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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

DPI Releases General School Aid Estimates; Tomahawk Sees Drop

Published on 07/07/2026 under News School may be out for summer, but budget season is picking up for local school boards. The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) has released its first look at next year's general school aid estimates. While total funding is relatively flat statewide, some individual districts are seeing significant shifts. That includes the Tomahawk School District, which is projected to receive fewer general aid dollars from the state. The DPI estimates Tomahawk will receive just under $1.3 million ($1,280,990) for the 2026–2027 school year. This marks a decrease of more than $226,000 ($226,057), a roughly 15% drop from last year. However, this drop is neither unusual nor unexpected for local school officials. General state aid for Tomahawk has been trending downward for more than a decade; just two years ago, the district received over $2 million in general aid. While state general aid is designed to help offset local property taxes, several districts in the Northwoods are often categorized as "property-tax rich". Under Wisconsin's current equalization aid formula, these districts receive fewer state aid dollars. These summer numbers are only preliminary estimates to help districts build their initial budgets. The state will certify the final, official funding numbers in mid-October. General aid does not include other critical state funding streams, such as per-pupil, sparsity, and transportation aid.

Published on 07/07/2026 under News A Merrill man faces multiple charges after allegedly firing a nail gun at bystanders and vehicles at a Lincoln County resort last week. The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office responded to a disturbance at the Rock Island Resort in the Town of Merrill on Tuesday, June 30. Witnesses told deputies the subject, Daniel Zulliger, had become disorderly while out on a boat with a group and pushed someone overboard. After being brought back to the resort dock, Zulliger allegedly escalated the disruption by firing nails at nearby people and cars. Upon arrival, deputies located Zulliger sitting inside his truck. Authorities say he refused repeated commands to exit the vehicle and actively resisted arrest before being taken into custody. Zulliger was booked into the Lincoln County Jail on tentative charges including: endangering safety by use of a dangerous weapon, battery, resisting or obstructing an officer, and disorderly conduct

Published on 07/07/2026 under News From curious critters and scenic landscapes to family fun and outdoor recreation, Council Grounds State Park is the perfect place to snap a memorable photo. Now, the Friends of Council Grounds is asking parkgoers to share their best shots. The volunteer group has launched its annual summer photo contest, a beloved local tradition that has run for over a decade. The rules remain the same as in previous years, with amateur photographers encouraged to submit entries across four distinct categories: plants, wildlife, landscapes, and people enjoying the park. To keep the submissions relatively fresh, organizers are accepting photos taken during both this year and last year. The Friends group will narrow each category down to three finalists, and the public will get to vote online to select the ultimate winners later this summer. The entry window opened on July 1 and runs through July 31. Organizers note they have already received some fantastic early submissions. Complete contest rules, entry forms, and a few helpful photography tips are available on the Friends of Council Grounds Facebook page.

Published on 07/07/2026 under News Voters will get a look at the crowded field of Republican candidates vying for Wisconsin's open 7th Congressional District seat as the contenders face off in their first major televised debate tonight. Four Republican candidates have confirmed their participation: Michael Alfonso, Jessi Ebben, Kevin Hermening, and Niina Baum. The 7th Congressional District is the largest in the state by land area, spanning across the Northwoods and northwestern counties. It is an open seat this year because incumbent Republican Congressman Tom Tiffany is vacating the position to run for governor rather than seeking reelection. While the sprawling district was once a reliable Democratic stronghold for decades, Republicans have successfully held the seat since 2011. Tonight's debate, hosted by WJFW Newswatch 12, will air live at 5:00 p.m. on television and stream on the station's website. They will host a separate debate for the Democratic primary candidates next Tuesday, July 14, with both events moderated by anchor Dan Hagen. Wisconsin's partisan primary election is scheduled for August 11, which will determine the final nominees heading into the November general election.

Published on 07/07/2026 under News A Lincoln County judge has ruled that there is enough evidence for a criminal case to proceed against a Wausau man accused of leading deputies on a high-speed pursuit this spring. Nicholas Langston was back in court Monday for a preliminary hearing and arraignment. According to court records, the judge found probable cause to bind the case over for trial. Langston subsequently entered a plea of not guilty. He faces more than a dozen charges, including fleeing an officer and second-degree recklessly endangering safety. The charges stem from an incident in late May when the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office attempted to initiate a traffic stop on Langston's vehicle along Highway 51 near Tomahawk. According to investigators, Langston fled north, reaching speeds of up to 130 mph before the pursuing deputy ended the chase due to safety concerns. Langston was located and arrested a short time later. Future court dates have not yet been scheduled.

Published on 07/06/2026 under News Another successful Powwow Days celebration in Tomahawk is in the books, featuring a full day of activities ranging from record-setting race numbers to an exciting fireworks show. Here are a few final notes from event organizers to put a bow on the Fourth of July festivities. Record-Breaking Race Turnout: Starting with the Powwow Days 5K, 10K, and Fun Run—the event continues to grow in popularity. In fact, organizers say they saw a record 738 racers take part this year. Parade Highlights and Winners: As for the parade, the big highlight was the F-35 flyover. While the jet was a bit delayed, it was well worth the wait as it roared up Main Street to the excitement of everyone in attendance. While there were many fantastic entries this year, a few stood out to the judges' panel. In all, nine winners were named across four categories—many of whom are frequent guests right here on WJJQ.Organizations: Hope Beyond 21 took the top spot. We've been following their new organizational efforts to support families of children with Down syndrome. Runners-up included the Summer Knights Car Club and Tomahawk Kinship.Merchants: Tomahawk Main Street took first place, followed by Hometown Christmas and LP.Youth Groups: First place went to the Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo, followed by the Cub Scouts.Clowns and Other: The Will Garske Group took home the top prize. Lions Club Raffle: Additionally, the Tomahawk Lions Club held its annual Powwow Days raffle, handing out more than $6,000 in cash payouts. The top prize winners included Sandy Theis ($1,500), Kevin Imm ($1,000), and Mike Kahle ($750). (Other winners include: Ken Schulz-$500; Marion Peil-$250; Kelly Nelson-$200; Suzy Skees-$200; Mike and Steve Rozinski-$200; Sue Buchannan-$200; Bob and Pam Barnetzke-$200; Chris Theiler-$200; Monica Busterud-$200; Kelly Nelson-$200; Connie Norgren-$200; Mike Volkers-$200; Pam Leist-$100; Tom Loka-$100; Al Berghammer-$100) On behalf of everyone here at WJJQ, a special thank you goes out to all of the organizers, businesses, volunteers, and community members who came out to Tomahawk over the weekend to make it a holiday to remember.

Published on 07/06/2026 under News A lake home in the Town of Merrill was destroyed by fire over the holiday weekend. The Merrill Fire Department was dispatched Sunday at just before 3:45 p.m. to a home on Ackerman Road with the fire spreading into the nearby woods. When crews arrived on the scene, they found heavy fire and smoke coming from the home, along with a brush fire burning along the roadside. Firefighters quickly contained the brush fire to prevent it from spreading, but hot, humid conditions and the home's location created additional challenges. An excavator to help extinguish the remaining hot spots. No one was home when the fire started, and no injuries were reported. The home was declared a total loss. While a cause wasn't immediately determined, officials say the fire appears to have been accidental. Mutual aid was provided by several area fire departments, including Tomahawk, Pine River, Corning, Russell, Riverside, Little Rice and the Wisconsin DNR, along with multiple EMS agencies and other local responders.

Published on 07/06/2026 under News While many Fourth of July celebrations ended with fireworks, the pyrotechnics also kept Northwoods firefighters busy. The Pine Lake Fire Department answered two back-to-back calls Friday night. The first came in around 11 p.m. on Nature Road, where a firework had ignited the base of a tree. Bystanders managed to extinguish the flames with a garden hose before firefighters arrived. Crews then used a thermal imaging camera to ensure the fire was completely out before clearing the scene. Shortly after firefighters returned to the station they were dispatched again, this time to the Town of Pelican to assist with a boat fire on Lake George. Officials say the boat caught fire while anchored offshore after being used to launch fireworks. By the time crews arrived, the fire had burned through the anchor line, causing the boat to drift away. Firefighters used rescue boats, as well as a neighbor's pontoon, to reach the burning vessel, put out the fire, and tow it back to shore. Crews remained on the scene for about two hours. These incidents serve as a timely reminder to properly dispose of used fireworks and keep a close watch for any smoldering debris after holiday celebrations.

Published on 07/06/2026 under News Patients in the Tomahawk area will have easier access to advanced diagnostic imaging with the addition of weekly mobile MRI services at Aspirus Tomahawk Hospital. Beginning this month, the mobile MRI unit will be available every Thursday from 12:30 to 4:15 p.m., allowing patients to receive scans closer to home rather than traveling to other communities. MRI, or Magnetic Resonance Imaging, uses powerful magnets and radio waves to produce detailed images of organs, tissues and other structures inside the body. The technology helps physicians diagnose a wide range of conditions without exposing patients to radiation. Regional Director of Imaging Services Rick Mai says offering MRI services locally will make it more convenient for patients while helping providers diagnose and treat medical conditions more quickly. The mobile unit is part of a coordinated schedule serving Aspirus hospitals across northern Wisconsin. The mobile MRI availability is shared by Aspirus Tomahawk and Eagle River Hospitals, as well as Howard Young Medical Center.

Published on 07/06/2026 under News A community effort to explore bringing a YMCA to the Lakeland area has cleared an important first hurdle. Organizers say the Together for Tomorrow fundraiser, held June 13, raised more than $100,000 dedicated to funding a feasibility study for a potential YMCA. The fundraiser was a partnership between the YMCA of the Northwoods, Lakeland Fitness and Golf, and Lakeland Generations. YMCA of the Northwoods CEO Linda May says the strong community support reflects a shared commitment to expanding opportunities for youth development, health and wellness, and family programs throughout the region. The feasibility study will examine community needs, possible locations, and the long-term viability of a YMCA in the Lakeland area. Organizers say the findings will help determine the next steps in the planning process.

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