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Rhinelander Library Brings Back Valentines for Seniors Project Published on 01/24/2023 under News

Last year the Rhinelander District Library worked with community members to create Valentines for seniors in the community.

This year, they're looking to build on that success. Library director Virginia Roberts recently announced the return of their Senior Valentine effort. She says, "Let's make sure no senior feels forgotten on Valentine's Day."

Last year Roberts says they were able to collect more than 700 valentines which were then distributed to seniors either at their homes or living in assisted living facilities.

This year they're planning a similar effort and invited the public to get involved. Participants can either create cards at home on their own, or the library will be hosting several open craft days, the first of which will be held on Thursday at 3:30pm. The remaining dates and times include: Wednesday February 1st from 10am-12pm and Friday, February 10th from 3pm to 4:30pm.

For more information, please call the Cathy Oelrich – Adult Services Manager at the Rhinelander District Library, 715-365-1070.

In Other News

Keep Wildlife Wild Campaign to Keep Newborn Animals Safe

Published on 04/23/2026 under News Spring is upon us and wildlife officials are offering their yearly reminder to leave animals and their newborns alone. It's part of the annual Keep Wildlife Wild campaign. All too often a well-meaning person will come across a fledgling bird, baby rabbit or newborn fawn. While the animal may appear abandoned, the DNR says more likely than not, the mother is nearby or will return soon. DNR officials say young animals are often left unattended for long stretches while parents search for food, and human interference can do more harm than good. Using the example of a fawn, they explained that natural behavior is to keep still and quiet. This keeps them safe from predators while their mothers forage for food. Drawing attention to a fawn's location can tip-off predators and also keep the mother away longer than expected. If you do come across a young animal that appears sick or you feel may be truly abandoned, they instead recommend taking a picture, video and some notes. Share that information with the DNR or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. They'll be able to provide further guidance based on the information your provide.

Published on 04/23/2026 under News Another day and another warning about fire danger in Wisconsin. Officials are again urging caution with wildfire risk remaining elevated across the entire state. On Wednesday, the DNR issued a redflag warning for Washburn and Burnett Counties in northwestern Wisconsin, while most of the Northwoods was listed in either High or Very High fire danger. The DNR responded to nearly 70 wildfires in the last week. The DNR is at full staffing and preparedness across the state to respond to any incidents. Debris burning remains the leading cause of these fires. Campfires, ashes from fireplaces, outdoor grills, smoking, chainsaws, off-road vehicles or other small engines with hot exhaust systems have the potential to throw a spark. The DNR is asking the public to be especially careful with any activities that could potentially lead to a wildland fire and check any recent fires to make sure they have been properly extinguished. Elevated fire conditions are expected to continue Thursday, though there is some rain in the forecast tonight.

Published on 04/23/2026 under News As spring cleaning gets underway, health experts are reminding residents not to overlook one important spot...the medicine cabinet. With Drug Take Back Day set for Saturday, officials with Aspirus say it's a good time to safely dispose of unused or expired medications. Over time, prescriptions and over-the-counter products can build up in homes, increasing the risk of accidental use or misuse. Marisa Harley, a pharmacy resident with Aspirus says expired medications may be less effective and, in some cases, unsafe. Beyond prescriptions, check items like vitamins, supplements, creams, and eye drops, which are often overlooked. When it comes to disposal, officials stress that medications should not be thrown in the trash or flushed, as that can pose safety and environmental risks. Instead, they recommend using designated drop-off locations. Health officials say taking a few minutes to clean out your medicine cabinet can help keep your home and community safer. We'll have a bit more on Drug Take Back Day on the Friday Morning Sunrise Show.

Published on 04/23/2026 under News Another Northwoods lawmaker is seeking re-election to Madison. State Representative Rob Swearingen (R–Rhinelander) announced Wednesday that he is running for an eighth two-year term in the Wisconsin State Assembly. Swearingen pointed to his record of supporting economic growth and advocating for the priorities of the 34th Assembly District which included most of Oneida and Vilas Counties. He highlighted efforts related to PFAs, broadband access, and strengthening tourism. In the announcement Swearingen called representing the 34th district an honor. He added, "While other districts have seen significant changes, our district has remained consistent. I look forward to earning the opportunity to continue serving the people of northern Wisconsin." "I'm grateful for the continued support I've received from people across the district as I seek another term." That election will take place in November.

Published on 04/23/2026 under News Tomahawk's golf squad came away with a top-five finish in their first major invite of the season at Barron Wednesday, placing fourth out of 14 teams. The Hatchets finished with a team score 336, placing behind Ladysmith, Hayward, and Amery. The Top Hatchet golfer was Oliver Childers, who shot an 80. Hudson Seymour and Jordyn Carew each shot an 84 and Rocco Carew finished with an 88. The first Great Northern Conference Meet for the Hatchets is Friday afternoon in Merrill. Tee-off is at 2:00.

Published on 04/22/2026 under News The Tomahawk City Council held their first regular meeting post-election. While outgoing mayor Steve Taskay gaveled in the meeting, one of the first agenda items was the oaths of office for winning candidates. That includes new Mayor Michael 'Hob' Habeck who will take over for Taskay after leading the city over the past decade. The swearing in ceremony also include five city council members Pat Haskin, Don Nelson, Steve 'Ding' Bartz, Bob Soward, and Tadd Wegener. Bartz and Soward are both incumbents who won via write-in after no other candidates filed paperwork. Nelson and Wegener are both former alderman returning to the office. After the oaths of office, the council members unanimously re-elected Jeff Kahle as council president. He was the lone nomination. As part of the re-organizational meeting, the Council also approved Mayor Habeck's committee recommendations as presented. It was an otherwise routine meeting. The Council approved several special event applications for returning celebrations. The council approved a previous recommendation to fund the replacement of two police squads. A borrowing resolution is part of the planned Nelson Lane Utility Project. The city is applying for a match grant from the DNR, and the borrowing would cover the city's portion of $350,000. If the city is not selected for the grant, the borrowing would be canceled and the project delayed. The city went through a similar process last year. The Council also approved a resolution for the Fire Department to participate in the State's Public Safety Interoperable Communication System which will help in inter-agency communications via department radio systems.

Published on 04/22/2026 under News In the days following Friday's tornado, support continues to pour in for those impacted in the Ringle area. The Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin says more than 120-thousand dollars has already been donated to its Emergency Relief Fund. They're working closely with local partners and a community advisory group to make sure funds reach those who need them most both now and in the weeks ahead. This includes immediate needs like clean-up, but also longer-term support like mental health services and help for families facing delays with insurance claims. Tim Parker, President and CEO says, "We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of generosity. This is a powerful reflection of how deeply people care about their neighbors and their community." Officials stress that 100 percent of donations are going directly to relief efforts. The Foundation says updates will continue as recovery efforts move forward.

Published on 04/22/2026 under News In a bit of "beak-ing" news, Wisconsin Public Service has launched this year's peregrine falcon naming contest. This year people can vote on names inspired by familiar faces from local TV newsrooms. The peregrine falcon chicks hatching at the Weston Power Plant will receive bird-themed takes on local anchors from Channels 7, 9, and, 12. Just a few of the options include Egg-nes Kozina, Jeff Talon, and Bird Miller. The chicks in other WPS/We Energies nesting boxes around the state will get similar names representing their local broadcast markets as well. Voting is open through May 5 on the WPS website, where fans can also keep an eye on the nest box cams for signs of hatching eggs. Once the chicks hatch, they'll be named and banded before eventually leaving the nest. Over the years, more than 460 of the once-endangered peregrine falcons have hatched at the WPS and WE Energies facilities. Each year has naming themes with recent examples include Wisconsin Olympians, the Founding Fathers, and Wisconsin College mascots. WSAW Newschannel 7 anchors Birdie Davies in honor of Emily DaviesFalcon Taylor in honor of Erinn TaylorBen Helwegg in honor of Ben HelwigKassandra Skypeda in honor of Kassandra SepedaJeff Talon in honor of Jeff ThelenSpencer Soarman in honor of Spencer FurmanDale Flyman in honor of Dale RymanFlock Holley in honor of Mark Holley News 9 WAOW anchors Kyle Prey-zorski in honor of Kyle PozorskiBird Miller in honor of Brad MillerJustin Flown in honor of Justin LoewFalcon Garlock in honor of Jackson GarlockKeegan Flewitt in honor of Keegan Hewitt WJFW Newswatch 12 anchors Divin' Biggs in honor of Devin BiggsIan Airris in honor of Ian FarrisDrew Eggshelli in honor of Drew CelliDan Hatchin' in honor of Dan HagenFlock Force in honor of Jake ForceGeoff Feather in honor of Geoff WellerMichael Flownholz in honor of Michael LodholzEggnes Kozina in honor of Agnes Kozina

Published on 04/22/2026 under News While people will be going green for Earth Day, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation is recognizing Go Orange Day, which highlights work zone safety at the start of a busy construction season. The annual event, on the fourth Wednesday of April, encourages people to wear orange in support of the men and women who work on roads and bridges across the state. Transportation officials say the day also serves as a reminder for drivers to slow down and stay alert in work zones. Speeding, tailgating, and distracted driving remain the leading causes of crashes in construction areas. They note that simple actions like putting the phone down and giving crews extra space can help keep both workers and drivers safe during the 2026 construction season. WisDOT is encouraging residents to take part by wearing orange and sharing photos on social media to spread awareness.

Published on 04/22/2026 under News Earth Day has special meaning here in Wisconsin. Former Governor and Senator Gaylord Nelson was instrumental in creating the worldwide movement. People are encouraged to use the day as inspiration to protect the planet all year long. Simple actions around the home can make a difference. The DNR offered up a few tips for people looking to reduce their environmental footprint with a few changes around the home. It can be as simple as reducing food waste by shopping smarter, composting, and recycle. Check for leaks around the home to conserve water. And around your property, focus on native plants and trees while leaving a natural space to improve habitat for wildlife including pollinators. And throughout the month of April the DNR and the 'Friends' groups who volunteer at state park properties will be hosting Work, Play, Earth Day opportunities for chores and upkeep like raking, litter clean-up invasive plant removal, and installing benches and picnic tables.

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