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January is Radon Action Month Published on 01/25/2023 under News

January is Radon Action Month, and local health departments are encouraging residents to check their home levels every few years.

Radon is a colorless and odorless gas found naturally in soil and rock. It can enter homes through cracks in the foundation or gaps around pipes. The Lincoln County Health Department says radon is actually the second leading cause of lung cancer behind smoking. It occurs in as many as 1 in 10 Wisconsin homes.

There are areas of the state that are more susceptible including a pocket in North Central Wisconsin. Lincoln County environmental health specialist Michael Mandli says, "Since we live in a region with naturally high levels of radon, everyone should test their home." He added that the only way to know if a home has unsafe radon levels is testing.

Officials suggest winter is the best time to test for radon because homes are better sealed. With doors and windows closed up, it provides a more accurate reading of home levels.

A basic test can be purchased for around $20 at most home improvement stores. Both the state and local health departments have additional information if those readings come back elevated for further testing and mitigation solutions.

In Other News

Tomahawk Chamber Unveils Winning Fall Ride Logo Contest Winner

Published on 06/26/2026 under News The Tomahawk Fall Ride is still a few months away, but the milestone event officially has its new look. Earlier this year, the Tomahawk Chamber of Commerce held a logo design contest to celebrate the 45th anniversary of the annual motorcycle rally, which brings tens of thousands of riders to the Northwoods each fall. After considering all of the submissions, the chamber selected the winning entry from John Rogers and Dylan Turpanjian. According to Chamber Executive Director Charis Lau, the winning logo captures the heart of the Fall Ride by highlighting themes of Wisconsin pride, patriotism, Northwoods beauty, and a tradition that has remained "rolling strong" for 45 years. The design is packed with local symbolism. The background features an outline of Wisconsin in green and gold, a nod to the Packers,divided by a red Fall Ride ribbon representing the Badgers. The southern half of the state includes an American flag, while the northern half showcases Northwoods trees and a soaring eagle. Right in the center is a motorcycle wheel, which the artists say symbolizes the enduring legacy of the event. Rogers and Turpanjian drew inspiration for the piece after participating in past Fall Ride events, including last year's Thunder Parade. They wrote in the submission, "The genuine sense of community and the good-old-days is present everywhere in Tomahawk from the very personable WJJQ DJs broadcasting local happenings to the welcoming Chamber representatives and small business owners all over town and throughout the surrounding hamlets of the Northwoods." In its announcement, the Chamber stated that the enthusiastic response to the contest showcased the creativity and passion that have helped make the Fall Ride a beloved Northwoods tradition for generations. The new logo will be featured on everything from event signage to commemorative merchandise this September.

Published on 06/26/2026 under News Summer is officially ice cream season, and a new limited-edition flavor dreamed up by local kids is starting to roll out across the state. Each year, Wisconsin-based Cedar Crest Ice Cream partners with the Wisconsin 4-H Foundation to host a flavor creation contest. The competition challenges 4-H clubs from all over Wisconsin to come up with a unique theme and flavor profile. The winning entry is then manufactured by Cedar Crest and sold throughout July to celebrate National Ice Cream Month. This year's winning flavor was created by the Pesobic Pathfinders 4-H Club out of Merrill. Remarkably, this marks the second time in three years that the local club has won the statewide contest. Their creation, "Hold Your Horses," features espresso-flavored ice cream packed with chocolate-covered toffee pieces and a rich caramel ribbon. "Hold Your Horses" is beginning to arrive at ice cream parlors and scoop shops around the state. The Windmill Ice Cream Shoppe in Nokomis teased the arrival of the new flavor in its latest shipment. They typically post their daily ice cream selections on Facebook, so locals can keep an eye out for when the new flavor enters the regular rotation. While the winning 4-H flavor is typically a July exclusive, Cedar Crest has been known to make popular winners permanent additions to their lineup. In fact, the Pesobic Pathfinders' previous winning creation, "Paul Bunyan," was so well-received that it is now a permanent Cedar Crest flavor.

Published on 06/26/2026 under News Pollinator Week is wrapping up, but officials hope local efforts will continue and inspire people to take action throughout the year. All week long, we've been highlighting the important role that pollinators play in our everyday lives. Property owners can easily do their part, and getting started may be simpler than it seems. The Department of Natural Resources notes that property owners can attract pollinators and provide crucial habitat with very little effort—simply by leaving a portion of their yard natural. Uncut grass, brush, and woody debris all serve as homes for various pollinating insects. Providing a small, shallow water source can also make a yard much more welcoming. For those with a green thumb, planting a diverse selection of flowers that bloom at different times throughout the summer is highly beneficial. When choosing what to plant, try to focus on native species. Even if you don't have a lot of yard space, officials note that a few potted plants on a porch or patio can still make a meaningful difference. For more tips and step-by-step instructions, the DNR offers comprehensive guides on creating pollinator habitats on its website.

Published on 06/26/2026 under News A man wanted in connection with a Milwaukee homicide has been arrested after being spotted in the Northwoods. On Thursday, the Vilas County Sheriff's Office asked the public for assistance in locating the suspect, Michael Garcia Carroll. According to the initial news release, deputies from Vilas and Oneida counties made contact with Carroll at a gas station in Arbor Vitae earlier that day. Authorities said he initially fled on foot and was able to elude law enforcement. In an update provided Thursday evening, the Sheriff's Office announced that Carroll had been apprehended and is now in custody. No further details regarding the arrest have been released at this time. The Milwaukee Police Department had been seeking Carroll for his alleged connection to a homicide that occurred in the city on June 18.

Published on 06/26/2026 under News Two Northwoods outdoor recreation advocates are being recognized with statewide honors for helping connect people to Wisconsin's great outdoors. The Wisconsin Office of Outdoor Recreation has announced that Tim White of Visit Wausau and Dennis Duke of the Boulder Junction Parks Board are among the recipients of the 2026 Wisconsin Governor's Outdoor Industry Awards. White received the Trailblazer Award for his work bringing together outdoor recreation, tourism, and economic development in the greater Wausau area. Meanwhile, Duke was honored with the Rising Star Award for his volunteer leadership on several local projects. His efforts include the development of an all-inclusive playground, a brand-new 18-hole disc golf course, and the popular Glide outdoor ice-skating ribbon. Notably, the Glide trail won an innovation award during last year's inaugural ceremony. Governor Tony Evers praised the recipients, stating that they are helping ensure Wisconsin remains a premier destination for outdoor recreation while supporting local communities and the state's growing outdoor economy. The awards, now in their second year, recognize the individuals, businesses, destinations, and organizations shaping the future of outdoor recreation across Wisconsin. We'll have a more detailed look at the awards and the recipients next week.

Published on 06/25/2026 under News A summer gathering in Lincoln County this weekend is designed to do more than just provide food and entertainment for local veterans. The Lincoln County Veterans Council will host its Summer Picnic and Family Fair this Sunday. Organizers hope the event will help strengthen local veterans' organizations and connect younger veterans with crucial resources, support, and fellow service members. The event comes at a critical time, as veterans' organizations face declining membership and aging ranks. American Legion Post 46 Commander Jeremy Gunther said local groups are working to adapt and better serve veterans returning to civilian life, particularly those from more recent conflicts. He noted that many younger veterans are currently balancing careers and raising families, making it difficult to participate in traditional organization activities. To bridge this gap, the family-friendly picnic is intended to introduce veterans and their families to available local services in a relaxed, fun setting. Gunther highlighted a few key features of the afternoon, including: • A presentation by Operation Horses Heal, an organization providing equine therapy for veterans. • A visit from the American Legion Riders during their statewide Cruise for a Cause. Gunther emphasized that the event is open to the general public as well as veterans, noting that community support in the Northwoods has always been tremendous. The Lincoln County Veterans Council Summer Picnic and Family Fair is Sunday from 1-5 at the Northwoods Veteran's Post in Merrill. While admission is free, organizers are requesting a $2.50 goodwill donation from non-veterans to help cover event costs, a nod to America's upcoming 250th anniversary celebration. For planning purposes, attendees are asked to RSVP by emailing AmericanLegionMerrill@gmail.com.

Published on 06/25/2026 under News The countdown to the Fourth of July is on, and travel experts are anticipating record-setting holiday travel period. AAA estimates that more than 1.6 million Wisconsinites will travel at least 50 miles from home during the upcoming holiday period, which they've defined as June 27 through July 5. More than 1.4 million of those travelers are expected to drive, making road trips to popular destinations like the Northwoods a top choice. According to AAA, gas prices remain a primary concern for motorists. Wisconsin's average gas price currently sits at $3.74 a gallon, which is about $0.70 per gallon higher than last year. Nick Jarmusz, Director of Public Affairs for AAA, says, "Even with ongoing volatility at the pump, being flexible and planning ahead can help drivers manage fuel costs this Independence Day. Travelers are increasingly looking for ways to manage costs by taking shorter vacations, choosing destinations closer to home, and comparing transportation options. With Northwoods resorts, campgrounds, and lakes expected to be packed, local authorities are encouraging caution on regional roadways and advising travelers to allow extra travel time. With the holiday falling on a Saturday, traffic is expected to build slowly throughout the upcoming week before peaking next Friday. However, the busiest travel day of all might be Sunday, July 5th, as travelers returns home. To beat the holiday traffic regardless of which day you leave, travel experts recommend setting an early alarm clock, as the roads are typically much less crowded during the early morning hours.

Published on 06/25/2026 under News June is National CPR and AED Awareness Month, and the Oneida County Health Department is encouraging residents to learn lifesaving skills that could make a critical difference during an emergency. Health officials note that in a cardiac emergency, every second counts, and immediate CPR can significantly improve a person's chances of survival. Robbie Deede, Community Health Supervisor, Preparedness Coordinator, and Public Health Nurse says, "Understanding the basics of CPR and AED, and being able to perform them in an emergency, is something all Oneida County residents should be able to do. It could save the life of a friend or loved one." The department says learning CPR is a simple way to be prepared to help when it matters most. To help expand training opportunities, the Oneida County Health Department offers a CPR Anywhere® Kit to organizations interested in teaching CPR skills to employees, volunteers, students, or community members. Officials say increasing access to CPR education can help build a safer and more prepared community throughout Oneida County.

Published on 06/25/2026 under News Much like the glaciers that shaped Wisconsin's landscape thousands of years ago, progress on the Ice Age National Scenic Trail can be slow and steady. But thanks to a dedicated group of volunteers, another 4,200 feet of trail has now been added in Langlade County. Despite rainy weather and multiple changes of plans, volunteers gathered earlier this month to continue work on the Antigo Heights Segment of the Ice Age Trail on the Moraine Outwash Preserve. Crews completed stone steps through a scenic moss-covered boulder field, opened a new dispersed camping area, and roughed in an additional 800 feet of future trail. The effort is part of the ongoing work to develop and maintain the 1,200-mile Ice Age National Scenic Trail, which passes through Lincoln, Langlade, Marathon, and Taylor counties locally. Last year, 940 volunteers contributed more than 25,000 hours of service to the trail system. More volunteer opportunities are planned this summer, including another trailbuilding event in Langlade County in July and a project on the Underdown Segment in Lincoln County in August.

Published on 06/25/2026 under News Waterfowl numbers in Wisconsin remain steady, according to the annual spring survey results released by the Department of Natural Resources. The spring waterfowl breeding survey indicated stable population numbers and strong habitat conditions for migratory birds. Surveyors estimated the state's breeding duck population at 571,000 birds, a slight increase from last year, the 10-year average, and long-term historical averages. The DNR notes that this study is best interpreted by looking at long-term trends rather than year-to-year comparisons. Species-Specific Trends When compared to long-term averages, individual species showed varying trends: • Mallards: Population estimates rebounded from last year, though they remain below the long-term historical average. • Blue-Winged Teal & Wood Ducks: Both species showed healthy population increases on both a yearly and long-term basis. • Canada Geese: Population numbers dropped slightly from last year, but they still remain well above the long-term average. In addition to positive survey results, the wet conditions across the state this spring should provide excellent brood-rearing opportunities for waterfowl throughout the remainder of the summer. The annual spring waterfowl breeding survey dates back to 1973. The full data set and detailed breakdown of the numbers are available on the Wisconsin DNR website.

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