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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

City of Tomahawk Eyes Tourism Commission to Oversee Room Tax

Published on 09/23/2026 under News Fresh off the Fall Ride, one of the area's biggest tourism events of the year, Tomahawk's Finance Committee took a closer look at how one specific category of visitor dollars is spent. The City currently collects a 4% room tax, which is administered through a partnership with the Tomahawk Regional Chamber of Commerce. At a special meeting last night, the Finance Committee recommended establishing a Tourism Commission to provide an added layer of guidance and oversight for those funds. State law restricts how room tax revenue can be spent, requiring the majority to be earmarked for tourism promotion. During the meeting, Chamber Director Charis Lau gave a presentation detailing current marketing efforts, which range from targeted digital advertising to regional partnerships with Discover Wisconsin. While only the City of Tomahawk and the Town of King currently collect a room tax locally, there is a growing push to include neighboring townships like Harrison, Nokomis, and Bradley. Regional adoption could eventually allow the Chamber to transition into a Visitors Bureau, a specific state designation with separate operational and funding guidelines. The Finance Committee acted on two ordinance proposals, recommending both for final approval by the City Council. This includes creating the Tourism Commission, though the original draft was amended to expand the body from five to seven members, combining city officials and representatives from the local lodging industry. If approved by the full Council, the local commission may ultimately be short-lived. Should neighboring townships adopt their own room taxes, the next logical step would be forming a joint municipal commission to oversee the shared funding.

Published on 09/23/2026 under News Mental health and substance use disorders affect every community, family, and age group. A gathering in Rhinelander this evening aims to break the stigma and celebrate recovery. Community partners in Oneida County are hosting "Light Up the Night for Recovery" as part of National Recovery Month this September, serving as a reminder that recovery is possible for everyone. Because support is a vital piece of the recovery journey, the family-friendly event will feature a community resource fair, games, refreshments, and a space for story-sharing. Attendees will have the opportunity to celebrate recovery, honor those lost, and connect with peer support networks. Jenny Chiamulera, Oneida County Community Health Specialist and event co-organizer says, "Recovery looks different for everyone, but no one should have to walk the journey alone. Light Up the Night for Recovery brings our community together to celebrate hope, share stories, and remind people that support is available." Light Up the Night for Recovery takes place tonight at Hodag Park in Rhinelander from 4:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Published on 09/23/2026 under News More than 1,300 Oneida County residents are currently living with dementia—and over the weekend, many of those individuals, their families, and local supporters came together to walk for a cure. Rhinelander hosted its annual Walk to End Alzheimer's at the Hodag Dome on Saturday morning. According to event organizers, nearly 400 walkers participated, helping to raise more than $200,000. That fundraising total is expected to grow, as organizers will continue accepting donations through the end of the year. Dave Grams, Executive Director of the Alzheimer's Association Wisconsin Chapter, called the turnout "nothing short of extraordinary." He says, "To see so many people come together, each with their own story and their own reason to walk, was incredibly moving." In addition to funding critical research, the proceeds directly support local families by providing access to education, community resources, and support services.

Published on 09/23/2026 under News Leaves are beginning to change across the Northwoods, and Wisconsin's tourism arm is making it easier to time your leaf-viewing trips. Coinciding with the arrival of autumn, Travel Wisconsin has launched its annual Fall Color Report. The interactive online map tracks real-time color progression across all 72 counties, fueled by localized updates from roughly 100 volunteer reporters statewide. In addition to color percentages, the site highlights nearby amenities, regional attractions, designated "selfie stations," and popular viewing destinations (like nearby Timm's Hill, the highest point in Wisconsin). Visitors can also view photos, videos, and aerial drone footage from around the state. "Fall is spectacular but short, and there's not a moment to miss," said Tourism Secretary Anne Sayers. "The Fall Color Report takes the guesswork out of planning a trip. Visitors know where to go, what to expect, and how to make the most of their time when they get there." A combination of factors influences the timing and intensity of autumn foliage, including tree health, daylight hours, soil moisture, and seasonal temperatures. Most of the Northwoods is currently reporting 10% to 25% color change, with peak vibrancy expected during the first full week of October. The Fall Color Report is available on the Travel Wisconsin website, where travelers can also sign up for email updates.

Published on 09/23/2026 under News Law enforcement agencies and school bus operators across the state are joining forces this week to advocate for student safety at bus stops. The annual "Operation Safe Stop" campaign, a joint effort between the Wisconsin State Patrol and the Wisconsin School Bus Association, combines public education with targeted enforcement to remind motorists about the dangers and laws surrounding stopped school buses. "Every time a driver fails to stop for a school bus, children are put at serious risk of a tragic outcome that no family should have to experience," said State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan. Under Wisconsin law, drivers approaching from either direction must stop at least 20 feet away from a school bus with its red warning lights flashing. The only exception is on a divided highway separated by a physical barrier, such as a median. According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, officers issued more than 1,300 citations for passing stopped buses last year, with fines starting at $676. In preparation for this week's effort, school bus drivers and local officials identified specific bus routes and stops that frequently experience illegal passing, allowing officers to focus extra patrol efforts on those high-risk areas.

Published on 09/23/2026 under News A 51-year-old Wausau man arrested over Fall Ride weekend for operating a motorcycle while intoxicated made his initial court appearance Tuesday in Lincoln County Circuit Court. Ryan Plisch faces a felony charge of 8th-offense OWI, along with misdemeanor charges of operating while revoked, tampering with or failing to install an Ignition Interlock Device, and bail jumping. During the hearing, the court set a $5,000 bond with conditions requiring absolute sobriety. Plisch must also be equipped with a Sobrietor monitoring device prior to any release from custody. The arrest occurred shortly after 1:00 p.m. Sunday when a Wisconsin State Patrol trooper initiated a traffic stop for speeding on Highway 86 near County Highway T, west of Tomahawk. The trooper observed signs of impairment during the stop and subsequently placed Plisch under arrest.

Published on 09/22/2026 under Sports Tomahawk's volleyball squad would showcase their scrappy selves, but came up short in a sweep to Antigo, 26-24, 28-26, 25-13. The Hatchets would go back and forth on points in sets one and two, but came up short both times. In set three, Antigo turned on the hard-hitting serves and would come away with timely kills and aces to put the match in their grasp. Lexi Palmer finished with a game-high 17 assists. Lauren Reibe finished with eight kills and four aces. The loss drops Tomahawk to 4-15 on the season and 0-4 in GNC Play. The Hatchets are back on the court Thursday for two more matches at the Hatchet House. Tomahawk will square off with Newman Catholic and Wittenberg-Birnamwood. Matches begin at 5:00.

Published on 09/22/2026 under News For many Lincoln County residents, the Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) provides invaluable support, from nutritional assistance to navigating complex senior care options. As the local population continues to age, these services are becoming more essential than ever. Unlike most county-based ADRC offices, the ADRC of Central Wisconsin operates as a regional partnership serving Lincoln, Langlade, Marathon, and Wood Counties. During last week's meeting, the Lincoln County Board received an annual update from Executive Director Michael Rhea detailing the organization's regional impact. The ADRC's most visible initiative remains its nutrition program. Between home-delivered Meals on Wheels and congregational dining sites, the organization serves hundreds of meals in Lincoln County each week—and provided more than 170,000 meals across its four-county service area over the past year. Maintaining that reach has come with financial hurdles. Rhea noted that the ADRC continues to navigate rising food costs while operating on a relatively flat budget. These economic pressures have led to operational adjustments, including a reduction in the total number of meals delivered. To help offset budget deficits, the organization established a fund with the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin to encourage private donations. Volunteer support remains critical to keeping costs down. Approximately 384 volunteers contributed more than 26,000 hours of service over the past year—a contribution valued at roughly $855,000. Beyond nutrition, the "Resource" aspect of the ADRC remains a vital lifeline. Staff members help residents navigate public benefits, healthcare coverage, transportation assistance, and home care options. Ultimately, these efforts share a single focus: helping local seniors "age in place" and remain safely in their own homes for as long as possible.

Published on 09/22/2026 under News The School District of Rhinelander recently celebrated a major community investment in its students and the region's future workforce. On Monday afternoon, community members, district staff, and local leaders gathered for an official ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the completion of a major capital improvement project. The highlights include a cutting-edge technical education area outfitted with new fabrication, welding, woodworking, and machining labs. District leaders say these state-of-the-art upgrades are designed to provide students with hands-on training to jump-start careers with local manufacturers and trade employers. "When our students walk into these spaces, we want them to see possibility," said Superintendent Eric Burke. "We want them to know that our community believes in them and is willing to invest in their success." The enhancements at Rhinelander High School are part of a broader $26 million capital improvement project approved by voters in April 2024, which includes investments at both the high school and James Williams Middle School. Following the ceremony, attendees toured the new facilities to see the community's investment in action firsthand.

Published on 09/22/2026 under News The Lincoln County Health Department is inviting new parents, grandparents, and caregivers to mark their calendars for its upcoming Community Baby Shower. Now in its fourth year, the free outreach event next month serves as a one-stop shop for local families looking for resources, support, and essential guidance on topics like safe sleep practices, car seat safety, and regional childcare options. The event features a variety of informational booths and community partner organizations, with new vendors joining each year to expand services for parent and child well-being. After holding its spring event in Tomahawk, the health department is bringing the shower back to Merrill at a new venue: the Merrill Enrichment and Expo Center. Local agencies, organizations, and groups interested in hosting a vendor booth still have a brief window to get involved. Event organizer Allie Renzelmann noted that a few spots remain open, with a registration deadline of Wednesday, September 23. Additional details and reminders will be released as the October 7 event approaches.

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