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Month: August 2025

WISCONSIN DNR PROMISES INCREASED LAW ENFORCEMENT DURING THE HOLIDAY WEEKEND

Steve Dillon

As the holiday weekend approaches, the Wisconsin DNR is reminding ATV/UTV drivers there will be a presence of additional law enforcement. The effort is part of the Think Smart Before You Start campaign. DNR wardens and deputies will be monitoring for unsafe behavior and will provide safety tips to drivers. To date, there have been 27 fatal ATV/UTV crashes in Wisconsin in 2025. In most of those instances drivers were not wearing seatbelts or helmets. Alcohol and speed also contributed to the crashes. Officers will be focusing on potential OWI’s,…

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MERRILL POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORT WEEK ENDING AUGUST 24

Steve Dillon

MERRILL – During the week ending August 24, the Merrill Police Department responded to five incidents, while officers conducted approximately 38 traffic stops and 112 security checks. There was one report of disorderly conduct, one report of bail jumping, a report of theft, and one hit and run in a commercial parking lot resulting in minor cosmetic damage to the reporting person’s vehicle.   On Wednesday, officers respond to a complaint of a driver swerving and striking a curb, The vehicle was located, and officers conducted an investigation for OWI,…

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LINCOLN COUNTY SHERIFFS REPORT WEEK ENDING AUGUST 24

Steve Dillon

Last Week, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputies conducted 48 traffic stops and 64 security checks. There were six calls involving cars hitting deer, one call where a car struck a bear, and another call where a car hit a goose. On Sunday, August 25th a complaint was received regarding child abuse and neglect at an address in the Town of Scott. The reporting party shared two young girls had gone to a neighbor’s house as they were afraid of being with their 39-yr-old father from Merrill, who was intoxicated. Deputies who…

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WPS REWARDING RESPONSDERS PROGRAM PROVIDES GRANTS TO SAVE LIVES

Steve Dillon

The WPS foundation’s Rewarding Responders program is on full display across the Northwoods this week as they visit law enforcement, fire, EMS and rescue agencies. The foundation will be providing grants for crucial equipment and safety gear, as well as training. First on the tour was a stop at the Oneida County Airport where they met with the Life Link III medical helicopter, who received funds to purchase a sapphire pump. The infusion pump ensures safe and accurate medication is administered while patients are transported via Life Link. Additional agencies…

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WISCONSIN RAPIDS MAN FACES CHARGES FOLLOWING TAILGATING INCIDENT

Steve Dillon

TOMAHAWK – Authorities say a Wisconsin Rapids man is now facing several charges in Lincoln County after a woman reported being followed near Tomahawk last week. According to the Sheriff’s Office, the woman said the man’s vehicle was tailgating her, and when she pulled over to let him pass, he stopped behind her instead. The deputy attempted a traffic stop after responding to the complaint, however the suspect continued to follow the woman’s car even after she had entered a private driveway. The deputy also pulled into the driveway, and…

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LINCOLN COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORT WEEK ENDING AUGUST 24

Steve Dillon

Last Week, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputies conducted 48 traffic stops and 64 security checks. There were six calls involving cars hitting deer, one call where a car struck a bear, and another call where a car hit a goose. On Sunday a complaint was received regarding child abuse and neglect at an address in the Town of Scott. The reporting party shared two young girls had gone to a neighbor’s house as they were afraid of being with their 39-yr-old father from Merrill, who was intoxicated. Deputies who had been…

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ICE AGE TRAIL ALLIANCE VOLUNTEERS GATHER TO COMPLETE TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS

Steve Dillon

Members of the local Northwoods Chapter of Ice Age Trail Alliance joined Alliance volunteers from other communities in early August to improve hiker experience for Lincoln County’s Alta Junction, Averill-Kelly Creek Wilderness, and Harrison Hills segments. Project work included clearing and widening trails, upgrading a bridge, and addressing some low traction areas as well as other improvements. The group of volunteers has now moved on to address some other areas needing attention along the Ice Ige Trail during the coming weeks. Wisconsin’s Ice Age Trail encompasses approximately 1,200 miles of…

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2025 MAMMOTH HIKE CHALLENGE FEATURES NEW COMMUNITIES, MORE “BONUS MILE” OPPORTUNITIES

Steve Dillon

Outdoors Enthusiasts are reminded to register for the 2025 Mammoth Hike Challenge. Participants will have an opportunity in October to explore the wonder of Wisconsin’s amazing natural theatre hiking 45 miles on the state’s beloved Ice Age Trail. Those completing the challenge will visit three Trail Communities, and they’ll earn a hiking certificate and a limited-edition patch. This year’s hike features new Trail Communities and more bonus mile opportunities. Folks of all abilities and all ages are welcome to participate. Registration can be completed online at iceagetrail.org/mammoth-hike-challenge.

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ADDITIONAL MEASLES CASES CONFIRMED IN OCONTO COUNTY

Steve Dillon

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services has confirmed 5 more cases of Measles in Oconto County. The highly contagious disease could potentially continue to spread throughout the state. The Lincoln County Health Department is urging residents to check their vaccination status and take appropriate steps to protect themselves and their families. More information on the current measles outbreak and best practices for preparation can be found at dhs.wisconsin.gov/news.

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