Spooky story writing challenge for teens
The Rhinelander District Library is looking for the spookiest story in the Northwoods. The story can true or fictional, written by teens ages 12-18. Entries must be 500 words or less, typed and turned in with an application, The winning story will be published in the Star Journal. Writing challenge applications are available at the library and on the library website. Stories must be turned in at the adult department front desk by Monday, Oct. 29. One entry per person, Winners will be announced on Halloween.

Three Lakes Pumpkin Fest
Thousands are expected at the 26th annual Pumpkin Fest, set for Saturday, Oct. 13 from 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. at Three Lakes High School. The event is sponsored by the Three Lakes Fire Department Auxiliary. Proceeds benefit the fire department and the community. There will be 100 indoor and outdoor booths including the Northwoods’ Largest Bake Sale, a mini farmers market, food, souvenir t-shirts and raffles. Free parking and admission; a non-perishable food item for the food pantry is appreciated.

Three Lakes school board schedules input sessions
Three Lakes District Administrator Dr. George Karling has announced his retirement at the end of the current school year. Before seeking a replacement, the Three Lakes School District School Board will take input from district residents during two public meetings. The meetings will be facilitated by an executive search firm and will be held Oct. 9 at 6 p.m. at Sugar Camp Elementary School and Oct. 10 at 6 p.m. in the Three Lakes School Board room. According to a district press release, information gathered from residents, school board and staff will be used to develop specific interview questions for the candidates. Written comments may be submitted via U.S. mail to the school district or emailed to [email protected]. Karling has been with the district 30 years.

Tribute Brewing Company wins gold
Tribute Brewing Company of Eagle River received a gold medal at the 2018 Great American Beer Festival (GABF) competition in Denver, Colo. Tribute Brewing was recognized in the chili beer-style category for its White Legs Jalapeno Wheat Ale, a “clean, refreshing wheat ale with jalapenos added post fermentation.” The independent craft brewery began brewing in 2012 and offers a selection of ales and lagers year round plus a number of seasonal beers.
The 2018 GABF competition winners were selected by an international panel of 293 expert judges from 8,496 entries, received from 2,404 U.S. breweries, plus 101 Pro-Am and 49 Collaboration entries.

Free help for learners available at Nicolet College
Nicolet College’s Academic Success Center on the Rhinelander Campus is open for fall semester. Free instruction is available for individuals preparing to attend college, build academic skills for the workplace, earn a GED or HSED, learn basic computer skills, or learn to speak English.
The center is located on the second floor of the Lakeside Center in room 207. Hours are Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., through Dec. 21. No classes will be held Nov. 21 to 23. For more information, contact the Nicolet College Academic Success Center at 715-365-4455 or 800-544-3039, ext. 4455.

Eagle River Cranberry Fest Oct. 6-7
Arts and crafts, cranberry food sales, live entertainment, 5K Bog Jog/walk, food tents and more are on the agenda for Eagle River’s annual Cranberry Fest. Events take place Saturday 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Vilas County Fairgrounds and Sunday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m./ A free shuttle bus is available Saturday. For complete information, visit eagleriver.org.

Cran-A-Rama in Manitowish Waters
Get anything and everything cranberry at the Manitowish Waters Chamber of Commerce event, Saturday, Oct 6, 9 .m.-3 p.m. at the community center. Features 20th annual cranberry cooking contest. arts and crafts booths, marsh tours, cranberry samples and sales, bake sale and more. For details, visit manitowishwaters.org.