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Vilas County Sheriff Retiring; Application Period Open for Appointment Published on 09/19/2025 under News

After more than four decades in law enforcement, Vilas County Sheriff Joseph Fath is retiring. Now the search is on for his successor.

Governor Evers announced the opening of the application period for the next Vilas County Sheriff is now open. Earlier this summer, Fath announced his retirement plans, wrapping up a career that began back in 1981. Fath has served the past 12 years in his role as Sheriff.

Coincidentally, he too was appointed, by then-Governor Scott Walker. Fath's retirement is effective December 1.

According to the announcement, his successor will serve the remainder of his unexpired term which runs through January 2027. The application deadline is October 6.

In Other News

Rhinelander Prepares for Walk to End Alzheimer's on Saturday

Published on 09/19/2025 under News While the Rhinelander community typically embraces the color green, the Hodag Dome will be turning purple this weekend as people raise money and awareness for Alzheimer's. Organizers are putting the final touches on the Walk to End Alzheimer's in Rhinelander Saturday morning. Jim Brust is chair of the local event. He says they're excited to bring the community together, united for shared purpose. He says, "When we walk together, we remind each other that no one is facing this disease alone. This event is proof that our collective strength can create real change." Locally, they're off to a strong start with more than 350 people registered. The fifty plus teams have already pledged more than $125,000. That's more than 75% of their target goal. Funds go towards the Alzheimer's Association to provide care and support to families affected by the disease while also helping advance critical research towards treatment and prevention. Among the highlights, the inspiring Promise Garden Ceremony. This is where participants carry colorful flowers, each color represents a personal connection to Alzheimer's whether living with the disease, caring for someone is, or in honor of someone they've lost. In addition to the Rhinelander Walk to End Alzheimer's event, there is another in Antigo, while Wausau has one next weekend.

Published on 09/19/2025 under News Two funeral homes in Lincoln County teamed up for a generous gift to restock local food pantries. In a heartfelt effort to give back to the community, Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation and Krueger-Nimsgern Funeral & Cremation Services announced they will donate a locally-raised steer to the Tomahawk and Merrill Food pantries. The steer was purchased at the animal market sale at this year's Lincoln County Fair. They said the donations will provide hundreds of pounds of ground beef and roasts, all processed locally and delivered directly to the food pantry, by the staff of both funeral homes. Anna Winningham, manager of Taylor-Stine-Waid said, "Donating this beef is just one small way we can show our appreciation and help our neighbors and community." Jamie Nimsgern added, "We value our long-standing connection to this community and give back when we can to support those in need." In addition to the beef, the also provided a monetary donation which the food pantry volunteers can utilize where most needed.

Published on 09/19/2025 under News We regularly talk safety when it comes to both hunting and boating. When you combine the two, it bring some additional hazards. With many waterfowl seasons opening in September, the DNR provided some quick reminders for hunters on the water. Major April Dombrowski, DNR Recreational Safety and Outdoor Skills Bureau director says, "Waterfowl hunting is a cherished tradition in Wisconsin, and the DNR wants every hunter to enjoy the season safely." And safety starts while still on land, as overloading a boat can lead to instability and capsizing. It's also important to make sure the weight in the boat is evenly distributed. And when loading be sure not to obscure navigational lights. They recommend wearing a life jacket when on the water because accidents are unpredictable. It's also important to be on the lookout for elements outside of your control, such as changing weather, or submerged hazards. The Youth waterfowl hunt is coming up this weekend, the duck season opens next weekend.

Published on 09/19/2025 under Sports Tomahawk's volleyball squad fought valiantly, but came up short to #7 in Division 3 Stratford in five sets, 13-25, 25-20, 25-15, 15-25, 15-17. The Hatchets got outstanding production from their middle hitters, but were unable to put the Tigers away in sets four and five. Siennah Calkins finished with 17 kills on the night. Freya Alberg had nine kills, six blocks, and three aces. Shelby Borowski had a season-high 31 assists, but it wasn't enough as the Hatchets fell to 10-9 on the season. Tomahawk resumes Great Northern Conference play Tuesday up in Minocqua against Lakeland. Tune in for the Fehrman Orthodontics Radio Prematch Show at 6:35 and first serve at 7:00 on Northwoods 92.5 WJJQ. Alex Koch and Matt Theiler will be in the broadcast booth.

Published on 09/19/2025 under News An iconic work boot made here in Northern Wisconsin is once again vying to become the 'Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin'. Over the past few weeks, Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce has been taking nominations for the annual contest held each fall. From those suggestions, 148 products were selected for the preliminary round. WMC President & CEO Kurt R. Bauer says, "Declaring a winner isn't the actual goal. The real purpose is to showcase Wisconsin's thriving manufacturing sector." Northwoods companies have been well-represented on this competition over the years. That includes Merrill's Thorogood and their Genesis workboot, which once again made the cut. They've made their way to the final bracket the past several years, but have yet to claim the top spot. They are joined by several other nominees from the Wausau area including: C Tech Manufacturing- Next Gen Pit Cart in Weston; Kolbe Windows & Doors Featuring LuxWall Enthermal Glass in Wausau; Thron Made- 3D Printed Furniture in Schofield; Tommy Docks- Flexx Modular Floating Dock in Weston; Vigor Solutions- JBL Flip 7 Speaker Mount from Edgar; and Wausau Coated Products- Removable Adhesive Vinyl Wallpaper. The local nominees will face off against some interesting competition. Examples include a maritime robotic welder, skee-ball machines, and even the Brewers racing sausage costumes. There are also dozens of food and beverage nominees. You can visit madeinwis.com to view the nominees and cast a ballot.

Published on 09/18/2025 under News See Tracks, Think Train. It's a simple message, but an important reminder to use caution when in the area of a train crossing. This week local railroads, law enforcement, and safety partners like Operation Life Saver are teaming up to increase awareness of the risks that come along with train tracks. According to the Department of Transportation, Wisconsin has more than 3,300 miles of active train tracks and more than 4,000 public railroad crossings. The state average around a dozen train related injuries or deaths each year, most of which can be prevented. State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan said. "Drivers and pedestrians should always expect a train at each rail crossing and make safe choices to avoid track tragedies." First and foremost, always use designated rail crossings and observe all warnings, lights, and signals. When warnings are activated leave at least 15 feet. At un-gated crossings, drivers should look for trains even when there are no warning lights activated. Never stop a vehicle on the tracks, even when there is no train in sight. Officials note that modern trains are much quieter, so you may not hear them approaching from as far away as the past. And a train may take up to a mile to stop, making it especially important for vehicles and pedestrians to use that extra caution when around crossings.

Published on 09/18/2025 under News A new mini-grant program is being created in Lincoln County to address substance use using funds from opioid lawsuit settlements. The Lincoln County Board took up that resolution at their meeting on Tuesday. Over the past several years, Lincoln County has received more than a half million dollars through nationwide opioid lawsuit settlements. These settlements do come with spending restrictions; the funds are typically earmarked for opioid remediation through prevention, awareness, or treatment. The Lincoln County Board previously set up an Opioid Settlement Task Force to study and make recommendations on how the money would best be spent. They recently released their first report. Among their recommendations was to establish a mini-grant process for community organizations serving Lincoln County to apply for a portion of the settlement funding. They are making $50,000 available, up to $10,000 per project. Before approving the resolution, the supervisors confirmed that there would be a vetting process for the applicants before grants would be awarded. They ultimately approved establishing the mini-grant process.

Published on 09/18/2025 under News Construction on the Rhinelander Splash Pad and Playground project is underway, but fundraising continues. The Rhinelander Kiwanis Club announced another generous contribution from a local manufacturer. The latest donation comes from AirPro, providing $10,000. President Keith White Jr. says, "At AirPro, we believe in investing in the communities where we live and work. Supporting the Kiwanis Club's Splash Pad project was a natural fit for us—this initiative promotes outdoor activity, brings families together, and enhances our local parks for future generations." Brandon Karaba, Board Member of the Rhinelander Kiwanis Club, added, "Their $10,000 gift brings us another step closer to building the playground and finishing what we started. The Splash Pad is just the beginning — and with continued support, we'll create a space that kids and families can enjoy for generations." Phase 1, the Splash Pad is currently being installed. Meanwhile, Kiwanis continues to raise funds for the next phase of the project — the new Playground they hope will complement the Splash Pad and provide outdoor enjoyment for children of all ages and abilities. Photo provided by Rhinelander Kiwanis Club-Back row (left to right) Sean Codere from AirPro, Dave Wingard from AirPro, Brandon Karaba from Rhinelander Kiwanis Club; Front row (left to right)-Brendan Wingard, Aaron Wingard, Quincy Wingard, Adam Wingard

Published on 09/18/2025 under News Two local fire chiefs will be watching an area high school football game with a little extra interest. Merrill Fire Chief Josh Klug and Antigo Fire Chief Corey Smith announced they've brought back their friendly wager on the annual football game between Merrill and Antigo. The GNC rivalry is dubbed the War on 64, referencing the highway that connects the two communities. For this year's wager, the losing fire chief will be assigned fire truck washing duties while also providing lunch at the winning chief's fire station. This is actually the third year for bet. The Red Robins and the Blue Jays have actually split the previous two match-ups forcing each chief to perform the mutual aid. Merrill will host this evening's game at Jay Stadium.

Published on 09/17/2025 under News Mental health and substance use disorder affect all communities, people, and age groups. A gathering in Rhinelander this evening looks to end stigma and celebrate recovery. Community partners in Oneida County are hosting the now annual, Light Up the Night for Recovery. It coincides with National Recovery Month and serves as a reminder that recovery is for everyone. An important part of recovery is support. That's where the Light Up the Night event comes in. People will be able to celebrate recovery, remember those whose lives were lost, and connect with others for recovery support. The family-friendly evening will include a community resource fair, but also games, refreshments, and a chance for story-sharing. Jenny Chiamulera is helping organizer the event in her role as the Oneida County Community Health Specialist. She says, "Lived experience is valuable and story telling is a powerful tool used to provide information and help us understand what substance use disorder really is." The event's keynote speaker will be the Oneida County circuit judge Mary Sowinski. For those that would like to attend, Light Up the Night will take place at Hodag Park in Rhinelander from 4:00pm to 8:00pm. The speakers are scheduled around 6pm.

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