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Northwoods Well Represented at Wisconsin Main Street Awards Published on 03/21/2025 under News

The Northwoods was well represented at the 34th annual Wisconsin Main Street Awards held in Menomonie last weekend.

Throughout the week, we've been sharing some of the award winners including here in Tomahawk, and up in Eagle River, which was selected as the 'Main Street of the Year.' But that isn't the only award heading back to the Vilas County community.

Andy's Pontoon Saloon was selected as the 'Best New Business.' They said the establishment "has quickly become a cornerstone of downtown Eagle River, bringing energy, community engagement, and economic impact to the area...creating a destination that mirrors the area's lakeside culture."

The ceremony also honored volunteers Community Champions including Nancy Schuller of Eagle River. Jacqui Sharpe of Three Lakes was also recognized.

And finally, Shepherd and Schaller in Wausau was named Best Business Success Story as they celebrated their 75th anniversary and effort to adapt over the years.

Missy Hughes, secretary and CEO of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation said, "Our downtowns represent the heart and soul of our communities – and this year's Main Street Award winners represent the very best our state has to offer."

In Other News

Tomahawk Community Theater Planning Open House May 18

Published on 05/08/2025 under News While their next production isn't coming until fall, the Tomahawk Community Theater is staying busy. The Tomahawk Community Theater group was established four years ago as a way for those interested in the fine arts to connect and create. On Wednesday, we were joined by two of the founding members Terry Bucaro and Jim Wise about some of their upcoming events. Before looking forward, Bucaro looked back; recapping their past efforts including three productions, two children's theater camps, a talent show and an antiques show. She said the Tomahawk Community Theater has greatly exceeded her expectations. Wise added, "It's been a fun run, a positive thing and the community really seems to enjoy it." Up next, they're planning an Open House next weekend with a number of goals in mind. Bucaro explained that it's a thank you event, an informational opportunity, and a membership drive all rolled into one. People will be able to come and go throughout the afternoon to learn more about the Tomahawk Community Theater, as well as ways to support the group or or get involved. Wise said participating in the theater isn't just for the actors on stage; noting there are more people involved behind-the-scenes from stage crew and set design to outreach and fundraising. During the visit, Bucaro also teased the Children's Summer Theater Workshop which will be held in early-July. Interested 5th-8th graders will have a chance to audition next month. As for the Open House, the Tomahawk Community Theater is teaming up with Sideways in Downtown Tomahawk. It'll be next Sunday, May 18 from 1pm to 5pm. We'll offer up a reminder as that date approaches. And the conversation with Terry and Jim is available in the WJJQ Audio Center.

Published on 05/08/2025 under News May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and area dermatologists are teaching the ABC's of melanoma. According to the American Cancer Society, melanoma arises from the uncontrolled replication of melanocytes, the cells responsible for skin pigment, transforming them into cancerous cells. Aspirus dermatologist Patrick Kehoe says "Melanoma doesn't discriminate, but individuals with lighter or less pigmented skin face a higher risk." He says the most avoidable risk factor is ultraviolet light exposure. With summer right around the corner, he recommends the regular application of an SPF 30 or higher sunscreen, as well as sun-protective clothing. When it comes to melanoma treatment, early detection is key. That means monitoring moles and other skin marks, and that's where the alphabet guide comes in.•A stands for asymmetry and looking for when two halves of a mole don't match. •B for border; an uneven, fuzzy, or notched circumference •C refers to color, the presence of multiple or unusual shades or hues •D stands for diameter, and moles larger than a pencil eraser •and finally E for evolution; meaning any change in appearance over time. If you detect any of these signs, Kehoe recommends speaking your provider to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist.

Published on 05/08/2025 under News Access was a challenge during a fire response in Oneida County earlier this week. The brush fire was reported Tuesday evening on Antigo Island in the Town of Pelican Lake. The Pelican Lake Fire District requested the additional resources from neighboring agencies including manpower, portable pumps and boats to reach the island. They were able to utilize the boats to ferry both firefighters and equipment out to the scene. Once the transportation logistics were worked out, crews were able to contain the fire while keeping it from spreading it to the nearby structures. They were on the scene for approximately three hours. Based on the preliminary investigation, the fire started when a large tree fell onto a overhead power line. -Photo from Pine Lake Fire and Rescue

Published on 05/08/2025 under News It's an excited day in Park Falls...After more than two years of planning and construction, the new YMCA facility is hosting their grand opening celebration. The YMCA project, announced in February 2022, has been part of a revitalization of the downtown Park Falls area. The Flambeau River YMCA will be affiliated with the YMCA of the Northwoods in Rhinelander. Executive Director Scott Schultz says, "This facility will not only offer top-notch fitness equipment and programs but also serve as a hub for community engagement, creating opportunities for individuals to connect, grow, and thrive." The May 8 Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting will be part of a day-long community celebration that will also feature an open house with tours of the new facility and an opportunity to become a charter member of the new Y.

Published on 05/08/2025 under News In an area known as the Northwoods, the theme of this year's ArtStart Community Exhibition, TREES, is fitting. Each year ArtStart selects a theme and invites local artists to submit pieces. Traci Stinebrink, Communications Director at ArtStart says, "This year's theme (Trees) is just so Northwoods, but it goes deeper." Explaining, "Trees can often symbolize connection between earth and sky, or body and spirit. Their roots dig deep while branches reach high. The gallery features more than 40 pieces, all created by local artists. Stinebrink added, "Our community art show is very special to us, because it truly showcases the incredible talent that surrounds us." ArtStart galleries are free, open Thursdays through Saturdays from 11:00am to 4:00pm.And to conclude the TREES exhibit, ArtStart will be hosting a closing reception on May 17.

Published on 05/08/2025 under News The Oneida County Economic Development Corporation is in their new home. The OCEDC recently relocated to a new office at 150 S Anderson Street in Rhinelander. To mark the occasion, the Rhinelander Chamber Ambassadors, along with the Three Lakes & Greater Minocqua Area Visitor Bureaus, hosted a ribbon cutting this past week. The new location should offer expanded space for collaboration, community engagement and program delivery. The Oneida County Economic Development Corporation was founded in 1989 and is committed to improving the economic well-being of Oneida County. Their work has five critical focus areas: small business growth and entrepreneur support; housing development; broadband expansion; childcare solutions; and access to capital.-Photo provided by Rhinelander Chamber

Published on 05/08/2025 under Sports Tomahawk's softball squad got back in the win column with a dominating win at Rib Lake Wednesday, 11-2. The Hatchets got 12 hits on the day and a complete game win from Camryn Kraklow. The freshman gave up just two runs on seven hits while striking out nine. The Hatchets got two hits from Ellie Micke, Sophie Olsen, Averi Petta, and Kylie Peissig. Peissig had a double and Micke had a triple in the win. The Hatchets' record now improves to 5-9 on the season. Tomahawk will now go for the series split in Minocqua Thursday against Lakeland. First pitch is at 4:30.

Published on 05/07/2025 under News Officials are warning the public about elevated wildfire conditions this week, especially in Northern Wisconsin. A relatively dry stretch and our warmest temps of the season have once again raised wildfire risk. According to the DNR, spring is the most critical fire season in Wisconsin. They've already responded to more than 650 wildfires this season which have burned more than 2,200 acres. This week alone, there have been 55 wildfires, with a growing number in the Northwoods, two in Lincoln County, five in Oneida County, and three in Vilas County. The DNR says, even a few days between precipitation can dry out grasses, pine needles and leaf litter, creating hazardous conditions. While southern Wisconsin is starting to green up, they note the 7-day forecast shows little precipitation for much of northern Wisconsin, exacerbating the conditions in areas already in High or Very High fire danger. The DNR is continuing to suspend burn permits in 30 counties where it has burn restriction authority. They're also encouraging people to play their part, using caution with anything that could create a spark. Debris burning it typically the leading cause of wildfires, but people should also be mindful of campfires or grills, off-road vehicles, trailer chains, and equipment like chainsaws and lawnmowers.

Published on 05/07/2025 under News A Merrill area teen has been recognized for jumping into action in an emergency. Lincoln County Sheriff Ken Schneider recently awarded Noah Klug with a Letter of Commendation for his outstanding conduct. According to the Sheriff's Office, those actions happened on February 10th when Noah was driving past the scene of crash. He stopped to provide assistance to the victim. Certified in life-saving measures, the 17 year old initiated CPR. He was giving chest compressions when Deputy Vogel arrived on scene. She described Noah as 'calm and collected.' As emergency responders took over, they said Noah remained on the scene and provided information. The Sheriff's Office wrote, "We are impressed with (Noah's) composure and his actions, given the seriousness of the situation and the fact that he is seventeen years old. Noah's actions reflect great credit upon himself, his family, and the members of this community." Noah was joined by parents Josh and Megan Klug when he accepted the Letter of Commendation from Sheriff Schneider.

Published on 05/07/2025 under News Two Northwoods communities are among those selected to receive funding to create or enhance public spaces. The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation announced the latest recipients of their Vibrant Spaces Grants. In all 27 communities will share in $1.1 million for projects such as outdoor performance locations, public marketplace space, mural walks, and pocket parks. Missy Hughes, secretary and CEO of WEDC says, "People want to live and work in thriving communities and offerings like parks, trailheads, and town squares create places for people to gather and hold events as well as boost nearby businesses and improve quality of life." As for the local recipients, Rib Lake received $50,000 to help construct a bandshell and outdoor performance stage. And Eagle River Revitalization received $50,000 for an improved trailhead and trail crossing at Highway 45. The proposed project will also improve wayfinding signage and information boards for trail users exploring their downtown district.

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