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Hip Pocket Playing Music on the River 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.

In Other News

Crossbridge Makes Contribution to Kinship Relocation Campaign

Published on 07/03/2025 under News Like a proud parent, Crossbridge Community Bank is helping Tomahawk Kinship leave their nest. Crossbridge recently made a $25,000 donation to the Kinship fundraising efforts as they look to move into a larger space. The local bank has been a part of the youth mentorship program since it was founded nearly three decades ago. The fledgling organization used a bank suite as one of the first offices. They reunited in 2013, becoming neighbors with a bank-owned home transformed into their KinsHouse. But as the Kinship mission has grown and evolved, they began to look for a bigger home. Earlier this year, they found their future home a few blocks down Main Street at the former Bradley Bank building. That kicked off a fundraising effort. In announcing their donation, Crossbridge President PJ Childers says, "We have always believed in the vision of Kinship and their purpose of mentoring and supporting area youth. We have been strong supporters and advocates of Kinship as they have evolved over the years, and we will continue to do so." Crossbridge CEO Mark Zulliger also serves on the Kinship Board of Directors. He says, "The downtown building will give the Kinship kids and volunteers more room to continue to expand the organization's offerings." As we've previously covered, Kinship recently reached their phase 1 goal allowing them to purchase the building. Their continued fundraising is focused the next step, retrofitting the space to accommodate their needs. People can follow along on the Kinship relocation efforts through their dedicated Facebook page.

Published on 07/03/2025 under News Over the past few years, Antigo Visual Arts has been on a mission to support local artists while making a more attractive community. Just in time for the Fourth holiday, they've unveiled a new lake-themed mural. The mural is the work of two local artists, 83 year old Beatie Gmeiner and 90 year old Pat Packard. The two actually met 35 years ago at a painting class, with their shared love of art connecting them. Now they've been able to share their talents with the community as well. The piece features a lake scene centered on a bald eagle overlooking other common wildlife around a lake including trees and cattails, ducks, a jumping fish and even a sunning turtle. The theme was inspired by a photograph captured by another local artist Barb Blahnik. The mural was actually painted in four sections at the AVA Art Center. This past week, the 4x8 foot panels were installed on the outside wall of the Marathon Express Mart. Angie Close, serves as chair of the Antigo Public Art committee and is also director of Langlade County Economic Development. She says, "This mural is more than just art on a wall—it's a vibrant expression of community pride, creativity, and the stories that shape us." Antigo Visual Arts has taken on a number of community projects include other murals as well as their recycled bottle cap artwork.

Published on 07/03/2025 under News With the rush of holiday and summer travel expected over the next few days, and officials are encouraging motorists to stay safe on area roadways and that includes those towing trailers. Many folks will be heading north with boats, ATVs/UTVs and campers. Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan is reminding drivers to ensure trailers and cargo are properly secured before hitting the road. Not only does this prevent items from being lost, it also protects those in vehicles following. A few quick remindersCheck the trailer tires and the lights; ensure the ball and hitch are the same size and latched securely; and use the safety chainsWhen loading, make sure the weight is properly distributed to prevent swaying and fish tailing by putting heaviest items in the front of the trailer.And secure any loose items being transported in boats, trailers or truck bed to ensure they don't fly out. In addition to trailer safety, Carnahan also noted the regular rules of the road apply as well, that means observing speed limits, wearing seat belts and avoiding distracts behind the wheel.

Published on 07/03/2025 under News Because of the chaotic nature of an emergency, we don't always get to know the first responders on the scene. But one local agency is helping the public get to know their team a little better through some video conversations. The Merrill Fire Department recently partnered with Merrill Community Media to produce a 'Get to Know Us' segment. They sat down with five members of the Merrill Fire Department including Brenden Leder, Daylan Enkers, Paul Peterson, Kendall Nelson, and David Graveen. The firefighters and EMTs were asked questions including why they pursued this career?, why they chose Merrill?, and they also had a chance to share a message to the community. The 8 minute video was recently posted the Department's YouTube channel, and shared on their social media accounts.

Published on 07/03/2025 under News A health advisory has been issued on a Vilas County Lake due to the presence of blue-green algae blooms. The Vilas County Health Department posted that notice for Big Arbor Vitae Lake Wednesday for Big Arbor Vitae Lake Beach. While naturally occurring, some species of blue-green algae can produce toxins that may cause illness in both humans and animals. It typically occurs in late summer when water temperatures are warmer, and often in stagnant waters. Vilas County Health Department says their staff are working with the DNR to assess water conditions and post health advisory signage at the beach and other relevant public access points. In some better news, another temporary lake advisory in Vilas County has been lifted. The Health Department says the re-tested samples for E.Coli at Crystal Lake Beach in Boulder Junction have returned to normal.

Published on 07/02/2025 under News The Tomahawk Police Department has welcomed their newest officer to their ranks. Officer Paul Link was sworn in earlier this week after being selected during the hiring process this spring. Chief Al Elvins said during his report to the City Health and Safety Committee that Officer Link will take part in the standard field training in the coming weeks. Once complete, he'll be assigned to the night shift. According to the report, once Officer Link is on regular duty, the department will look to back fill the currently open detective position as well.

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 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.

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