Making Tracks

BY BILL CLOW

RACC Executive Director

On a recent rainy day, we had a family show up in the chamber office saying “We’re here, now what?” They had come to the Rhinelander area with visions of boating and fishing and hiking in mind.

That is not unusual. When people think of the Northwoods, it is often outdoor activities that come to mind. That is for good reason; the Rhinelander area and the Northwoods abounds in excellent opportunities for biking and hiking, fishing and hunting, snowmobiling and ATVing, birdwatching and boating.

It was nice, however, to have so much to offer that family on that rainy day. We have great attractions like the ever popular Pioneer Park Historical Complex, great art exhibits at Art Start, a wonderful and unique stores and fantastic restaurants throughout town. Rhinelander is blessed to have an abundance of natural beauty AND more urban amenities.

Hodag For President

It is time to start collecting endorsements for the Hodag in his run for the Presidency. From Sunday, Aug. 21 through Sunday, Aug. 28, post a picture showing your support for the Hodag on the Explore Rhinelander Facebook page. Include #HodagforPresident and you will be automatically entered into our raffle. Two people will win Hodag for President t-shirts and one person will win a Hodag for President gift basket with a t-shirt, buttons, bumper stickers, a coffee mug, a yard sign and more!

Run to Remember 5k/10k

Saturday, Aug. 20

9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Nicolet College Campus

A 10K Run followed by a 5K Run/Walk and Children’s Run to honor Kory Dahlvig who lost his life while on duty as a Vilas County Sheriff’s Deputy. Proceeds benefit the Nicolet College Foundation for student scholarships in memory of Kory Dahlvig. Register online, by mail, or call 715-365-4518.

WILD Hodag Mini-Triathlon

Saturday, Aug. 27

8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Holiday Acres Resort

The 300-yard swim (or 1/2 mile kayak), 10k bike (off-road) and 5k run courses will challenge athletes in the scenic Northwoods. Proceeds benefit W.I.L.D (Wise Intentional Leadership Development) to further youth leadership skills internationally and locally. http://www.hodagtriathlon.com

2016 Fishing Hot Spots Hodag Musky Challenge

Friday, Sept. 23, 2016 – Sunday, Sept. 25, 2016 Quality Inn

Musky anglers from around the country will come to Rhinelander to compete in one of the most historic Musky tournaments in the nation. The catch-and-release tournament will be headquartered at the Quality Inn Rhinelander and fishing will take place on area lakes. Cash purse to the winning teams, as well as prizes for the first 50-inch musky, the largest musky, the largest northern pike, and more. If you’re a musky fisherman or just someone interested in the sport, don’t miss the Fishing Hot Spots Hodag Musky Challenge. Information and registration forms at the Chamber.

Please contact the Rhinelander Area Chamber of Commerce for information about area businesses, restaurants, attractions, lodging or events, and anything in this column. The Chamber is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays and holidays during the summer. You can reach me at 715-365-7464 or at director@rhinelanderchamber.com.