Greater Wausau: 2018-2019 Relocation Guide

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The Wausau Region’s Guide to Living in the Moment Inside this issue Introducing IRONBULL............................................................ 4 Kid-Friendly....................................................................................6 15 Reasons to Make the Move ..................................................8 Pets on the Move ....................................................................... 16 Major Employers........................................................................20 Outdoor Recreation....................................................................21 Metro Communities...................................................................27 Advertiser’s Index....................................................................... 38 Cover photo by Lemmens Creative Design The Greater Wausau Chamber of Commerce invites you to enjoy this publication, which uncovers why the Wausau area is a great place to work, play and live. Greater Wausau is about elevating your life, naturally. It’s not just about living to work or working to live, but about living fully; about enjoying the kind of balance that allows you to approach every day with heightened anticipation.

You are close to the best of everything Wisconsin has to offer. But the Greater Wausau area isn’t just about an abundance of exceptional experiences at your doorstep; you'll find an attitude here that elevates the richness of everyday moments.

This publication is brought to you by the

For more information about the Chamber please call 715-845-6231 or visit www.wausauchamber.com.

Follow us on social media:

Photos by Melanie Coulthorst

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INTRODUCING IRONBULL T

im Buchholz and his wife Anna Nummelin received their doctorates in Florida and decided to move to Wausau as the area offered the perfect place to both practice their professions and enjoy a multitude of year-round extreme sports.

watch online:

tinyurl.com/ironbullwausau

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Tim Bucholz

Anna Nummelin

Already the race directors of one of the premier adventure races in the nation, the Rib Mountain Adventure Challenge, Tim and Anna have helped to spearhead the creation of a new organization, IRONBULL. The non-profit has ambitious plans to turn the Wausau region into a year-round extreme outdoor playground for adrenaline sports junkies.

“IRONBULL has the potential to change the face of Wausau for decades to come,” said Tim. Tim serves as president and Anna is active on the board for the organization, which was incorporated in December of 2018.

In recent years, the Wausau area has earned a reputation as a mecca for thrill-seeking outdoor sports junkies. The region rivals cities like Bend, OR, Durango, CO, and Santa Fe, NM for its downhill skiing and snowboarding, urban whitewater kayaking, off-road biking, hiking and mountain biking opportunities.

Marathon County is home to the Midwest’s highest downhill ski venue, Granite Peak Ski Area. Located in Rib Mountain State Park, skiing in the area has its roots in the famous 10th Mountain Alpine Division who trained on Rib Mountain and served in the Italian Alps during World War II. Currently, the ski hill services 75 runs and a terrain park system referred to as the ‘Best in the Midwest.’ The State Park is also striped with beautiful hiking and snowshoe trails.

In the warmer seasons, the Wausau region is home to several

Andrea Larson, IRONBULL

of the best mountain bike trail systems in Wisconsin. The Sylvan downhill mountain bike course ranges from tough to extreme and Nine Mile Recreation Area features miles of trails. The summer provides the only urban whitewater kayaking course in the Great Lake States, right in the heart of downtown Wausau.

In addition to organizing extreme races, IRONBULL plans to host ‘Xtreme Weekends’ that will offer a variety of experiences to the entire community.

Tim and Anna aren't alone in making a big life change to take advantage of the area's outdoor amenities.

Andrea Larson is the Executive Director of IRONBULL. Larson left her engineering career after a decade in research and development to give back to her hometown.

“IRONBULL will bring far more to central Wisconsin than just the races.” said Andrea. “The organization will fuel the economy, change the community and promote healthy living.”

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The City of Wausau's Riverlife Park offers outdoor fun for children, and adults, of all ages and abilities.

watch online:

tinyurl.com/riverlifeplayground

KIDFRIENDLY A pair of new parks build upon the variety of fun outdoor options for kids

6 www.wausauchamber.com

Photos by Jamie Polley

T

he Greater Wausau area offers a variety of great venues for kidfriendly fun. The newly opened Riverlife Park on Wausau's east side and planned JoJo's Jungle on the city's west side offer unique play opportunities for children of all ages and abilities.

Wausau opened Riverlife Park on the east side of the Wisconsin River in the summer of 2019. The park is located just north of the WOW Family Entertainment Center and offers a unique playground design, with a skywalk and covered slide.

Live,Work,Play!

The park also features climbing nets, boulders, spinners and more for kids ages five to 12, while also offering play equipment for children from two to five years in age. The park has a poured rubber surface, making it accessible for those with disabilities.

"Riverlife Park is a unique destination playground that connects the community to the River." said Jamie Polley, director of the Marathon County Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department. "It not only is an amazing park for families to be active, it also highlights the asset that started Wausau, the river."

Riverlife Park was not only built for children. The park offers plenty of exercise options to keep adults busy as well, including a large fitness area with cardio machines and static weight machines. The park also includes the city's first Challenge Course (think American Ninja Warrior) with a timing system.

And for those who need to cool off after some time at Riverlife Park, a new Briq's Soft Serve location has opened in the nearby concession building.

JoJo’s Jungle on Wausau's west side will include separate play areas for children of different ages. The playground will include a 'jungle' for older kids, an open concept design for two to five-year-olds and a shaded area for toddlers.

"Our goal is to enrich social skills, sensory learning, and promote physical fitness in a safe environment for every child in our community."

Patrick Hoerter said. Hoerter's adopted son Josiah passed away due to a rare genetic disorder in 2015 three months shy of his third birthday.

After four years of fundraising for the $2 million project, Hoerter is looking forward to the addition of the playground at Wausau's Brockmeyer Park.

JoJo’s Jungle will also offer a zipline, a wheelchair-accessible merrygo-round and a butterfly garden.

Photo courtesy of JoJo's Jungle

Discover more than 70 independently owned boutiques, restaurants, salons, and spas, over four miles of walking, biking and running trails and The 400 Block - the city’s social center; Not to mention an internationally ranked theater, and several world-class art museums and galleries. www.WausauRiverDistrict.org

www.wausauchamber.com 7

15 REASONS TO MAKE THE MOVE We’ve compiled a list of the best reasons for you to consider a move to the area … and we could go on and on!

Photo by Amanda Kurth

watch online:

tinyurl.com/wausaudrone

1

THE OUTDOORS: There are few locations in the Midwest that offer world-class skiing, kayaking and fishing just minutes from either your home or your work. Add to these activities mountain biking, hiking, boating and snowmobiling and the Wausau region is one of the premier locations for outdoor recreation in the state. Where else can you punch out of work and enjoy the outdoors just minutes later?

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Photo by Tom Mortenson

DOWNTOWN WAUSAU: Many Wisconsin cities of a similar size to Wausau have struggled to keep their downtowns vibrant. With ongoing improvements, Wausau’s downtown continues to not only offer diverse shopping and dining options, but through the development of the riverfront, along with the ArtsBlock and the 400 Block, offers premiere destinations for community events.

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Photo by Tom Mortenson

THE GREATER WAUSAU REGION: Beyond just the City of Wausau, Marathon, Merrill, Rib Mountain, Rothschild, Schofield and Weston offer additional options to those eyeing relocation.

Add in Merrill, Mosinee, and several nearby rural communities, and there are even more alternatives. See pages 27 to 37 for more information on these and other surrounding communities.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

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JOBS: Wausau was ranked by SmartAsset in the top ten cities offering the best career opportunities in 2018. The city boasted an unemployment rate of 2.5%, an annual employment growth rate of 2.5%, median income of $35,540, an early to late career income growth rate of 20% and a career counselors and postsecondary educators per 1,000 employees rate of 1.87.

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THE ARTS: One of the unique aspects of the Wausau region is the area’s commitment to the arts. The Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum and the Grand Theater offer national exhibits and entertainers respectively while the Center for Visual Arts offers classes and gallery space near the 400 Block. The annual Chalkfest in July and Artrageous Weekend in September offer great opportunities for local artists to display their work

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PARKS: It seems that you can’t drive more than a few blocks before you encounter one of the many county and community parks. Some city parks are as tiny as Underwood Triangle Park at the intersection of Thomas and Cleveland streets in Wausau or as sprawling as Kennedy Park in Weston and the scenic Dells of the Eau Claire Park in eastern Marathon County.

SEE

TOP 15 CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

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W

e understand that the used housing market be can stressful and at times, can be downright frustrating, especially when you’re trying to relocate to a new city quickly and easily.

So when the used housing market gets you down, as your custom home builder, we want to give you a hand up.

You see, we believe that the home building and buying process should be easy, affordable and fun. So naturally, we want your transition to the Wausau area to be the same.

Whether you already have a lot to build on, or whether you’re picking from a multitude of lots that are easily available to you, such as our very own “The Woodlands” subdivision, we’re here to

help you every step of the way. So as our commitment to make the building process easier, faster and better for you—we’re making a special offer available when you build with us in the Wausau area. We’re offering you a place to reside in our distinctive and luxurious townhomes, which are conveniently located throughout the Wausau area.

We’ve even taken this dedication a step further.

One of our townhomes complexes contains our newest showroom, which makes the selection process that much easier. We also have expert personnel on staff to help make the key decisions that affect your lifestyle and budget.

With that said, we hope you’ll find that there is no better choice than to Build Something Great® with Envision. Home at Last. for your relocation needs.

7

EDUCATION: With a variety of public and private schools and childcare options in the area, there are plenty of excellent alternatives for families to choose from. The region is also home to secondary educators like the Medical College of Wisconsin, Northcentral Technical College, Rasmussen College and UWSP at Wausau.

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A REINVIGORATED RIVERFRONT: The city of Wausau is bisected by the Wisconsin River. A focus has been placed on the riverfront in recent years and a variety of development projects have been completed or are underway on the east side of the river both north and south of downtown Wausau. Just north of Wausau’s downtown near Bridge Street, a wharf and docks, elaborate playground, Briq's Soft Serve and the WOW Family Entertainment Center have recently been added. New business and housing space are also planned for this area. South of Wausau's downtown you'll find a world-class kayak course and the bi-weekly Farmers Market.

Further down the river in Rothschild, the historic Rothschild Pavilion has been remodeled and hosts various events each year and a bike path has been added along the river south of the Domtar paper mill.

SEE

TOP 15 CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

Photo by Tom Mortenson

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WISCONSIN’S ONLY ‘MOUNTAIN’: At its highest elevation, 760 feet above the surrounding terrain, Rib Mountain State Park and Granite Peak Ski Area can be seen from miles around. Thousands flock to this location each year for skiing and snowboarding in the winter and hiking, cycling and sight-seeing during the warmer months. No trip to the Wausau area is complete without a trip to the top of the 60foot observation tower. And don't miss one of the park's hidden gems, the quarry on the western side of the mountain. This out-of -the-way spot features a very unique topography and can be reached through a network of trails from either the top or base of the mountain.

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FAMILY-FRIENDLY HAPPENINGS: The summer is filled with concerts, hot air balloons, the Wisconsin Valley Fair and Chalkfest, while the cooler months offer blazing fall colors, tubing at Sylvan Hill Park, pond hockey and Winterfest. The Marathon County Library headquarters in downtown Wausau offers a variety of programs and a wonderful children's library complete with a large aquarium filled with exotic fish.

SEE

TOP 15 CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

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HEALTHCARE: With a pair of large medical campuses in the region, one on Wausau’s west side and another along Highway 29 in Weston, the area offers top-of-the-line care in state-of-the-art facilities.

NORTHWOODS FEEL: What do those that have moved to the area most often cite as their reason for staying? The region’s Northwoods feel, blended with all the expected urban amenities, makes this a special place.

There are few places in the midwest with the varity of outdoor amenities available within just miles of premiere employers.

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THE DUDLEY TOWER: This icon of the Wausau skyline stands at 241 feet, which makes it the tallest commercial building in Wisconsin outside of Milwaukee! During certain times of the year, brilliant sunsets are reflected on the building's western face.

| Aug 16-17 Blues Fest

t | Jan. 25 Winter Fes

. 21 Fest | Sept n o c a B & Beer

11-14 Fest | July ib R & n o Ballo

21 ne 5-Aug. u J s y a d s dne quare | We S e h t n o s Concert

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14 www.wausauchamber.com

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THE COMMUTE: There are few neighborhoods in the Wausau metro area that can’t be accessed in less than 20 minutes from any other point in the metro area. And highways like 29 and 51/39 allow speedy access to points countywide. Traffic jams are uncommon to the thousands who commute to jobs around the region every day.

We believe in YOU and your BUSINESS!

Photo by Tom Mortenson

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TREES, AND LOTS OF THEM: The plentiful lumber that brought many settlers to the area in the 1800s is again what attracts many to the region today, though for a different reason. Instead of harvesting the great trees found here, residents enjoy their shade in the summer and their spectacular color each fall.

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PETS ON THE MOVE

Safety tips and options for easing the strain on furry friends

T Dog parks in the Greater Wausau area: KRONENWETTER: Friendship Park in the north central part of the village includes a Bark Park.

MERRILL: A dog park is located at the Merrill Area Recreation Complex on Marc Drive.

RIB MOUNTAIN: Sandy's Bark Park can be found along Highway R at Oriole Lane. The four-acre park offers gravel trails and water.

WAUSAU: Plans have been approved to build a dog park behind the downtown post office on Fourth Street. Also, a pool party for dogs is held after the community swimming pools close in August.

WESTON: The Dog Park offers almost 40 acres adjacent to Kellyland Park. The park is fully fenced and dogs are allowed to run free within the park.

16 www.wausauchamber.com

he transition to a new home can be an exciting, but stressful time for all family members, including your pets. Safety concerns also arise as pets are traveling and learning a new home. There are a few simple steps which can be taken ahead of time to help to ease the transition.

There are many products available that can help to minimize your pet's stress and anxiety.

Pheromones are a great first option for both dogs and cats. These are chemicals that are naturally occurring in pets and can be administered in many forms, including collars, sprays and diffusers. There are typically no side effects and these products are readily available through many veterinary offices and pet supply stores.

Another natural remedy for stress in pets are calming oral supplements. Most of these contain ingredients like proteins or herbs that deliver a gentle calming effect. Again, these may be available at some veterinary offices and pet supply stores.

STORY BY ELIZABETH ARNOLD DVM PHOTO BY IRIS OTTEN

A new product for dogs is a calming probiotic. This very specific probiotic was delevoped to calm your pet only (as opposed to other probiotics that replace normal GI flora for gut health), and is only available from veterinarians.

Elizabeth Arnold DVM, Marathon Animal Hospital

If these more natural approaches are not enough, anti-anxiety medications may be discussed with your veterinarian. These can be particularly useful for car rides and during the entire moving period until pets have adjusted to their new home. These are available only through a prescription and should always be used under the guidance of a veterinarian.

Along with the stress concerns for pets are the safety issues that arise from the move. Traveling in cars and moving in and out of homes can be a high risk time for pets to escape through an open door. A great safeguard is to have your pet microchipped. A small device implanted under your pet's skin will include a unique number which will allow your pet to be traced back to you if found. Does your pet already have a microchip? Make sure all of your contact information is up-to-date with the microchip company.

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While making sure there are no doors left open at your new home, also be aware of other opportunities for your pet to escape.

An opening in the fence or a loose latch are common escape points. Also look around the new home for other hazards that are commonly left behind by previous homeowners, such as rat or mouse bait, old lawn chemicals, etc. Sometimes these are hidden in the garage or basement where your pet's nose will find them, and can lead to a very serious illness.

Lastly, a thorough check up with your veterinarian is a great idea before the move. This also may be required for air travel, and international travel will require a health certificate. Check with your airline and destination for requirements ahead of time.

Significant planning may be required for some locations, such as some foreign countries.

This would also be a great time to ask your veterinarian about which stress relief options they recommend. You may want to do a trial for these ahead of time. Your vet office can also provide copies of your pet's records and ensure your pet has enough of any medications they may need until they are established at a new clinic.

Explore some of these stress relief options and preparations before your move to help ease the transition to a new home for you and your beloved pet.

501 STEWART AVE. WAUSAU, WI 54401 715-848-0166 trinity@trinitynet.org www.trinityonstewart.org

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A Central Location:

DISTANCE FROM WAUSAU: DULUTH.................238 MILES (4 h 11 min) EAU CLAIRE...........99 MILES (1 h 38 min) GREEN BAY............97 MILES (1 h 38 min)

The Greater Wausau region is a metropolitan area of more than 79,000 residents and is located in Marathon County, Wisconsin’s largest county at more than 1,500 square miles.

MADISON.............143 MILES (2 h 16 min)

MINOCQUA

MILWAUKEE........188 MILES (2 h 54 min) MINNEAPOLIS...185 MILES (2 h 56 min) MINOCQUA.......... 69 MILES (1 h 10 min)

WAUSAU

EAU CLAIRE 15 MILES

GREEN BAY

50 MILES

100 MILES

MADISON

Wausau Whitewater Park Photo by Kelly Puntney

www.wausauchamber.com 19

Major Employers Discover Employers NAME

LOCATION

EMPLOYEES NAME

LOCATION

EMPLOYEES

Ahlstrom-Munksjo Mosinee 250+

Linetec

Ascension Saint Clare’s Hospital Weston

Marathon Cheese Corp Marathon

Aspirus

250+

Various 1,000+

Wausau 250+ 500+

Marathon Electric Wausau 1,000+

Church Mutual Insurance Co Merrill

500+

Marshfield Clinic Various 1,000+

Crystal Finishing Systems Inc Schofield

250+

North Central Health Care Wausau

500+

Domtar Paper Co LLC Rothschild

250+

Northcentral Technical College Various

500+

Footlocker.com/Eastbay Inc Wausau

500+

Salelytics

Wausau 250+

Graebel

Wausau 250+

Semco Windows & Doors

Merrill

250+

Graphic Packaging

Wausau

Sterling Building Systems

Rothschild

250+

Greenheck

Schofield 1,000+

UMR

Wausau 1,000+

Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork

Wausau

Walmart

Merrill, Rib Mountain

250+

L & S Electric

Schofield

250+

Wausau Tile

Rothschild

500+

Land O' Lakes Inc

Spencer

500+

Wausau Window & Wall Systems Wausau

500+

Liberty Mutual

Wausau

250+

WPS Health Insurance Wausau

250+

250+ 1,000+

Source: wisconomy.com, June 2019

Pam and Phillip believe home is where you find sanctuary and peace of mind.

As one of the area’s premier real estate groups, they will make your relocation pleasant and seamless through exceptional customer service.

2100 Stewart Avenue, Suite 200, Wausau WI 54401 LarkinGroup@firstweber.com Pam Larkin 715.573.3520 20 www.wausauchamber.com

Phillip Larkin 715.573.8625

Outdoor Recreation There’s plenty of fun to be had outdoors in the Wausau Region. Here’s a list of just of a few of the many activities that can be enjoyed in the area: Archery

Gardening

Running

ATV Riding

Geocaching

Shooting

Baseball/Softball

Golf

Skateboarding

Bird Watching

Hiking

Skiing/Snowboarding

Boating

Hockey

Sledding

Cycling

Horseback Riding

Snowmobiling

Camping

Hunting

Soccer

Canoeing

Ice Fishing

Strawberry Picking

Cross-Country Skiing

Ice Skating

Swimming

Curling

Kayaking

Tennis

Dancing

Paintball

Tubing

Disc and Mini Golf

Pickleball

Volleyball

Fishing

RC Flying

Water Skiing

More on Recreation in the Wausau Region The Wausau/Central Wisconsin Convention & Visitors Bureau produces a bi-annual magazine detailing recreational opportunities and more things to do in the area. Visit their office near the 400 Block in downtown Wausau or online at visitwausau.com.

and much more!

Witness the Difference

Offering excellence in education from six weeks old to 12th grade. Preparing students for a successful future.

Offering complete and compassionate services to your special pet, including: - Wellness Exams - Vaccinations - Parasite screening - Laboratory testing - Flea/tick and heartworm preventatives - Sick pet consultations - Surgery - Acupuncture and laser therapy

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Wausau

715-845-1919 Learn more:

www.newmancatholicschools.com

marathonanimalhospital.com www.wausauchamber.com 21

Photo byBrian Gunning

About the Region

Marathon County, created in 1850, is named after the Greek city of Marathon. Located in central Wisconsin, the county seat is Wausau.

22 www.wausauchamber.com

Land Area: 1,576 square miles Water Area: 31 square miles Elevation: 1,195 feet at Wausau, 1,924 feet at the Queen’s Chair on Rib Mountain (fourth highest point in Wisconsin), 1,605 feet at Upper Mosinee Hill

Geographical Province: Northern Highland Natural Vegetation: Mostly maple, hemlock and yellow birch; a narrow strip with white and red pine in center. There is a small area of conifer swamp in the southwest.

We’re here when you need us.

More than 200 employees in five divisions work to keep you safe in Wisconsin’s largest county.

Dial 911 for emergencies

715-261-1200 | www.co.marathon.wi.us/departments/sheriff.aspx

COMMUNITY

PROFILES

Photo by Dennis Helke

Marathon County

There are six cities, 16 villages and 40 towns in Marathon County, each with their own personality.

City of Abbotsford

Village of Edgar

Village of Maine

City of Mosinee

Village of Weston

Village of Athens

Village of Elderon

City of Schofield

City of Wausau

Village of Birnamwood

Village of Fenwood

Village of Marathon City

City of Colby

Village of Hatley

Village of Dorchester

Village of Kronenwetter

24 www.wausauchamber.com

Village of Rothschild City of Marshfield

Village of Spencer Village of Stratford Village of Unity

About the Region

Housing in Marathon County: Persons per household: 2.49 Median household income: $54,063 Median home ownership cost per month: $683

Median rent for three bedroom apartment: $964 Average commute time of less than 15 minutes: 41.1% Population density per square mile: 87.5 Median estimated home value: $151,000 Median home list price: $163,000

1930: 70,629 1940: 75,915 1950: 80,337 1960: 88,874 1970: 97,457 1980: 111,270 1990: 115,400

Median home age: 69 years Percentage of residents that rent: 27% Estimated construction cost: $120 to $175 per sq. ft.

Photo by Dennis Helke

Marathon County population:

2000: 125,834 2010: 134,063 2015: 135,868

County tax rates: co.marathon.wi.us/Departments/ CountyTreasurer/TaxRatesandRatios.aspx

2017: 135,732

More on jobs and rentals: wausauchamber.com/list/ category/rentals-storage-50 and wausauchamber.com/jobs

Source: 2017 Realtors Property Resource LLC, 24/7 Wall Street

Our Past is Your Future Marathon County Historical Society 410 McIndoe Street, Wausau Free exhibits | Yawkey House tours Library | History Speaks presentations Unique rental venues

715-842-5750 | marathoncountyhistory.org Hours: Tues-Fri 9am-4:30pm, Sat-Sun 1-4:30pm, Closed Mondays and Holidays

www.wausauchamber.com 25

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cvawausau.org | 715.842.4545

Cheryl’s Framing & Gallery ECLECTIC RESTAURANT & BAR

BAKERY | SWEETS | ICE CREAM

DECORATIVE PET PILLOWS | FRAMING

CLASSIC | CONTEMPORARY | FORMAL

307 N. Third | Dalysrestaurant.com 715.298.1331

303 N. Third Street | 715.849.5698

325 N. Third Street | 715.848.0467

Campbellhaines.com | 715.842.9520

Professionally Managed by

ThirdStreetLife.compassproperties.com

715-849-8480 • CompassProperties.com

COMMUNITY

Kronenwetter

PROFILES

715-693-4200 | kronenwetter.org Population: 7,736 The Village of Kronenwetter is the fastest growing community in northcentral Wisconsin.

Kronenwetter is a largely residential community known for its large residential lots and low tax rates. The Village is perfect for residents that want the room to stretch their legs, while only a 15-minute drive away from amenities you would expect to see in bigger cities.

The village is located approximately five miles south of the City of Wausau. Kronenwetter is bordered on the west by the Wisconsin River, split north and south by Highway 39/51 and surrounded to the east by over 10,000 acres of county forest land.

Major employers: American Asphalt, G3 Industries, JX Truck Center, Wisconsin Kenworth and Woods Equipment Schools: The Village is split between the Mosinee School District and DC Everest School Districts. Northland Lutheran High School is located in the Village and serves students from as far as an hour away.

Parks: The community offers seven parks, including Friendship Park which includes a large playground, a shelter with bathrooms and electricity and a dog park. Sunset Park hosts the Kronenwetter Farmers Market.

Steve & Jacki LaCerte

Making Real Estate Honest and Simple Relocations, First Time Buyers, Military and More

715-551-6567 or 715-551-6427

Lacerteteam@coldwellbankeraction.com

Each office is independently owned and operated

www.wausauchamber.com 27

Marathon City

COMMUNITY

PROFILES

715-443-2221 | marathoncity.org Population: 1,531 Located at the intersections of Highways 29 West and 107, Marathon City combines the best of rural living with the advantages of urban access.

St. Anthony’s Spirituality Center

Sitting above the banks of the Big Rib River minutes west of Wausau, Marathon City is home to businesses offering a variety of shopping, dining and professional services.

The award winning Marathon School District has a long history of academic achievement and athletic success. Standardized test scores for students in the Marathon district are above state averages and lead the region. Marathon has multiple state championships for basketball, baseball and track.

Major employers: Channeled Resources, County Materials Corporation, Granite Valley Forest Products, Hurtis Heating & Air, Marathon Cheese Corporation, Marathon School District, Menzner Lumbers, Miller Bradford & Risberg and Northview Window and Door Schools: Marathon Elementary, Marathon Venture Academy, St Mary’s Elementary and Marathon High School Parks: The community offers three parks, along with a Swim Center.

HELLO, NEW NEIGHBOR! Whether you’re a family or a business,

we’ll help you with waste reduction, recycling, composting, and hazardous waste management. We’ll answer any waste and recycling questions, because we’re more than just a landfill. We are YOUR county resource.

marathoncountysolidwaste.org • 877-270-3989 28 www.wausauchamber.com

Photos by Keith Paul

COMMUNITY

PROFILES

Merrill 715-536-5595 | ci.merrill.wi.us Population: 9,661 The City of Merrill is located on Highway 51 along the scenic Wisconsin River at its confluence with the Prairie River in Lincoln County.

Lincoln County Courthouse

Wikipedia photo

The Merrill Festival Grounds features a new 3,000 seat grandstand, rodeo arena, tractor pull track, and Enrichment Center/Expo Hall. The historic Lincoln County Courthouse in Merrill is over 100 years old and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Major employers: Church Mutual Insurance Company, Lincoln Wood Products, Ascension Good Samaritan Health Care, Sierra Pacific Windows, Russ Davis, InterFlex Group, Semco Windows & Doors, Walmart and Weinbrenner Shoes.

Schools: Merrill is home to the Merrill Area Public School District and the Northcentral Technical College's Public Safety Center of Excellence.

Parks: Merrill is known as the ‘City of Parks’ because of its 13 city parks and a 920 acre city forest, as well as Council Grounds State Park and other nearby parks. The community is home to the growing River Bend Trail Linear Park along the Wisconsin River and a new aquatic center.

www.wausauchamber.com 29

About the Region Climate:

The Greater Wausau region has four distinct seasons. Annually, the area receives an average of approximately 31.6 inches of precipation.

Wausau School District Early Childhood through Grade 12

The average daily high temperatures range from 20.8 degrees in the month of January to 84.3 degrees in the month of July.

We Invite You to Experience a Partnership With Us Today!

Our Mission...To advance student learning, achievement, and success. facebook.com/WausauSchDist twitter.com/WausauSchDist instagram.com/WausauSchDist

www.wausauschools.org l 715-261-0500 communications@wausauschools.org

Photo by Amanda Kurth

We’re growing and want you to join us!

Competitive Benefit Package • Profit Sharing • 401K • Employee Discounts • Wellness Program • Health Club Reimbursement • Friendly, Fun Environment • Education & Training Programs • Employee Assistance Program • Health, Dental, & Vision

e om H g !

Brin Bacon the

Apply Today At NUESKES.COM - Click on the Careers Link -

Nueske’s Applewood Smoked Meats • World’s Finest Quality Applewood Smoked Meats Family Owned & Operated • Since 1933

Visit Our Company Store at 1390 E. Grand Ave., Wittenberg, WI 54499

30 www.wausauchamber.com

Order Online at nueskes.com or Call (800) 392-2266

Excel

Central Wisconsin Real Estate

715-218-9666 lorabladow@gmail.com

lorabladow.com

Buying or selling a home is more than just a transaction, it’s a life-changing experience.

Lora Bladow

COMMUNITY

PROFILES

Wausau Clinic

Photo by Brittany Blunt

Mosinee

Located in Washington Square at 300 N. 3rd St. Suite 305

715-693-2275 | mosinee.wi.us Population: 3,988 Mosinee, located south of Wausau at the intersection of highways 153 and 39/51, has a long and rich history dating from the days of the first French fur trappers, stretching through the logging days, and continuing today.

The Wisconsin River’s falls have been tamed over time and Mosinee retains a close tie with nature with river access for fishing and boating and offering 12 parks in the city. The shores of the river are lined with trees and Mosinee Hill is easily visible. Mosinee prides itself as a small community with big prosperity and a lot to offer both its residents and visitors.

Major employers: AROW Global, Central Wisconsin Airport, Crystal Finishing, Ahlstrom-Munksjo, Greenheck and Kafka Granite Schools: The Mosinee School District’s buildings are all located in the city.

“The Wausau location does not disappoint, with bright and cheerful therapy spaces, equipment that can’t be found at any other clinics in Wausau, and staff that is equally talented and kind.”

-Hannah, Parent

Call today for a free consultation!

Photo by Brittany Blunt

32 www.wausauchamber.com

(608) 819-6394 | CItherapies.com info@citherapies.com

@citherapy

Rib Mountain

COMMUNITY

PROFILES

715-842-0983 | townofribmountain.org Population: 6,900 Rib Mountain conveniently offers shopping and highway access, while providing natural beauty and outdoor recreation in the backyard of residents.

Rib Mountain lies in the heart of Marathon County at the crossroads of Highways 39, 51 and 29.

Photo by Kelly Puntney

Rib Mountain serves as the largest retail center in northcentral Wisconsin.

Low taxes in Rib Mountain make it affordable to do business and live.

The community is also home to several tourist attractions including Rib Mountain State Park, Nine Mile Recreation Area, Lake Wausau, Granite Peak Ski Area and State Park Speedway. The community has made a commitment to improving the quality of life by expanding pedestrian and bicycle facilities and improving parklands.

Major employers: Bone & Joint Clinic, Granite Peak Ski Area, Kohl’s Department Store, Sam’s Club and Walmart Supercenter Schools: Rib Mountain Elementary and South Mountain Elementary Parks: The community offers miles of paved and unpaved trails for cyclists and pedestrians and six public parks, including Sandy's Bark Park for dogs.

Photo by Brittany Blunt

www.wausauchamber.com 33

COMMUNITY

PROFILES

Rothschild 715-359-3660 | rothschildwi.com Population: 5,367 The Village of Rothschild south of Wausau offers the beautiful and historic Rothschild Pavilion, clean and inviting parks, access to Lake Wausau, an aquatic park, hunting grounds and much more. The Rothschild area also offers many employment opportunities, including industry, retail and local government.

Photo by Kelly Puntney

Rothschild features a variety of neighborhoods with homes from simple to luxurious.

Residents have access to local smalltown businesses as well as national chains. The Village offers a balance of choices in a scenic, safe and progressive small community.

Major employers: Domtar, Imperial Industries, Krueger Wholesale Florist, Lignotec, Schuette, Wausau Homes and Wausau Tile Schools: Evergreen Elementary, Rothschild Elementary and St. Marks Elementary

Photo by Brittany Blunt

Parks: The community offers seven parks and the Rothschild/Schofield Aquatic Center.

Residents of Rothschild value the short commute times, the extensive trail system for hiking and biking, access to fully improved parks and recreational opportunities, and the mature tree-lined streets that living in the Village offers.

Situated along both Highway 39/51 and Highway 29, the Village of Rothschild serves as the gateway community into Wausau via exit 185.

715-359-3660 | info@rothschildwi.com

www.rothschildwi.com 34 www.wausauchamber.com

Mission Statement: To help area adults enhance their quality of life with English literacy skills.

Marathon County Public Library 300 First St., Wausau, WI 54403

715-679-6170

mclitofwausau.org mclitofwausau@gmail.com Also serving Lincoln and Langlade counties

Find us on

COMMUNITY

Schofield

PROFILES

715-359-5230 | cityofschofield.org Population: 2,155 The City of Schofield is a peaceful community bordered by the Eau Claire River and Lake Wausau, just south of Wausau.

Schofield is home to a successful Business Park while Grand Avenue and Schofield Avenue offer visitors a choice of specialty stores, restaurants and lodging.

Finally, one of Schofield’s landmarks is the Brooks and Ross Dam with two boat landings near the dam allowing access for canoes or kayaks and fishing opportunities for walleye, musky or panfish.

Major employers: Crystal Finishing Systems, Gordon Aluminum, Greenheck Fan Corporation and Merrill Steel Schools: St. Peters and DC Everest School District Parks: This community offers four neighborhood parks located at Spring Street, Radtke and Grace Street Park. .

Developmental Disabilities Services

24/7 Crisis Center Crisis Prevention, Care & Recovery

North Central Health Care is committed to our partnership with our three counties of Marathon, Lincoln and Langlade, as we continually seek to provide the highest levels of accessible and specialized care for those we serve. Our person-centered service approach to the complex needs of those we serve and those we partner with are identical – we will meet you where you are at and walk with you on the journey together.

Adult Day Services Prevocational Services

Outpatient, Inpatient and Community Treatment Services

Birth to Three Children’s Long-Term and Family Support

Mental Health & Substance Abuse Treatment, Recovery & Support

Mount View Care Center Skilled Nursing, Short-term Rehabilitation & Dementia Care

Residential Services Group Homes & Supported Apartments

Adult Protective Services Aquatic Physical Therapy

Our programs and services provide compassionate and specialized care that is designed around each individual’s abilities and challenges – creating a path to move forward together.

NCHC’s Wausau Campus is nestled on the beautiful shoreline overlooking Lake Wausau and Rib Mountain with additional locations in our Wausau, Antigo, Merrill and Tomahawk.

www.norcen.org | 715.848.4600 Serving Our Residents of Marathon, Lincoln and Langlade Counties

“Partnering Together to Provide Compassionate and Specialized Care for Our Community” www.wausauchamber.com 35

COMMUNITY

PROFILES

Wausau 715-261-6500 | ci.wausau.wi.us Population: 39,114 Wausau is the employment, transportation, healthcare and cultural hub of the region. Wausau is proud of a vibrant downtown, outstanding local arts scene, proud local businesses, and a growing urban waterfront along the Wisconsin River.

Wausau has a long tradition of successful public-private partnerships for development which has leveraged significant investment and redevelopment within the City, including all-time record years for new construction in 2017 and 2018.

Wausau is home to the most diverse housing choices in the region; from mansions in the nationally registered historic districts to new scenic subdivisions and modern urban multifamily and townhouse options.

Major employers: Aspirus, Footlocker.com/Eastbay, Graphic Packaging, Liberty Mutual, Linetec, Marathon Electric, North Central Health Care, United Healthcare, Wausau School District, Wausau Window & Wall Systems and WPS Health Solutions.

Schools: The Wausau School District operates nine elementary schools and a pair of high schools in the city. Faith Christian Academy, Trinity Lutheran School, Wausau Area Montessori School and Newman Catholic Schools are also located in Wausau.

Parks: The city offers the award-winning 400 Block and Riverlife Park, along with three renovated neighborhood pools totaling 27 city and neighborhood parks and over 10 miles of River’s Edge Trail along the Wisconsin River.

1

#

in Wisconsin for Job Growth - US Bureau of Labor Statistics data

Highest share of middle income residents

- Money Magazine

Best small city for biking in the United States

- PeopleForBikes

Learn more at wausome.com

36 www.wausauchamber.com

Weston

COMMUNITY

PROFILES

715-359-6114 | westonwi.gov Population: 15,445 Just east of Wausau, Weston offers top-ranked schools and state-ofthe-art hospital systems; attractive neighborhoods with appealing tax rates and a diverse selection of recreational opportunities; shopping centers and nightlife choices.

Photo by Brittany Blunt

The Village of Weston boasts that the community is close enough to everything, but far enough away to live in the moment. It’s this balance that has brought many residents to the community.

Major employers: Crystal Finishing, HGP100, J & D Tube Benders Inc, Pick ‘n Save, Ascension St. Clare’s Hospital, Sutton Trans Inc and Wausau Supply Co

Photo by Brittany Blunt

Schools: The Village of Weston is home to the D.C. Everest High School, D.C. Everest Junior High, D.C. Everest Middle School, and the district’s two largest elementary schools.

Parks: Weston maintains seven parks and two trails.

Photo by Brittany Blunt

www.wausauchamber.com 37

ADVERTISER'S

INDEX AbbyBank............................................... 15

Granite Peak Ski Area........................24

Smoked Meats.....................................30

Village of Rothschild...........................34

Amaximmo - Jenny Gordon................9

Greenheck.............................................39

Peoples State Bank............................. 40

Wausau Events Inc...............................14

CI Pediatric Therapy Centers...........32

Ho-Chunk Gaming Wittenberg...... 22

RE/MAX Excel - Lora Bladow.......... 31

Wausau Area Newcomer Service....38

Cellcom................................................... 13

Lemmens Creative Design................. 12

SC Swiderski LLC.................................. 11

Wausau River District............................7

City of Wausau.....................................36

Linetec.......................................................2

Sun Printing..........................................38

Wausau School District - WAVE..... 12

Coldwell Banker Action Realty - LaCerte Team.....................................27

MCDEVCO.........................................37

Town of Rib Mountain........................33

Wausau School District......................30

Marathon Animal Hospital................. 21

Trinity on Stewart...................................17

Wausau Smiles Dental.........................18

Compass Properties............................26 CoVantage Credit Union.................... 15 DC Everest School District..............25 ENT & Allergy Associates..................14 Envision Home at Last.........................10 Eye Clinic of Wisconsin......................29 First Weber Group - Karen Harvey........................................5 First Weber Group - Pam Larkin.........................................20

Marathon County Sheriff's Department..........................................23 McLit: Marathon County Literacy Council...................................34 Marathon County Historical Society.................................25

Wausau Area Newcomer Service, LLC

Marathon County Solid Waste.........28

MELISSA STEINAGEL

Newman Catholic Schools................. 21 North Central Health Care...............35 Nueske's Applewood

Wau

“Welcoming New Families Since 1964”

715-574-1590 info@wausaunewcomer.com www.wausaunewcomer.com

Wausau Area Newcomer Service, LLC

Waus

“Welcoming New Families Since 1964”

MELISSA STEINAGEL 715-574-1590 info@wausaunewcomer.com www.wausaunewcomer.com

Wausau Area Newcomer Service, LLC

Wau

“Welcoming New Families Since 1964”

MELISSA STEINAGEL 715-574-1590 info@wausaunewcomer.com www.wausaunewcomer.com

Wausau Area Newcomer Service, LLC “Welcoming New Families Since 1964”

38 www.wausauchamber.com

MELISSA STEINAGEL 715-574-1590

Waus

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