Central Time: 2018-2019 Relocation Guide

CENTRAL TIME 2018-2019 Relocation Guide

PUBLISHED

BY THE

(715) 359-0521

relocation@coldwellbankeraction.com

It’s not just real estate.

IT’S HOME! Coldwell Banker Action is a family owned and operated real estate agency, providing superior service to Central Wisconsin. Since 1970, we have helped thousands of people, families, farms, and businesses make our wonderful community their home, and we’re mighty proud of that. Providing top-notch service to everyone has and always will be our main goal, and it shows – more people trust Coldwell Banker Action than any other real estate company in the area.

928 Grand Ave, Schofield, WI 54476 2808 E. Main St, Merrill, WI 54452

www.ColdwellBankerAction.com

Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned

by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.

CENTRAL TIME

The Wausau Region’s Guide to Living in the Moment Inside this issue A Pleasant Surprise ......................................................................4 Community Conscious ...............................................................6 Lifer's List ........................................................................................8 Right in the Middle ..................................................................... 12 Family Friendly ........................................................................... 14 Major Employers........................................................................20 Outdoor Recreation....................................................................21 Metro Communities...................................................................27 Advertiser’s Index....................................................................... 38 Cover photo by Tom Mortenson

The Wausau Region Chamber of Commerce invites you to enjoy this publication, which uncovers why the Wausau Region is the place to work, play and live in the moment. In the Wausau Region you are in a whole different zone. Wisconsin Central Time is about living in the moment. 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.

Time is on your side here. You are close to the best of everything Wisconsin has to offer. But the Wausau Region isn’t just about an abundance of exceptional experiences at your doorstep; it’s an attitude that elevates the richness of everyday moments.

We welcome you to the Wausau Region, where the time is always right, because you are in a zone that beckons you to seize the day.

This publication is brought to you by the

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

Photos by Kelly Puntney

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watch online:

tinyurl.com/wrccimmersion

A PLEASANT SURPRISE W

hen Pari Cecchini, a native of the Chicago area, accepted a job at Greenheck following her graduation from the Milwaukee School of Engineering in 2017, she had some concerns about moving to central Wisconsin.

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"I thought Wausau was going to be a very big shift for me." said Cecchini. "But when I first walked in the door at Greenheck, everyone was smiling! I thought it had to be a trap! But everyone's happy here."

It wasn't just the friendly atmosphere she found at the manufacturer that sold her on working in the region.

"I live two minutes away from work. I commuted so many times in Chicago, two hour train rides, a one and a half hour drive through traffic," said Cecchini. "The idea that I can sleep in and all that time comes back to me ... that's something that will be the hardest to give up if I have to leave someday."

To better connect herself to the community, Cecchini enrolled in the Wausau Region Chamber of Commerce's first Immersion Project, which included tours of several of the local schools.

"We had amazing (educational) facilities in Chicago because we had a huge school." said Cecchini. "I thought you had to live somewhere really urban to get really great schools."

To aid in Cecchini's transition into her lead rotation position, Greenheck paired her and other new employees with mentors who guide them through the rotation process, which includes four six-month positions over the course of two years.

"I have a background in mechanical engineering," said Cecchini.

"I've had a rotation in marketing and business and currently am in

Pari Cecchni, left, participates in a team building exercise during the Wausau Region Chamber of Commerce's Immersion Project. continuous improvement/manufacturing support. My next one will be product development and then (a rotation at) a remote location."

"My family loves to come up to visit, which was a huge surprise."

"I'm half Asian and I thought that I wouldn't be able to find the food I'd like to sustain my culture. Because of the region's Hmong community, I can find all of the ingredients I'd ever want. My mom, who is Thai, has come to visit from Chicago, and she grocery shops here and stocks up!"

KAREN & BRAD HARVEY

RELOCATION SPECIALISTS

CENTRAL TIME www.wausauchamber.com 5

watch online:

tinyurl.com/revellinterview

COMMUNITY CONSCIOUS Tina and Patrick Revell arrived in the area with a desire to invest in their new community.

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T

he Revell's migration from Austin, Texas began following some work time in Europe for Tina.

"I returned from working abroad and we talked about what we wanted to do long term in regard to starting a family and we decided we wanted to be closer to my family." said Tina.

In the three years since the move, Tina and Patrick Revell, and now their daughter Lucy, have settled into a comfortable, but active, life on Wausau's west side.

"We're big believers in investing in the community in which we live." said Tina.

The couple founded their own Bible study group and enjoy various community events. "We belong to the Catholic church in Marathon and use the pool there." The Revells have also been involved in the young professionals group and belong to a wine club at Vino Latte.

"We spend a lot of time with people that are new and that have recently relocated to the area." said Tina.

"I'm really into craft beer, so I really like all of the microbrewery options." said Patrick.

Tina, a native of Madison, is employed as an ecommerce

merchandising manager with Footlocker.com/Eastbay in Wausau.

Patrick works in the IT department of Church Mutual Insurance Company in Merrill. The couple met in Austin, Texas, Patrick's home state.

"Initially, we looked for jobs in the Madison area. There wasn't really anything that was a good career opportunity for us in Madison." said Tina. "We found companies here that were a great fit for our backgrounds and were willing to relocate us."

The couple finds the area very affordable and loves the lack of traffic.

"I'm still surprised three years later that it takes us 15 minutes to get anywhere around the city." said Patrick. They also like the central location of the Wausau region, making frequent trips to Minneapolis, Green Bay and Madison.

Winter has been a bit of an adjustment for Patrick, but the couple thinks it's an even trade when compared to the sweltering heat of a Texas summer.

"The way we look at it is, that when you live in Texas it is super hot in the summer and you spend less time outside in the summer.

We spend less time outdoors here in the winter, but we belong to an indoor pool (in Marathon) and go walk in the mall."

CENTRAL TIME www.wausauchamber.com 7

watch online:

tinyurl.com/wausauwhitewater

LIFER'S LIST A guide to the Wausau region

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!

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Photo by Tom Mortenson

I

was born, raised and chose to stay in Wausau. This area has been my home for all of my 38 years and it is where my husband and I are now raising our two kids.

There are many great features found in the Wausau region. I've developed a list of my favorite amenities, places and events in the region as you consider a move to the area:

1

supper clubs, too. There are so many here that I have not tried them all! As far as shopping goes, the area offers big box stores like WalMart, FleetFarm and Target along with plenty of boutique shops downtown. Throw in several breweries, wineries and coffee shops, and, oh my, we offer choices!

SEE Amber Gober is the Assistant Vice President/Mortgage Lender at Peoples State Bank.

Gober is a lifelong resident of the area and attended Wausau East High School and UW-Marathon County.

JUST THE RIGHT SIZE: The Wausau region is not too small and it's not too big. Just like the smallest of the three bears' beds in the children's story, the Wausau area is just the right size! Our community isn't so small that you know everybody (and everybody knows you and your business) or so remote that a 20 minute drive is needed just to get to a grocery store. And the metro area isn't so large that traffic is crazy and everyone is always in a hurry. There are few corners of our community that cannot be reached in a 15 minute drive or less. The Wausau region's size is perfect for myself and my family, it's right in the middle.

2

PLENTY OF CHOICES: The region offers a large variety of restaurants for eating and stores for shopping. Let's look at restaurants first - you'll find the typical fast food chains, but there are also plenty of family restaurants, pizza places, fine dining options and

THE LIST CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

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Photo by Tom Mortenson

THE LIST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

3

INDOOR ENTERTAINMENT: The first local attraction I'll include on my list is the Grand Theater. I remember going there as a child on a school trip to see The Nutcracker. Now I find myself attending shows with my kids, my husband and my friends. If museums are your thing, then a visit to the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, the Marathon County Historical Society, the Wausau Museum of Contemporary Art or the Center for the Visual Arts are a great way to spend a wintery or rainy afternoon. Colossal Fossils and the Wausau Children's Museum, both located in the Wausau Center Mall, offer great indoor experiences for families. And let's not forget the bowling alleys, the world-class curling center and the Marathon County Public Library headquarters in downtown Wausau. The area really does offer something for everyone of all ages during all seasons!

4

THE GREAT OUTDOORS: This part of my list could go on and on ... Granite Peak, Sylvan Hill Park and Nine Mile Recreation Area top my list for winter activities.

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Photo by Kelly Puntney

During the other three seasons, I enjoy the concerts and events on the 400 Block, the farmers markets in Wausau and Weston, Rib Mountain State Park and the other dozens of local parks. There are so many parks, my family and I keep a list of the new ones we explore each year! There's also Wisconsin Woodchucks baseball at Athletic Park in the summer, the Monk Botanical Gardens, kayaking and canoeing at the whitewater course in downtown Wausau, the many public pools and the sprawling Marathon Park, nestled under a forest of majestic pines. A special destination lies only a short drive outside of the metro area. The Dells of the Eau Claire County Park rivals many state parks for beauty. For annual outdoor events, there's Art in the Park and the Festival of Arts each September and the Balloon and Rib Fest, along with Chalk Fest, each July. And Marathon County's unique topography is utilized by many ginseng farmers, bringing about a new fall event, the International Wisconsin Ginseng Festival.

5

GREAT HEALTHCARE OPTIONS: It doesn't matter what side of town you are on, you are close to some of the best medical facilities in the state. That in itself should give you some peace of mind.

Wisconsin. Need simple proof? Visit one of our famers markets and fill your shopping bag with fresh produce for less than $10!

8

SAFETY: Even as a single woman in my 20s, I didn't fear going out on my own here. We have an amazing community of not only police officers, but people who take pride in the area. And if something doesn't look or feel right, I take comfort in knowing that the police are a phone call away and that they'll respond quickly to our needs if we need them.

Photo by Tom Mortenson

6

9

THE SCHOOLS: Our community offers educational options from childcare to college and everything in between. And continuing your education as an adult is easy here with UW-Marathon County, Rasmussen College and Northcentral Technical Collage all offering a variety of courses and fields of study.

EMPLOYMENT OPTIONS: Our region offers jobs in a variety of industry sectors, including manufacturing, health care, finance, retail, government, non-profits, construction, automotive, accounting, agricultural, technology, real estate, insurance and education. I may sound like a broken record, but once again, the region offers something for everyone!

10

COST OF LIVING: I've done my share of traveling and I find it fascinating how home prices can vary from one part of the county to another. It amazes me how small the homes on the east and west coasts, and some urban areas, compare with what your dollar will buy right here in central

The Wausau region is a great place to raise a family, for all of the above reasons and more. This is an amazing community to call home!

7

MORE THAN WAUSAU: The Wausau region is more than just the City of Wausau. Kronenwetter, Rib Mountain, Rothschild, Schofield and Weston each offer unique neighborhoods and amenities. Merrill to the north, Mosinee to the south and Marathon to the west offer additional alternatives.

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

Residential Services Group Homes & Supported Apartments

Mount View Care Center

Adult Protective Services

Skilled Nursing, Short-term Rehabilitation & Dementia Care

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” CENTRAL TIME www.wausauchamber.com 11

The midway at the annual Wisconsin Valley Fair held in Wausau's Marathon Park each summer.

RIGHT IN THE

MIDDLE T

PHOTO BY TOM MORTENSON

NATIONAL NUMBERS REINFORCE REGION'S PLACE AS A HAVEN FOR THE MIDDLE CLASS

ime magazine reported in 2016 that the City of Wausau had the highest share of middle income residents. About two thirds of Wausau's population, 67% to be exact, fit the criteria. The report was based on a Pew Research Center examination of 229 metro areas in the United States between the years 2000 and 2014. The research defined middle income as those making $42,000 to $125,000 annually in a three-person household, with adjustments made for cost of living by region. The national average for middle class qualifiers was 51%.

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There is some irony in Wausau earning the designation as the 'most middle class' city in the country.

With Wausau's location in the middle of Marathon County, in the middle of Wisconsin and near the geographic center of the northern half of the western hemisphere (really, there's a marker in Poniatowski to the west of Wausau), it is only fitting that the community would head up this list of communities in the 'middle.'

And if you need a few more numbers to bolster Wausau's position as a great home to the middle class, the overall cost of living, as determined by Sperling's Best Places is 85.1 (based on the U.S. average of 100). For comparison, the average cost of living in Wisconsin and Illinois is 96 with Minnesota at 104, while the averages in Chicago and Minneapolis are 111 and 104 respectively.

Housing averages in Wausau show the most dramatic difference, coming in at 54, versus a score of 85 as an average across the state.

Median home costs in Wausau are $99,500 compared to $158,600 in Wisconsin as a whole.

So it's no coincidence that this publication is called Central Time, an extension of Marathon County's branding (you may have noticed the signs along the highway as you entered the county from the north, south, east or west). The Wausau region is one of Wisconsin's top communities, with a central location and offering many big city options for the middle class.

PHOTO BY JOSHUA KEMMER

Average rental rates per month:

Wausau metro

Wisconsin

Studio:

One bedroom:

Two bedroom:

Source: BestPlaces.net

$492

United States

$541 $712 $563 $634

$825 $733 $814 $1,027

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FAMILY

FRIENDLY GAS STATIONS ARE THE TRUE TEST OF A GOOD PLACE FOR THE JOHNSONS

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S

everal years ago, Todd and LaNae Johnson were looking for a change. The couple operated a dental clinic in Champagne, Illinois. The Johnsons weren't comfortable with the thought of starting a family in the city of more than 100,000.

"We would constantly hear sirens," said LaNae.

Jenny Gordon Gordon Jenny Jenny Gordon

Sells Wausau!

Wausau!

JennySells Gordon Sells Wausau!

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The couple considered opening a clinic in either Green Bay or Wausau, and settled on central Wisconsin largely due to the affordable real estate market.

"It's prettier here, too. It's just a beautiful area." said Todd.

LaNae shares a different story on what led the couple to relocate to Wisconsin.

"We moved here because of Kwik Trip!" said LaNae. "We were passing through Wisconsin on a trip to Minnesota, and stopped at a Kwik Trip. It was amazing! The bathroom was so clean and I was so impressed with the healthy food that was available."

"After seeing how incredible each Kwik Trip was, I said 'We are moving to Wisconsin someday! The gas stations and their bathrooms are amazing!'" added LaNae. Todd and LaNae opened Mountain Bay Dental in Weston in the summer of 2017. Todd is the dentist at the practice and LaNae works as the office manager. The couple's children, Kennedy and Clayton accompany Todd and LaNae to the office each day.

"It works out great!" said LaNae. "The kids have their own room at the office to nap."

The transplanted family has its roots outside of Wisconsin.

Todd grew up in Woodridge, Illinois and attended Western Illinois University before attending dental school at Southern Illinois University.

LaNae is a native of Salt Lake City, Utah.

SEE

FAMILY FRIENDLY CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

Todd and LaNae Johnson often spend time with their children Clayton, left, and Kennedy at Mountain Bay Dental, the clinic they own and operate in Weston.

Jenny Gordon,

Realtor

CELL 715-212-7300 OFFICE Realtor 715-841-0015

Jenny Gordon,

Jenny Gordon, RealtorJennySellsWausau.com CELL 715-212-7300 CELL 715-212-7300 OFFICE 715-841-0015 OFFICE 715-841-0015

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JennySellsWausau.com Over 25 YearsOver of Real 25 Years of Real Estate Experience Estate Experience

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Visit one of our area branches: 303 South 1st Ave., Wausau 2200 Oriole Ln., Rib Mountain 3807 Schofield Ave., Weston 27 Brown Blvd., Rothschild www.covantagecu.org • 800-398-2667 CENTRAL TIME www.wausauchamber.com 15

FAMILY FRIENDLY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15 The couple met while Todd was practicing as a dentist in sourthern Illinois. "He was my grandma's dentist for five years." said LaNae. The entire family loves living in central Wisconsin and enjoy how 'family friendly' the area is.

"We love the wildlife here, including all of the cool insects and birds up here." said LaNae. "It's exciting to see the birds that would migrate briefly through Illinois stick around longer here."

"The ticks are the only thing we don't like." joked Todd.

With many deer living in the woods surrounding their rental property near Marathon, Todd decided to give deer hunting a try in the fall of 2017.

"I shot a deer this fall." said Todd. "I'm trying to fit in. Our realtor offered to clean the deer for me, which I shot with my crossbow."

The Johnson family outside of their business, Mountain Bay Dental, in Weston.

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715-845-1919 marathonanimalhospital.com 16 www.wausauchamber.com

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Connecting students in central Wisconsin with local businesses and organizations.

Interested students, mentors and sponsors should visit

TheBranchWI.com

As Kennedy and Clayton grow older, the Johnsons are beginning to weigh their schooling options.

"It's nice in Wisconsin that you can go to any school you want." said Todd.

In the years before school begins for the children, the family plans to explore the many parks found in the Wausau region.

"We love the parks, especially Doepke Park in Rib Mountain and Riverside Park in Mosinee." said LaNae. "We hosted a company fishing derby at Big Eau Pleine Park and couldn't believe how nice it was. There were plenty of outlets, tables, trash cans and bathrooms nearby, it was perfect and a great price."

"We're looking forward to our first full summer here," said LaNae. "We look forward to going to local events, checking out the library and exploring more parks."

Members of the couple's extended families have visited and have also fallen in love with the area.

"Our family members who have visited think it's gorgeous here." said LaNae. "Todd's dad loves The Mint downtown, my uncle loves Sconni's and we love eating at 2510 Restaurant."

"The people are more friendly and polite here," said Todd. "When you pull up at a stoplight, people smile and wave. Where I grew up, you avoid eye contact while driving."

Blues Fest

con Fest Beer & Ba

"This is a great place for families." he finished.

st Harvest Fe

Rib Fest Balloon &

the Square n o s t r e c Con

wausauevents.org CENTRAL TIME www.wausauchamber.com 17

WPS is proud to serve and WPS is proud to serve and support the Wausau region. support the Wausau region.

170083 170083

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 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

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Major Employers Discover Employers

A list of some of the major employers in the Wausau Region: NAME

LOCATION

EMPLOYEES NAME

Ascension Saint Clare’s Hospital Weston Aspirus

250+

Various 1,000+

Church Mutual Insurance Co Merrill

1,000+

LOCATION

EMPLOYEES

Marathon Cheese Corp Marathon

1,000+

Marathon Electric Wausau 1,000+ Marshfield Clinic Various 1,000+

Crystal Finishing Systems Inc Schofield

500+

North Central Health Care Wausau

Domtar Paper Co LLC Rothschild

250+

Northcentral Technical College Various

Expera Specialty Solutions

250+

Sierra Pacific Windows & Doors Merrill

250+

Sterling Building Systems

Rothschild

250+

UMR

Wausau 1,000+ Merrill, Rib Mountain

Mosinee

Footlocker.com/Eastbay Inc Wausau

1,000+ 250+

500+ 1,000+

Graphic Packaging

Wausau

Greenheck

Schofield 2,000+

Walmart

Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork

Wausau

Wausau Homes Inc Rothschild 1,000+

L & S Electric

Schofield

Land O' Lakes Inc

Spencer

1,000+

Liberty Mutual

Wausau

750+

Linetec

Wausau 250+

1,000+ 250+

Wausau Tile

Rothschild

Wausau Window & Wall Systems Wausau West Corp

250+ 1,000+ 1,000+

Wausau 250+

WPS Health Insurance Wausau

1,000+

Source: worknet.wisconsin.gov

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EIGHT LOCATIONS: WAUSAU, ANTIGO, MEDFORD, STEVENS POINT, RHINELANDER, WESTON, WISCONSIN RAPIDS, HURLEY

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

Bird Watching

Golf

Skateboarding

Boating

Hiking

Sledding

Cycling

Hockey

Softball

Camping

Horseback Riding

Snowboarding

Canoeing

Hunting

Snowmobiling

Cross-Country Skiing

Ice Fishing

Strawberry Picking

Curling

Ice Skating

Swimming

Dancing

Kayaking

Tennis

Disc and Mini Golf

Paintball

Tubing

Downhill Skiing

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!

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

Phillip Larkin 715.573.8625

CENTRAL TIME www.wausauchamber.com 21

Photo by Tom Mortenson

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.

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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.

~ Since 1933 ~ A 3rd Generation Family Company Using Old World family recipes learned from his grandfather Wilhelm, Robert “R.C.” Nueske founded Nueske’s Applewood Smoked Meats in 1933, in the village of Wittenberg, Wisconsin. R.C. loaded up his automobile with the family’s smoked hams and bacon and drove across the state’s Northwoods, peddling his wares. Even though it was the heart of The Great Depression and money was tight, people knew a good thing when they tasted it and R.C.’s business grew into the nationally-acclaimed smokehouse that it is today.

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COMMUNITY

PROFILES

Photo by Tom Mortenson

Marathon County

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

City of Abbotsford

Village of Dorchester

Village of Athens

Village of Edgar

Village of Birnamwood

Village of Elderon

Village of Brokaw

Village of Fenwood

City of Colby

Village of Hatley

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Village of Kronenwetter Village of Maine Village of Marathon City

Village of Rothschild

Village of Stratford

City of Marshfield

Village of Unity

City of Mosinee

Village of Weston

City of Schofield

City of Wausau

Village of Spencer

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

Median home age: 69 years

1990: 115,400

Percentage of residents that rent: 27% Estimated construction cost: $120 to $175 per sq. ft.

County tax rates: co.marathon.wi.us/Departments/ CountyTreasurer/TaxRatesandRatios.aspx More on jobs and rentals: wausauchamber.com/list/ category/rentals-storage-50 and wausauchamber.com/jobs Photo by Tom Mortenson

Marathon County population:

2000: 125,834 2010: 134,063 2014: 135,780 2015: 135,868

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

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

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COMMUNITY

Kronenwetter

PROFILES

715-693-4200 | kronenwetter.org Population: 7,736 The Village of 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 of Kronenwetter is located in Marathon County, approximately five miles south of the City of Wausau. The urbanized, residential neighborhoods of Kronenwetter’s northwest slowly transform into the rural beauty of the Village’s forests and agricultural land. 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.

The Village of Kronenwetter is the fastest growing community in northcentral Wisconsin.

Kronenwetter’s seven community parks and two county forests provide many recreational opportunities. There are plenty of places for children to play and for family and friends to gather.

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.

Experience the Difference

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

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

Find us on

715-679-6170

Learn more:

www.newmancatholicschools.com

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

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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.

Single family homes represent the majority of housing in Marathon City with multi-family housing consisting of duplexes and apartments making up the remainder.

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 Photos by Keith Paul

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COMMUNITY

PROFILES

Merrill 715-536-5595 | ci.merrill.wi.us

Lincoln County Courthouse

Population: 9,661

Wikipedia photo

The City of Merrill is located along the scenic Wisconsin River at its confluence with the Prairie River in Lincoln County. Located on Highway 51, the main north/south route through the state, Merrill is the southern gateway to the Northwoods. Merrill is known as the ‘City of Parks’ because of its many city parks, as well as Council Grounds State Park and other nearby parks.

Merrill is home to the newly extended River Bend Trail along the Wisconsin River and a new aquatic center. 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, Wal-Mart 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.

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About the Region Climate: The Wausau Region has four distinct seasons. Annually, the area receives an average of approximately 31.6 inches of precipation.

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

Photo by Tom Mortenson

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Where Doers,

Dreamers, & Innovators connect Invest in your future

2018, 2017, 2016, 2015

|

2016, 2012, 2004, 2001

www.careers.greenheck.com

2015

Platinum Award

COMMUNITY

PROFILES

Photo by Brittany Blunt

Mosinee 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, Expera Specialy Solutions, Greenheck and Kafka Granite Schools: The Mosinee School District’s buildings are all located in the city.

Full-service banking is always at hand.

River Valley is more than a bank. We’re your business par tner, neighbor and helpful friend. For an incredible customer experience, just look around, you’ll find River Valley.

#RiverValleyExperience RiverValleyBank.com

Photo by Brittany Blunt

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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.

Photo by Kelly Puntney

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

Rib Mountain has a mixture of retail, commercial and residential development. It 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: Granite Peak Ski Area, Kohl’s Department Store, Sam’s Club and Walmart Supercenter Schools: Rib Mountain Elementary and South Mountain Elementary Photo by Brittany Blunt

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COMMUNITY

PROFILES

Rothschild 715-359-3660 | rothschildwi.com Population: 7,525 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.

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.

Photo by Kelly Puntney

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

“Deb is with you every step of the way�

Your Real Estate Expert in Central Wisconsin for more than 15 years.

Wausau School District Early Childhood through Grade 12 We Invite You to Experience a Partnership With Us Today!

Our Mission...To advance student learning, achievement, and success.

Deb Hale

International Diamond Producer Contact Deb at 715-977-2920 or visit Coldwellbankeraction.com

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facebook.com/WausauSchDist twitter.com/WausauSchDist instagram.com/WausauSchDist

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

Schofield

COMMUNITY

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.

Schofield offers neighborhood parks located at Spring Street, Radtke and Grace Street Park.

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 Iron & Steel Schools: St. Peters and DC Everest School District

THE IMMERSION PROJECT 2018-2019 An intensive, nine-month program designed to provide meaningful experiences that will encourage participants to become deeply immersed in the region.

For more information visit WausauChamber.com or call 715-845-6321 CENTRAL TIME www.wausauchamber.com 35

COMMUNITY

PROFILES

Wausau 715-261-6500 | ci.wausau.wi.us Population: 39,106 Wausau is the largest urban center of a large trade area reaching across the Northwoods. Wausau is also the cultural heart of the region, home to the Grand Theater and Arts Block, the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, the 400 Block, and a vibrant walkable downtown along the Wisconsin River.

Wausau is proud of a long tradition of successful public-private partnerships for development which has leveraged significant investment and redevelopment within the city.

Photo by Tom Mortenson

Wausau is a city of thriving neighborhoods from mansions in our nationally registered historic districts to new scenic subdivisions and modern urban condominiums.

Major employers: Aspirus, 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: Both Wausau East and Wausau West high school are located in the City of Wausau. The Wausau School District operates nine elementary schools in the city. Faith Christian Academy, Acton Academy, Trinity Lutheran School, the Wausau Area Montessori School and Newman Catholic Schools are also located in Wausau.

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Fix It Up and Live It Up are programs designed to provide low-interest, partly forgivable loans to home owners or buyers who choose to ‘live it up’ within the city limits of Wausau.

fixitupwausau.com liveitupwausau.com

COMMUNITY

PROFILES

Weston 715-359-6114 | westonwi.gov

Photo by Brittany Blunt

Population: 15,338 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.

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.

Photo by Brittany Blunt

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

Photo by Brittany Blunt

New Owners! New Management! Newly Renovated!

Luxury Corporate and 55+ Living on the Wisconsin River A lovely, active, mature community directly on the Wisconsin Riverwalk, next door to the famous Wausau Farmer’s Market and just blocks from the Historic Downtown Wausau River District for theatre, arts, music, dining and more!

Furnished, Unfurnished, Short-term, and Long-term ‘As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord!’ Joshua 24:15

400 River Drive, Wausau

715-848-1369 IslandPlace Apartments.com

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ADVERTISER'S

INDEX Amaximmo - Jenny Gordon.............. 15 Calvary Chapel Wausau.....................26 City of Wausau.....................................36 Coldwell Banker Action Realty...........2

First Weber Group - Pam Larkin, Wausau River East.....29

QPS Employment Group.................30

Wausau Events Inc................................17

Greenheck.............................................. 31

River Valley Bank.................................32 SC Swiderski LLC...................................7

Wausau Region Chamber of Commerce....................35

Ho-Chunk Gaming Wittenberg......28

Coldwell Banker Action Realty - LaCerte Team....................................25

Island Place Apartments.....................37

Coldwell Banker Action Realty - Deb Hale............................................34

Linetec....................................................39

CoVantage Credit Union.................... 15 DC Everest School District................17 Ear Nose & Throat Associates..........20

Lemmens Creative Design................20 MCDEVCO......................................... 13 Marathon Animal Hospital.................16

Sun Printing..........................................38 The Branch.............................................16

Wausau School District - WAVE.......9 Wausau School District......................34 Wisconsin Public Service....................18

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

McLit: Marathon County Literacy Council....................................27

Eye Clinic of Wisconsin...................... 22

Marathon County Solid Waste.........24

Featherstone Cabinetry and Design.............................................38

North Central Health Care................. 11

First Weber Group - Karen Harvey........................................5

Nueske's Applewood Smoked Meats.....................................23

First Weber Group - Pam Larkin.......................................... 21

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

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Sport & Spine Physical Therapy..........5

Newman Catholic Schools.................27

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10606 Tesch Lane, Rothschild

715-359-5616 9433 Highway J, Minocqua

715-356-4544

The nation’s largest architectural finishing company, located right here in the heart of Wisconsin.

2017 AWARD WINNER

Quality Begins with our People...

www.linetec.com

Always see the Potential.

At Peoples State Bank, we live and work where you live and work. Through our products and services, we hope to empower everyone who walks through our doors to go out and reach their potential.

Visit your local Peoples location to see how we can help turn the potential of your unique dreams, challenges and aspirations into solutions.

715.842.2191 Member FDIC

www.bankpeoples.com