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Star Splash in Tomahawk Just Over a Week Away; January 4 Published on 12/24/2024 under News

In a little more than a week, people will be plunging into the frigid waters of Lake Mohawksin for a good cause. And there's still time to get involved.

The new year marks the return of the STAR Splash here in Tomahawk, as they're preparing for a 19th year. We were joined by some of the organizers, Jackie Leonard, Kathy Rankin and Chad Grube to talk about the fundraiser and encourage people to get involved. The STAR Foundation has additional information on their website.

Participants are currently collecting pledges with the promise of a plunge into the chilly waters. Some jumps as individuals, while for others it's a team effort. As in recent years, the donations will be split between the STAR Foundation and a non-profit of the jumper's choosing allowing them to support a group or cause important to them.

For those unfamiliar, the STAR Foundation provides supplemental funding to various groups and non-profits around the community. Over the years they've returned more than a half million dollars to these organizations for projects, large and small.

The STAR Splash is one of their largest fundraiser and an excellent way to get involved whether as a donor or a jumper. Last year's mild winter led to less splashing than normal. Due to a lack of ice, they simply waded into the water from the shore. They were optimistic for the more traditional set-up this year.

Even if you don't plan on jumping, it's a day long-event with plenty of other fun, entertainment and raffles on dry land as well. Castaways will continue to serve as the host. The STAR Splash is January 4.

-Photo from the last year's STAR Splash-

In Other News

Wisconsin State Patrol Reminds Motorists about Impaired Driving Over Holidays

Published on 12/24/2024 under News Whether a Christmas gathering in the coming days or next week's New Year's celebration, law enforcement are again reminding revelers to stay sober behind the wheel. Wisconsin State Patrol's December Law of the Month brings attention to impaired driving laws and encourages motorists to find safe ways to get to their destinations this holiday season. State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan says, "Across the state, Wisconsinites are celebrating the holidays and the end of another year. We encourage everyone to take responsibility and plan ahead if you plan to celebrate." Carnahan offered a number of solutions, whether designating a sober driving, utilizing public transit, or a ride-share program. Last year, according to the DoT, there were more than 7,700 impaired driving crashes on Wisconsin roadways. The Law of the Month, pairs with the ongoing Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign which kicked off last week and runs through New Year's Day.

Published on 12/24/2024 under News Last month, Nicolet College held a special welding class for area veterans. The participating vets used their new skills to craft a meaningful monument to service. The three-session introductory course was held in early November, and it was reserved for veterans-only. It included an introduction to welding, necessary tools, safety, and techniques with plenty of hands-on training. The class culminated with a final project; the nine men created a Vietnam Memorial. The approximately 4 foot tall piece features an 8 sided base, topped with a plaque. Each of the panels has a Vietnam or US Military-related inscription. In unveiling the final product, they noted one of the class participants who actually served in Vietnam during the conflict. According to the announcement, the finished memorial will be permanently placed on Nicolet campus.

Published on 12/24/2024 under News A Northwoods lawmaker offered a tepid response to Governor's appointment as secretary of Department of Natural Resources. On Monday, Governor Tony Evers tabbed Karen Hyun to lead the agency which oversees Wisconsin's many natural resources including hunting, fishing, forests, state parks, and water resources. Following the announcement, Senate President Mary Felzkowski released a statement. She says, "While Ms. Hyun's lack of professional experience in Wisconsin and lack of experience with sporting heritage, forestry, and freshwater lakes is concerning, I look forward to getting to know her and understanding her vision for the DNR." Hyun's resume does include time with the US House Committee on Natural Resources and a role as deputy assistant secretary for fish, wildlife, and parks at the US Department of the Interior. She most recently served as the chief of staff of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Hyun's appointment is effective January 27 Felzkowski says, "Given the district that I represent, the issues surrounding the DNR are of utmost importance to both me and my constituents. I look forward to working with Ms. Hyun to ensure that the DNR works diligently on all aspects of natural resources and for all areas of Wisconsin."

Published on 12/24/2024 under News It was an early Christmas gift for a lotto player in the Northwoods, with a six figure ticket. The Wisconsin Lottery announced a $100,000 winning All or Nothing ticket was purchased in Rhinelander at True North Energy. As the name alludes, there are two ways to win; by matching either all or none of the eleven numbers drawn. There are two drawings held each day. This Rhinelander winning ticket was for the evening drawing held December 21. This is the third winning All or Nothing ticket sold in December, and the 18th overall this year. The All or Nothing game carries a 1 in 350,000 chance of winning.

Published on 12/23/2024 under News Northwoods snowmobilers are eagerly awaiting a new season, but they'll have to wait a bit longer to get on their sleds. Barring an unexpected snowfall, local snowmobile trails are almost certain to remain closed over the holidays. But riders are holding out hope for the upcoming season after a disappointing one last year. Most area trail systems remained closed last riding season due to the mild winter conditions. Of course, the opening dates for snowmobile trails varies, and is reliant upon the cold and snow. Leaving last year's unusual season out of the equation, the average opener for trails here in the Northwoods over the past decade has been right around December 23, which happens to be today's date. Local snowmobile clubs have most of their pre-season preparations complete and are also awaiting Mother Nature. They are reminding riders that it's important to observe trail opening and closure announcements for a number of reasons. This includes safety, season-long trail damage, and relationships with private landowners who allow trails to cross their properties. Of course stay tuned to WJJQ throughout the winter months for all of your snowmobile information including the opening announcements which we'll pass along as we receive them.

Published on 12/23/2024 under News The Countdown to Christmas is on, and a special community meal here in Tomahawk is just two days away. The Christmas with Friends Community Meal at Grace Lutheran Church has become an annual tradition for years, and organizers have been busy in the lead up to this year's event. They noted that the meal is really important to both the church and the community. They see many of the same faces year after year, as they come for not only the food, but the holiday cheer. In addition to the lunch, diners also can enjoy seasonal music and friendly conversation. They typically serve several hundred meals between the in-person dining and the delivery service. Unserved meals are contributed to groups like Our Sisters House. To pull off an undertaking like this, it takes a team of volunteers cooking, serving, and delivering meals. While most volunteers come from Grace, they also receive a helping hand from other community members and congregations. These partnerships allow local churches to rotate hosting holiday meals like Easter and Thanksgiving. As for the Christmas with Friends Community Meal at Grace Lutheran Church; it is free, though donations are welcome. They'll begin serving on Christmas Day at around 11am after their special Christmas morning service. Those needing delivery can call the church office at 453-4066.

Published on 12/23/2024 under News Local food pantries will once again benefit from the community's generosity and an annual holiday fundraiser organized by Heritage Chevrolet. Over the past 28 years, the Schlegel family and their team at the Tomahawk dealership have organized what is known as 'Fill the Need.' On Friday, Roger and Mark Schlegel joined our own Gregg Albert and Alex Koch on the Midday Show to recap the event and announce the winners live, on-air. In recent years, the campaign has transitioned from a food drive to a fundraising effort. And it was once again an impressive total. Overall, they raised just over $12,000 to benefit the Tomahawk and Nokomis Food Pantries. That included contributions from 274 donors, resulting in an average of nearly $50 per person. And while Heritage takes the lead with organizing, other local merchants contributed several thousand dollars in prizes from gift cards to snowmobile gear and a pressure washer. The winner's list is available on the Heritage Facebook page. We've got them listed on the WJJQ website, as well, in the contest tab. Winners can stop by Heritage starting Monday to claim prizes.

Published on 12/23/2024 under News The Lincoln County Health Department is reminding community members about the risk of blastomycosis. While being exposed to the spores that cause blasto may be unusual at this time of year, the Health Department notes that symptoms can be delayed by up to fifteen weeks. That means an exposure during fall activities could still be developing at this time of year. Dr Michael Clark is a Lincoln County Health Department Medical Advisor. He notes that symptoms of blasto are similar to those of other respiratory illnesses common for this time of year. He says, "Given the significant overlap... it is important for patients to follow-up with their provider if respiratory symptoms are not improving or worsen, and to be sure your provider is aware of activities. While rare overall, Lincoln County has among the highest incidence rates of blasto in Wisconsin. That's still just a handful of cases each year. About half of people infected will not have any symptoms, though some serious cases can lead to hospitalization. Exposure comes from common and popular outdoor activities, especially those that disturb the soil. Just a few examples include hunting, hiking, camping, gardening, off-roading, construction and yard work.

Published on 12/23/2024 under News While we're in the middle of the winter holiday travel season, summer travelers got some good news with a new flight route and carrier out of the Northwoods. The Rhinelander-Oneida County Airport announced a new daily flight to Chicago's O'Hare airport. At this time, it's a seasonal route that will begin May 22 and through September 28. Demand could lead to additional flights or year-round options. Skywest will operate the 50-seat flight on behalf of United, bringing second major carrier to the Northwoods. That will allow for additional connection opportunities. Currently, the Rhinelander-Oneida County airport offers daily service to Minneapolis/St. Paul through Delta. Flight options should be available for booking at this time.

Published on 12/23/2024 under News An Antigo man charged with the theft of thousands of dollars from his township and fire department has reached a plea agreement. Gary Kieper was back in Langlade County Court Friday for his hearing. Initially facing 9 charges, court records show Kieper pleaded guilty to 4 including two counts of theft in a business setting and two counts of misconduct in public office. The 70 year old was arrested earlier this year after an investigation into the mishandling of funds in the Town of Ackley where Kieper served as treasurer. Further investigation revealed missing funds from the Langlade County Rural Fire Council. They found more than $300,000 had been taken, dating back to 2013. Following the plea agreement the case moved directly into sentencing. Kieper was ordered to serve 9 months in jail and 7 years probation. He was also ordered to pay restitution, which court records show was completed.

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