Rhinelander Mayor Kris Hanus secured reelection by just 15 votes in a nail-biter decided at 12:30 a.m. He’s focusing his second term on housing, infrastructure, and rebuilding public safety facilities.

Rhinelander Mayor Kris Hanus secured his second term by just 15 votes in a race that wasn’t called until after midnight. His agenda focuses on economic development, west side infrastructure, and a new public safety facility.

Michael Habeck takes office as Tomahawk’s first new mayor in a decade, facing deteriorating roads and a budget deficit after voters rejected a funding referendum.

Tomahawk elected Michael Habeck as mayor with 70% of votes, but the real story was voters demanding action on pothole-riddled roads that hurt both residents and tourism in this Northwoods community.

Private landowner Joe Hovel expands the Upper Wisconsin River Legacy Forest to 1,233 protected acres in Vilas County, creating a vital wildlife corridor linking state and county lands with public access for hiking, hunting, and fishing.

A fatal UTV crash near Lake Kaubashine has Oneida County examining off-road safety as spring thaw conditions create hazardous trail conditions across the Northwoods.

Butternut School District’s $1.1 million referendum passed by a single vote (281-280) while Crandon squeaked by 908-889, saving rural Northwoods schools from closure despite statewide funding pressures.

Rhinelander Mayor Kris Hanus won re-election by just 15 votes in a race that wasn’t called until after midnight, securing a second term to continue infrastructure and housing projects across the city.

Rising grocery costs are driving more Northwoods families to seek help at food pantries. The Neighbors’ Place in Wausau has welcomed 200 new families this year alone as households navigate inflation and limited rural resources.

Michael Habeck, a 40-year Tomahawk resident, won the city’s mayoral race with 655 votes, pledging to fix deteriorating roads, secure state aid, and address budget deficits while preserving community programs.

Rick Fuhrman just celebrated 50 years as a Hazelhurst volunteer firefighter, continuing a family legacy of service that spans over 200 years combined. His dedication reflects the backbone of Northwoods emergency response.

Retired Wabeno teacher Betty White turned decades of classroom dreams into published children’s books—and she’s donating every dollar to help animals at Oneida County Humane Society.