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Author: Steve Dillon

LINCOLN COUNTY WARMING CENTERS OFFER AN OPPORTUNITY TO ESCAPE WINTER’S BITTER GRIP

Steve Dillon

A significant high pressure system centered over the upper Midwest is tightening its grip on the central and eastern portions of the nation. Communities across the Northwoods will see temps that are already down in the teens and single digits drop to sub-zero levels, with lows currently forecasted to be at or near 25 below zero. Real feel temperatures could reach -40 degrees. With the onset of the dangerously cold weather, Lincoln County officials are reminding residents that they can find relief at one of the fourteen warming centers throughout…

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LINCOLN COUNTY SHERIFFS OFFICE RECOGNIZES TEAM MEMBERS FOR 2025 ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Steve Dillon

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office honored four team members last week for achievements in 2025. County Jail Administrator Nicholas Hoeft was presented with the Sheriff’s Recognition Award for displaying selflessness and dedication during a critical incident in July of 2025 involving the dive team.  Lieutenant Thomas Tollefson received the Life Saving Award for his response to a medical emergency on December 2nd. Lt. Tollefson responded to a welfare check in the City of Merrill and found the patient to be not breathing and having no pulse. Lt. Tollefson began cardiopulmonary…

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DNR URGING SNOWMOBILE RIDERS TO STAY ON DESIGNATED TRAILS, STAY SAFE AND SOBER

Steve Dillon

With winter riding conditions in place, the Wisconsin DNR is urging snowmobilers to operate only on designated trails or permitted areas and to respect trail closures. Snowmobile clubs across the state work hard throughout the year to assure riders can enjoy one of the best experiences in the nation. Operating a sled off of a designated trail can be dangerous, and could cause damage to private property. It is illegal to operate a snowmobile on closed trails. Riders should check Travel Wisconsin’s Snow Report  to see which trails are open prior…

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LINCOLN COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT OFFERS TIPS WITH FLU AND COVID ON THE RISE

Steve Dillon

The Lincoln County Health Department has shared that current data reflects “very high” levels of the Flu and “high” levels of COVID-19 in our region. In an effort to combat the spread of the illnesses, the Health Department strongly recommends residents: Should you develop flu-like symptoms, stay home and contact your healthcare provider. For more information on precautionary steps that can be taken to avoid contracting these illnesses, visit dhs.wisconsin.gov and click on “Healthy New Year”.

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WISCONSIN’S GET KIDS READY PROGRAM PROVIDES CHILDCARE FUNDING

Steve Dillon

Tuesday marked the inaugural launch of Wisconsin’s entirely state funded childcare program, Get Kids Ready. $65 million in direct payments to childcare centers will provide school readiness programming for the 2026-27 school year. According to the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families, the funding will be put to use by qualified providers who will give focus to developing children’s academic, physical, social-emotional and self-help skills. Childcare providers receive funding from the state for the time kids spend in Get Kids Ready programming, making that part of the day free for…

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DNR TO HOLD TEN SESSIONS DEDICATED TO FISHERY MANAGEMENT

Steve Dillon

Throughout January and February, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources will be sponsoring ten separate sessions centered on fishery management on the waters of Northern Wisconsin. Maintaining a strong fishery requires focus, effort, and financial resources. The sessions will give emphasis to the work that goes into owning and managing a fishery. A session on 27th will cover Forest and Florence counties Trout Management, while February 12th session in Rhinelander will be dedicated to reviewing 35 Years Of Fisheries Management In Wisconsin’s Ceded Territory. Additional information on these sessions including…

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PARK CITY CREDIT UNION TO OPEN NEW WAUSAU BRANCH

Steve Dillon

Merrill based Park City Credit Union has announced a new, full-service location will soon be opening in Wausau’s Union Station at 2100 Stewart Ave – the organizations 6th branch. The opening of another location reflects their commitment to serving more members and communities across the state. Presently Park City has locations in Merrill, Tomahawk, Minocqua, Rhinelander, and Wisconsin Rapids. Members of the new branch will enjoy access to all of Park City Credit Union’s financial products, including PCCU Rewards Checking and cutting-edge technology. Other features include full lobby and drive-up…

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MAN DIES IN SKIING ACCIDENT AT GRANITE PEAK

Steve Dillon

A man involved in a skiing accident at Granite Peak on Sunday died from his injuries. Reports state that he lost a ski, fell and crashed into a tree, hitting his head. Granite Peak Ski patrol assisted the man getting him to the bottom of the hill and providing life-saving measures until first responders arrived on site. He was then transported to a local hospital where he died from his injuries. The victim was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. No further details on the incident have…

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REPORT: INCREASE IN MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES IN YOUTH IN 2025

Steve Dillon

According to a review recently released by the Wisconsin Office of Children’s Mental Health, 2025 saw a sharp increase in the number of young adults suffering from mental illnesses such as anxiety, depression, and behavioral problems. The report shows an increasing trend among youth battling major depressive issues both in Wisconsin and across the country. Results also showed that kids who are comfortable discussing their feelings with family can reduce negative childhood experiences. $4 million was allotted to child advocacy centers throughout the state in 2025.

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