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Rhinelander Aspirus Hospital Introduces New 3D Mammography

Published on 12/22/2025 under News 3-D mammograms have been shown to provide more accurate breast screening, and that technology is coming to another Northwoods community. Rhinelander Aspirus Hospital announced this past week new 3D mammography with Genius AI. According to the release, the advanced imaging can reveal tumors too small to feel and catch cancers before symptoms appear. Clinical studies show that 3D mammography: Finds 41% more invasive cancers Reduces unnecessary callbacks by up to 40% Can detect cancers up to 15 months earlier than conventional mammogramsThey hope the clearer imaging means earlier detection, quicker results and fewer unnecessary call-backs. Rick Mai, Radiology Director, Aspirus Health's North Region. He says, "Women often tell us that waiting for mammogram results can be one of the most anxious moments of the year. What excites us most about bringing 3D mammography to Rhinelander isn't the machine—it's what the experience means for our patients." They note in the announcement that the experience of a 3D mammogram is nearly identical to a traditional exam—same positioning, similar compression, and completed in just a few minutes. Aspirus Rhinelander Hospital continues to offer both options so patients can discuss the best option with their provider. Mammograms remain one of the most powerful tools in the early detection of breast cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends that women of average risk begin annual mammograms at age 45 with the option to start as early as age 40.

Published on 12/22/2025 under News Officials are anticipating people will pay more to heat their homes this winter when compared to last, but the estimate is in line with the recent average. This past week, Wisconsin Public Service released their winter heating forecast. They said the typical monthly heating bill will be about $13 higher when compared to last winter, bringing it back in line the previous two heating seasons (2021-22 and 2022-23). According to the WPS announcement, this year's predicted increase comes from higher natural gas prices and forecasted colder temperatures when compared to last winter. It also includes ongoing investments in equipment upgrades and reliability. They explained that the utility takes steps to minimize the impacts of fuel cost fluctuation such as buying and storing natural gas when prices are lower or locking in contracts when costs drop. Assistance is available for qualifying customers. Otherwise WPS says people can take simple steps at home to lower costs, such as opening shades and blinds on sunny days and closing them at night. Lowering the thermostat when you are away or sleeping, sealing gaps around windows and doors.

Published on 12/22/2025 under News Kids in northern Wisconsin will have some additional opportunities this summer thanks to the Green Bay Packers. This past week, the Green Bay Packer Foundation announced grants for nearly 400 non-profit organizations around the state. That includes the Northwoods Children's Museum in Eagle River. The museum has been serving the area for nearly three decades offering hands-on educational play and more than 25 interactive exhibits. According to Executive Director Danielle Larsen, they'll be utilizing the Packer Foundation grant to help provide additional free summer wildlife classes for children and families. Larsen, joined by board member Brooke Fitch-Collins, traveled to Green Bay alongside representatives from other recipient organizations to attend a luncheon at Lambeau Field and meet some Packer alumni. In the coming days, we'll continue to look at how some of other groups in Northwoods will be investing their Packer Foundation grants. Photo: left to right: Northwoods Children's Museum Executive Director Danielle Larsen, Green Bay Packers Alumnus Vonnie Holliday, Northwoods Children's Museum Board Member Brooke Fitch-Collins

Published on 12/22/2025 under News A home in Antigo is likely a total loss after a weekend fire. According to a news release from the Antigo Fire Department, crews were dispatched to a structure fire on 5th Avenue at shortly after 2am Saturday morning. They arrived to find an attached garage fully engulfed, with the fire spreading to the second story of the home. Fortunately, all occupants of the home were able to safely evacuate. According to the release, cold weather conditions added additional challenges during their efforts. While the fire originated in the garage of the home, the exact cause wasn't immediately determined. Crews from several neighboring agencies provided mutual aid, while Kwik Trip provided food for responders on scene. Firefighters were on the scene for nearly seven hours.

Published on 12/22/2025 under News Each spring, Wisconsinites have an opportunity to weigh in on natural resources management. That process will actually begin in the next few weeks. The Wisconsin Conservation Congress is an independent organization that advises the DNR and the Wisconsin Natural Resources Board. That includes their annual spring hearings where the public can vote on a wide range of topics and recommendations such as hunting and fishing rules and regulations and land and water management. Starting in early January, the WCC will begin accepting proposed resolutions from the public. Among the guidelines, the concern must be of statewide impact, and be practical, achievable and reasonable. The resolution period runs from January 5 through February 9. The hearings take place in April. Those interested in submitting a resolution are encouraged to reach out to their WCC County Chair for guidance in drafting a resolution. They have additional information on their website as well. An individual citizen may submit no more than two resolutions per year.

Published on 12/22/2025 under News ArtStart in Rhinelander continues to provide the Northwoods with a creative outlet focused on the arts. And they have some new leadership. Longtime board member and ArtStart advocate Craig Zarley has been elected as the new Board President. Zarley said, "I'm excited to share ArtStart's cultural and community programs with more Northwoods residents. Our gallery exhibits, arts and health initiatives, and youth programming are just part of who we are and what we do. We want to be a driving force for community art and culture." He'll take over for Sue Bessert who is stepping back from her presidency after seven years, but will remain involved in the organization. During her last meeting Bessert told the board, "I am filled with both pride and gratitude... As I step down from the presidency, I do so with confidence in ArtStart's continued success and growth, knowing the organization is in capable hands."

Published on 12/19/2025 under News The Packers play the Bears this weekend, but earlier this week they played the role of Santa, providing non-profits around the state with an early Christmas gift. Each year, the Green Bay Packer Foundation provides grants to hundreds of non-profits around the state. This year their board selected nearly 400 organizations who will share in 1.5 million dollars. Each cycle, the Foundation focuses on specific themes. This year it was animal welfare, health and wellness, civic and community initiatives, and environmental causes. Recipients represent 63 of the state's 72 counties including a few in the Northwoods. There was just one Lincoln County recipient, WaWui in Tomahawk, which is the organization that operates SARA Park. Up in Oneida County, Northwoods Wildlife Center, Oneida County Humane Society, and Tri-County Council on Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault. Further north in Vilas County-the Conover Volunteer Fire and Rescue, Northwoods Children's Museum, and St. Germain Silent Trails. In the coming days, we'll take a look at how some of these organizations plan to use their funds to invest in the community. Packers President/CEO Ed Policy says, "It is truly an honor for the Packers to be in a position to support the crucial work these recipient organizations do in our communities. We are proud to support their causes and shine a light on them." Representatives from each organization were invited to a presentation ceremony at Lambeau this past week. Since the Foundation was established in 1986, they've distributed nearly $30 million. Next year's cycle will focus on groups addressing arts and culture, the environment, and food insecurity.

Published on 12/19/2025 under News Northwoods snowmobilers are getting an early Christmas present with some trail openings in Vilas and Oneida Counties on Friday. Officials are reminding riders to use a little extra caution and remember the rules to a safe season. Clubs anticipate trails will be in early-season riding conditions, and those warnings came before Thursday's warm and rainy day which could result in icy stretches and bare spots. While the trails on land will be opening, riders are encouraged to stay off of any trails that cross bodies of water until they have been inspected and marked by clubs. They're also reminding riders to stay on marked trails and obey all signs. During last year's abbreviated riding season, there were still 9 fatal snowmobile crashes around the state. Five were here in the Northwoods. Excessive speed, alcohol use and inexperience are frequently listed among the common causes of snowmobile crashes. We'll continue to provide trail updates throughout the riding season.

Published on 12/19/2025 under News An award winning winter attraction in the Northwoods is set to return this weekend. Boulder Junction's Winter Park is back, highlighted by the second season of The Glide, their popular, ice skating ribbon. The approximately mile-long frozen trail weaves through the trees for ice skaters for a scenic skating setting. Over the summer the project won a Wisconsin Governor's Outdoor Industry – First Ascent Award for Innovation. It was converted from an under-utilized. And they've been working on some improvements to not only the trail itself, but the amenities to improve the entire experience. Laura Bertch is Chair of the Boulder Junction Park Board said, "Winter Park has quickly become a signature destination for residents and visitors alike, and these upgrades will make the experience even more enjoyable for everyone." Beyond the Glide, Winter Park also features a community ice rink and a sledding hill. Even their new Tall Pines Disc Golf course is open. Typical hours for Winter Park are 10 am to 10 pm. You can follow BoulderatPlay on Facebook for updates, news, and special events.

Published on 12/19/2025 under News An annual holiday collection for the two Tomahawk area food pantries is in full swing. Each December, the Heritage Chevrolet 'Fill the Need' campaign ensures the Tomahawk and Nokomis Food Pantries are well stocked not only during the holidays, but throughout the year. 'Fill the Need' started in memory of a former Heritage employee who passed away shortly before the holidays in 1996. That makes this year number 28 for Fill the Need. The collection has changed over the years. It was initially known as Fill the Truck, Fill the Need. And they used to actually fill a full-sized Chevy Silverado pick-up truck with non perishable food items. In recent years, they transitioned to a fundraiser instead. Monetary donations better suit the current needs of the food pantries, allowing them to re-stock their shelves with items of greatest need throughout the year. As a special thank you to the donors, they've once again partnered with dozens of local businesses to collect thousands of dollars worth of prizes. Those drawings will take place next Monday, live on WJJQ. There's still time to get involved. For the easiest way to donate, you can visit the Heritage website and clicking on the Fill the Need banner. Or you can drop off a check in-person at Heritage.

Published on 12/19/2025 under News Marshfield Medical Center in Minocqua is hosting a special Christmas tree for those who have experienced pregnancy or infant loss. And they're inviting the public to hang a special ornament in honor of a loss. Staff at the facility have decorated the tree with blue and pink lights. They said community members can help remember their little loved losses by visiting the tree and placing an ornament. It can be a family ornament, or they also have a selection that can be personalized.(Once they take down the tree, families can collect their ornament, or leaving them to be displayed again next year.) Jamie Howell, Nurse Manager at Marshfield Medical Center-Minocqua Birth Center says, "The loss of a little one is always difficult, and we hope this brings comfort and peace during the holiday season." The remembrance tree is in the medical offices lobby and will remain on display through Jan. 5.

Published on 12/19/2025 under News The Medford Police Department has introduced the community to their newest officer. His name is Boone and he's a K9 bloodhound. According to the announcement, Boone becomes the department's first K9. He partner and handler is Chief Chad Liske. They department says Boone is working on his training to become a tracking/trailing K9 to assist in the search for missing/lost persons. They added, "You may see Boone out in about in the community as he works on his socialization. Feel free to say hello and offer some friendly pets if you see him." Boone joined the department last month.

Published on 12/18/2025 under News Despite the mild temperatures outside, another snowmobile trail system is set to open ahead of the weekend. According to an update from Vilas County Forestry, Recreation and Land Department, the Vilas County trail system will open tomorrow morning at 8am. The decision comes after a meeting of the eleven clubs that make up the Vilas County Snowmobile Alliance. They noted in the announcement that this year's opening was set back by damage caused by the winter storms in late November. Trails are expected to be in early season riding conditions. In the announcement, they also urged riders to use caution and stay off lakes until they've been marked. As we announced yesterday, trails in Oneida County are also slated to open on Friday at noon.

Published on 12/18/2025 under News Experts are predicting record travel numbers in Wisconsin over the upcoming winter holidays. According to Triple A, nearly 2.4 million Wisconsinites will travel at least 50 miles over the next two weeks. The projection would break the previous high, set last year, and comes on the heels of a record-setting Thanksgiving holiday. This year, that travel window is defined as the thirteen-day period from Saturday, December 20 to Thursday, January 1. Nearly 90% of those travelers will do so by vehicle. With Christmas falling midweek once again, travel will likely be spread out in the days leading up to Christmas. And as often the case, traveling on the holiday itself might be the least crowded. Traffic will pick back up again on the Saturday and Sunday following Christmas. They don't anticipate major impacts on New Year's eve/day. Traffic typically increases in the afternoons and evenings, so those looking to avoid busy roadways should plan to leave earlier in the day. As for gas prices, drivers will be saving about a quarter per gallon compared to last year. The statewide average at around $2.50.

Published on 12/18/2025 under News Data shows an uptick in respiratory illness in the area, and local officials are encouraging people take simple steps to stay healthier over the holidays. According to the Oneida County Health Department, respiratory illness activity is listed as moderate across Wisconsin's Northern Region based on emergency department visits. They said, data show increasing activity of influenza, Covid-19, and RSV, with influenza rising more quickly than other respiratory illnesses. With holiday gatherings upon us, they offered a few reminders of common ways to reduce the risk. First and foremost they recommend getting a flu shot and Covid booster, especially for those 65 and older or those with chronic conditions.Wash your hands with soap and water frequently and utilize hand sanitizer when that's not possible.Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow.Stay home when sick to avoid spreading illness.And when the temps allow, try and open a window to get some improved airflow indoors.The Department says, "Taking simple steps now helps keep you, your loved ones, and our community healthier this season."

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