Katie Thoresen

2 days ago | wxpr.org | Katie Thoresen

Lithium-ion batteries are found in many products ranging from Electric bikes and power tools to cellphones and child toys. When used as intended and stored properly, lithium batteries that have been certified are generally safe. “I think it's when we have that abuse or misuse or when something hasn't been tested for safety, is when we start seeing the issues,” said Nicole Sanders, Research Amplification Lead for UL Research Institutes and its Fire Safety Research Institute.

3 days ago | wxpr.org | Katie Thoresen

Teri and Stan Strub spent years visiting friends who had property in the Rhinelander area. They had long talked about buying their own place but didn’t think they were in a position to do so until an unfinished cabin on a small lake when up for sale in the winter of 1992. It wasn’t until after they bought it did they realize it was on a non-motorized lake. “We weren't sure that that was a good thing,” said Teri. “A good thing from, you know, value and what have you,” added Stan.

3 days ago | wxpr.org | Katie Thoresen

Another DMV-related scam is making the rounds. This time people are getting text messages telling them this is the “final notice” or of an unspecified “unpaid traffic violation.”They claim to be the Wisconsin DMV and try to get people to click on fraudulent links or reveal personal information. On Monday, the DMV noted an influx in customers calling and emailing with questions after receiving these texts. A previous wave hit Wisconsin late March into early April.

4 days ago | wxpr.org | Katie Thoresen

The Oneida County Health Department has a budget of roughly $3 million and employs 24 people. About 30% of its budget from the tax levy, the rest comes from grants and payment or reimbursements for services. The program generated revenue can range from licensing fees to vaccinations. The grants mostly come from the state which in turn gets that money from the federal government.

4 days ago | wxpr.org | Katie Thoresen

More smoke from Canadian wildfires is expected to drop air quality in the region. The Wisconsin DNR issued an alert starting at midnight Monday night. They expect smoke to reach the state between midnight and 3:00 a.m.Air quality could drop to the unhealthy to very unhealthy range. This is worse than the conditions on Friday. At these levels, everyone is encouraged to take precautions and avoid strenuous outdoor activities. Sensitive groups: Consider rescheduling or moving all activities inside.