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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

Lights of the Northwoods Gives Back to Community Groups; Tomahawk Food Pantry in Final Week

Published on 12/26/2025 under News People have been getting into the spirit with a holiday light display in Rhinelander while also giving back to a number of community organizations. The Lights of the Northwoods has been illuminating Hodag Park throughout the month of December, and there's still one more week to check it out. Now in it's ninth year, the event continues to grow featuring hundreds of thousands of Christmas lights within the displays. In addition to the festive lights, organizers have continued to give back to a variety of community organizations through donations of money, supplies, and non-perishable food items. Last December they collected more than 4,500 pounds of food, and $11,000 in monetary donations. The group says, "This impact goes far beyond the lights themselves. It reflects the heart of our community and the difference we make when we come together." And for our Tomahawk listeners considering a trip over, the next week will benefit the Tomahawk Food Pantry. They'll even have some pantry volunteers on-site to help with the collection, and they encourage people to come out, say hello, and show some support. Lights of the Northwoods runs through the end of the year with both drive through and walking options. It culminates with a New Year's Day fireworks celebration that will be held on the evening of January 1.

Published on 12/26/2025 under News A local multi-county health organization was recently recognized for their exceptional work in improving the lives of youth and their families. North Central Health Care was recently selected as the 2025 Children's System of Care Champion by the DHS Children Come First Advisory Committee. North Central Health Care is a tri-county partnership of Marathon, Lincoln, and Langlade Counties. At their December meeting, the Lincoln County Board recognized NCHC for this achievement following a brief presentation. North Central was selected from 19 nominees around the state. The honor was for their comprehensive continuum of care, a system that spans crisis services, community treatment, outpatient programs, and youth behavioral health care. Jason Hake, Acting Executive Director of North Central Health Care said, "This recognition reflects the tremendous impact our organization has made in supporting the health and well-being of children, young adults, and families across our communities." He also credited the staff, as well as partners including the social services departments in each of the participating counties, Adding "Every employee and partner plays a role in this success."

Published on 12/26/2025 under News The Packers have another Saturday game on the schedule. And this game will be broadcast exclusively on the streaming platform Peacock. In recent years, the NFL has been expanding their broadcast partners. That's made it a little more difficult to follow the Green and Gold. In fact this season, Packer games have already aired on five different channels. Saturday's game marks number six. While affiliates in the Green Bay and Milwaukee markets will get the broadcast on traditional TV, other viewers around the state will require that streaming subscription. For those who don't have Peacock, we will be airing the radio broadcast of the game here on WJJQ. You'll have to break out a traditional radio and tune in to 92.5FM. Due to broadcasting restrictions, the game will be blacked out on radio streaming options including our app on smart devices and the WJJQ website.

Published on 12/26/2025 under News Now that the holiday is behind, it's time to beginning planning to dispose of Christmas trees. For those who chose a natural tree for their holiday centerpiece, each additional day brings additional risk of fire. According to the National Fire Protection Association, there are an average of 150 fires involving Christmas trees each year. Once decorations have been removed the tree, the tree should be removed from the home. But officials advise against simply moving it to the garage or leaning up against the outside of the home where it remains a home fire risk. Some communities do offer Christmas tree collection and disposal, whether a pick-up or drop off. Others may choose to re-purpose their discarded Christmas tree. The DNR's Forestry blog offered a few alternatives including creating a wildlife habitat in your backyard, using the tree as compost or mulch, and breaking it down for firewood. Cross cut sections of the trunk can even turn into craft projects such as ornaments or coasters.

Published on 12/26/2025 under News For some with an extended holiday break between Christmas and New Years, it's a good opportunity for some outdoor recreation. People are reminded to keep safety in mind. A handful of counties do have their snowmobile trails at least partially opened. Most trails are listed in early-season conditions, and recent mild weather has caused further deterioration. Those heading out are reminded to stick to marked trails, with the DNR reminding that operation on closed trails is illegal. Lt. Jacob Holsclaw, DNR off-highway vehicle administrator reminded snowmobile operators about sober riding. And for those heading out onto the area's frozen waterways, remember that no ice is considered 100% safe. A number of factors can impact ice strength including temperatures, water depths, snow cover, and water currents. They recommend checking in with local experts such as bait shops, fishing guides, or clubs. And dress for safety as well, items like float coats, life jackets, ice picks and rescue ropes can be lifesavers in an ice emergency.

Published on 12/24/2025 under News The Countdown to Christmas is on, and a special community meal here in Tomahawk is just a day away. The Christmas with Friends Community Meal at Grace Lutheran Church has become an annual tradition, and organizers have been busy in the lead up to this year's event, but took some time to offer us a preview. They noted that the meal is really important to both the church and the community. They often see many of the same faces from year to year, with diners coming for not only the food, but the holiday spirit as well. In addition to the lunch, diners also enjoy seasonal music and friendly conversation. They typically serve several hundred meals between the in-person dining and the delivery service. To pull off an undertaking like this, it takes a team of volunteers cooking, serving, and delivering meals. While most volunteers come from Grace, they also receive a helping hand from other community members and congregations. This year's menu consists of ham along with a selection of sides and desserts. They'll begin serving at around 11am on Christmas Day following the Grace Christmas morning service. The meal is free, though donations are welcome. Those needing delivery can call the church office at 453-4066.

Published on 12/24/2025 under News Santa came a bit early for non-profits around the state, courtesy of the Green Bay Packers. Last week, the Packer Foundation announced nearly 400 organizations would receive funding through their annual grant program. That includes WaWui here in Tomahawk. We've been sharing how some of these non-profits will invest their funding. For those unfamiliar, WaWui is the volunteer organization that operates and maintains the SARA Park arena and banquet hall. Following last week's announcement, we spoke with board member Charis Lau. She noted that they were grateful to the Green Bay Packers for this generous donation. They plan to invest the funding into a planned restroom renovation. They hope the project will not only improve these facilities, but also help in accessibility and ADA compliance. The grant comes at a good time for WaWui. Earlier this year, the organization launched a larger fundraising campaign aimed at a number of projects to revitalize and upgrading the longtime community hub. SARA Park has become home to local hockey, figure skating, pickleball and bingo, while also hosting special events like the Antique Outboard Motor Show and Fall Ride.

Published on 12/24/2025 under News Whether a Christmas gathering in the coming days or next week's New Year's celebration, law enforcement are again reminding revelers to stay sober behind the wheel. The annual Drive Sober or Get Pulled over campaign is in full swing. The effort combines increased enforcement and education, encouraging motorists to find safe ways to get to their destinations this holiday season. Last holiday season, during this two week period, there were more than 400 crashes involving alcohol on Wisconsin roadways. State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan says, "With the holiday season underway, we are urging drivers to plan ahead before celebrating to keep Wisconsin's roads safe." Carnahan offered a number of solutions, whether designating a sober driving before heading out, taking advantage of public transit, or using a rideshare program. They're also encouraging hosts to be mindful of these risks and make sure guests have a safe ride home. Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over began earlier this month and continues through New Years Day.

Published on 12/24/2025 under News Healthy meals help make healthy lives. Marshfield Clinic and Security Health announced nearly $180,000 in funding to community projects that address food insecurity across their footprint in Northern Wisconsin and Michigan's UP. Twenty organizations will share in the funding. In our listening area that includes: Huey's Hideaway Children's Museum in Medford; Chequamegon School district; Athens Food Pantry; and the Lakeland Pantry. The program, offered through Marshfield Clinic's Caring for Communities initiative, reflects a shared commitment to improving the well-being of individuals and families by supporting access to consistent, nutritious food. Jay Shrader, vice president of Community Impact and Social Accountability says, "This grant reflects our commitment to supporting local organizations that know their communities best and are working to remove barriers to food access and improve health at its roots." The need of these organizations is strong. In the announcement Marshfield Clinic said they received 98 applications from local organizations, and actually increased the grant pool by $30,000 to maximize impact. This funding is offered through Marshfield Clinic's Caring for Communities initiative.

Published on 12/24/2025 under News Officials are encouraging families to properly dispose of their gift packaging this week, recycling when possible. Jennifer Semrau, DNR waste reduction specialist, acknowledged recycling can be confusing with rules differing between communities. But she says, "there are some basic tips people can use to make tackling holiday waste less overwhelming." Cardboard boxes can be broken down and recycled without much trouble. This includes shipping boxes as well as holiday packaging. As for wrapping paper and gift bags, that varies from program to program. For bags that are being recycled it helps to pull off the handle. Glitter and foil are generally signs that the holiday items should be placed in the garbage rather than recycling. As for items such as ribbons, bags, bows, tissue paper and even bubble wrap; consider putting them in a box and reuse them again next Christmas. Semrau also cautioned about tanglers, these are items like Christmas lights and cords. They can jam up modern recycling equipment, so keep them out of home recycling. Instead watch for seasonal collections or contact a dedicated electronics recycler. If that's not an option, put broken lights in the trash. It's also time to start planning for tree disposal, as the risk of fire increases as trees begin to dry out. While some communities offer a pick up, others have special drop-off locations.

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