins they will have a public informational meeting. That's scheduled for 5pm, April 2 at Rhinelander City Hall. Or you can visit the DoT project website.

Published on 03/20/2026 under News With spring planting season approaching in northern Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is encouraging residents to consider adding native plants to their yards and gardens. DNR officials say native plants play an important role in supporting local ecosystems by providing food and habitat for pollinators like butterflies, bees, and birds. They're also well adapted to Wisconsin's climate, making them a good fit for home gardens across the Northwoods. DNR conservation biologist Amy Staffen says introducing native plants to a yard is an easy way for both beginner and experienced gardeners to help wildlife thrive. The DNR maintains a statewide list of native plant sales and a directory of native plant nurseries on its Native Plants webpage, along with information on pollinator gardens, rain gardens, and planting guides.

Published on 03/20/2026 under News While many people celebrated St. Patrick's Day this week, one Northwoods group is embracing their ties to Finland. Preparation is underway in Brantwood for their annual Saint Urho Day celebration. The tongue-in-cheek holiday isn't part of traditional Finnish lore. It was actually created in the 1950's, and tells of the legend of Saint Urho. He is said to have freed Finland's grape crops from invading grasshoppers on March 16. The Knox Creek Heritage Center is one of the groups that participates each year. Their organization is dedicated to preserving the heritage of the Scandinavian pioneers that settled the Northwoods. Coming up on Saturday they'll be serving a soup buffet with traditional Finnish foods. The event will double as the group's annual meeting. The Knox Creek St. Urho Day celebration will take place Saturday at the Brantwood Community Center starting at noon.

Published on 03/20/2026 under News As spring cleaning gets underway, there's a chance to clear out old electronics responsibly. Good News Project is hosting a Global Recycling Day event on Saturday. The event encourages residents to safely dispose of unwanted electronics...anything with a cord or battery including computers, phones, TVs and even small appliances like air conditioners and dehumidifiers. Christine Daniels, Executive Director says, "Many people don't realize that their unused electronics hold materials that can be reused." The event helps keep harmful e-waste out of landfills while allowing valuable materials to be recycling. The nonprofit adds that holding the event on a Saturday makes it easier for more people to take part while tackling their spring cleaning. More information is available through the Good News Project. Fees will be charged by weight and type of item. The recycling will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at the Good News Project on North 5th Street

Published on 03/19/2026 under News Despite the recent winter weather, Friday is the first day of spring. Coming up this afternoon members of the Tomahawk community are looking to spread a little 'Sunshine in the Street'. Now in it's tenth year, Sunshine in the Street is a simple concept with a goal of bringing a positive impact to the community on or around the first day of spring. During today's lunch break (12:30-1:30pm), people are encouraged to head to the sidewalks carrying signs decorated with words of encouragement. Sunshine in the Street started in 2017 as an idea from the late Dr. Bobbi Voermans and the staff at Hometown Chiropractic hoping to spread positive messages, motivation, and sunshine to the community. That idea has now become a tradition that continues each year. The staff at Hometown Chiropractic again encourage people to ring in spring with sunshine, signs, and smiles. It's not unusual for participants to receive waves, shouts of encouragement, or a honk of a horn. People can also tag photos on social media to spread the message online as well.

Published on 03/19/2026 under News Fresh off the Oscars, another awards celebration is shining a spotlight a little closer to home...this time on Wisconsin's downtown districts. Wisconsin Main Street is hosting its 35th annual awards ceremony this evening, and Tomahawk Main Street will be well represented. With around two dozen categories, the awards celebrate the achievements of downtown and historic district revitalization, business growth, building renovations, and community events. Tomahawk Main Street has produced a number of winners over the years. They have eight nominations for the upcoming awards. They include: Best Placemaking Project: Andy Gorestski - Welcome Sculpture RestorationBest Event – Main Street Memories ChristmasBest Marketing Campaign – Sideways Wine & Craft BeerBusiness of the Year – Crossbridge Community BankBest Total Building Transformation – Rae's Barbershop and Walker's General StoreBest Interior Renovation – Locks and LoaderCommunity Champion 'Volunteer of the Year' – The Rainmakers (who water the downtown flower baskets)This year's awards ceremony will take place down in Wausau at the Grand Theater. A good luck to the local nominees, and we'll announce any local winners.

Published on 03/19/2026 under News The spring elections are are a little more that two weeks away. In addition to local races, voters in the city of Tomahawk will decide on a levy referendum. Ahead of the vote, city leaders have been hosting a series of informational sessions to explain why they are seeking the additional funding. The final session is scheduled to take place this evening. As we've previously covered, the state largely restricts the ability of municipalities to increase their tax levy without voter approval. The Tomahawk City Council is looking for a 20% increase to the base levy going forward, approximately $276,000. If approved, it would result in an increase of around $75 for a $100,000 property. The first two sessions, held earlier this month, included city council members as well as department heads who discussed cuts they've made in recent years to balance the budget, as well as services that could be impacted in the future. This evening's session is scheduled for 6pm at SARA Park. The election will take place April 7.

Published on 03/19/2026 under News Lincoln County is tipping its hat to a classic piece of American television. At their meeting Tuesday, The Lincoln County Board approved a resolution recognizing the 70th anniversary of The Lawrence Welk Show, which ran from 1955-1982. The resolution honors the long-running, family-friendly program for its impact on American culture, highlighting its mix of musical styles and its role in bringing audiences together across generations. The resolution was provided after a request during public comment at the February meeting. Scott Wheeler, of Tallahassee, Florida is the man behind the effort. He made the pitch to Lincoln County Board during public comment at the February meeting. It's part of a larger effort by Wheeler to recognize the show nationally and preserve the show's legacy. During the brief discussion, several supervisors acknowledged it was a nice gesture, but questioned the relevance to Lincoln County. Ultimately, the resolution was approved.

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