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Our Sisters House Screening 'Americans with No Address' Documentary on Homelessness

Published on 11/18/2025 under News While homelessness is often seen as a big city problem, shelters here in the Northwoods see steady use throughout the year. This week and the month are dedicated to Homelessness Awareness. The Tomahawk Community is served by Our Sister's House, which is celebrating the 10th anniversary after opening in October 2015. For those unfamiliar, Our Sister's House is a 10 bed temporary housing shelter. They often describe their mission as 'help up rather than a hand out.' In addition to providing a place to stay for up to 90 days, they also provide a number of other resources to get people back on their feet. This can include assistance in a job search, locating permanent housing, counseling, insurance, or even securing a cell phone which is often necessary for job seekers. The shelter is operated primarily through grants, fundraising, and the generosity of community donations whether supplies or monetary contributions. As part of awareness month, the local shelter will host a special screening of Americans with No Address. Premiering earlier this year, the documentary that takes a deep look into the topic of homelessness in the United States from a number of angles. The screening will be held at the Corpus Christi Center starting at 5:45. People can come down early to enjoy supper at the Open Arms Community Meal at 5pm.

Published on 11/18/2025 under News A roadside worker was struck by a vehicle in Lincoln County this past week. According to the Lincoln County Sheriff's Report, that incident happened last Monday in the Town of Somo. Deputies were initially paged to Highway 8 at Meyer Road for a car versus pedestrian crash with injuries. Based on their preliminary investigation, a utility crew was parked on the shoulder of the road while working on fiber-optic cable. The driver, a 27 year old Ladysmith man, told the deputy he slowed down, but was unable to move over due to oncoming traffic. As the vehicle passed through the work zone, it struck a worker. The worker initially turned down an ambulance, but was later transported to an area hospital by private vehicle for an ankle injury. The report did not indicate if they driver was cited._____ *One other note from the Lincoln County Sheriff's Report, the number of vehicle versus deer collisions remains elevated with another 26 reported on Lincoln County roadways.

Published on 11/18/2025 under News Cold temperatures can be uncomfortable and snow events inconvenient; but winter weather can also be dangerous. Local and state officials are teaming up to share information as part of Wisconsin Winter Awareness Week. Ready Wisconsin shared some data on the dangers of extreme cold. Around the state last winter, there were nearly 1,400 emergency calls and about the same number of ER visits related to the cold. Among the most common dangers are hypothermia and frost bite. But these conditions can often be avoided or greatly reduced by paying attention to weather forecasts and staying prepared. A few other tips they offered when the temperatures drop: Try to limit time outside. Dress for the weather by layering and making sure to cover exposed skin. It's also a good idea to check on vulnerable friends, family, and neighbors. Lincoln County Emergency Management Director Tyler Verhasselt says, "Lincoln County has always been at its best when we look out for one another." He says, "When temperatures drop, we see just how quickly cold weather can escalate into a real emergency for our residents. Preparation is one of the most effective tools we have."

Published on 11/18/2025 under News The Tomahawk High School One Act Play is state-bound at the end of the week. In the lead up to their final competition, the students will be offering performances during the school day for their fellow classmates, along with a community performance this evening. This fall, THS is performing the character driven comedy, "Epic Adventures in a Rinky-Dink Art Museum" by Ken Preuss. It follows a group of creative writing students on a field trip to a small-town museum where they battle boredom by pursuing mysteries romance and other adventures. At the end of the week, the cast and crew will head to UW-Stevens Point for the state festival. This is the tenth consecutive year Tomahawk has sent the One-Act Play to the competition. For those who'd like a sneak peak, the community performance will be at 7pm in the auditorium. Admission is a free will donation to support the drama department.

Published on 11/18/2025 under News The countdown is on for the 2025 gun-deer season. Before heading into the field, the officials are encouraging hunters to go over safe hunting practices, including the use of tree stands. Dr Michael Clark with Aspirus MedEvac notes, "You're much more likely to get injured from a fall than a gunshot wound." He says, "It's a concern that we should definitely take precautions to avoid." The DNR offered some tips and reminders for tree stand use. First, inspect the tree, your stand, and your harness, especially if you haven't used them since last season. Some trees, like ash, may be weakened and vulnerable due to invasive species. Always maintain 3 points of contact when climbing. That means two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand. Use a haul line to raise or lower your firearm or bow. Carry a cellphone and let someone know where you're hunting and when you plan to return. Along with tree stand safety, the DNR also continues to emphasize safety on ATVs and UTVs. These machines are frequently used by hunters traveling to and from their stands. -Photo provided by Wisconsin DNR

Published on 11/18/2025 under News A local fire department is reminding property owners to be mindful of burning activities due to current wildfire conditions. The Little Rice Fire Department provided that message after responding to a fire Sunday afternoon in the Town of Lynne. Upon arrival, firefighters found tall grasses burning with difficult access. Multiple agencies responded, and they were on the scene for approximately 3 hours. This was one of four listed on the DNR wildfire tracker in our listening area this week. As we've previously reported, much of Northern Wisconsin is classified as abnormally dry or moderate drought. Coupled with the dry and breezy conditions we've seen in recent days, it can lead to elevated wildfire risk.

Published on 11/17/2025 under News As the seasons shift, the familiar sound of the Salvation Army Bell Ringers will soon fill the Northwoods. Here in Tomahawk, the local Salvation Army chapter is kicking off their holiday bell ringing efforts a bit later this week. Ahead of the launch we spoke with organizers Terry Derleth and Win Semmler. The bell ringing effort is their main source of funding, and 86 cents for every dollar donated stays in the community it's collected. Last year, the Tomahawk Chapter raised just shy of $35,000. Derleth says they are hoping to match that total. She noted those funds are utilized their temporary emergency voucher program and the Happy Kids Backpack program. With the Bell Ringing set to begin Friday and running through Christmas, there are 28 days to fill. Semmler says they've been fortunate to have a groups and businesses volunteer to ring as a team, filling 23 of the 28 days. That includes local banks, churches, realty offices, school staff and local non-profits. Derleth added that ringing can be a rewarding way to spend a few hours ahead of the holidays. She added that it is one of the highlights of her entire year. They'll be back at their two traditional locations, Trigs and in front of the post office downtown. People can call or text Semmler at 630-667-3250 or email win.semmler@gmail.com

Published on 11/17/2025 under News It was America Recycles Day on Saturday, and the DNR announced latest winners of the Wisconsin Recycling Excellence Awards including a Northwoods winner. This year, a record 22 recipients received awards across four categories: Projects and Initiatives, Overall Program, Special Events and Innovation. Among the Special Event winners was the 3rd Annual Recycling Extravaganza held in Eagle River over the summer. The effort, organized by Robert Blaus, served as a one-stop shop for a number of items and materials including: electronics and metal; a prescription drug take-back; American flag retirement; and eyewear and hearing aids collection for redistribution. And for a small town, the numbers were impressive…When the collection, there said there were already more than 500 vehicles waiting in line. They collected 25 tons of electronics and 26,000 pounds of metal and appliances along with 49 pounds of pharmaceuticals. The effort also supported the Vilas County Food Pantry. Recyclers contributed nearly 900 pounds of non-perishable food items and more than $1,200 in monetary donations. Organizers said they are already looking forward to the 4th Annual Recycling Extravaganza next summer. For the last 13 years, the DNR has celebrated outstanding recycling and waste minimization efforts through its annual awards recognizing high-performers and highlighting proven ideas and strategies that other organizations may use to improve their recycling efforts.

Published on 11/17/2025 under News As the use of electric vehicles grows, so does the need for a reliable charging network. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation announced additional funding to build charging stations around the state including several locations here in the Northwoods. The funds come from the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program. According to the announcement, these fast-charging stations will help ensure residents and visitors alike have access to the charging infrastructure needed to travel from point A to point B in Wisconsin. In all 26 locations will share in $14 million in partial match funding. Locally, that includes: the Kwik Trips in both Arbor Vitae and Marathon City; along with the Prentice Truck and Travel Center and the Merrill Travelodge by Wyndham. The charging stations will be built along Wisconsin's Alternative Fuel Corridor, reaching all corners of the state to support the more than 37,000 EVs registered in the state, as well as travelers and visitors. WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman says, "WisDOT is pleased to help offer drivers reliable and convenient places to stop, so they can feel comfortable making a trip across the state and have the opportunity to support local businesses along the way." The locations of every planned charging station can be found on WisDOT's EV charging station dashboard.

Published on 11/17/2025 under News Emergency management teams around the state are reminding residents to prepare for the upcoming winter season. It's time for Wisconsin Winter Awareness Week. In the coming days, safety officials and meteorologists will be sharing valuable information and safety tips as people prepare for what Mother Nature has to offer in the coming months. According to the National Weather Service, Wisconsin averages three to six major winter storms each season. For a second consecutive winter, it was unusually mild with below average snowfall totals and above normal temperatures. Despite the relatively mild winters, preparation remains important. Wisconsin Emergency Management Administrator Greg Engle says, "Being prepared doesn't have to be complicated, but it does take a little time and planning. That effort can make all the difference for you and your loved ones." That includes preparing home and vehicle emergency kits, going over a family emergency plan, and paying attention to weather forecasts. Stay tuned to WJJQ all week long for additional information on Winter Awareness Week.

Published on 11/17/2025 under News The countdown is on for the opening of the 9-day gun-deer season. And while the goal is to bag a buck, the most important thing to remember is safety. That starts with TAB-K. What may seem like a nonsensical phrase, TAB-K is the mnemonic device that safety official use to help hunters handle their firearms properly. They are all common recommendations found in the Hunter's Safety Courses. The DNR offered a quick refresher.The T stands for Treat every firearm as if it is loaded.The A stands for Always point the muzzle in a safe direction.The B Be certain of your target, and what is in front of and beyond it.And the K Keep your finger outside of the trigger guard until you are safe to shoot.Last season there was a single, non-fatal firearm incident during the gun-deer season. The victim was struck in the foot by an errant shot. Stay tuned to WJJQ throughout the week for coverage of the deer season.

Published on 11/17/2025 under News Earlier this year, community members in the Arbor Vitae-Woodruff area kicked off an effort to form a new Lions Club.As recruitment efforts continue, they draw closer to getting the 20 members needed to officially form a new chapter. According to the latest update, they are more than half way there. While not official just yet, those members are already giving back to the community participating last month's Food for Kidz, where they picked up two more recruits. They're hosting another meeting this evening at 6pm in the Arbor Vitae Town Hall. They encourage people interested to attend to learn more, get involved, and help in the creation of the new chapter.

Published on 11/14/2025 under News We're still around six weeks from Christmas, but Northwoods volunteers are already busy preparing a global gift giving outreach. While a simple concept, Operation Christmas Child makes a big difference in the lives of children around the world. Ahead of each holiday season, the volunteers fill shoe boxes with small gifts like toys, hygiene items, and school supplies. The boxes are then distributed to children in need. Maria Nakala is the regional coordinator, overseeing the collection in 6 Northwoods counties. She made her annual stop to the WJJQ studios this week to drop off supplies and talk a bit about the collection. She's been part of the program for around 25 years. She said she got involved 'to bring joy.' She notes some items we may take for granted are incredibly meaningful using examples of a wash cloth or notebook. Even what Nakala called a 'wow item' can be simple like a soccer ball and hand pump. As for the packaging, Nakala says a boxing afternoon can be a fun group activity for family and friends. She includes her children and grandchildren. In order to get those boxes out in time for Christmas, they're already collecting boxes. We've got some instructional pamphlets and boxes here at the WJJQ office. They've also got info on the Operation Christmas Child website.

Published on 11/14/2025 under News Earlier this summer, Lincoln County sold Pine Crest Nursing Home. Now the Board is looking to use proceeds of the sale for some facility and maintenance projects. At their meeting Wednesday morning, the supervisors passed a resolution by voice vote outlining priority projects which they'll utilize the proceeds, approximately $1.8 million, according to the resolution. The County Board had previously established an Ad Hoc Facilities Committee to create a priority list. Prior to the vote, Administrative Coordinator Renee Krueger offered a presentation. Among the projects listed in the resolution are:Architectural Design for the Service Center (base cost $40,165 + additional expenses)Service Center Roof ($310,000)Proceed with Phase 1 & Phase 2 of the Lincoln County Ad Hoc Facilities Comprehensive Plan 2025, moving services from the Health and Human Services Building to the Service Center, which include building offices and conference room modifications on the first floor and ground floorJail Roof Replacement ($350,000) and Jail Boiler Replacement ($210,000)Proceed with Phase 3 of the Lincoln County Ad Hoc Facilities Comprehensive Plan 2025, relocating the Forestry Department and making renovations for additional water labs and drug testing bathrooms to accommodate the Health Department moving to the Service CenterThe proceeds are to be expensed by August 1, 2027. Meanwhile, the Board postponed a vote on a resolution that would have hired an engineering firm for architectural and design work to address the aging Highway Department facilities in Merrill and Tomahawk. After a lengthy discussion, the board sent the resolution back to the Highway Committee.

Published on 11/14/2025 under News There are a number of published authors around the Northwoods. An event this weekend in Rhinelander is looking to highlight them. The Rhinelander District Library is preparing to host their third annual Local Author Fair. This year they've arranged to have 15 authors, along with two local writing groups. Among those who will be in attendence: Thomas E. Burg, Pamela JA Fullerton, Jim Finucan, Rachael Walburger, Kathryn Springer, Rand Atkinson, Tabitha Krueger, Anastasia Stelse, Andrew Egan, Mark Miazga, Coyote TF Herron, Lynne Austin, Barbara Perkins, Judith E. Hankes, and Johnny Bock. There's a variety of genres represented including fiction and nonfiction, children's books, poetry and novels. One commonality however are the authors ties to the state, and the Northwoods in particular. That link is often used as a setting or influence in the author's work. Organizers note that readers will be able to connect with the authors to gain some insight into their backgrounds, writing process, and inspiration. Following the meet and greet, they'll have a keynote speech from Claire Swinarski, author of The Funeral Ladies of Ellerie County. It begins at 9:30am Saturday morning with the keynote speech at 11:30am at the Rhinelander District Library.

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