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Aspirus Tick-borne Illness Center Hosting Open House Published on 09/25/2024 under News

Living in the Northwoods, we deal with ticks. Fortunately, there's a special medical facility right in our back yard that is focused on the many diseases that ticks can spread.

It's been five years since the opening of the Tick Borne Illness Center on the Aspirus Howard Young campus in Woodruff. Coming up this evening they're hosting an open house to celebrate the anniversary, showcase the facility, and raise awareness.

Ahead of the event we were joined by Dr. James Thatcher. He's been at the Tick Center, and here in the Northwoods, for just under a year. He came via New York, another tick hot-spot. Perhaps the most well-known tick-borne disease, Lyme, was first diagnosed in nearby Connecticut. A common symptom of Lyme is the distinct rash. Thatcher says, "I've never seen as many bullseye as I've seen this summer."

With limited testing options, often delayed onset and a wide range of symptoms, Thatcher noted that tick-borne disease can be difficult to diagnose. Yet early anti-biotic treatments can be highly effective. As a facility dedicated to tick-borne Illness, they may be better suited for diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic conditions.

Thatcher also gave a quick reminder for those enjoying the outdoors this fall. He encouraged post-activity tick checks, appropriate clothing, and a repellent. While many may reach for products with DEET, others may be hesitant with the chemicals. Thatcher acknowledged that concern and added that natural products featuring ingredients like lavender, rosemary and lemon grass may offer some protection.

As for this evening, Thatcher and his colleagues will be talking about the history of the Tick Center and what they've seen over the past five years, while also sharing their vision for the future. It gets underway at 5pm.

In Other News

Lincoln County Posts Tick, Blasto Informational Signs at Popular Parks and Trails

Published on 07/02/2025 under News Lincoln County has historically had a higher rate of tick-borne diseases and Blastomycosis than other areas in Wisconsin. Those who take part in outdoor recreation are more at risk, and the Lincoln County Health Department is hoping to raise awareness at some of the most popular destinations in the county. The Health Department recently purchased educational signs that will be placed at ten destinations including: Hiawatha Trail, New Wood Park, Underdown Recreation, Prairie Dells Scenic Area, Otter Lake Recreation, Tug Lake, Echo Lake, Crystal Lake, and the River Bend Trail. In announcing the campaign, the Health Department also provided some data. Lincoln County average around 100 new cases of tick-borne illness each year. And while the risk of blasto is low, Lincoln County averages 6 cases a year, which is top five in the state. Prevention and early detection are important factors in minimizing the impact. In addition to the new trail signs, the Health Department also hosts informational booths at various events and offers presentations. For groups or organizations interesting in hosting one, contact the public health educator.

Published on 07/02/2025 under News Seniors in Lincoln County can get some extra cash to spend at local farmer's markets thanks to a returning program. Each summer, the Aging and Disability Resource Center makes vouchers available to their seniors. The local ADRC of Central Wisconsin serves Lincoln, Langlade, Marathon and Wood Counties. We were recently joined by community health educator Jennifer Clark, who talked about their farmer's market voucher program. The goal is to make locally grown fruits and vegetables more accessible to seniors in the community. Clark says the $25 vouchers are available to Lincoln County residents to be used at a number of locally approved farmer's markets. It is a senior program for residents 60 and old, with some income requirements as well. Many ADRC locations have vouchers available including Oneida County. For those interested in checking availability and eligibility, contact your local ADRC office. Link to ADRC-CW voucher page

Published on 07/02/2025 under News A familiar band returns to Tomahawk for Music on the River. It's hard to believe, but we are at the mid-point of the summer concert series, the fourth of seven planned shows. A Music on the River regular, Hip Pocket has played the park a dozen times including last year's finale. Based out of North Central Wisconsin, the award-winning band features an energetic horn section offering a twist to classic and modern hits. The Music on the River show during week of the Fourth of July holiday typically brings a little extra excitement to both the Park and the Wisconsin River shoreline. Music is set to begin at 6pm. With another chance at an isolated shower this afternoon, stay tuned to WJJQ for any changes. As of 10am, the concert is still at it's normal location in Memorial Park.

Published on 07/02/2025 under News With the Fourth of July holiday approaching, boat landings are becoming a bit busier. Officials with the DNR recently offered up some tips to make the launch process go smoothly and quickly for everyone. Before you even begin backing your trailer down the ramp, get your boat ready to go. In the parking lot or staging area remove straps, covers, and load up all your gear. It's also a good time to check your mirrors. Having a second person available to spot can be a big help. The spotter should remember to offer instructions calmy and clearly, using hand gestures as well. For drivers, make small corrections on the wheel and take your time. While you may feel pressured to move quickly, that can also lead to mistakes that will make the process take longer. Most importantly, remember that everyone's backing skills and experience levels are different. Whether you're new boat owner or a boat launching pro, everyone's goal is to get out on the water. Patience, kindness and a few encouraging words go a long way in putting everyone at ease.

Published on 07/02/2025 under News While budget talks have been in the national and state news, that work is also ongoing at the local level. The Tomahawk City Council approved the proposed spending plan for the Tomahawk Public Library at their meeting Tuesday. Because the Tomahawk Library is funded by several entities including not only the city, but Lincoln County, their budget typically goes through this process before other departments. The library budget cleared the Finance Committee last week following a brief overview from library director Heidi O'Hare. The Tomahawk Library budget request overall is $507,000, with the city responsible for $213,000. That's a $3,500 increase or 1.6% from last year. Broken down further, about $360,000 goes towards wages and benefits; $90,000 for operations; and $51,000 on library materials. In addition to the City and Lincoln County, the facility also receives funding from cross-county reimbursements, funds collected through library usage of residents from neighboring counties. This generates approximately $57,000 for the Tomahawk library from Oneida, Price, Langlade and Taylor Counties. The council didn't make any additional requests or changes from the proposed budget before approving it by unanimous vote. Council Notes...A few other quick notes from last night's City Council meeting. They had a few extra guests on hand, welcoming several local scouts pursuing a badge. The boys led the traditional pledge of allegiance to start the meeting. And the Council approved new and returning special event applications including: Thrilla on the Grilla, Steaks for Kids, Beer and Bacon Bash, and Main Street Memories Christmas. They also approved some minor set up changes to previously approved applications for the Fall Ride and Oktoberfest celebrations.

Published on 07/02/2025 under News Summer is road construction season, and that includes some rustic roads in the national forest here in the northern Wisconsin. The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest announced plans to replace dozens culverts on forest roads. Most of these projects will require the temporary segment closure. Officials are reminding visitors to 'know before you go' by checking their website for any work that may impact their trip. Both active and proposed culvert replacements are listed on an interactive map on the CNNF website. More than 30 locations are listed across most of the districts. While sections of road are temporarily closed, travelers are encouraged to check smart phones or bring a paper map. Also, plan for extra travel time.

Published on 07/01/2025 under News Wisconsin Public Service is looking for another dog to be featured their safe digging campaign. The local utility put out a call for nominations for their next safe-digging 'spokesdog'. Last year Arlo, a 9-month-old pup from Tomahawk, the company's first-ever 'ambassadog.' During his term, Arlo was regularly featured on social media reminding people to utilize Digger's Hotline with the phrase "Doggone it! Always call 811." Arlo's one year reign is coming to an close, and WPS is looking for his successor. People are encouraged to enter by snapping a photo of their dog, preferably digging in his or her favorite place. Their judging panel will narrow down the finalists, and WPS customers will get a chance to select the top dog. Pet parents have until July 10 to enter the contest, additional rules are available on the WPS website.

Published on 07/01/2025 under News The Fourth of July is just a few days away, and officials are reminding holiday travelers to buckle up, stay alert, and expect slower traffic in work zones and along major travel corridors. As we reported last week, Triple A is expected Wisconsinites to travel in record numbers for the holiday weekend. DoT secretary Kristina Boardman says, "We're all eager to arrive at our favorite summer destination safely, but we need everyone to make smart decisions behind the wheel on Wisconsin highways." Peak travel is expected Wednesday and Thursday, particularly during the afternoon and evening. It'll likely pick back up again on Sunday afternoon. Here in the Northwoods, the I-39/Hwy 51 corridor is typically busiest; with folks heading north ahead of the holiday and south this weekend. According to the DoT, most road construction will pause over the holiday weekend to open as many lanes as possible. Travelers can check Wisconsin 511 before leaving. Boardman noted every driver makes a difference, adding, "We must work together to keep our roads safe – plan extra travel time, buckle up, put the phone down, drive with caution in construction zones, and never drive impaired."

Published on 07/01/2025 under News Road construction crews are expected to work on Oneida County Road L in Nokomis, and officials provided an estimated timeline at an informational meeting Monday. They'll be working on County L between Lincoln County line and Highway 51. The work will actually be done in two phases, as they'll look to avoid work during the Fall Ride motorcycle festivities. Starting the week of July 14th, they'll focus on the bridge over the Bearskin Creek at the northern end of County L, near the Highway 51 intersection. The bridge will be closed, so motorists will not be able to get through. The rest of County L will remain open on either side of the bridge. The goal is to finish up the bridge work ahead of the Fall Ride. Following the popular motorcycle rally, crews will work on the rest of County L, milling and repaving the driving surface. The road will remain open during phase 2 with some flagging operations. That should take about two weeks. As always, these timelines are only an estimate, we'll provide any updates as we receive them.

Published on 07/01/2025 under News Two people died; one person was injured in a weekend fire in Price County. According to the Sheriff's Office, responders were paged to a house fire along Shandy Knoll Road in the Town of Fifield. The call came in at shortly after 3am Sunday morning. The caller reported one person was able to escape the home, but two other remained inside. The individual who got out of the residence sustained what was described as significant, life-threatening injuries. No update on their condition was provided. The bodies of the other two individuals were recovered from within the remains of the structure. No other information on the victims was provided. The cause of fire remains under investigation and the State Fire Marshall's Office is assisting local officials.

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