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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

Snow Plow Driver Appreciation Day

Published on 12/02/2025 under News Perfect timing after a pair of winter storms the past week dumped snow across most of the state. Monday was dedicated to those who keep our roads snow-free throughout the winter. It was Snowplow Driver Appreciation Day in Wisconsin on Monday. DoT secretary Kristina Boardman called snowplow drivers and their support staff the unsung heroes of winter. For more than 100 years, Wisconsin has maintained a unique partnership with the state's 72 county highway departments. During the winter, county highway workers keep interstate, U.S. and state highways safe by snow plowing as well as treatments such as salting and liquid brine. On a day dedicated to appreciation, officials also encourage motorists to use caution and courtesy when driving near a working snow plow. Motorists should maintain at least 200 feet behind a working snowplow. A good rule of thumb, make sure you can see the plow's mirrors to ensure the driver can see you. Use caution if passing a snowplow and remember the road conditions will likely be worse in front. The state is making it easier to spot road maintenance vehicles which utilize flashing green warning lights meant to increase safety, enhance driver awareness and improve visibility. Following a snow event monitor road conditions. If your trip isn't urgent consider delaying your travel until plows have been out.

Published on 12/02/2025 under News A Thanksgiving Day crash in Lincoln County left a vehicle partially submerged in an area river. According to the Lincoln County Sheriff's Report, that crash happened on Thursday along Prairie Forks Dr in the Town of Russell. The driver, a 51 year old Gleason man, told deputies he was traveling south when he lost control of the vehicle on a slippery stretch of road. It appears the vehicle struck a bridge embankment, rolled, and came to rest in the Prairie River. The driver was able to exit the vehicle through a back door prior to the cab filling with water. The man reported minor injuries but declined medical transport. The vehicle was removed from the river by Rod's wrecker.

Published on 12/02/2025 under News A Tomahawk man arrested in connection with a series of threats made to a local grocer has been formally charged. According to court records, Nicholas Wolf made his initial appearance in Lincoln County Court on Monday. The 26 year old is facing 4 felony charges, two counts each of bomb scares and making terrorist threats. Wolf was arrested early last week after Tomahawk Police investigated multiple threats called in to the Trig's grocery store in Tomahawk. At the time, they said it was part of a multi-jurisdictional investigation and that there was no threat to the community. According to court records, at Monday's initial appearance, Judge Galen Bayne-Allison set bond at $10,000. As a condition of the bond, Wolf is not allowed contact with any Trig's location and he may not have access to any electronic device with the exception of a phone for emergencies only. Wolf is due back in court again for an adjourned initial appearance on December 22.

Published on 12/02/2025 under News Lincoln County has trails of all types, no matter your interest, and that's the focus of another new video short. Over the past two years, Lincoln County has had an ongoing partnership with Discover MediaWorks and their various programming. This past week, they released another video segment focused on Lincoln County, and specifically the trail networks. It's titled 'Off the Beaten Path' and in three short minutes focuses on some of the different recreation opportunities available. This includes the Harrison Hills for their ATV/UTV trails, the Ice Age Trail for hiking, and the Underdown Trails for mountain biking and cross country skiing. And perhaps the most natural of all trails on the water with the Wisconsin River. The narrator notes the area is perfect for a quick day trip or a weekend escape. The video segment is available on Discover Wisconsin's Youtube channel and cross-promoted on their various social media accounts. This is part of a growing catalog of segments and features on Lincoln County. As we reported earlier this month, a Uniquely Wisconsin segment focused on a sled dogs in Gleason won a Regional Emmy Award. There have actually been a number of Northwoods-themed episodes in recent weeks including Vilas County snowmobiling, a Northwoods UTV loop through St. Germain, Arbor Vitae, and Woodruff, and a Rhinelander-themed episode of their podcast The Cabin.

Published on 12/02/2025 under News After a weekend of holiday shopping; today is set aside for giving back. Giving Tuesday has become a national movement encouraging people to donate to non profits. Those looking to donate are encouraged to a do a little research, and not to forget local organizations. Groups including the Better Business Bureau and State Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection offered warnings about scammers taking advantage. As usual, they recommend avoid pressure tactics, ask questions, and skip any unusual payment requests. When in doubt, think local, as there are a number of familiar groups and organizations in every community that are able to fulfill their missions thanks to community generosity. That includes: food pantries, animal rescues, youth programs, and temporary shelters. And if money is tight at this time of year, get creative. Consider donating food, blood, winter clothing items, toys, or even your own time by volunteering at an organization that interests you.

Published on 12/01/2025 under News With the calendar turned to December, the holiday season is in full swing. That includes an impressive light display in Rhinelander that switches on this evening. Now entering year number nine, Lights of the Northwoods continues to grow each year. It now features more than a million lights and festive displays along a path through Hodag Park. Over the past few weeks, organizers have been putting the final touches on the festive Christmas light tour which begins Monday evening. Attendees have two options, a slow drive through the park, or if the weather allows, a walking tour. While entrance is free, organizers invite revelers to give back to the community and help area non-profits. Last year they collected thousands of dollars for local community organizations, and thousands of pounds of food were distributed to area food pantries. When Lights of the Northwoods began, nearly a decade ago, it was centered in and around the week of Christmas. Due to popularity, they now welcome visitors throughout the month of December. While the lights are nightly, organizers have special activities on weekends including bonfires, visits from Santa, and snacks and cold weather refreshments. Like year's past, they'll also wrap up Lights of the Northwoods with a January 1 fireworks display. The full calendar is available on the Lights of the Northwoods website.

Published on 12/01/2025 under News A storage building was destroyed in a fire in Lincoln County over the weekend. According to the Pine River Fire Department, crews were called to a structure fire on County G in the Town of Pine River on Saturday afternoon. The initial call reported a steel-framed outbuilding on fire. The report indicated there was an automobile in the building along with other fuel sources including diesel, oil, tires, and landscaping materials. Outside the building was a large propane tank. Mother Nature may have helped the firefighters...they indicated the strong winds pushed the fire away from the propane tank and a nearby home. In the end, the building was considered a total loss. No injuries were reported to humans or animals. Several neighboring agencies provided mutual aid and crew were on the scene for several hours. The fire is believed to have been caused by an improperly installed wood furnace.

Published on 12/01/2025 under News After Black Friday and Shop Small Saturday, today marks the third in a holiday shopping trio...Cyber Monday. Officials are reminding online consumers to shop safe and shop smart. Over the years, more and more consumers have shifted to online shopping for at least a portion of their holiday purchases. The experts says a little bit of extra research can held avoid these Grinches and their holiday scams. First make sure your browser and anti-virus software is up-to-date.Watch for misleading advertisements, lookalike websites, and untrustworthy sellers.Be wary of unsolicited offers and those that appear 'too good to be true.'Before clicking 'buy' double check shipping and return policies and read all fine print.Finally, keep a paper trail and monitor your bank and credit card statements throughout the holiday season.

Published on 12/01/2025 under News Across their 1.5 million acres, the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest has no shortage of trees including some that would be perfect for Christmas. For those looking for their holiday centerpiece, forest officials have once again made their annual Christmas tree permits available for the public. It may be a little extra work, it can be a fun and festive family activity. While the trees in the forest are not professionally trimmed or groomed, many enjoy them for their natural appearance. Officials note that cutting a Christmas tree also improves forest health by helping thin densely populated stands of small-diameter trees. Removing these trees in designated areas helps other trees grow larger and can open areas that provide forage for wildlife. Some trees are off-limits such as those adjacent to campgrounds and trails. The permits are just $5, available on both the forest website. The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest also participates in the Every Kid Outdoors initiative which allows fourth grade students a free Christmas tree permit.-Photo provided by the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest

Published on 12/01/2025 under News Patrons typically take items from their local library. But here in Tomahawk, they're asking people to leave something behind...a non perishable food item. The Tomahawk Public Library kicked off a food drive to help support local food pantries serving the Tomahawk community. Throughout the month of December, people can drop off non-perishable food items when they visit the library. The goal is to offer a helping hand to those in need. It comes at a time when more people are facing food insecurity, especially ahead of the holiday season. The Tomahawk Public Library food drive is currently scheduled to run through December 20.

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