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City of Tomahawk Eyes Temporary Fix to Deteriorating Somo Avenue

Published on 04/29/2026 under News Somo Avenue in Tomahawk is one of the roughest stretches of road in the city. While officials await a long-term fix, the city is teaming up with the county on a temporary solution. And that could come next month. At Tuesday's meeting, the Board of Public Works approved a plan to wedge the top layer of asphalt and apply an overlay on Somo Avenue between the 4-way stop and Tomahawk Avenue. A previous overlay began to peel, leaving behind large potholes that are difficult to fill and maintain. This project is intended as a temporary measure for that four-block segment, expected to last around 5 years. The State of Wisconsin has tentatively scheduled a full reconstruction of Somo Avenue, which doubles as State Rd. 86 for the year 2030. Street Lead Nick Rosenmeier briefly discussed the plan ahead of the vote. Repairs are tentatively scheduled for the week before Memorial Day weekend, and Rosenmeier anticipates a closure of that four block stretch for two to three days. The Board discussed project logistics, including the temporary detour and ensuring access for the police department. Ultimately, the project was approved unanimously. _____ A few other quick notes from Tuesday's lengthy Public Works meeting… The Board approved an updated request from Tomahawk Main Street for their downtown historical marker in the boulevard outside the Bradley mural on the side of Walker's General Store. Tomahawk Main Street also requested permission to pursue a streetscape redesign project. We'll have a bit more on those efforts in the coming days. The Board continues to discuss ongoing issues with lift station at the Esker Heights subdivision due to flushing of improper materials. The city is exploring various options including advisories and service call surcharges. They are reaching out to neighboring communities to see how they have addressed similar issues. The board also approved routine maintenance to paint the city's fire hydrants. They will be painted red and include industry standard indicators marking water flow rates. Street Lead Nick Rosenmeier clarified for people inquiring about street sweeping delays. They have been awaiting a repair part that was initially back-ordered, then incorrectly sized. He hoped to have the street sweeper up and running this week.

Published on 04/29/2026 under News Expecting parents and families with little ones will have a chance to gather helpful resources, ask questions, and connect with local experts at an upcoming community event in Tomahawk. The Lincoln County Health Department and their partners are hosting the 4th annual Lincoln County Community Baby Shower Wednesdayafternoon. Organizers say the free, come-and-go event is designed for families expecting a baby, as well as parents, caregivers, and family members of children up to 18 months old. They note that kids are welcome as well. Public Health Educator Lexi Buntrock says, "We are excited to be able to offer this one-stop-shop experience again that connects expecting families, and those with young children, with local resources and education." The baby shower will feature a wide range of local agencies and services, offering information on topics such as safe sleep practices, child development, nutrition, mental health, and early literacy. They'll have demonstrations like CPR and car seat checks. Buntrock says, "We are excited to welcome back many of our returning agencies and resources, as well as introduce some new ones this year. Thanks to a grant from the Tomahawk Community Thrift Shop, they have a limited number of care packages with baby essentials and educational materials. Buntrock says, "We frequently see families returning to the event annually..." No registration is required. They'll be set up at St. Mary's Corpus Christi Center in Tomahawk this afternoon from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Published on 04/29/2026 under News Students at Tomahawk Middle School are stepping out of the classroom and into the community for a day of service. The annual Community Service Day will send middle school students across the greater Tomahawk area to take part in a wide range of service projects like cleaning up grounds, reading to younger students, helping at nursing homes and assisting community organizations. A new addition this year includes a fundraiser at the Trig's Brat Hut from 11 am to 2 pm, where students will serve lunch to raise money for the Salvation Army Backpack Program which offers snacks and food vouchers for students dealing with food insecurity. Ahead of the effort, we spoke with Middle School Principal Stacey Bolder. She says the day is about more than just volunteering it's about building pride, connections, and lifelong values. She noted, "By the time a student leave Tomahawk Middle School in eighth grade, you know they're going to have done quite a bit of community service, something that we want to instill in (our students). Community members are encouraged to stop by the brat stand to support the cause and see the students' efforts in action.

Published on 04/29/2026 under News Officials have provided some additional details into a fatal incident following a traffic stop near Tomahawk late last week. That incident happened Friday, at shortly before 5pm on Highway 51 north of County A. The initial report indicated a state trooper conducted a traffic stop, the driver drove away, and suffered a fatal, self-inflicted injury. In an update provided by the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office on Tuesday, they identified the subject as 36 year old Wade Johnson of Minocqua. They clarified the initial traffic stop was for an equipment violation. After briefly stopping for the trooper, they said Johnson fled in the vehicle, traveled an approximately quarter mile, entered the ditch before the vehicle came to rest. Johnson was pronounced dead at the scene of a self-inflicted injury. According to the update, life saving measures were not attempted due to the extend of injuries. The Sheriff's Office said no law enforcement officers fired their weapons, and no officers injured during the incident.

Published on 04/29/2026 under News Earlier this month the DNR and Wisconsin Conservation Congress invited people to weigh in on all things outdoors, and thousands of people responded. The results of 2026 of the survey have now been posted. Just over 6,800 people responded to the questionnaire either in person after attending the spring hearing, or online. That's actually down slightly from last year. Conservation Congress Chair Rob Bohmann says, "It is wonderful to see the public invested in this important process and it tells us how much they value resource management in Wisconsin," The survey included around 45 yes/no questions on a variety of topics. For example, people overwhelming supported designating the Hine's Emerald Dragonfly as the state insect, but overwhelming opposed requiring registration of non-motorized watercrafts like kayaks and paddleboards. The results of these surveys are advisory, however they are presented at the Conservation Congress annual meeting and will be sent to the DNR and Natural Resources Board. The results are also available on the DNR website.

Published on 04/29/2026 under News One seat remains open on the Merrill School Board after the winner of a write-in declined the position. The Merrill Board of Education had three seats on the April ballot, but just two candidates. That left the final spot to be determined by write-in. The winner of the write-in was Lin Kautza, however she officially declined the nomination ahead of this week's deadline. In a letter to Superintendent Shannon Murray, Kautza expressed gratitude to the voters. She noted that while education has been her life's work, after conversations and consideration, she ultimately would decline. The next steps for the district is to fill the vacancy by appointment. Board members are scheduled to meet on May 6 to determine the process.

Published on 04/28/2026 under News Business leaders, entrepreneurs, and community members are gathering today to focus on strengthening small business and economic growth in Lincoln County. The Lincoln County Economic Development Corporation is hosting its 2026 Economic Summit, themed "Energizing the Small Business Spirit." The summit is designed to bring together regional partners and local businesses to share ideas, build connections, and explore strategies for success. LCEDC Executive Director Sara Guild anticipated more than 100 people would take part. The morning session features updates on regional economic trends, a keynote on innovation in rural communities, and a panel discussion with local business owners. A statewide perspective on economic conditions will also be shared. Following some networking and lunch, the afternoon sessions are focused on practical tools for small businesses, including financing partnerships, marketing strategies, and community engagement. The day wraps up with a closing presentation by Mike Hobbs, a rural entrepreneur and community development advocate. He'll be highlighting how small-town businesses can drive broader community growth. This is the third year for the Lincoln County Economic Summit, which alternates locations between Tomahawk and Merrill. This year, they're back in Merrill.

Published on 04/28/2026 under News Motorists are asked to be on the lookout for volunteers busy picking up a winter's worth of trash and recyclables along local roadways. Mirrored off the WisDoT's popular Adopt-A-Highway program, many local highway departments have similar outreach efforts. That includes the Oneida County Highway Department which currently partners with 41 volunteer groups and organizations, who have pledged to maintain two-mile segments of Oneida County roadways throughout the year. Many of those groups have been taking advantage of the early start to spring, by picking up the roadside litter. The Oneida County Highway Department is asking drivers to be on the lookout and leave the groups plenty of space alongside the road. The volunteers are typically outfitted with high visibility vests while they work. There are still some road segments available for adoption. Those interested can reach out to the Highway Department during office hours. Or if you'd like to simply volunteer, specifically in the Nokomis area, there is a roadside clean-up planned for Saturday. They're meeting at the Nokomis Town Hall at 8am for assignments.

Published on 04/28/2026 under News Two men were arrested on drug charges following a traffic stop in Lincoln County. According to the Lincoln County Sheriff's Report, the incident happened Thursday as deputies were working on what was described as a directed patrol effort targeting illegal drug trafficking. During this detail a deputy observed a vehicle speeding and radioed ahead to a second deputy for a traffic stop. According to the report, deputies requested the assistance of Lincoln County's K9 unit. They said, "During an exterior sniff of the vehicle, K9 Nina alerted positive." During a subsequent search of the vehicle, deputies recovered cocaine and drug paraphernalia. As a result the driver and passenger were taken into custody on charges including possession of cocaine with intent to deliver. They have been identified as Eric Walloch and Patrick Grady, both of Eagle River. Both men were transported to the Lincoln County Jail.

Published on 04/28/2026 under News Two drivers were let off with warnings after an apparent road rage incident escalated. According to the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, that incident happened Friday on Highway 51 near Merrill. Deputies were initially dispatched to a driving complaint involving two vehicles operating recklessly. According to the report, while deputies were en route, dispatchers remained in contact with those involved and were able to direct both drivers to pull over at separate locations to wait for law enforcement. The initial caller, a 33-year-old man from Rhinelander, told deputies the other driver had, at one point, waved a handgun. Deputies also spoke with the second driver, a 47-year-old man from Oklahoma, who acknowledged becoming upset with the other driver's behavior. He admitted that he armed himself with a handgun, but said he did not point the weapon at anyone. After investigating, deputies said they were unable to determine definitively whether a law violation had occurred. Both individuals were released with warnings.______ A few other quick notes from the Lincoln County Sheriff's Report… A 40 year old Merrill man is facing a number of citations after a reckless driving stop including a 4th offense operating after revocation, false registration plates, and illegal window tint. The driver told the deputy he was on his way to the court house at the time of the traffic stop for a court appearance on an unrelated traffic matter. The number of vehicle versus deer collisions was down with just one reported on Lincoln County roadways.

Published on 04/28/2026 under News With spring's arrival, it's almost time to hit the trails in Lincoln County, whether you prefer horsepower or pedal power. Lincoln County Forestry, Land, and Parks has announced that the equestrian and mountain bike trails at the Underdown Recreation Area will officially open for the season on Friday (May 1 at 8am). Recreation Forester Nick Behrens says trail users should be prepared for typical early-season conditions as the ground continues to thaw. That means riders may encounter soft or muddy areas, uneven terrain, standing water, and debris such as fallen branches or leaning trees. They ask that trail users follow signage and stay on the trails. Behrens offered credit to local volunteer groups, including the Underdown Horse Club and the Central Wisconsin Off-Road Cycling Coalition, for their ongoing maintenance and preparation efforts which play a key role in keeping the trail network accessible. Riders are encouraged to show their support by thanking volunteers, getting involved with local clubs, and supporting businesses that contribute to trail upkeep.

Published on 04/28/2026 under News A local nurse was recently recognized with prestigious professional honor. Aspirus Rhinelander Hospital honored nurse manager Claire Horant with the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. While many recipients are nominated by patients, hers came from a co-worker. The nomination wrote, in part: Her compassion and dedication shine through in everything she does. She is not only hardworking, but she consistently brings positive attitude that lifts the spirits of those around her. Through her actions, she inspires those around her to give their best, not just for our patients, but for one another as colleagues. As a Daisy recipient, Horant received a honoree pin and a Shona Tribe sculpture known as A Healer's Touch. The award is part of the DAISY Foundation's program to recognize the super-human efforts nurses perform every day.

Published on 04/27/2026 under News It won't be long before Veteran's Memorial Park in Tomahawk is once again filled with the sound of music. This past week, organizers of Music on the River announced the line-up for the nineteenth season of the summer concert series. Once again a mix of fan favorites and newcomers, they'll feature a little something for everyone, no matter what genre of music is a favorite. It all kicks off June 17 with a returning fan favorite. The Cougars will be back on the prowl in Tomahawk. Then over the next six Wednesdays it'll be: B.D. Greer with The Gents (June 24); Ember (July 1); The Ramble (July 8); Johnny and the Motones (July 15); The Jimmy's (July 22); The series will close out on July 29 with Copperbox. As always, these concerts are free. They're held in the riverside pavilion at Veteran's Memorial Park offering not only viewing by land, but also by water. Of course stay tuned to WJJQ each Wednesday as we'll preview that night's concert. _____ Speaking of music announcements, Tomahawk Main Street announced the headliner for the Fall Ride Street Dance. Rockers Jackyl will be returning to the Northwoods to play the 45th edition of the Fall Ride, with local rock band Storm opening. They also announced a pair of shows, Friday and Saturday, from Nashville recording artist Brooks Herring along with some additional supporting acts from around the region.

Published on 04/27/2026 under News Authorities in Lincoln County are investigating a fatal incident that followed a traffic stop near Tomahawk over the weekend. According to a release from the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, that incident happened Friday at just before 5 p.m. along Highway 51 north of County Road A. A Wisconsin State Patrol trooper had initiated a traffic stop when the occupant of the vehicle fled. According to the release, the driver sustained what is believed to be a self-inflicted fatal injury. Deputies from the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office responded to the scene, along with officers from the Tomahawk Police Department and the Wisconsin State Patrol. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities say no additional information is being released at this time.

Published on 04/27/2026 under News Firefighters from across Oneida County spent Saturday practicing life-saving skills during a specialized training in vehicle extrication. Pine Lake Fire and Rescue hosted the day-long "Heavy Rescue Training" class at its station, bringing together crews from multiple departments for both classroom instruction and hands-on scenarios. The training was led by instructors from Midwest Fire Tactics. Participants worked through a series of simulated rescue situations set up on-site, giving firefighters the opportunity to practice extrication techniques in a controlled environment. Officials say the training helps crews learn new methods and refine their approach when responding to serious crashes. Departments taking part included Pine Lake Fire and Rescue, Pelican Fire and Rescue, Newbold Fire Department, Crescent Volunteer Fire Department, Minocqua Fire and Rescue Department, Woodruff Fire Department, Cassian Volunteer Fire Department, and Little Rice Fire Department. Organizers also thanked T&M Towing and Repair for providing vehicles used in the training, and Dinges Fire Company for supplying AMKUS extrication tools.

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