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Oneida County Addressing Roadside Debris Along County K

Published on 05/01/2024 under News Officials in Oneida County are looking to reduce roadside garbage, with focus on one stretch in particular. The effort was prompted by an uptick in litter and other debris along County Highway K this spring. That is in part, due to the location of the Oneida County Transfer Station and Recycling Center on Cty K west of Rhinelander. To help address that issue, they're looking to combine education, enforcement, and a little community involvement. Lisa Bauknecht, Oneida County Solid Waste Director, explained that the county ordinance states that transporting solid waste without a secured covering is prohibited and violators could be cited. This spring, the Solid Waste Department has been monitoring vehicles entering the facility without a cover and issuing warnings. They may notify the Sheriff's Office of repeat violators. They'll also be updating and replacing the roads signs signifying the rules. Bauknecht says, "We value our customers and ask that they respect facility neighbors as well as our beautiful Northwoods by kindly covering and securing loads before driving to the facility..." As for the debris already along that stretch of highway, community volunteers are planning a roadside clean-up day this weekend. Rachel Boehlen is helping organize the effort, she says they'll be gathering Saturday morning at 8am at the Cassian Cross Country Ski Trailhead. She invited community members to lend a helping hand. They also used the opportunity to promote the County's Adopt-a-Highway program, in which groups pledge to maintain a segment of highway. Currently just four the fourteen miles of County K are spoken for.

Published on 05/01/2024 under News Here in the Northwoods, it's not unusual for a few extra days tacked on to the end of the school year. In Tomahawk, this year, the reverse is true. In a letter to parents, District Administrator Wendell Quesinberry announced that they will actually wrap up the school year a few days earlier than planned. Most local schools build in a few extra instructional days to offset any potential snow days during the winter. Tomahawk does the same, however the mild winter meant those days weren't used. As a result, Quesinberry says they were able to move up the final day of class to Friday May 31 rather than June 5 as originally scheduled. The summer school start date won't change, and remains June 10. While students get an early start to summer vacation, the staff will still be on campus. Quesinberry says they'll use the time for various in-service and training days. The custodial and grounds team will also use the extra time without students to get a head start on maintenance and summer projects.

Published on 05/01/2024 under News Walleye fishing on the Minocqua Chain of Lakes has been limited to catch-and-release for nearly a decade. That could change this year. The Wisconsin Natural Resources Board has scheduled a special meeting tomorrow morning to consider an emergency rule. It would establish a daily bag limit of a single walleye on the chain, which includes Jerome, Kawaguesaga, Little Tomahawk, Mid, Minocqua, Mud and Tomahawk lakes, the Minocqua and Tomahawk thoroughfares and connecting waters. There would be some slotted size limits as well. Any harvested walleye must be at least 18 inches, but not between 22 and 28 inches. The DNR says this would allow a moderate level of walleye harvest while preserving the quality-size fish that were built up during the past nine years of harvest closure. It's good timing for anglers, as the general inland fishing opener in Wisconsin is coming up on Saturday. That special meeting is scheduled to begin at 9:30am Thursday and will be conducted remotely via Zoom. That meeting will also be streamed on the DNR You Tube Channel.

Published on 05/01/2024 under News Most of the Tomahawk event calendar is now set for the rest of the year. The City's Health and Safety Committee is in charge of those special event applications, and last night they approved five. Each is a well-established event leading to little discussion. This includes the Lion's Club Fourth of July Powwow Days celebration; the Rodd Timm Memorial Softball Tournament; the Antique Outboard Motor Show; the Tomahawk Lions Club Thrilla on the Grilla; and the Music on the River. One concern that was quickly worked out was the July 3rd edition of Music on the River. The Kwahamots have a special edition show that same night, and the two events share the same stretch of river, albeit on opposite shorelines. As a compromise, Music on the River will start and end a half hour early on that date only. The remaining shows will remain 6pm-8pm. Ultimately all five applications were forwarded to the Common Council by unanimous vote. In recent meetings, they have already approved events including the Main Street Memories Car Show, the Fall Ride events and activities, the Venison Feed, and Hometown Christmas. It was an otherwise routine night of committee meetings, Health and Safety, Finance, and Public Works... BPW resumed last month's discussion on the disabled parking stalls in the municipal parking lot. Since that conversation, they reviewed the current ADA rules and conducted a count of the total number of parking spaces in the lot. They learned that not only was the lot in compliance, the city actually has more ADA spaces than required, and recently added additional stalls at the request of Grace Lutheran Church. BPW also discussed ongoing water pressure issues on Leather Avenue and Leather Court dating back several years. With additional development in that area, the city will explore various options and financing to address those concerns.

Published on 05/01/2024 under News A pair of eaglets who fell from their nest are recovering at the Raptor Education Group, thanks to some concerned citizens and an experienced rescue duo. Most of our listeners are familiar with Kevin and Linda Grenzer, known for their work with loons, but they rescue many species of birds including these young eagles. They recently recounted those efforts. The initial call came from a concerned citizen on Lake Wausau who observed a portion of an established nest had fallen from an approximately 40 foot tall tree. That nest was known to have two young eaglets in it. Following a quick check of the area, they did locate one of the two birds on the ground. Concerned about injuries from the fall, as well as the risk of predators, they made the decision the eaglet would need rescue. Linda says she softly spoke to the young bird as she approached and was able to safely secure him in a towel. The search then turned to the second eaglet, which they were also able to locate and gather as well. The found the birds were cold, wet, and dehydrated. The brought the birds back to Antigo, where the REGI staff were awaiting them and began assessment and care. The Grenzers said, "It takes a village to rescue a bird(s) in need of help. These eaglets had an astounding village on their side. They specifically highlighted Amy Baxter, Garry Stack and Marn Stack who made the initial call and assisted the rescue.

Published on 05/01/2024 under News The first Wednesday in May marks the return of Wawui Bingo in Tomahawk. For more than 30 years now, the weekly summer bingo games have served as an additional revenue source and fundraiser for Wawui which operates the SARA Park facility. The players themselves, along with the many volunteers, have become a community of their own with many regulars, who have their own lucky tables, daubers, and anything else that may help them claim the prize. It also includes a rotating stable of bingo callers, and some special themed nights. For those unfamiliar, each Wednesday is actually two sessions. The first are a series of regular games and some smaller prizes. Then the final card of the night is blackout with a progressive prize that grows each week it is not claimed in the specified number. That has grown to more than $5,000 over the years. Last year, 3 jackpots were awarded during the season. Wawui Bingo takes place each Wednesday night in the summer at SARA Park. Doors opening at 5:30 and games begin at 7pm.

Published on 04/30/2024 under News The Rhinelander Chamber is looking to make it easier for non-profits to connect with potential volunteers. On Monday, the Chamber announced the launch of a centralized community volunteer website. The project was developed by Leadership Oneida County. That team includes Angela Badeau who said, "Strong communities are built through the collective efforts of their citizens. The Chamber is excited to offer nonprofit organizations an additional tool to promote volunteer opportunities that enhance the Rhinelander area through volunteer service." Badeau also explained how the process works. Nonprofits can submit their volunteer opportunities and events. They are posted onto an online calendar where people willing to lend a helping hand are able to browse. The listing includes dates and time, requirements, as well as contact information for the non-profit. With the launch this week, the calendar is still relatively light on opportunities, but it is expected to fill quickly. The Community Volunteer page is part of the Rhinelander Chamber website at www.RhinelanderChamber.com/Volunteer.

Published on 04/30/2024 under News Trees can play a key role in our health, and Aspirus was recognized for their efforts both on campus and in their communities. This past week, fifteen Aspirus Health Hospitals received the Arbor Day Foundation designation as a 'Tree Campus Healthcare Institution.' Fittingly, in an area known as the Northwoods, it includes the Aspirus facilities in Eagle River Rhinelander, Woodruff, Tomahawk and Merrill. To qualify each facility has met a list of criteria such as establishing a tree committee and campus program, participate in community education of trees, and completing an community forest project. With 15 spots on the list, Aspirus facilities make up nearly a third of the entire list. Currently, just 50 hospitals around the country carry that designation. Andrew Miller, Director of System Facilities Management and Security for Aspirus Health says, "As a health system, we recognize the critical importance trees play in the health of individuals and communities." He added, "We believe planting and caring for trees is the right thing to do and aligns to our mission of healing people, promoting health and strengthening communities."

Published on 04/30/2024 under News The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office recovered stolen ATV tires after an individual attempted to sell them online. According to the Lincoln County Sheriff's report, the incident began last week when an ATV fell off a trailer while being towed on Highway 51 and 8 in the Town of Bradley. The owner, a Hazelhurst man said he planned to return and retrieve the ATV from the ditch at a later time. When he returned, however, he found the tires had been taken. Several days later, the man reporting finding those tires in a posting for sale on Facebook Market Place. The investigating deputy followed up on the post. According to the report, the seller, a 45 year old Merrill man, admitted to taking the tires. He said he believed the ATV had been abandoned. The Sheriff's Office did not indicate if charges will be filed. It was actually a busy week for thefts in the Sheriff's report... A Gleason woman reported her wallet was stolen from her vehicle. She was parked near the Merrill Memorial Forest while she utilized the bike trail. She told deputies the vehicle was unlocked at the time. She had placed the wallet in a purse which was located on the passenger seat. And last Monday a person reported a burglary in progress in the Town of Merrill. The reporting party observed two men exit a locked building on Hillside Drive and run into a nearby field. Two Wisconsin license plates were reported missing-AXC7430. A neighbor reported seeing a suspicious 90's model blue Chevy Blazer in the area with two men during that time period.

Published on 04/30/2024 under News As we transition to spring, we continue to receive announcements to open area trails and campgrounds. Most trails in the region close during the transition from winter to spring in order to protect them as the frost leaves the ground and they dry out. It also allows an opportunity for some maintenance. As the trails do open up, they do reminder users that they will be in early season condition. We heard from the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest which will open their recreation trails on Wednesday, their campgrounds, with a few exceptions, will re-open on Thursday. And in Oneida County, the Forestry, Land and Recreation Department announced their ATV/UTV trails will open Wednesday. The announcement also included the opening of the Enterprise campground.

Published on 04/30/2024 under News The Nokomis Volunteer Fire Department too time this weekend to recognize several members with their annual awards banquet. Three firefighters were nominated for their 'Member of the Year,' an award voted on by the members themselves. The award went to Joe Jelinek who has stepped into the role of chief. According to the nomination he was not only recognized for filling in the role, but also the way he handled the transition. As for the other two nominees... •Keith Ploeckelman is acknowledged for his leadership with the fire prevention program both at the schools and the department. He also has taken a lead in managing the maintenance program for department apparatus and equipment. •Dakota Jelinek is viewed as a great asset when working with others and taking on responsibilities, such as helping with computer tasks. They also presented a 'Booster Award' to an individual or individuals who is not a member of the fire department, but still assisted the agency in a meaningful way. The award was shared by Rhinelander Fire Chief Brian Tonnancour and his assistant chief Dan Bauer. And they also recognized three retirees for their years of service: Cody Brown with 11 years, Linda Cole with 17 years, and Don Richert with 28 years. Even the name of the event, Mary's Dinner, is in memory of former first responder Mary Muckerheide. In her passing, Mary established an endowment fund for the annual banquet.

Published on 04/30/2024 under News Those who participated in the annual Wisconsin Conservation Congress Spring Surveys overwhelming supported restrictions on excessive boat wakes. Each spring the DNR and the Wisconsin Conservation Congress partner to offer advisory questions on outdoor resource management to gauge public interest. Around 19,000 people participated in this year's survey, and on Monday the results were released. There were around 50 questions on a variety of topics, including several related to 'wake boats.' These boats typically use a ballast system designed to create a larger wake for recreation such as wake surfing. One question was related to a rule that would restrict the use of these boats on small lakes, less than 1,500 acres, while requiring those using a wake boat on larger lakes operate more than 700 feet from shore and other lake users. According to the results, nearly 11,000 people supported the rules, about 3,800 opposed. Around 1,300 survey participants did not have an opinion. A second, more general question, regarding establishing some regulations was supported by a similar margin. Like all questions on the survey, these are advisory only. Previous legislative efforts to regulate the use of wake boats have failed. The full list of survey results is available on the DNR website.

Published on 04/29/2024 under News It won't be long before Veteran's Memorial Park in Tomahawk is filled with people for the summer Music on the River concert series. This past week, organizers unveiled the tentative line-up. Now entering year 17, they continue to offer a mix of returning favorites and newcomers making their debut. They'll have a little something for everyone...with bands featuring pop, rock, and country with more eclectic influences like jazz and reggae. It all kicks off June 19 with Ember. Then over the next five Wednesdays it'll be: Jerry Schmitt Band (June 26); Copper Box (July 3); The Tamaracks (July 10); Billy Bronsted Trio(July 17); and Santy and Son (July 24) The series will close out on July 31 with the Hip Pocket. Each night of concerts is free to attend. They're held in the pavilion at Veteran's Memorial Park offering not only viewing by land, but also by water. Stayed tuned to WJJQ each Wednesday morning as we'll preview that night's concert, while featuring some of their music and occasionally even band interviews.

Published on 04/29/2024 under News A Northwoods School district was recognized nationally for their sustainability efforts. Wrapping up Earth Week, the US Department of Education announced the recipients of their Green Ribbon Schools and sustainability awards. Nationwide just 41 schools, ten school districts, and three colleges were honored for their innovative efforts to reduce environmental impact and utility costs, improve health and wellness, and offer effective sustainability education. Among the 54 recipients were five right here in Wisconsin including the Northland Pines School District in Eagle River. Pines was nominated by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. Just a few examples of the many steps they highlighted: solar power generation on each campus, conversion to LED lights, efficiency fixtures, green cleaning products and and the use of several electric buses in their fleet. They've also brought those efforts into the classroom, or often brought the classroom outside, to teach a curriculum that includes sustainability and the environment. Other Wisconsin recipients include: · Madison – Creative Learning Preschool and Child Care Center · Milwaukee – Hawthorne Elementary School · Bay View – Milwaukee Parkside School for the Arts · University of Wisconsin-StoutOf the recipients, U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona says, "These awards represent thousands of students, and countless hours of hard work in schools and on college campuses, ensuring equitable access to healthy, climate-resilient learning environments where students are prepared for the sustainability challenges of the present and future."

Published on 04/29/2024 under News Tick season is right around the corner, and scientists at the Marshfield Clinic Research Institute will be collecting and studying ticks with the help of the public. The research is focused on the distribution of tick species in the area, including any new, invasive ticks that may be moving into Wisconsin. They will also identify the microbes carried by each tick, and any disease-causing pathogens. To establish their 'Tick Inventory' they'll be seeking help from the public through tick submissions. According to a news release, the first phase of this survey is targeting the Marshfield area specifically. Later this summer, they'll expand to other areas of the state. Survey areas will be supplied with collection kits placed at parks, hiking trails and veterinary clinics. Those kits will also come with an ID, which will allow the person who submits the tick to look up the species and any additional information. Alexandra Linz, MCRI associate research scientist notes that ticks are moving into new areas in response to environmental changes. She says, "This is an opportunity for Wisconsinites to act as citizen scientists and help us learn about ticks and their diseases, which can potentially help us better inform on disease prevention and early detection as well as develop improved diagnostic tools and treatments."

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