2026 – Bluejay 96.3FM 730AM

WISCONSIN DNR RECRUITING HUNTER SAFETY COURSE INSTRUCTORS

February 16, 2026February 16, 2026 Steve DillonDNR HUNTER SAFETY INSTRUCTORS

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is recruiting new volunteers to become certified hunter safety course instructors. Since its inception in 1967, more than a million residents in the state have received their certification, resulting in a significant decrease in hunting related incidents acrossWisconsin. The DNR notes the significant impact of the program is rooted in the dedication and commitment of their volunteer instructors. More than 20,000 individuals have filled thevolunteer role over the years. For more information on the hunter safety instructor opportunity, visit dnr.wisconsin.gov/volunteer.

LINCOLN COUNTY EDC HOSTING LINC & LEARN BUSINESS CONNECTIONS SERIES

February 16, 2026February 16, 2026 Steve DillonLINCOLN COUNTY LINC AND LEARN

The Lincoln County Economic Development Corporation is rolling out its new no-cost LinC & Learn Business Connections Series this month. Executive Director Sara Guild says the program will connect small and mid-sized business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs, and community leaders for hands-on learning, collaborative problem-solving, and networking in a relaxed setting. The first session takes place at Merrill’s Johnson’s Gifts on Main Street this Thursday. Session two is set for the PCA Buedingen Training Center in Tomahawk in March, leading up to the EDC’s annual Lincoln County Economic Summit happening in…

REQUESTS FOR PROPOSAL SUBMITTED BY MARATHON COUNTY FOR UWSP WAUSAU CAMPUS REDEVELOPMENT

February 16, 2026February 15, 2026 Steve DillonUWSP MARATHON COUNTY REDEVELOPMENT

A request for proposals has been issued by Marathon County officials focused on redevelopment of the UWSP at Wausau campus. The plan is to transfer ownership of seven buildings by the end of 2026, so that the campus can be redeveloped to “serve the community in meaningful ways”, according to Chris Holman, the Deputy County of Public Works and Capital Projects. Anyone interested in being a part of the development can attend a community meet-and-greet event at Marathon County’s Lake View Conference Center at 1000 Lake View Drive on Thursday,…

“211 DAY” BRINGS AWARENESS TO ADDICTION RECOVERY HELPLINE

February 13, 2026February 13, 2026 Steve Dillon211 DAY

Wednesday February 11 – 2/11 on the calendar – marked Wisconsin Addiction Recovery 211 Helpline Awareness Day. Executive Director of Merrill Area United Way Debbie Moellendorf stated “In 2025, United Way’s 211 answered 324 requests for help from Lincoln County residents, providing 802 referrals to community resources. The number one referral in Lincoln County last year was for housing.” United Way’s 211 Helpline services are available 24/7, helping folks in need find food, housing, healthcare, and so much more.

NORTHCENTRAL TECH TO RECEIVE SIGNIFICANT FUNDING FOR FIREFIGHTER AND PARAMEDIC APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM

February 13, 2026February 13, 2026 Steve DillonNORTHCENTRAL TECH FUNDING

Northcentral Technical College is receiving more than $3.2M in federal funding to support its North Central Wisconsin Firefighter and Paramedic Apprenticeship Program. The funding, requested by Senator Tammy Baldwin, was included in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026 signed into law earlier this month. The 18-month program combines classroom instruction with paid, hands-on training to prepare apprentices for careers in public safety while addressing workforce needs across the region. Each cohort includes nine apprentices who complete more than 3,200 hours of combined instruction and real-world experience. College leaders say the…

MERRILL POLICE OFFICERS RESPOND TO DISORDERLY CONDUCT COMPLAINT AT LOCAL RESIDENCE, CHARGES PENDING

February 13, 2026February 13, 2026 Steve DillonMERRILL POLICE DISORDERLY CONDUCT COMPLAINT

On Saturday February 7th, Merrill Police officers were dispatched to a city residence regarding a complaint of disorderly conduct involving a disturbance inside the home. It was reported that a 19-year-old male was throwing items and causing damage. Officers arriving on the scene noticed damaged household items including a broken candle and wooden chair as well as a damaged table. An adult woman on scene was described as distraught. Charges of criminal damage to property and disorderly conduct have been requested. The case remains under investigation.

ASPIRUS’ KIRKLEY NAMED WISCONSIN EMS ASSOCIATION DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR

February 12, 2026February 11, 2026 Steve DillonASPIRUS KIRKLEY WI EMS ASSOC DIR OF YEAR

The Wisconsin EMS Association has named Director of Emergency Medical Services for Aspirus MedEvac, Bob Kirkley, as its 2025 Director of the Year. The recognition highlights exceptional leadership and a lasting impact on the Emergency Medical Services profession. Kirkley brings 35 years of experience in emergency medical operations and has become a leading voice in EMS administration. He is widely regarded for fostering innovation, strengthening operational performance, and building resilient teams and infrastructure. Kirkley began his career in 1990 as a frontline paramedic before advancing into leadership roles. His career reflects…

DNR “CHECK OUT WISCONSIN STATE PARKS AT YOUR LIBRARY” PROGRAM AVAILABLE TO CARDHOLDERS AGAIN

February 10, 2026February 10, 2026 Steve DillonDNR CHECK OUT WI STATE PARKS LIBRARY PROGRAM

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources “Check Out Wisconsin State Parks at Your Library” program is available once again for those who frequent their local library. Cardholders can check out free day passes to state parks, forests and recreation areas. The program launched in 2022 and now encompasses 160 libraries along with over 200 locations participating. It has expanded to included libraries with specialized services, with UW-Madison and UW-Superior among the first to join. Visitors may also receive maps, stickers, accessibility information, and more in addition to the free day…

MERRILL FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORT: WEEK ENDING FEBRUARY 8

February 10, 2026February 9, 2026 Steve DillonMERRILL FIRE DEPARMENT REPORT

The Merrill Fire Department responded to 35 calls last week, bringing the total for 2026 to 219. There were 30 EMS calls. There was a motor vehicle accident resulting in injuries Thursday on Grand Ave in the City of Merrill.

LINCOLN COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE HONORS TOMAHAWK MAN FOR LIFE-SAVING EFFORTS

February 9, 2026February 9, 2026 Steve DillonMASON WEBSTER SHERIFFS RECOGNITION AWARD

Last week, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office recognized Tomahawk resident Mason Webster with a Sheriff’s Recognition Award for commendable courage and selfless action. On December 22, 2023, Mason heard cries for help from a man who fell through the ice on the Spirit Flowage near Boat Road. Though the unstable ice and frigid water posed extreme danger, Webster moved ahead with life-saving efforts. Upon locating the individual in distress, he contacted 911, then entered the dangerous scenario. Without regard for his own personal welfare, Mason held the man above the…