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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

Officials Raising Awareness of Invasive Species

Published on 02/27/2026 under News Invasive species impact public lands and waterways, and officials are using this week to highlight some of the ways people can minimize the spread. It's National Invasive Species Awareness week. The DNR is taking part and encouraging others to get involved. This is a great time to remind the public of how they can help prevent the spread of invasive species year-round. The event is dedicated to raising awareness about invasive species, the threats they pose and the actions that can be taken to prevent their spread. The good news is that the public can help by taking steps toward basic care to greatly reduce the risk of spreading invasive species to the places that they love. The DNR highlighted some of those steps including cleaning outdoor gear and equipment between outings and buy local for firewood, plants, and bait. There are also volunteer opportunities from removal to education and outreach. The DNR's Invasive Species webpage offers plenty of information on what invasive species are and why it's important to control them.

Published on 02/27/2026 under News The Rhinelander Area Food Pantry (RAFP) is challenging local residents to contribute to the Annual Spring Challenge. Two local families, who wish to remain anonymous, have agreed once again to make a partial match for all donations or pledges received from March 1st through April 30th. The 2026 Spring Challenge marks the 21st Anniversary of RAFP and over 10 million pounds of food distributed to our community. RAFP currently serves over 1,100 households and in the past year provided 37,000 meals to children in our community. Donations can be lower during this time of year, so your help is greatly appreciated. To help the Food Pantry with the Annual RAFP Spring Challenge, monetary donations can be made to Rhinelander Area Food Pantry PO Box 1306, Rhinelander, WI 54501. Food items may be dropped off at the Food Pantry at 627 Coon Street from 9 am to 12pm, Monday through Friday. For more information, go to www.rhinelanderareafoodpantry.org or call 715-369-7237.

Published on 02/27/2026 under News The Wisconsin Urban Forestry Council recently announced its annual awards honoring those dedicated to protecting, preserving and increasing the number of trees that line city streets, fill community parks and beautify neighborhoods throughout the state. "Those who advocate for and work toward improving Wisconsin's urban forests can often go overlooked," said Linda Cadotte, Wisconsin Urban Forestry Council Chair. "With these awards, we aim to highlight just a few of the dedicated leaders who have made an outstanding contribution to urban forestry today to help ensure a healthy and resilient tree canopy tomorrow." This year's recipients were announced at the 2026 Wisconsin Arborist Association – DNR Urban Forestry Conference and will be recognized at an event of their choosing in their community. This year, there were five winners in four categories and a Rhinelander area man was awarded the Leadership Award. The Leadership Award recognizes an individual or elected official at the county or local level of government who has made an outstanding recent contribution to urban forestry in Wisconsin. • Tom Jerow has served as the Rhinelander City Forester for several years. Among his many accomplishments, highlights include establishing and chairing an Urban Forestry Tree Board, securing over $300,000 in urban forestry grants and donations, establishing a cost-sharing program for private property plantings and leading numerous education and outreach events. These accomplishments would be impressive for any full-time employee, but Tom has done all of this as an unpaid volunteer.

Published on 02/26/2026 under News Gov. Tony Evers, together with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD), announced nine businesses and organizations in eight Wisconsin counties across the state will collectively receive $250,000 in commercial driver training grants. These grants are part of the Commercial Driver Training Grant program and work to support businesses and organizations that offer training for trainees to obtain their Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with the goal of bolstering Wisconsin's driving workforce, such as school bus drivers, truck drivers, delivery drivers, and more. This round of grant awards will help 190 trainees obtain a CDL and grow their earning potential, all while helping to meet the demands for one of the state's most in-demand occupations. In our area, Northcentral Technical College in Marathon County received grant funding of $30,000 to provide Class A CDL training for 30 individuals. Interested businesses are encouraged to learn more about other worker training programs available through DWD's Office of Skill Development, including the Wisconsin Fast Forward grant program. Individuals interested in a professional truck driver career can find more information on the Job Center of Wisconsin website and CDL Apprenticeship opportunities.

Published on 02/26/2026 under News The Rhinelander High School Drama Department will be taking audiences on a trip to Neverland. The students will be performing Peter and the Starcatcher, based on the characters of Peter Pan. But rather than the traditional story we grew up with fast-paced and imaginative play reveals the origins of beloved characters from Peter Pan, including Peter Pan himself, Captain Hook, and the fantastical world of Neverland. In previewing the production they said, "Packed with humor, adventure, flamboyant pirates, and enchanting mermaids, the story celebrates friendship, bravery, and the power of imagination." Peter and the Starcatcher is perfect for audiences of all ages, offering high-energy storytelling and plenty of laughs for the whole family. They'll be offering four public performances Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 7pm with a Sunday matinee at 1pm. Admission is free.

Published on 02/25/2026 under News The countdown is on for an unforgettable milestone as Fall Ride prepares to celebrate the 45th Anniversary of this annual Northwoods tradition. For more than four decades, the event has brought together riders and music lovers from across the Midwest with a weekend filled with chrome, community, and charitable impact. Tomahawk Main Street is proud to be at the center of it all. What began as a small street dance at the corner of Wisconsin and North 4th Street has become an event that now spans the entire length of the business district in downtown Tomahawk. The Tomahawk Main Street Fall Ride Committee is planning the biggest celebration yet, and they need your help. The committee has the opportunity to secure a nostalgic, national metal band to headline the iconic Saturday night street dance. This is more than just another year," said Jennifer Turkiewicz, Tomahawk Main Street Executive Director. "The 45th Anniversary deserves something extraordinary, and we want to give our visitors and community something memorable." Bringing a national act requires raising more money and securing more sponsors. "This event is fully funded by sponsors and four beer tents that we set up during the weekend. The expense associated with the security, insurance, and outdoor facilities to accommodate 40,000 plus visitors to our street is tens of thousands of dollars and that does not include the expenses of staging and hosting large bands. The event is not a money maker for our organization, but it is a money maker for our whole community, and that's why we are proud to make it bigger and better every year," Turkiewicz noted. To help bring the dream to life Tomahawk Main Street Fall Ride is launching a Big Anniversary Raffle where they will give away $4,500.00 for the 45th year. A very limited number of tickets will be sold for $100.00 each, and prizes will include two VIP Meet and Greet passes with the Headliner, a second-place prize of $500.00, and the Grand Prize of $4,000.00. Winners and our full Tomahawk Main Street Fall Ride music lineup will be announced at a Kick-Off Party on Friday, April 24th at 6:30pm at Strikers in Tomahawk. Tickets can be purchased at the Tomahawk Main Street Office (located at 223 W. Wisconsin Avenue) or Honeycomb L.O.F.T., What's Brewin', Sideways Wine and Craft Beer, Crossbridge Community Bank, or Calhoun Insurance.

Published on 02/25/2026 under News The Nicolet Players will hold open auditions for the spring production of Fahrenheit 451 at the Theatre at Nicolet College. Auditions will be held on Thursday, February 26 from 6 to 8 p.m. and on Friday, February 27 from 3 to 5 p.m. All community members and students are welcome to audition, and no experience is required. No appointment is needed. Performers are encouraged to simply drop in. There will be seven male and five female roles available and assorted voices. Scripts will be available at the Nicolet College Library to check out. The Nicolet Players are also looking for behind-the-scenes helpers who can support bringing the production to life. Stop by auditions to learn more about behind-the-scenes opportunities to get involved. The play will open in April, with five performances from April 16 through 19. Questions can be sent to boxoffice@nicoletcollege.edu.

Published on 02/25/2026 under Sports The Hatchet Girls' Basketball season would end in the WIAA Division 3 Regional Quarterfinal Tuesday night at the Hatchet House, losing to Spooner, 50-46. The Hatchets were unable to overcome Freya Alberg and Lizzy Arnott fouling out of the game late in the second half. In her final High School game, Alberg finished with 20 points, 12 rebounds, and three blocks. Anita Ziert also finished with a double-double, scoring 16 points and hauling down 11 boards. Tomahawk finishes the 2025-26 season with a 12-13 record and a 6-8 Great Northern Conference record. The Hatchets graduate one senior from their team, Freya Alberg, who will be playing College Ball next year at Grinnell College in Iowa.

Published on 02/24/2026 under News The Lincoln County Health Department continues their efforts and outreach related to substance use including some upcoming public discussions. The Lincoln County Health Department, in partnership with the Lincoln County Opioid Task Force, will be holding three community conversations about substance use and the importance of community support. The first is coming up Wednesday. These events are part of a larger effort to reduce stigma around substance use and promote harm reduction. Stigma, negative attitudes or beliefs about substance use, are often a hurdle in people seeking help. Erin Ray, Opioid Grant Coordinator for the Lincoln County Health Department said, "Our community assessment showed that stigma is a major reason people who use substances do not seek treatment in Lincoln County. Ray says, "We can reduce that stigma by having open, respectful conversations that build understanding and support within our communities." Community members are encouraged to attend, share their perspectives, listen and learn. They called these conversations are an opportunity to connect with others and help build a healthier, more supportive community for individuals and families. The first opportunity will be a virtual Town Hall on Wednesday, February 25 at 5:30pm. They also have in-person events planned in Merrill March 17 and Tomahawk April 8. A link to the virtual town hall is available here: https://bit.ly/LincTownHall

Published on 02/24/2026 under News On Friday, Lincoln County deputies were dispatched to an injury crash involving a Lincoln County Plow truck and a passenger car on US Highway 51 in the Town of Skanawan. Upon arrival, the deputies were advised that the plow truck being operated by a 34 year old man from Irma, WI was actively engaged in plowing operations heading northbound on US Highway 51 when the truck was struck in the rear by a passenger car being operated by a 56 year old man from Merrill, WI. Both the driver and passenger of the car reported injuries, and the driver of the plow truck reported back pain.

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