About Us

---

 Tom and I are so blessed to be able to call Presque Isle our home. We are even more excited about bringing you the local news from our communities! We moved here with our five children to start over and have a more peaceful life. Along with my sister in-law and father in-law, we have been making the transition to this new life. I have to admit I wasn’t so sure about the snow, cold, and sand covered roads... but I had my aha moment. It came just when the first snow of the season did.

We were driving down the road after the first snow and thinking about all the friends we were making. All the new relationships and business owners who had opened up the idea of the paper to us. I look over and I see the head lights of the snowmobiles and I was overwhelmed with emotion.

I remembered thinking, Thank you God for providing for the businesses that rely so much on the snow and the people that come to share in our trails and the love of this magical place. I knew then that we were home. The people here, they are nothing like we have ever experienced before. They are kind, down to earth and honest. They tell it like it is and don’t sugar coat the truth. They genuinely care and remember you when you walk into the room. I am forever grateful for every single one of you.

This paper is more then just news. It is a beacon of hope in a time that is full of so much negativity and the unknown of tomorrow. This paper is a source to bring our communities closer when the world is doing its best to keep us apart. It is a source to introduce others to why we love upnorth so much! It is a place to remember and treasure our pasts and share it with the future generations, while making new memories.

We cannot wait to hear your stories, see the artists and meet all of you. Please keep spreading the word and God Bless you all.

Tom and Rebecca Nelsen 

 Bill Rutherford was born in Bessemer, MI in 1950, and spent much of his boyhood living in Winegar/Presque Isle. He attended the Presque Isle Grade School from 1st through 5th grade, when his family relocated to Milwaukee. Even though he was living 300 miles away, his love for his hometown stayed strong.
"Even if I had not been to Presque Isle for several years, when I drive up Hwy M out of Boulder Junction and make that left turn on to Hwy B, I always feel like I am coming home."
In 2014 Bill began making more regular visits to Presque Isle and re-connecting with friends and relatives in the area. He is a proud member of Winegar Post 480 of the American Legion.
He has been married to his lovely wife, Ana Julia, for 47 years. They have one daughter, Soraida, and two fantastic grandchildren, Elia and Ezi.
Inspired by the curiosity of his grandchildren, Bill authored his first book, "Winegar Reflections- Tales from Wisconsin's Northwoods." Published in 2016, the book details what it was like to grow up in a small northern Wisconsin town in the '50s and '60s. The book tells the story of the town's history from the logging and moonshine days up thru the tourism boom.
Because of the success of "Winegar Reflections," Bill was able to author his second book, "Fearless- The Life and Times of a True Northwoods Trapper." Released in 2020, this book explores the life of one of the town's icons, Mr. Chet Dumask. Chet is a nationally recognized hunter and trapper, and the story of his life makes for an interesting and exciting read.
Bill strives to do whatever he can to promote Presque Isle through his books and through the family activity known as Geocaching. He has personally placed over 30 geocaches in and around the town. These caches have attracted over 150 out-of-town visitors in the last two years, and more are expected this year. He has hosted two presentations about Geocaching, and another one is under consideration for this summer.
He has written articles for the Presque Isle Chamber of Commerce, and has volunteered his time to share his writing experiences with the students at North Lakeland Elementary School.
He has hosted author talks in both Presque Isle and Winchester to discuss his books and will be doing so again this summer.
When he is not “at home” in Presque Isle, Bill spends a lot of time in his small workshop in Milwaukee, teaching himself some woodworking skills, and enjoying the ability to make things with his hands.
Bill is looking forward to sharing memories and information about "Winegar" and the surrounding area with all of you who read “The Northwoods Review." 

 Northwoods native, Heather Dietz is excited to be a part of The Northwoods Review family.  Born and raised in Manitowish Waters, Heather spent her childhood like every other kid who was lucky enough to grow up here.  OUTSIDE! Biking, exploring, snowmobiling, skiing, fort making.  With no street lights on her road, she was summoned home daily by her mom's ear piercing whistle.   After exploring the country via Colorado and Massachusetts in her late teens and early twenties, she moved back to the area so her kids could grow up in the same amazing place she did.  

After making the big move north, from Manitowish Waters to Presque Isle almost 5 years ago, she got her YTT certification and opened Blackbird Yoga out of the home she shares with John; you guys know him, he's the one with "the voice", and her biggest accomplishments, her kiddos. Olivia, 16 and Aidan, 12.  

Any given day, Heather can be found cooking up some creations in her kitchen, leading a meditation, slinging the coldest beer in town at the Retreat, or helping out any way she can for all of the amazing organizations and events Presque Isle has to offer.  Truly focused on living her life to the fullest in Gods Country.  To quote her Grandpa Dietz "Anyone who doesn't like this life must be nuts." 

Rebecca Nelsen is a transplant from Southeastern Wisconsin, who calls Presque Isle home. Married to the love of her life, Thomas Nelsen,  they have five children and a dog named Hank. 

She has always been active in the church and community. After spending the last decade homeschooling and being a stay at home mom, she found her passion in writing for a small blog called,  https://blendedblessingssite.wordpress.com/ . Here she shares about her blended family and their journey.  "Moving upnorth has been the best decision we have ever made as a family. I cannot wait to see what this year brings!" Blessings, Rebecca

Sandra Cashman is an oil painter living in Manitowish Waters, Wisconsin. Growing up in the Hudson River Valley in New York, Sandy began painting at age 11 with encouragement from her Mom and other artistic mentors. She passionately pursued art classes and workshops throughout her formal schooling and beyond.

With a bachelor’s degree in Communications and TV Production, she joined a promising young video production company, and spent 28 years as a managing partner at what became a leading Wisconsin advertising agency and production company. Her formal career took her to top golf courses throughout the country and she was moved to photograph and paint them. As a side venture, she received numerous commissions to paint “Top 100” courses, and soon became recognized in golf circles, where her art was featured in several golf publications.

Recently retired, Sandy and her husband and their two basset hounds now live on Little Manitowish Lake where she converted a horse barn into a dedicated art studio. She contributes her business skills to the local art community, holding board positions with the Manito Art League and the Northwoods Art Tour. An avid hiker, kayaker, gardener, chef and golfer, she feels she has finally come “home” to where she was always meant to be. Her focus today is to continue to be an “endless learner,” to grow and refine her skills as a painter, and to express and celebrate all the joy and beauty there is to be found in Wisconsin’s beautiful Northwoods.

Artist’s Statement

Moving to Northern Wisconsin has put me under a spell. I see a grove of birch trees, reflections from a kayak or even a simple a puddle in the road, and I am moved to paint. Here, more than anywhere else on earth.

I paint in oils with a limited color palette for harmony. I frequently let a complementary color “underpaint” of orange or red peek through in places to bring life and vibration to the colors. Ever inspired by the simple everyday beauty surrounding us, I choose subjects that touch my heart - or maybe they choose me! My goal is to share an appreciation for the simple beauties that can easily escape us in our busy everyday lives.

www.sandracashman.com

 All my life I’ve wanted to “just cook” for a living, and I know in my heart God is sending me there.

In 2020 I retired from being in law enforcement for 27 years and working as a Register of Deeds for over 8 years.  I have now moved to Land O Lakes full time with my husband Karl.  We have had our place since 1993 and are so excited to be able to cook, fish, hike, bike and enjoy the beauty of the Northwoods full time!  My cookbook has over 300 recipes in it and the goal was to make it easy for anyone to cook or bake.  The title of my book is Sarah’s Home Cooked Meals Made Easy. My goal is to have others share recipes, enjoy time with friends and family at the lake or cabin, that’s what it is all about, thus the name, Cooking at the Cabin with Sarah.

Please join me in the bi-weekly Northwoods Review for easy home cooked meals that you can make and enjoy.  I would also be happy to answer any cooking questions you may have

To order Sarah's Home Cooked Meals Made Easy.  Please send an email to Sarah to cabincookery@gmail.com.  Sarah will contact you to get your information to send you this awesome cookbook. The cookbook has over 300 recipes.  The cost of the cookbook is $20. 

Remember recipes are meant to be shared, "pass it on"-Sarah Guenther, now a pretty good cook:)

Warmest Regards,

Sarah Guenthe

 Vilas County Fishing Guide, Bar Keep, and Outdoor Contributor to The Northwoods Review.

Originally from Saint Charles, Illinois. Before Curtis lived in Vilas County, he earned his Bachelor's Degree in Biological Sciences from the University of South Carolina with an emphasis in Botany and Ichthyology. During his time at University, Curtis fished competitively for the school bass fishing team. He traveled the Southeastern United States competing in FLW & B.A.S.S. tournaments on behalf of the school from 2015 to 2018. 

After Graduation, Curtis worked as a fisheries observer in the Bering Sea off Alaska and a string of other odd jobs in fisheries and horticulture. In the spring of 2020, after a bit of serendipity, Curtis found himself in the Northwoods town of Presque Isle, Wisconsin. Here, he discovered a fishing Mecca and decided to stay to pursue his dream of working as a professional fishing guide.  

With his scientific background, extensive fishing experience, and daily time on the water; Curtis is excited to be your source for informational Northwoods outdoor articles and fishing reports.

Born and raised in the very northern woods of the Northwoods & taking residency in this neck of the Northwoods nearing 2 decades ago now, I can comfortably say, I am a true Wisconsin Gal.
All of these little towns here in the Northwoods are all amazing in their own unique ways, but I must say, Boulder Junction is nearest my heart.
With almost all of my legal working years spent in the Restaurant & Bar industry, I have managed to come across so many memorable customers and coworkers that have become my friends and family.  Along with those memorable people, I have come across so many great stories. My goal is to share these lighthearted stories with the hope of creating some smiles and even a few chuckles!

We are so excited to have Abigail be a part of our team as a junior contributor.  She is a very talented writer and photographer. We are so grateful for her to share her talents with us. Born in Racine, WI, Abby loves to write moving pieces and spend a lot of time taking pictures of the world around her. She aspires to be a nurse and work on the mission field in Africa. When she's not taking pictures and writing she is working a part time job and finishing up school. "I can't wait to be published and for my work to be on display for everyone to see." 

Bob Bertch was born in Salisbury, Maryland, but spent most of his youth  in Northern Indiana & Ohio. Bob is a graduate of Sylvania High School (suburb of Toledo) and the University of Toledo with an Associate Degree in  Sales and Marketing. He served our country in the US Air Force with a tour of  Texas, Upper Michigan, and Thailand/Vietnam. His 45-year career in sales  and marketing in the grocery-food industry began in A & P Food stores and  then on to several food brokerage firms in Ohio, Michigan and Wisconsin.  He was an active member in his church, the Masons, Scottish-Rite and Shrine  while living in Ohio. 

Since 2000, Bob and his wife, Laura, now live in Wisconsin and their 2 kids  and 3 grandsons also live in the area. Now retired since 2006, Bob “Mepps”  Bertch is living his dream as a local fishing guide and also found time to be  involved in his community by joining the Boulder Junction Chamber since  2008, the Musky Classic board, Lakeland Kiwanis Club as past president and  a bowler (having achieved a 300 in 2012). 

Bob joined the Boulder Junction Lions Club in 2010, serving as a board  member since 2014 and currently is President for 2019-2021. Bob has served  as a Zone Chair for Zone 3 for the past 3 years and was sworn in as District  Governor for Multiple District 27C2 for the 20-21 term.  

 The poetic voice of J. K. Roche creates images of life in the Northwoods.  Her poems can be viewed locally and regionally at exhibits in art galleries, libraries, museums and hospitals.      J. K.  Roche also performs live and digital readings of her poems for local audiences as well as contributes poetry for print with The Northwoods Review in Presque Isle, Wisconsin where she resides.   J. K.  Roche teaches poetry and creative writing classes at LOLA Arts in Land O Lakes and her work can be purchased through Wild Women of the North and a Few Good Men gallery shop in Boulder Junction.

 Tim and his wife Renee love the outdoors.  They were introduced to places like the Porcupine Mountains and the Boundary Waters Canoe area as leaders in Scouting with their son and daughter. After their kids aged out of Scouting, they continued making frequent wilderness camping trips on their own. Both life-long Wisconsin natives they decided in 2016 that they were ready to purchase a property in the Northwoods.

A fan of canoes (he has eleven, or as he likes to say, “Not even a dozen.”) and of Sig Olson’s writings, the goal was to find a place like Sig’s Listening Point.  Though it seemed impossible with the budget available one splendid morning, with the rain coming down and the mosquitoes attacking, they stepped out of the Jeep and fell in love with a year-round cabin in Winchester. With the loons swimming past the dock and the wind coming through the large white pines they decided to call their place, with the nod to Sig- Whispering Point. Now they, with their springer Otca, spend as much time as possible at their cabin. 

Having retired after 30 years of teaching art in the D.C. Everest District at every level from Kindergarten to High School, Tim is now enjoying his love for photography. While he’s done everything from portraits, to weddings, to teaching High School photography- he now concentrates on combining his love of the outdoors to create nature and fine art photographs. With the bulk of his photography concentrated in the Northwoods it seemed natural to name the photography endeavor- Whispering Point Photography. 

His work as appeared in numerous Wisconsin art shows over the last 10 years and, in the summer of 2019, they purchased a tent set-up and attended many local Northwoods events displaying the photography. While 2020 was pretty much a wash out for shows, they’re looking forward to 2021 and hoping to be able to get out again as they enjoyed meeting so many wonderful people at the events.

www.whisperingpoint.com

Bobs connections to the Manitowish Waters area run long and deep. Bob’s grandparents bought 33 acres of land on Rest Lake in Manitowish Waters, WI in 1933 and he came here as a “summer kid” until he moved here permanently in 1980. He married a local girl and they raised their family in a house they built on their property on Wild Rice Lake in 1988. Bob managed a cranberry marsh for 22 years and then decided he needed to get more involved in his community. He was instrumental in starting the North Lakeland Discovery Center and started and ran the Intercultural Leadership Initiative, a program that brought Native and non-Native kids together across the Lakeland region that build friendships and empowered youth to end racism amongst themselves and in their communities. He also was instrumental in establishing and was a founding member of the North Lakeland Education Foundation, Northwoods Restorative Justice, The Tribal AmeriCorps Program, the Zaagiibagaa Healing to Wellness Court, the HOPE Consortium, the Positive Action Coalition, The Wisconsin Native American Prevention Coalition and the Tribal Behavioral Health Initiative. He is currently on the Board of Directors for the Ironwood Theatre, the North Woods Art Tour and the Last Wilderness Alliance.

Bob “retired” from the lions’ share of this work in 2019 but continues to be a strong advocate for protecting and promoting the health and well-being of the inhabitants and wildness of the region, animate and inanimate, wild and human. Bob built a cozy studio on their property on Wild Rice Lake in 2019 which is open when he is not out in the great outdoors taking photos, paddling, cycling, birding, roller skiing, x-country skiing or exploring the deepest secrets in the deepest woods with his two little granddaughters.