News in the Northwoods

Wisconsin homeless count Jan. 25

The Northern Wisconsin Initiative to Stop Homelessness (N*WISH) Coalition will be joining homeless coalitions around the state in completing a local count of individuals and families experiencing homelessness. On the night of Jan. 24, and early morning Jan. 25, staff and volunteers will count persons in shelters for the night as well as those residing on the streets, under bridges, or similar places not met for human habitation.

The collected data will assist the community in understanding the scope and size of local homelessness; engage in programs and service development, and to apply for state and federal funding. Anyone who is homeless or knows someone who is, is asked to call 715-365-7842 by the end of the business day on Jan. 26, or stop by the Northern Advantage Job Center to complete a survey and receive resource information.

Free income tax assistance available

Trained and certified volunteers, through the AARP Tax Aide Program, will provide free 2017 federal and state income tax and Wisc. homestead credit preparation and electronic filing. The target group for this service is people with low to moderate income, with a special emphasis for those 60 and over. This service, provided at no cost, is available in Rhinelander every Monday and Wednesday during the months of February and March by appointment only. Contact the Oneida County Senior Center at 715-369-6170 to make an appointment. Other AARP Tax Aide sites in the area include Eagle River, Minocqua, Park Falls and Tomahawk.

Applications accepted for Citizen’s Police Academy

The Rhinelander Police Department is offering a glimpse into law enforcement life with its 11th annual Citizen’s Police Academy. The nine-week, no cost program is designed to provide students with an insight into the everyday activities that occur in law enforcement. Police officers will teach citizens about firearms, defensive and arrest tactics, patrol procedures, drug investigations, criminal investigations and operating while under the influence. The program includes a four-hour ride along with a Rhinelander Police Officer. A new feature includes a night of training with the Rhinelander Fire Department. The academy meets one night per week, usually Thursday, from 6-10 p.m. Must be 18 or older. For information on qualifications and to apply, visit rhinelanderpd.com.

Suicide awareness event in Eagle River

The Northland Pines Boys Hockey team and Ascension Behavioral Health will be hosting a Suicide Awareness event during the Pines Classic Hockey Tournament at 5 p.m., Jan. 26 at the Eagle River Ice Arena. The National Alliance of Mental Health along with Social Workers from the district and Ascension will share resources and be available to answer any questions.

Proceeds from chuck-a-puck and 50-50 raffle will support the funding of a nationally-recognized suicide awareness speaker, Kevin Hines, who will be presenting to Northland Pines students in grades 7-12 in May. Hines is an award-winning global speaker, bestselling author, documentary filmmaker, suicide prevention and mental health advocate.