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Wausau School Board President Enters 7th District Congressional Race Published on 10/15/2019 under News

The 7th district congressional field continues to grow, with a fifth candidate entering the race.

Wausau School Board president Tricia Zunker launched her campaign yesterday morning. The announcement on Indigenous Peoples Day was fitting as Zunker, if elected, would become the first Native American to serve Wisconsin in congress.

During her announcement, Zunker said while she is running as a Democratic candidate, her job is representing all of her constituents, or people over party.

She brought up a number of issues during her announcement including support for farmers, the environment, education, and affordable health care. A news release emphasized her family ties to unions, farming and the military.

In addition to her role on the Wausau School Board, Zunker teaches law remotely at several universities and serves on the Ho-Chunk Supreme Court.

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Another politician decided against running in that race yesterday. State Senator Janet Bewley said she will not enter the election and will instead continue to serve the residents of her 25th Senate district.

In the announcement she specifically praised Zunker saying, "I've had the pleasure of talking with Tricia Zunker in the past and have been impressed with her grasp of the issues facing our northern cities, villages and towns. The 7th CD deserves a congressperson who understands the needs of our friends and neighbors and I look forward to seeing how her campaign unfolds in the coming months."

In Other News

Tomahawk Fire Department Conducts Training on New Ice/Water Craft; Wildfires

Published on 03/28/2025 under News Preparation is key when it comes to first responders. The Tomahawk Fire Department has been busy over the past few weeks with several training exercises, including work with a new piece of equipment. Fitting for this time of year, as we transition from winter to spring; the TFD shared they recently completed ice rescue training with their new rapid deployment, water rescue craft, which they described as a game-changer in emergency response. They said the inflatable will allow their responders to safely reach victims faster and more efficiently during water and ice emergencies, improving their ability to save lives. They also shared gratitude to Billy Bob's and Outboards for their generous donation allowing this purchase. Earlier this month, the Tomahawk Fire Department also teamed up with the Wisconsin DNR for their annual spring wildland fire training. They noted, "Staying sharp and ready for wildfire season is critical, and we appreciate the knowledge and hands-on experience." While wildfires haven't been prevalent in the Northwoods so far this year, crews in other areas of the state have been quite busy. The DNR tracker shows more than 300 wildfires during the first three months. -Photo from the Tomahawk Fire Department

Published on 03/28/2025 under News Housing around the Northwoods has been an area of focus in recent years. One group is studying the topic and seeking some public input. The Oneida County Economic Development Corporation is conducting a comprehensive study to address growing concerns over housing affordability and availability in the county. As part of that process, and to ensure a comprehensive analysis, they're seeking input from the public. They said, "This public survey is open to anyone who lives, works, goes to school in, or spends time in Oneida County." Responses are anonymous, and they are used to identify trends in what kinds of housing (are) needed and at what prices, along with any other housing concerns participants may have. The larger study will also analyze market trends and interview local stakeholders, along with incorporating the survey data. Tony Pharo, OCEDC Executive Director says, "This study will provide valuable data to guide decision-making and help create solutions that benefit both residents and local businesses." The survey will be available online through Friday April 11. We'll include the link in the online version of the story. The results will be published in May.

Published on 03/28/2025 under News Officials will be commemorating those who served in Vietnam during a brief ceremony here in the Northwoods this morning. Tomorrow is National Vietnam War Veterans Day, recognizing the anniversary of the ground force withdrawal from Vietnam. To mark the occasion, a bit later this morning, the Northwoods National Cemetery in Harshaw will hold a special program. According to the Wisconsin Historical Society, more than 57,000 Wisconsinites served in Vietnam, more than 1,200 never returned. Northwoods National Cemetery in Harshaw officially opened in August of 2020, becoming the second national cemetery in Wisconsin. It is located along Lakewood Road. The program is set to begin at 11:30am.

Published on 03/28/2025 under News Each spring Wisconsin Conservation Congress and the DNR offer an opportunity for interested parties to weigh in all things outdoors. The annual Fish and Wildlife Spring Hearings are right around the corner, and the partners recently shared some of the details. A familiar format will return with hearings held simultaneously across all 72 counties. DNR staff and WCC delegates will be on hand at these spring hearings to discuss local issues, answer questions and open dialogue. Those will all take place on the evening of Monday, April 14: (A full list of locations is available on the DNR website.)•Lincoln County at Lincoln County Service Center in Merrill•Oneida County at James Williams Middle School Auditorium in Rhinelander•Vilas County at Boulder Junction Community CenterThat same evening, a three-day, online public input survey will go live. The responses are advisory only, and the questions are currently available for review on the DNR website. There are more than 70 yes/no questions, covering a wide variety of topics. Just a few of the many examples include: the use of lead ammo and tackle; extending the turkey season in far northern Wisconsin (zones 6 and 7); creating a military/veteran waterfowl season; allowing wardens to enforce local ordinances; and a number of lake or river specific questions related to fishing regulations. We'll offer up a reminder as that date approaches.

Published on 03/28/2025 under News While a spoonful of medicine may be convenient, experts says measuring is a safer way to ensure dosage is correct. Oral liquid medications are involved in more than 80 percent of pediatric home medication errors, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. That's why Aspirus is encouraging caregivers to measure. Olivia Bishop, an Aspirus Pharmacy Resident. "If we're not measuring it correctly, we can either be overdosing our patients, which puts them at risk of side effects, or underdosing, which means the infection or issue we're treating isn't being addressed." To support national guidelines, Aspirus pharmacies provide tools like oral syringes with clear milliliter markings to help caregivers measure medications accurately. Bishop says, "You want to make sure you're using a device that has lines for milliliters so you know you're getting the exact dose." She says your pharmacist can walk you through the process. Aspirus has also implemented milliliter-only instructions on prescription labels to further enhance clarity and accuracy. This approach helps caregivers avoid common mistakes, such as misreading units or misusing household utensils.

Published on 03/27/2025 under News For first-time parents, bringing a little one in the world can be a learning experience. Here in Lincoln County, a twice-annual event provides information and resources for new and expecting families. The Lincoln County Health Department has taken lead on organizing Community Baby Showers, alternating between Tomahawk and Merrill. They recently announced plans for the next one. It will take place on Thursday, April 24th from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm at St. Mary's Corpus Christi Center. Lexi Buntrock, Public Health Educator for the Lincoln County Health Department says, "It is a one-stop-shop that connects expecting families, and those with young children, with the education and resources." Parents can pick and choose the topics they wish to learn more about, just a few of the many examples include nutrition, literacy, and childcare. Buntrock says they'll have many returning booths, and some new ones. At past editions, they've asked attendees to fill out a survey about their experience. Buntrock says the response has been unanimous in saying it has been worth their time. The Community Baby Shower is free to attend, and people may even get some giveaways. We'll of course offer a reminder as that date approaches.

Published on 03/27/2025 under News The Easter bunny won't arrive for a few more weeks, but Tomahawk Main Street is already getting into the spirit. The district recently kicked off their fourth annual Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt and are inviting families to get involved. We recently heard from Main Street Director Jennifer Turkiewicz. The goal has been to host a fun, family-friendly activity and get people engaged in the downtown area. It also serves as a way for families to get out of the house after winter; a spring event opposite Main Street's Fall Fest. For this year's Scavenger Hunt, Turkiewicz says they've partnered with 23 locations within the downtown district. Each participating business, shop, or restaurant has a hidden Easter egg. Kids can track down the egg, show the staff and get a stamp on their map. There are several prize opportunities. Completing ten stops gets a 'goodie bag.' Seventeen earns an entry into an Easter Basket raffle, with Turkiewicz noting that "businesses have been very generous with prizes." The Scavenger Hunt kicked off this past weekend and Turkiewicz says they have already had a great turnout. A number of kids have already completed and returned their cards. But families still have some time to get started; the deadline is April 19. Information is available at participating businesses, or the Main Street Office and their Socials. Participating Locations:American Legion Auntie Em's Resale and Consignment Century 21 Best Way Realty Corner Pub Crossbridge Community Bank H&R Block HMM Boutique Honeycomb L.O.F.T. L&S Truck Parts Main Attractions Hair Salon Nacho's Mexican Grill Rita's Scarlet Garden Sideways Wine & Craft Beer Strikers - Tomahawk Bowl The Knot Haus Gift Gallery The Old Towne Mall Tomahawk Furniture Tomahawk Pharmacy Tomahawk's Touch of Gold Up North Nutrition Walkers' General Store West Side Market 2 What's Brewin'

Published on 03/27/2025 under News It won't be long before the sound of frogs fill the quiet Northwoods nights. The DNR is looking for citizen scientists to help in one of the longest running research projects of its kind. The Wisconsin Frog and Toad Survey was formally launched in 1984, and volunteers have played a crucial role in helping DNR conservation biologists better define populations, distribution and status of all 12 frog and toad species that call Wisconsin home. Research biologist Andrew Badje coordinates the survey. He says, "Our volunteers, lovingly known as 'froggers,' are important advocates for frogs and toads in Wisconsin." Since the survey began, volunteers have collectively spent more than 10,500 nights surveying 103,400 sites across the state. In addition to contributing to the research, 'froggers' often become advocates. That includes introducing children and grandchildren to these nighttime, frog-calling excursions and leading educational presentations at local libraries and nature centers. Badje saying, "They are the beating heart of frog monitoring and conservation in Wisconsin. There are actually several different areas of focus, including one specific to Northern Wisconsin, the mink frog. For those that would like to get involved, the DNR has more information. We'll include a link with more information.

Published on 03/27/2025 under News Shovels hit dirt on the Rib Lake school campus, kicking off an exciting new renovation project. The district held a ceremonial ground breaking on Wednesday. Thanks to a referendum approved by voters last April, the Rib Lake School district will be undergoing some major upgrades to their middle and high schools. That includes connecting the buildings which do share some classrooms. Currently some students have to walk outside between the two buildings which isn't always convenient during a Wisconsin winter. They also hope to address maintenance issues and security concerns. One of the main highlights is a new, larger gymnasium that will be better for community events and extra-curriculars including hosting post-season sporting events. That will allow improvements to the cafeteria/kitchen and music spaces. They're also modernizing their technical education spaces. They hope to minimize disruptions when possible, with a goal to wrap up work by the start of the 26-27 school year.

Published on 03/27/2025 under News Statistics show that nearly 7 million individuals are living with Alzheimer's and an estimated 16 million serve as unpaid caregivers for those individuals. The Alzheimer's Association provides a valuable resource, and they're recruiting volunteers to join the cause. They'll be hosting an open house at the Rhinelander Brewing Company this evening where they'll go over the many ways to get involved. That can organizing or assisting with a Walk to End Alzheimer's event or serving as a Volunteer Community Representative or Educator to help others. They said in the invite, "No matter your skill set or time availability there are opportunities for you to use your talents in the fight to ENDALZ!" That gets underway at 5pm

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