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Local & Area News

Never Forgotten Honor Flight Returns for 56th Mission; ~5,400 Vets Overall

Published on 06/01/2026 under News Another group of Northwoods veterans is traveling to the nation's capital on Monday to visit the monuments built in their honor. The Never Forgotten Honor Flight is embarking on the second of four planned missions to Washington, D.C., this year. Organizers expect 96 veterans to take part, including 95 from the Vietnam era and one from the Korean War. They are hoping for better travel luck than last month's flight, which experienced a few mechanical delays. Today's mission marks the 56th flight for the local hub since its founding in 2010. Over that time, nearly 5,400 local veterans have participated in the program. Organizers continue to encourage veterans who served in any location prior to June 7, 1975, to sign up if they haven't already taken part. The public is invited to give the veterans a warm welcome home at the end of their journey this evening. Honor Flight officials recommend arriving at Central Wisconsin Airport no later than 8:30 p.m.

Published on 06/01/2026 under News A tragic end to the search for a missing boater in Lac du Flambeau late last week. Officials say the body of Kyle Ascheman, 45, of Lake Geneva, was recovered from Whitefish Lake over the weekend. Ascheman was reportedly vacationing with his family in Lac du Flambeau at the time of his disappearance. The search began Thursday evening after a concerned citizen reported an unoccupied boat circling on the water. Authorities identified Ascheman as the boat's owner and contacted his family, who confirmed he was missing. A multi-agency search was launched Thursday night, continuing through Friday and into Saturday morning. First responders noted that difficult lake bed conditions and poor visibility impeded their efforts. Crews utilized specialized equipment, including aerial and underwater drones, sonar, and search dogs. On Saturday, a dive team located and recovered Ascheman's body in approximately 38 feet of water. The incident remains under investigation.

Published on 06/01/2026 under News Tomahawk residents may notice some changes to their water this week as the City of Tomahawk Water Department conducts its annual water main and hydrant flushing program. The Water Department says this annual flushing program is an essential part of maintaining a safe, clean, and reliable water system for the community. During the flushing process, residents may experience temporary drops in water pressure and occasional water discoloration caused by sediment being cleared from the system. City officials say this discoloration is normal and can usually be resolved by running a cold water tap for one to two minutes until it runs clear. As a precaution, residents are advised to avoid washing white or light-colored laundry while crews are working in their immediate area. Motorists should also use caution around work crews and watch for standing water on roadways. Crews will begin today and work through Friday in designated zones across the city.

Published on 06/01/2026 under News Wisconsin trail riders will need to double check ATV/UTV rules, as the new off-road vehicle regulations officially take effect today, June 1. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is rolling out the updated rules to bolster safety across the state's trail systems. Among the most notable updates is a seatbelt mandate for all UTV operators and passengers. Additionally, anyone riding in a vehicle without a windshield is now required to wear goggles, glasses, or a face shield. The regulations crack down on excessive noise, unnecessary tire spinning, and reckless operation on both trails and public roads, introducing stiffer penalties for property damage. UTV drivers will also have to comply with new window tint standards and strict limitations on towing individuals on sleds or trailers. On the mechanical side, the maximum allowable weight for UTVs has been increased to 3,500 pounds, and all UTVs must now be equipped with two functioning tail lights. With summer riding season kicking into high gear, the DNR is urging riders to thoroughly review the comprehensive, updated 60-page regulations booklet, which is currently available for download on their website. Beyond the new changes, DNR officials are reminding riders that foundational safety habits remain as critical as ever. "As always, ride safe by wearing your helmets and seatbelts, knowing the rules, and riding sober," said DNR Lt. Jacob Holsclaw.

Published on 06/01/2026 under News A state agency will once again be tracking spongy moths this summer across the western half of Wisconsin. The Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) announced it will set more than 6,500 spongy moth traps across 36 counties, including Lincoln, Vilas, Oneida, Price, and Taylor. Program coordinator Amanda Miller noted that the traps serve a dual purpose: monitoring existing populations and catching new ones early. Miller says, "Even though spongy moth populations drastically decreased across the state again last season, there are still new outlier populations developing." The traps themselves are small, green, tent-shaped boxes tied to tree branches. Infused with the scent of a female spongy moth, the traps are completely undetectable to other insects but highly attractive to male spongy moths. State crews will monitor the traps through August, which is typically when the male moths stop flying for the season. Once the flight period ends, the traps will be removed. Property owners may spot agency staff tending to the sites over the summer. Those monitoring the traps will wear fluorescent safety vests and carry official identification cards. Each trap is clearly labeled with a phone number and a QR code that residents can use if they have questions or concerns.

Published on 06/01/2026 under News The Eagle River Area Fire Department turned a planned barn demolition into a valuable training opportunity. Firefighters and other first responders spent Saturday at the Northwoods Assembly of God Church. Before a controlled burn of an old barn, firefighters spent the morning conducting a variety of training exercises focused on emergency response skills in simulated smoke conditions and live-fire scenarios. As the day progressed, they then moved on to a controlled burn of the entire barn. The agency said the controlled burn was completed successfully with no fire spread to nearby structures and no spot fires reported. Fire officials say realistic training exercises like this provide hands-on experience that helps firefighters better protect the communities they serve. Several neighboring agencies and partners took part.

Published on 05/29/2026 under News The Tomahawk Powwow Days celebration is right around the corner, and planning is already in full swing. Among the event's many popular traditions is the return of the annual "North for the Fourth" T-shirts. Each year, a new design is created, typically featuring a patriotic, Powwow Days, or Northwoods theme. Tomahawk Main Street has officially unveiled this year's shirt. Fitting for the Fourth of July, it features a simple wordmark with a patriotic red, white, and blue color palette. Drawing inspiration from another 4th event, the typography is backed by bursting fireworks. A preview of the design is currently available to view on the Tomahawk Main Street Facebook page. With 40 years of unique designs in the books, these shirts have become a popular local collector's item. Other community members simply purchase them to wear during the weekend's festivities as a way to show pride and support Tomahawk Main Street efforts. Past editions have showcased iconic community events like the Tomahawk Fire Department water fights, a Top Gun-inspired theme, and last year's classic Northwoods nature setting. The shirts are available locally at Honeycomb Loft, and can also be purchased online directly through the Tomahawk Main Street website. All proceeds from the sales go toward supporting Tomahawk Main Street's ongoing community and downtown revitalization efforts.

Published on 05/29/2026 under News Aspirus Health is using new artificial intelligence technology to help doctors detect life-threatening strokes faster and improve emergency response times. The new Viz.ai platform automatically reviews CT scans using AI to identify strokes with seconds. When a severe stroke is suspected, the system immediately alerts radiologists and emergency physicians so treatment can begin faster. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, the brain loses an estimated 1.9 million neurons every minute during an untreated stroke, making rapid diagnosis critical. Aspirus officials say combining advanced computer analysis with medical expertise can help reduce long-term disability and improve patient outcomes.

Published on 05/29/2026 under News May is graduation season, and one recent commencement address at Northcentral Technical College truly stood out. NTC recently shared the story behind graduate speaker Ashley Aull, who delivered her entire commencement address in sign language. Aull explained that the unique approach was designed to give attendees a firsthand understanding of what it is like for deaf individuals who must rely on interpreters every day. To do this, she flipped the traditional roles: Aull signed her message while NTC instructor Chanel Volpel provided the spoken interpretation for the audience. Aull's journey into the field began when she enrolled in a summer sign language program at NTC just to communicate with a new friend who is deaf. What started as a personal connection quickly grew into a lifelong career path. After helping to interpret at her child's school, she decided to pursue formal credentials through NTC's Sign Language Interpreting in Education program. While Aull notes that the work can be incredibly challenging, she finds it equally rewarding. As for what is next, Aull, who has also studied in medical programs, is looking to combine the two skills to explore a career as a specialized medical interpreter.

Published on 05/29/2026 under News Lincoln County will work with the Tomahawk School District to fund and support a dedicated social worker on campus starting next school year. At its meeting last week, the Lincoln County Board approved using a portion of its opioid settlement funds to help share the position's cost. Over the course of the four-year program, the county will contribute $154,000, while the school district will cover the remaining $188,000. Because the county's opioid settlement dollars come with spending restrictions, funds are typically set aside for prevention, awareness, or treatment. According to the Opioid Settlement Task Force, this proposal aligns would fall under that guidance. The initiative aims to expand youth mental health services and increase access to vital prevention and treatment resources for both students and their families. The approved resolution notes that having a full-time school social worker on campus will allow the district to shift from reacting to student crises to proactively supporting families, which is also expected to reduce strain on county-wide emergency services. The board approved the resolution following an in-depth presentation and a lengthy discussion. The School Board will also have to take up the proposal.

Published on 05/29/2026 under News Folks on the north side of Rhinelander could hear some warning sirens throughout the day on Saturday. According to the Pine Lake Fire Department, the warning sirens are part of an equipment demonstration known as SirenCon. This event is to showcase different manufacturers and types of warning sirens for emergency or weather for municipal, school and camp use. This is actually the seventh year for SirenCon, which returns to Camp Tesomas on Spider Lake Road near Rhinelander. According to the Fire Department the time of the larger siren demonstrations will take place between noon to 6:30pm on Saturday.

Published on 05/28/2026 under News Lincoln County is shining a spotlight on the importance of foster care and the people who support the program. This past week, the Lincoln County Board approved a resolution proclaiming May as Foster Care Month in Lincoln County. In the resolution, they recognize foster parents, kinship caregivers, mentors, advocates, community partners and child welfare staff for the role they play in helping children and families succeed. According to Lincoln County Social Services, the county currently has 67 children in out-of-home placements. Officials say some youth must be placed miles away from home because of limited foster care capacity locally. Those placements can make it more difficult for youth to stay connected to their schools, families and communities. This year's National Foster Care Month theme is "Engaging Youth. Building Supports. Strengthening Opportunities." County leaders say foster care is about more than providing a temporary home. Foster families and community partners work together to provide safety, stability and support while helping families heal and work toward reunification whenever possible. Lincoln County Social Services is also encouraging community members to learn more about becoming or supporting foster parents to make a lasting difference in the life of a child. They're hosting two open house options today, including a virtual option this morning and in-person this afternoon. We've got that information in the WJJQ Community Calendar. Those who can't attend can always reach out to the Lincoln County Social Services Office.

Published on 05/28/2026 under News We've been talking ticks throughout the month of May, and one Northwoods county is taking that message to the trails, and other tick-friendly public spaces. As part of their Stay Tick Smart campaign, the Langlade County Health Department has installed new tick-safety information signs at local outdoor recreation areas throughout the county. These signs aim to help residents and visitors stay informed and protected as they enjoy local trails, parks, and natural areas during peak tick season. Each sign provides clear information about the types of ticks common in Wisconsin, along with practical steps to prevent tick bites. In addition to the signs, each site now offers a take-along Tick Safety Guide. These small, trail-friendly handouts include photos of local ticks, instructions for safe tick removal, and tips for reducing exposure while hiking or biking. Community Health Specialist Ian Resch says, "Langlade County's trails and natural spaces are a huge part of what makes this area special. These signs and guides help ensure that everyone can enjoy the outdoors safely and confidently."

Published on 05/28/2026 under News One man is dead after an incident on a Vilas County lake. According to the Vilas County Sheriff's Office, responders were called to Spring Lake at shortly after 8pm Wednesday evening. The 911 call reported a partially submerged boat near the shore with a man floating face down in the water nearby. A deputy was the first to arrive and recovered the man's body to the shore. The 76 year old was pronounced at the scene. The man's name is being withheld pending notification of family. They determined the victim was the lone occupant of the boat. No other information was immediately provided. They did offer a reminder for the public to wear life jackets at all times while on the water.

Published on 05/28/2026 under News For those planning a scenic summer road trip, the Wisconsin Departments of Transportation and Tourism have again partnered to release an updated guide featuring Wisconsin's designated Rustic Roads. The Rustic Road guide highlights scenic, lightly traveled roads with outstanding natural, rustic or agricultural features that uniquely set the road apart. The first Rustic Road was designated back in 1975, right here in Northern Wisconsin, Taylor County specifically. Five decades later, the program now features approximately 760 miles of roads which can be identified by unique brown and yellow Rustic Roads signs. There are more than 125 segments in all, with a several in the Northwoods. Locally, they include: Vilas County Road K; Tesch Road in Lincoln County; Blue Lake Road, Sutton Road and Camp Pinemere Road in Oneida County. DOT Secretary Kristina Boardman says, "The Rustic Roads program is a great opportunity to promote the exploration of Wisconsin's roads less traveled." The guide also features five Wisconsin's Scenic Byways. Among them, the Nicolet-Wolf Scenic Byway which passes through Forest, Langlade, Oneida and Vilas counties. Department of Tourism Secretary Anne Sayers called the guide a trusted co-pilot on your next trip. She added, "Wisconsin's Rustic Roads and Scenic Byways encourage us to slow down and enjoy the moment." The guides are free and available as a hard copy or a digital download via the Department of Tourism website.

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