You are here

Author: Steve Dillon

MARSHFIELD CLINIC OFFERS NEW STROKE REHABILITATION THERAPY

Steve Dillon

Marshfield Clinic is now offering a new therapy designed to help stroke survivors regain movement and function in their arms and hands—even years after a stroke. The treatment, called Vivistim, combines vagus nerve stimulation with rehabilitation exercises. The system delivers gentle electrical stimulation through an implanted device while patients work with therapists, helping reinforce the brain’s pathways involved in movement. The therapy is FDA-approved for certain stroke survivors who continue to experience moderate to severe arm and hand impairment at least six months after an ischemic stroke. Clinical studies cited…

Read More

Wisconsin measles outbreak reaches 431 cases; infant death reported, six cases in Marathon County

Steve Dillon

Wisconsin’s measles outbreak has claimed the life of an infant, marking the state’s first measles-related death of this kind since 1990. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services says the infant’s immediate cause of death was measles. Officials are withholding additional information to protect the family’s privacy. As of November 3rd, Wisconsin had reported 431 measles cases across 13 counties—the highest number in the state in more than 35 years. Nine people have required hospitalization. Marathon County has reported six confirmed cases. To date, there have been no reported cases in…

Read More

TIFFANY CONCEDES GOVERNOR’S RACE, REFLECTS ON DEFEAT

Steve Dillon

Republican Tom Tiffany is reflecting on his defeat in Wisconsin’s governor’s race, acknowledging both the political climate and shortcomings in his own campaign. Tiffany conceded to Democrat David Crowley Tuesday night during a watch party at the Hilton Garden Inn in Wausau. Despite the disappointment, Tiffany congratulated Crowley and urged supporters to respond with humility. He also emphasized that both candidates share a commitment to Wisconsin and said he hopes Crowley succeeds as the state’s next governor. Tiffany pointed to rising costs, including gasoline prices, and dissatisfaction with Republicans nationally…

Read More

Merrill’s Tour of Lights Decorating Contest returns for sixth year

Steve Dillon

Merrill residents are being encouraged to brighten the community this holiday season by entering the City of Merrill’s sixth annual Tour of Lights Decorating Contest. The city is inviting homeowners to showcase their Christmas decorations, whether they feature elaborate light displays, festive characters or other holiday-themed displays. Homes entered in the contest must be located within Merrill city limits. The registration deadline is Monday, November 30, 2026. Residents can register their homes using the online registration form. Community members can also participate by joining the Tour of Lights bus ride…

Read More

MERRILL POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORT: OFFICER’S HAND SLAMMED IN DOOR WHILE SERVING SEARCH WARRANT

Steve Dillon

The Merrill Police Department responded to 14 incidents during the week ending November 1st. Officers conducted approximately 11 traffic stops and 37 security checks. While serving a search warrant at a local residence Monday, an occupant abruptly attempted to flee, slamming an officer’s hand in the door. The suspect was arrested on charges of battery to law enforcement and resisting an officer. A THC vape found on the suspect also led to a possession charge. Other activity included a property damage complaint, a disorderly conduct report stemming from a road…

Read More

NORTHWOODS REPUBLICANS HOLD LEGISLATIVE SEATS

Steve Dillon

Tuesday’s election brought a significant blue wave across Wisconsin and the country, with Democrats making major gains in state and federal races. But in several Northwoods legislative districts, Republican incumbents held on to their seats. Republican Romaine Quinn won the 23rd State Senate District, defeating Democrat Jeff Foster. The district includes Price County. In the 34th Assembly District, Republican Rob Swearingen defeated Merlin Van Buren, retaining his seat representing most of Oneida County. Republican Calvin Callahan also won another term in the 35th Assembly District, defeating Elizabeth McCrank. That district…

Read More

MERRILL FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORT: HOUSE FIRE SUNDAY ON FOSTER STREET

Steve Dillon

The Merrill Fire Department responded to 41 calls last week, bringing the total for 2026 to 1,985 calls. 32 of those calls required EMS Services. The Department responded to a fire at a home on South Foster Street Sunday evening. Residents of the home were outside when crews arrived, and fortunately no one was injured. Firefighters rescued three cats. The fire was brought under control shortly after 8:30 pm.

Read More

Grafton man formally charged after wrong-way crash on Highway 51 in Lincoln County

Steve Dillon

An 80-year-old Grafton man is now formally charged following last week’s wrong-way driving incident on Highway 51 in Lincoln County. Rory Hofmann faces four counts, including first-degree recklessly endangering safety, second-offense OWI causing injury, and fleeing an officer. Authorities say Hofmann was driving south in the northbound lanes of Highway 51 when a sheriff’s lieutenant deliberately positioned his squad car in the vehicle’s path to stop the threat to other motorists. The crash injured the lieutenant and another driver. Hofmann remains in the Lincoln County Jail on a $10,000 bond,…

Read More

MERRILL HOUSE FIRE SUNDAY EVENING: NO INJURIES, FAMILY TEMPORARILY RELOCATED

Steve Dillon

A Merrill family is displaced following a house fire Sunday evening. The Merrill Fire Department responded to a home on South Foster Street shortly after 7:30 p.m. Firefighters found smoke inside the residence and coming from the roof. Everyone was outside when crews arrived, and firefighters rescued three cats. No injuries were reported. The fire was brought under control just after 8:40 p.m., but the family is now staying with relatives. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Read More

Groundbreaking Ceremony held Monday for New Merrill Goodwill Location

Steve Dillon

Goodwill North Central Wisconsin has officially broken ground on its new Merrill store. The groundbreaking ceremony was held Monday at the former Church Mutual Insurance building at 3500 East Main Street. The building will undergo interior and exterior renovations by MJI Building Services, with the new store expected to open in spring 2027. Goodwill says revenue from its stores helps support job training and employment programs for people facing barriers to work.

Read More