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Tomahawk Community Theater Preparing for Fall Production Published on 10/06/2025 under News

In just a few weeks the curtains will rise for next performance of a local theater group.

Five years ago, a small group of Tomahawk area residents, passionate about fine arts, planted the seeds of what would eventually become the Tomahawk Community Theater. Now they are busy preparing for the fourth production.

This year, the TCT have taken on the classic whodunit', Murder on the Orient Express based on the works of Agatha Christie.

Auditions were held back in August, and this year's cast and crew, a blend of past participants and newcomers. They've been busy over the past two months with rehearsals and set preparations. And with opening night just around the corner, they have announced tickets are now available for pre-sale.

They'll be back at the Tomahawk School Auditorium on November 1 and 2 for this year's production Tickets for Murder on the Orient Express can be purchased directly via the Tomahawk Community Theater website or their Facebook page. The first three productions all resulted in a run of sold out shows.

In Other News

Silent Sports Offer Calming Fall Color Experience in the Northwoods

Published on 10/06/2025 under News Fall colors were on full display in the Northwoods over the weekend, and there is no shortage of viewing opportunities especially if you're into silent sports. While an afternoon drive may be the simplest way to check out the fall leaves; local chambers, tourism organizations, and silent sports clubs are encouraging people to park and consider exploring by foot, bike, or boat. They offered a few ideas… A hike through a county forest or state park is a simple and affordable way to get an up-close view while also getting some fresh air and exercise. To cover a bit more ground, there are a growing number of bike trails. Highlighted routes include the Hiawatha and Bearskin near Tomahawk and the growing network of trails in Oneida and Vilas Counties. If you'd rather paddle than pedal, a kayak or canoe excursion is another opportunity for picturesque viewing. As a bonus, the reflections of the leaves on calm waters can double the viewing experience. Local organizations have been enhancing kayak and canoe launches and designating water trails in the area. And if you'd like to check out the fall colors from a different perspective, there are some unique aerial opportunities, as well. Timm's Hill, the highest point in the state, is right in our back yard and frequently cited as one of the best viewing spots in the state. And down in the Wausau area, Granite Peak offers rides to the top of Rib Mountain via their ski lifts. According to the Travel Wisconsin Fall Color Report, the Northwoods colors are in peak this first week of October.

Published on 10/06/2025 under News Communities continue to learn more about man-made forever chemicals known as PFAs. Those with elevated levels are exploring steps to address PFAs including right here in Tomahawk. Back in 2023, testing of the city water in Tomahawk came back just over the threshold which required advisories be sent to residents. With more stringent restrictions likely coming, city officials began to research the next steps. That included hiring engineering firm MSA to conduct a mitigation feasibility study. While the study continues, the firm provided an update at last week's Board of Public Works meeting. After a brief introduction and review, six different remediation options were presented to the Board. They could be split into two general categories… locating and building a new well site or constructing a facility to treat the water. A new well location would not only be more expensive, it would also be subject to the potential for the same PFAs contamination. Instead they largely focused on the treatment facilities which range from $6 million to $10.5 million depending on the type and size. MSA noted that there are funding sources available that could cover up to half of construction costs. There is a process known ITA or 'intent to apply', essentially notifying the state of interest in seeking the grants. The ITA would be due by the end of this month in order to apply for the next cycle awarded in June. No formal action was taken at the meeting.

Published on 10/06/2025 under News The Aspirus Rhinelander Hospital has been undergoing a renovation and expansion project, and patients could soon begin utilizing the new space. Aspirus recently provided an update on the construction which they said is designed to improve patient care, expand services, and create a more modern, welcoming environment. This includes the construction of a new cardiology clinic which will be located inside the hospital. This will allow the services to move from their current off-site location. This phase is nearing completion. The Inpatient Behavioral Health Department is expanding with two new patient rooms, additional office space, and modifications to the Intensive Treatment Unit day room. And finally they'll install a new CT scanner. Patients will begin using these new additions as they are completed in the coming weeks and months. Teri Theiler, President of Aspirus North Division says,"We recognize these projects may cause some inconvenience, but they are critical investments in safety, quality, and the patient experience." Theiler added, "We thank our patients, visitors, and staff for their patience as we work to make our facilities the best they can be."

Published on 10/06/2025 under News Wisconsin Manufactures and Commerce continues their effort to identify the 'Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin.' They've recently announced the next round in the friendly competition which includes the lone product from northern Wisconsin in the contest. From an initial field of nearly 150 products, just 16 remains after nearly 15,000 votes in the preliminary round. That includes the Thorogood Genesis work boot made in Merrill. Going forward, the contest will be a head-to-head bracket elimination. Thorogood actually received a '2' seed and will face 15th seeded extrication tools made by TNT Rescue Systems in Hartland. Kurt Bauer, President and CEO of WMC. "These products reflect the vibrancy and diversity of the industry, which is exactly why we hold this contest. We're excited to showcase these innovative products and recognize the hardworking people in manufacturing who play such a vital role for our state." Match-Ups:#1 Seed: Carbliss Cocktails-Carbliss (Plymouth) vs. #16 Seed: Toro Dingo Compact Utility Loader-Toro (Tomah) #2 Seed: Genesis Work Boots-Thorogood in Merrill vs. #15 Seed: extrication tools made by TNT Rescue Systems-Hartland #3 Seed: Search and Rescue 1000 Island Airboat-1000 Island Airboats (Marion) vs. #14 Seed: Model 60 Slant Ice Merchandiser- Leer Inc. (New Lisbon) #4 Seed: XUV 845M Gator™ Utility Vehicle-John Deere (Horicon) vs. #13 Seed:Kikkoman Soy Sauce; Kikkoman Foods, Inc. (Walworth) #5 Seed: Comfort Custom Seating System-Permobil (New Berlin) vs. #12 Seed:Turntable Swing Gate-Pack Air Inc. (Neenah) #6 Seed: Brawny 3-Ply Paper Towel-Georgia Pacific (Green Bay) vs. #11 Seed:Sargento Natural American Sliced Cheese-Sargento (Plymouth) #7 Seed: The Maple Shot 10 pack carton-The Maple Dude (Granton) vs. #10 Seed: Massive Generator Enclosure-EK Machine (Fall River) #8 Seed: 38 VTR-Cruisers Yachts (Oconto) vs. #9 Seed: Milorganite Fertilizer-Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District (Milwaukee) The next few rounds will come fast and furious. Weekly votes will narrow the field from sixteen down to the eventual winner which will be announced October 23. You can visit madeinwis.com to view all sixteen nominees and cast a ballot.

Published on 10/06/2025 under Sports Tomahawk's football squad bounced back with a strong second half at Raider Field Friday night, defeating Medford, 24-14. After trailing by eight at halftime, the Hatchets used a strong rushing attack spearheaded by Jett and Rex Reilly to score all 24 of their points in the second half. Jett Reilly finished with 59 passing yards, 62 rushing yards, and two touchdowns. Rex Reilly ran the ball 15 times for 98 yards. As a team, the Hatchets ran for 233 yards on 49 carries, including rushing for 153 yards in the second half. The win puts Tomahawk at 6-1 on the season and 4-1 in Great Northern Conference play. The six wins by Tomahawk are the most in a season by a Hatchet football team since 2015. The Hatchets will be back in action for their final home game of the regular season next week against the Merrill Blue Jays. Tune in for the Fehrman Orthodontics Kickoff Cabin at 6:10 and kickoff at 7:00. Alex Koch and Jon Long will have the broadcast on Northwoods 92.5 WJJQ

Published on 10/03/2025 under News For the first time, Lincoln Hills/Copper Lake have met compliance with all court-ordered reforms. The state youth correctional facilities, located in Lincoln County, have been visited by a court-approved monitor quarterly to review and assess progress towards implementing 50 reforms ranging from meeting staffing levels and training to the use of solitary confinement, pepper spray and mechanical restraints. In the latest quarterly report, released this week, all goals have now been met. The facility must continue to meet compliance for several consecutive reports before the DOC is able to petition the court to end the current monitoring requirements. DOC Secretary Jared Hoy said, "We are incredibly grateful for the commitment and hard work from all of the staff and our Division of Juvenile Corrections leadership. "This is a great achievement in a long journey during which we've made tremendous strides in creating a better atmosphere for staff and youth." During the latest report, the monitor noted that youth attitudes were positive, and staff continued to provide an exceptionally clean and safe environment. In the long term, the state is working towards building smaller, regional youth correction facilities. The first, in the Milwaukee area, is set to open next year. Once youth are relocated, the plan is to convert the Lincoln Hills campus to an adult correctional facility.

Published on 10/03/2025 under News The Northwoods is turning into an artistic display of reds, oranges and yellows splashed across the landscape. Despite the unseasonably weather, we're right in the middle of our peak fall colors. A number of factors play into the timing and vibrancy of the fall colors, and we've met many of those conditions this year. That starts with the tree itself, as the species, health, and leaf volume will all impact fall colors. Outside factors also play a role like temperature, day length and precipitation totals. Ecologists note that the most brilliant displays are typically the result of bright daytime sun and cool, but frost-free evenings. Of course, calm conditions also keep the leaves on the trees for a longer period of time. Peak fall color usually occurs in northern Wisconsin during the last week of September and first week of October, central Wisconsin colors are typically a week or two behind. Travel Wisconsin has their annual Fall Color Tracker available with many Northwoods communities 50 to 75% color. A number of local areas are featured as Travel Wisconsin fall color viewing destinations including Timms' Hill, Rib Mountain, and the Ice Age Trail. Among the hidden gems, the Bearskin/Hiawatha Trail corridor is often highlighted for bikers and hikers looking to enjoy the colors including from the trail's many trestles.

Published on 10/03/2025 under News A local fire department will be opening up the station to the public this weekend. To kick off Fire Prevention week, the Tomahawk Fire Department is hosting an open house on Sunday. The event will offer a chance for people to meet the firefighters, check out the equipment, and support the agency that keeps our communities safe. We caught up with Captain Kevin Krueger to talk about this weekend's event as well as the continued need for more members to serve in various capacities at the volunteer department. Krueger noted the Open House returns after around 20 years, thanks largely, to their newly formed Auxiliary. As for what people can expect...Krueger says the firefighters will be on hand and approachable for both kids and adults to meet the team and ask questions. They'll also have on display their gear, tools, and vehicles. But the event will also serve as a fundraiser, as the agency is looking to purchase new air monitors. Krueger explained they use the monitors to help test buildings for pollutants like carbon monoxide. In addition to the free hot dog lunch, the Auxiliary will be selling baked goods, some raffles, and even Tomahawk Fire Department shirts. The Tomahawk FD Open House will be Sunday from 10am to 2pm.

Published on 10/03/2025 under News A local farm is celebrating harvest season by once again opening their field to local vendors. Tranquil Acres is gearing up for their Home Town, Home Made, Home Grown, Hoe Down. While their unique farm is still open for the season, owners Bill and Heather Smith, have also been busy preparing their fields for tomorrow's festivities. For those unfamiliar, Tranquil Acres, located just south of Tomahawk, follows the mantra 'take what you need, pay what you can.' They allow visitors to learn where their food comes from by getting their hands dirty and picking produce themselves. It's a small, family and friends run operation, and that's also the type of vendors they've invited to take part in the Hoe Down. And there will be a little something for everyone including artists, food, and woodworking. Whether that means a purchase for yourself or gifts for others, they note, "It's all about celebrating and supporting the little guy." They'll also have plenty of entertainment and children's activities along with their usual nature trails and green space. For those that would like to check out the Hoe Down, it's on Saturday from 10am to 3pm.

Published on 10/03/2025 under News Wisconsin can be called the cranberry capital of the US, producing twice as much as the next state. This weekend, the tiny, tart fruit will be showcased in the Northwoods. Cranberry Fest is returning to Eagle River for its 45th edition, and the Chamber says around 45,000 people attend the the two day event each year. While central Wisconsin grows the most, Northern Wisconsin is also a major producer. Lincoln, Price, Oneida and Vilas Counties account for more than 2,200 acres of cranberry marshes. Just a few highlights for the weekend include area marsh tours, wine tasting, a farmer's market and more than 250 booths for their craft fair. There will be plenty of cran-foods and beverages with past treats including meatballs, fritters, cheesecakes, soda, and beer. Of course, you can purchase your own cranberries as well. Some 10,000 pounds of fresh cranberries are also sold at Cran Fest. The festival is centered at the Vilas County fairgrounds, with additional events at satellite locations including marshes, wineries, and downtown Eagle River.

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