WJJQ Radio

Story Details

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

Tomahawk School District Receives DPI Grant for Personal Finance Curriculum

Published on 10/19/2026 under News Students in Tomahawk are about to get a big boost when it comes to managing their money and planning for the future. Tomahawk District Administrator Wendell Quesinberry announced the district has been awarded a $7,500 Financial Literacy Innovation Grant from the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. That money is bringing the Junior Achievement program into local classrooms, building a hands-on financial curriculum for students from kindergarten through graduation. The goal is to give students real-world practice with things like budgeting, saving, making smart money choices, and exploring future careers. Quesinberry noted that the program will allow additional opportunities to connect classroom learning with the local business community. He says, "By exposing students to real-world financial situations and career opportunities, we can help them better understand the relationship between education, personal responsibility, and future success." The grant covers all program fees, workbooks, and instructional materials, introducing this high-impact opportunity at zero cost to local taxpayers. Overall, 29 school districts will share in nearly $300,000 to support personal finance education. These courses will help districts meet a new, mandatory half-credit financial literacy requirement starting with the Class of 2028.

Published on 10/19/2026 under News The City of Merrill honored a dedicated public servants this weekend with the dedication of a new honorary street sign celebrating former Mayor Patricia "Patsy" Woller. Originally from North Carolina, Woller relocated to Merrill in 1962 after meeting her husband, Denvert, while he was stationed at Fort Bragg. She later entered the workforce at the Merrill Foto News, a role that sparked her deep interest in local government. Woller began her public service in 1986 as Sixth Ward Alderperson, eventually becoming Council President and stepping in as acting mayor when the sitting leader faced health challenges. Woller made history in 1992 when she became Merrill's first female mayor, going on to serve six years in office along with 17 years on the Lincoln County Board. Her influence reached well beyond city government, helping launch the Merrill Courier, author two books, and repurposed an old gas station into the beloved Grand Stand ice cream shop. Her new honorary sign stands right outside the Grand Stand at Division and Wright streets. Organized by the Historic Preservation Committee, the dedication is part of Merrill's initiative to honor residents who left a lasting mark on the community. Two more sign dedications are scheduled for later this year.

Published on 10/19/2026 under News Drivers in Lincoln County should prepare for a temporary road closure starting next week. Lincoln County Highway Commissioner Jason Lemmer announced that the County Highway M bridge over the south branch of the Copper River, located about a quarter-mile west of Forks Road, will close for emergency repairs on Monday, October 26th, at 7:00 AM. The closure is expected to remain in place for about a month. Highway officials note that once repairs are complete, the weight limit restrictions currently on the structure will be removed. They hope to have the road re-opened November 20th. Travelers are advised to plan alternate routes and allow extra travel time while work is underway. We'll continue to reminder drivers as the project draws closer.

Published on 10/19/2026 under News A routine fall yard cleanup took a dangerous turn in Oneida County this weekend after a piece of lawn equipment burst into flames. Responders were dispatched around 4:00 p.m. Saturday to a residence on Lakeshore Drive following reports of a lawn tractor fire. The homeowner was using a leaf-bagging attachment when the machine caught fire near the treeline, sending flames 10 to 12 feet into the air and igniting surrounding vegetation. Crews from the Pine Lake Fire Department arrived quickly and were able to contain the blaze before it could spread further into the nearby woods. Additional mutual aid was initially called, but was then canceled once crews got the situation under control. They were on the scene for about a half an hour, no injuries were reported. The Oneida County Sheriff's Department and local ambulance personnel also responded to the scene.

Published on 10/19/2026 under News The Lakeland Pantry is getting a boost of more than $17,000 thanks to a new donation initiative at Lake of the Torches Resort Casino. The funds were raised through a program launched in February, allowing Lake Club members and casino guests to drop their Ticket In/Ticket Out, or TITO, slot vouchers into donation boxes on the gaming floor. The casino collects the vouchers and turns the accumulated value into direct support for the pantry which provides food and other essentials. Bill Olmsted, President of the Lakeland Pantry Board, called the contribution a wonderful example of how small gifts can add up to make a significant difference for local families. Lake of the Torches CEO Bill Guelcher thanked guests for their generosity, adding that the casino plans to keep the TITO collection boxes active on the floor to continue supporting the pantry.

Published on 10/19/2026 under News Following National Move Over Day over the weekend, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is reminding drivers and off-road riders to slow down and share the trail safely with workers and outdoor enthusiasts. Much like road traffic regulations, Wisconsin requires off-road operators to slow down or move over. By law, ATV and UTV riders must drop their speed to 10 mph or less when within 100 feet of anyone not riding a motorized vehicle. This rule applies to interactions with hikers, equestrians, trail crews, and emergency responders across trails, frozen lakes, and public access routes. "Slowing down and giving others plenty of space isn't just a safe strategy, it showcases a respectful image of the ATV/UTV community," said Lt. Jacob Holsclaw, DNR Off-Highway Vehicle Administrator. Additionally, the DNR reminds operators to always ride sober, wear a helmet and seatbelt, keep headlights on, and follow all posted signs and speed limits.

Published on 10/17/2026 under Sports Tomahawk's Cross Country squads provided some encouraging finishes in the Great Northern Conference meet Saturday at Hatchet Field, each placing third. For the girls, three Hatchets placed in the top 15. Charlee Lund placed fifth with a time of 19:34. Right behind Lund was Elise Gibeault, placing sixth and clocking in at 19:43. Ellie Micke placed 14th with a time of 21:51. On the boys' side, three athletes placed in the top 20. Jordyn Carew placed 12th, clocking in at 17:39. Connor Zorn finished 15th with a time of 17:58. Dawson Jones went 16th with a time of 18:11. The WIAA Division 2 Cross Country Sectional Meet for Tomahawk is Friday at Rhinelander. Team Finishes: Girls: 1st – Lakeland 2nd – Rhinelander 3rd – Tomahawk 4th – Merrill 5th – Mosinee 6th – Antigo 7th – Medford Boys: 1st – Lakeland 2nd – Rhinelander 3rd - Tomahawk 4th – Mosinee 5th – Northland Pines 6th – Medford 7th – Antigo

Published on 10/17/2026 under Sports Tomahawk's football squad would end the 2026 season with their first win over the Mosinee Indians Friday night at Veterans Park Friday, 6-3. The Hatchets held Mosinee under 100 total yards of offense, including just 14 yards allowed in the second half. Tomahawk's lone score came at the end of the third quarter when Max Larson ran it in from one yard out. The touchdown from Larson was his seventh of the season. He also led the Hatchets with 61 yards on 14 carries. Hudson Evans had 44 yards on eight touches. The Hatchets finish the 2026 Regular Season with a 4-5 on the season and 4-3 in Great Northern Conference play. Tomahawk will play in the first round of the WIAA Division 5 Playoffs Friday night. The Hatchets are the #6 seed and will travel to #3 seed Brillion. The Fehrman Orthodontics Kickoff Cabin will begin at 6:15 with kick at 7:00 from Lion Field on the WJJQ app, online at wjjq.com, and on Northwoods 92.5 WJJQ. Alex Koch and Keith Hanse will have the broadcast Friday night. 11-Player Football: Medford 48, Antigo 6 Rhinelander 27, Lakeland 14 Wausau East 21, Merrill 14 Stratford 45, Northland Pines 6 Crandon 48, Clintonville 30 Edgar 35, Abbotsford 0 8-Player Football Playoffs: #1 Laona-Wabeno 44, #8 Three Lakes/Phelps 6 #4 Northwood/Solon Springs 48, #5 Rib Lake 8 #6 Athens 44, #3 Turtle Lake 20

Published on 10/16/2026 under News A new initiative at the Tomahawk School District is breaking down barriers for local students and helping them stay focused on learning. With the start of the new school year, the district launched the Hatchet Hub, an essential resource pantry located across all three campus school buildings. The program was introduced by district social worker Mickala Ferge, whose position was brought back to the district through funding shared with a grant from the Lincoln County Opioid Task Force. Ferge joined WJJQ's Thursday Conversation to discuss the project, explaining that the Hub provides crucial support for students in need. It is stocked with basic essentials, including food, hygiene products, clothing, and occasionally gift certificates for services like haircuts. To eliminate any potential stigma, items are distributed confidentially through school staff or directly out of Ferge's office. With winter fast approaching, the Hub is currently seeking community donations of winter gear alongside regularly needed items like non-perishable snacks and hygiene basics. That conversation is available in the WJJQ Audio Center. To learn more or support Tomahawk students through the Hatchet Hub, contact the Tomahawk School District.

Published on 10/16/2026 under News There's no major snow in the forecast yet, but local snowmobile clubs are already gearing up for the upcoming season. The Northwoods is home to some of the best trails in the state, but keeping them in top shape requires year-round effort. This Saturday, October 17th, the Northwoods Riders and Northwoods Passage Snowmobile Clubs will host their annual trail brushing and maintenance day. Volunteers will head out to clear brush, downed trees, and other debris that accumulated since the trails closed last winter. With hundreds of miles of trails north of Tomahawk to maintain, organizers are calling on community members for a helping hand. The event is open to everyone—not just club members. Organizers highlight it as a great opportunity for riders to get involved, meet local club members, and see firsthand the dedication required to maintain the trail network. Volunteers will gather at the Northwoods Riders Garage on County Highway L in Nokomis at 9:00 AM on Saturday to receive trail assignments. Participants are encouraged to bring helpful tools such as saws, loppers, work gloves, safety glasses, and an ATV or UTV if available. After the trail work is finished, volunteers will head back to the garage for a "thank you" gathering featuring food, refreshments, and music.

+ Read More