Investigative Reporter
Recent Stories
Potentially deadly disease identified in 8 southern states
Awareness important for snowbirds heading south for the winter
The brisk chill of autumn swept into the Northwoods this past week, a reminder that winter is not far away and prompting seasonal residents to circle calendar dates for their trips to warmer climates.
Kennedy takes heavy criticism as vaccine debate heats up
Administration cleans house at CDC; Trump puts Pfizer on notice
For anyone looking to preview the flavors of the 2026 midterm elections, right now it looks like the usual hot-button issues — crime, immigration, climate change, and forever wars — will remain at the center of the table, along with the economy, which is always the signature dish on the political menu.
Democratic lawmakers introduce Tariff Tax Transparency Act
Grocers concerned about requiring itemization of tariff costs
Two state Democratic lawmakers are targeting what they call “hidden taxes” on everyday goods, introducing legislation that would require retailers to itemize the cost of federal tariffs on consumers’ receipts.

Two sex offenders released in Oneida County
The Oneida County Sheriff’s Office this week announced two sex offenders would be released on Aug. 26, one temporarily living in Rhinelander. Richard S. Loppnow, 45, was convicted in Oneida County of two counts of third degree sexual assault. The criminal charges were brought against him by the state in February of 2018.
Is there a doctor in the house?
Physician shortages deepen in U.S., Wisconsin and the Northwoods
It’s no longer a surprise to most people trying to use the healthcare system, but communities across the nation are experiencing a serious shortage of physicians, especially primary care providers, and northern Wisconsin is no exception.
Is there a doctor in the house?
Physician shortages deepen in U.S., Wisconsin and the Northwoods
It’s no longer a surprise to most people trying to use the healthcare system, but communities across the nation are experiencing a serious shortage of physicians, especially primary care providers, and northern Wisconsin is no exception.
Oneida County beats budget expectations, adds to reserves
County earns solid grade in annual report despite human service deficit
Oneida County has come home with a good report card to show taxpayers for its 2024 finances, with revenues outpacing expenses and the county adding nearly $2 million to its general fund reserves.
MBC patrons formally charged with disorderly conduct
Six Oneida County residents who were arrested with Minocqua Brewing Company owner Kirk Bangstad on June 27 have now been formally charged with disorderly conduct for engaging in what a police officer on the scene at the Minocqua Brewing Company described as a “dangerous” situation.
Fugle out as Oneida County attorney
Corporation counsel resigns as of August 20
The controversial tenure of Michael Fugle as Oneida County corporation counsel is over, with the county attorney tendering an abrupt resignation this past Friday. His last day with the county will be Wednesday, August 20.
Tiffany warns about prematurely closing coal-fired power plants
PSC chairwoman downplays commission’s broad regulatory authority
U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany recently sent a letter to Summer Strand, the chairwoman of the state’s Public Service Commission, warning of the dangers of prematurely closing coal-fired power plants, but Strand says neither she nor the commission has any role to play in determining the type of generation resource power the state approves.