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Hatchet Volleyball Team Defeats Wittenberg-Birnamwood Published on 10/10/2025 under Sports

The Hatchet volleyball squad finished the 2025 regular season on a high note, outlasting Wittenberg-Birnamwood in five sets, 27-25, 22-25, 14-25, 25-15, 15-12. Tomahawk got a career night from Shelby Borowski, who had a career-high 37 assists. Siennah Calkins continued her dominant end to the season with 18 kills on the night. Averi Petta finished with nine kills on the night.

Tomahawk finishes the 2025 regular season with a 13-15 record and a 2-5 record in Great Northern Conference play. The Great Northern Conference Tournament takes place at Northland Pines Saturday. The Hatchets are the sixth seed and will be playing the third seed Medford Saturday.

In Other News

Tomahawk Main Street Hosting Oktoberfest Celebration Saturday

Published on 10/10/2025 under News Folks will be saying 'Willkommen' in downtown Tomahawk with the return of Oktoberfest. Tomahawk Main Street is hosting the third edition Oktoberfest. Main Street Director Jennifer Turkiewicz has been busy putting the finishing touches on this weekend's festivities. With a lot of German heritage in the area, including herself, Turkiewicz says the Oktoberfest celebration was a natural fit. Like Oktoberfest tradition, the event will kick-off with the tapping of the Golden Keg from this year's Fest Master. The individual will be revealed at the event and is selected based on their support of the community and downtown district over the years. Of course when people think Oktoberfest, they think craft beers. They'll have 16 ales and lagers on tap, many with special fall themes and flavors. They'll also have Sprecher root beer for designated drivers and those who don't drink. Beyond the libations, German-themed foods are on the menu from brats and kraut to potato salad and pretzels prepared by local eateries. They'll also have games such as Roll Out the Barrel and Hamerschlagen, a yodeling contest, and of course plenty of polka music. While you don't have to be German to attend, Turkiewicz says lederhosen are welcome and encouraged. Turkiewicz encouraged people to support some downtown businesses, while enjoying a festive atmosphere and amazing community on a nice fall afternoon. They'll be set up on North 3rd Street, that's where the farmer's market typically takes place. They do have a number of ticket options available with and without the beer. Registration gets underway at 1pm with the event kicking off at 2. Prost!

Published on 10/10/2025 under News State officials were in the Northwoods Thursday to celebrate the anniversary of a unique program that highlights some of the most scenic segments of road in the state. The Rustic Roads program is a joint effort of the Departments of Transportation and Tourism. It features 126 roads, across 61 counties. The designated routes are lightly traveled and showcase outstanding natural features such as rugged terrain, native vegetation or wildlife, or cultural or historic qualities that uniquely set it apart from other roads. The Rustic Roads program actually began 50 years ago right here in Northern Wisconsin. Rustic Road 1 is located in Taylor County, a segment running between WIS 102 and County D, near the village of Rib Lake. Yesterday's anniversary celebration was held just down the road at Timm's Hill County Park in Ogema. Among those in attendance, Governor Evers. He said, "In celebration of 50 years, I invite everyone to get out and explore these scenic roads, and I look forward to seeing this program's continued growth in the decades to come." DOT Secretary Kristina Boardman, "Rustic Roads are special to so many because they give us the time and space to enjoy a more leisurely way to travel." Both Evers and Boardman also highlighted the importance of local collaboration when it comes to these programs. The designated routes are all marked with unique brown and yellow Rustic Road signs. The state also publishes a Rustic Roads guide each summer, with both print and digital versions available for those planning their next trip.

Published on 10/10/2025 under News With the peak fall leaves season likely behind us, there will be colors of a different type in Tomahawk this weekend, and it will support a good cause. After a successful debut last year, the Colors for a Cure Run returns for year number two. The Tomahawk Chamber is teaming up with Floyd's Timber Tavern and CrossFit-453 along with WJJQ to host this year's event. Organizers explained that it will be a non competitive 5k run/walk, so the timing isn't the important part, it's the support of Ties that Bind Us. The local organization was founded in 2012 to provide support network for those diagnosed with cancer to ensure no-one goes through the journey alone. As for the run, throughout the course, participants will go through a half dozen 'color stations' that sprinkle an eco-friendly, colored powder. Floyd's will serve as home base, with the route heading to SARA Park, the Hiawatha Trail, Veterans Memorial Bridge and the Riverwalk Trail. Same day registration is available at 7:30am at Floyd's Timber Tavern with an 8:30am race start. Proceeds from Colors for a Cure will benefit the Ties that Bind Us.

Published on 10/10/2025 under News Some of the state's youngest hunters will head into the field the next few days in the hopes of bagging a buck. This weekend marks the return of the Wisconsin Youth Deer Hunt. According to the DNR, the youth hunt is intended to give hunters 15 years old and younger the opportunity to learn from a mentor and gain valuable deer hunting experience. Rules for the mentors differ based on the age of the youth hunter and whether the youth has completed their hunter's education course. Participants are encouraged to review those guidelines. Last year's youth hunt participates registered around 7,300 deer. Newcomers can also celebrate their first hunt or first harvest with special commemorative certificates offered by the DNR. The DNR also put out a reminder that anytime a firearm deer season takes place, including the youth hunt, blaze orange/pink rules go into effect. This requirement applies to archery hunters and small game hunters; waterfowl hunters are exempt. Other outdoor recreationists may also want to wear those high-visibility colors, especially if sharing public lands. The two day youth hunt is Saturday and Sunday.

Published on 10/10/2025 under News Scammers continue to target Northwoods residents, and sometimes go to great lengths to pull off their schemes. We heard from a WJJQ listener who was recently targeted by a scammer claiming to be from her satellite TV provider. She wanted people to be aware of some of the tricks the scammers are currently using. The call started simple enough with the person posing as customer service with Dish Network, saying they were in need of an update. The woman was prompted to provide her Dish account information and Dish PIN. With that information in hand, the scammers were able to pause her service. They requested her credit card information in order to complete the update and restore service. It was at this point the woman suspected it was a scam, and hung up. Fortunately, she was able to contact and work with Dish Network to restore her service. This incident serves as a good example to think calmly, especially when scammers use pressure techniques. If you do receive an unsolicited call you feel suspicious, hang up and try and contact the business directly. Use a number you know is legitimate such as the one appearing on a bill.

Published on 10/10/2025 under News We've seen an elevated risk of wildfires around the state in recent summers, the Merrill Fire Department will be better equipped for these calls going forward. This past week, the department was awarded nearly $4,300 through the Wisconsin DNR-Forest Fire Protection Grant program. According to the DNR, this funding is intended to expand the use of local fire departments to augment and strengthen their forest fire suppression capabilities. In announcing the grant, the Merrill Fire Department says they plan to use the match grant to help purchase additional personal protective equipment, tools and training. According to the DNR wildfire tracker, crews responded to more than 1,000 wildfires around the state this year. While spring and summer are typically peak wildfire season, it continues into the fall. Over the past week, there are six small wildfires listed in our listening area. This week is National Fire Prevention Week.

Published on 10/09/2025 under News An increase in food insecurity has placed a growing need for outreach programs. An impressive event in Minocqua this weekend will help replenish local food pantries and school backpack programs. The Lakeland-Area Lions are hosting 'Food for Kidz', an annual meal packaging event on Saturday, and are encouraging folks to lend a helping hand. Through this effort, the volunteers take bulk food contributions and separate and organize them into meal-sized packages. Seventeen years in, they're showing no signs of slowing down. Last October, they reached a milestone 2.5 million. The packaged meals are distributed to around two dozen area food pantries, shelters, and after school back pack programs. It's also part of a larger outreach that sends packaged meals to areas of need including natural disaster responses and outreach in developing nations. The local event typically package around 250,000 meals on the single day. In fact, they they do so in just four short hours. That's thanks to the between 500 and 600 volunteers who work in assembly lines to increase efficiency. There are still some volunteer spaces and organizers note it can be a busy, but fun day...and it's all supporting a great cause. For those interested in filling a two hour shift, we'll include contact information in the online version of the story. The packing will take place at Lakeland on Saturday morning.

Published on 10/09/2025 under News The Ice Age Trail spans more than 1,200 miles across the state of Wisconsin including hundreds of miles in the Northwoods. The Ice Age Trail Alliance is encouraging people to get out and explore. October means the return of the Ice Age Trail- Mammoth Challenge. Hikers, walkers, runners and backpackers are challenged to traverse 45 miles of the Ice Age Trail representing the 45th anniversary of the Ice Age Trail becoming a National Scenic Trail. The challenge was established on the 40th anniversary and more than 30,000 people have finished the task. Melissa Pierick with the Alliance says, "Many will argue fall is the best time to hike in Wisconsin—moderate temperatures, colorful landscapes, and no bugs." She added, "The Mammoth Hike Challenge makes it easy to explore new places and discover the small towns that make the Trail so special." If 45 miles seems daunting, bonus miles are available for completing tasks such as visiting some of the 26 designated Ice Age Trail communities like Antigo, Merrill, Rib Lake and Wausau. This year, each Trail Community has identified a Hometown Highlight—a mural, sculpture, historic landmark, or cultural gem. Participants who complete the Challenge by the end of the month will receive a certificate, along with a limited-edition patch. Each year features a new design. Registration is available on the Ice Age Trail Alliance website where they've also created itineraries to help plan hikes with maps and points of interest along the trails.

Published on 10/09/2025 under News From toys to tools, we regularly use lithium ion batteries in our day-to-day lives. But in addition to convenience, these gadgets also carry the risk of fires. The first full week of October is National Fire Prevention Week. Local Fire Departments are joining agencies around the country in encouraging fire safety. This year's theme is focused on lithium ion batteries specifically. Lorraine Carli with the National Fire Protection Association says, "Lithium-ion batteries are powerful, convenient, and they're just about everywhere. But she notes, "Making sure the public knows how to use them safely is critical to minimizing the potential risks they pose." Their lessons are focused on proper handling while using, charging, and disposing. Just a few of those tips...Always follow manufacturer's instructions; never use a swollen or damaged battery; use a proper charging cable and avoid overcharging. And when it comes time to get rid of the battery, find a dedicated disposal or recycling center. According to NFPA, devices powered by lithium-ion batteries are largely used without incident. However, reports of fires and explosions involving lithium-ion batteries have been on the rise in recent years, reinforcing the importance of better educating the public about how to use, handle, and recycle them safely.

Published on 10/09/2025 under News People will have a chance to weigh in on the resource management and public use of DNR-managed properties located in Northern Wisconsin. The DNR is working on their Master Plan and Environmental Analysis of the North Central Forest landscape. They are currently in the public input stage of the process. The affected area is comprised of 250 DNR properties across 20 counties in northern Wisconsin including state forests, parks, recreational areas, natural areas, and trails, approximately 9,500 square miles in all. In the announcement, the DNR highlighted some of the proposals: Expansion and enhancement of state and national trails Protection and management of forested wetlands and ephemeral ponds Protection and maintenance of existing cold water streams and trout fisheries Designation of a new stream protection program, the Brook Trout Reserves Program, to protect and enhance cold brook trout streams Expansion and improvement of water access sites Management of forests for age class and composition diversity to support wildlife habitat, watershed health and economic opportunityThe DNR is also seeking public input on an option to establish a project boundary for a new property at the Grandfather Falls in with Wisconsin River, potentially known as the Grandfather Falls State Ice Age Trail Area. They'll be accepting comments through December 7. They've also got a pair of meetings planned for early November in Rhinelander and Park Falls. The DNR has information on the master plan, the meetings and ways to submit feedback on their website.

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