2025-2026 Relocation Guide

GREATER WAUSAU

2025-2026 Relocation Guide

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GREATER WAUSAU

2025-2026 Relocation Guide

Inside this issue Close to Home...............................................................................4 Downtown Dozen.........................................................................6 Inaugural Ignite.............................................................................10 Coping with Change................................................................... 14 Living the Urban Life................................................................... 16 Community Profiles...................................................................25 Advertiser Index.......................................................................... 38 Cover photo by Sue Bluhm

The Greater Wausau Chamber of Commerce invites you to enjoy this publication, which uncovers why the Greater 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 located 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

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

Photo by Michael Tatman

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CLOSE TOHOME Couple returns to pursue medical careers

BY BRIAN OTTEN 4

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he Medical College of Wisconsin-Central Wisconsin is a regional campus that develops community-focused physicians who will meet the healthcare needs of the area and the surrounding region.

Working in partnership with the best academic and medical institutions in the region, the campus features an accelerated 3-year program which provides students with an opportunity to begin practicing medicine one year earlier than traditional programs.

Joe Novak and Hilary Steltenpohl are a married couple with roots in the region who have both graduated from the program and decided to make the Wausau area their home. Joe grew up in Antigo and Hilary was raised in Merrill.

“Hilary was a classmate of mine and the rest is history,” said Joe. “I graduated in 2021, and matched to rresidency in my chosen specialty of pediatrics at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. During that time, Hilary and I were married and welcomed our son.”

The couple has more recently added a daughter to the family.

Joe is now a pediatrician at Aspirus Wausau Pediatrics and is excited to work so close to both sides of the family.

Hilary earned her Bachelor's degree at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and was excited at the opportunity to continue her medical education in central Wisconsin.

“I knew it would be the perfect fit for me to move back here to Wausau and have the best of both worlds: a high quality education to help me become a physician, as well as have the advantage of living near friends and family,” said Hilary. “Wausau is a place that I felt had all the charms of a smaller community, but most of the conveniences of a larger city like Madison.”

Hilary now is employed as a family medicine physician at Marshfield Clinic-Weston.

“Being trained in medicine in a place like Wausau allowed me to have a more personalized and less competitive educational experience.”said Hilary.

“I love how diverse this community is both in ethnicity and location,” said Joe. “And I appreciate the fact that the greater Wausau area has a larger city feel to it in many areas, while also maintaining a connection to nature with its many parks and of course, Rib Mountain State Park right in the heart of the city,” said Hilary.

“I would tell those considering a move here that this is a wonderful place to raise a family,” said Hilary. “It is a safe place to live, it is a region that continues to grow and attract younger and more diverse families in recent years, and it is uniquely connected to nature where you go from the heart of downtown to a state park within minutes.”

Working in partnership with the best academic and medical facilities in the region, MCW-Central Wisconsin develops future doctors for our communities. Together, we can build a healthier world.

1900 Westwood Drive Wausau, WI 54401 715.870.0900 To learn more about the MCW-Central Wisconsin campus and how it will benefit your family for generations to come, visit www.mcw.edu/ centralwisconsin

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DOWNTOWN

DOZEN Twelve things to do in Wausau's downtown

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Photo by Tom Mortenson

T

here’s plenty to do around central Wisconsin in all seasons, but the summer months in downtown Wausau offers some special opportunities for fun things to do.

Here are a dozen of the top things you’ll want to work into your warm weather schedule: FIND FRESH VEGGIES AT THE FARMERS MARKET The spring to fall outdoor market held on Wednesdays and Saturdays is your place for locally sourced fruits and vegetables as well as cheese, meat and baked goods. Located near the Wausau Whitewater kayak course along River Drive, the market offers an opportunity to meet the farmers and learn how buying locally grown food benefits the environment, the economy and your well-being.

TAKE THE SELFIE CHALLENGE Find various iconic Wausau hot spots downtown and take your picture, There’s the red telephone booth down the street from Wisconsin's oldest book store, Janke Book Store, under the colorful umbrellas of Third Street and in front of one of the city’s many amazing murals.

CHEER ON THOSE ON THE DIAMOND Get your ticket to fun when the Wausau Woodchucks baseball team or Wausau Ignite softball team are up to bat at Athletic Park.

Collegiate players make up the teams in the Northwoods League.

TAKE A WALKING TOUR OF MUSEUMS If you haven’t guessed it yet, Wausonians love their art. There’s plenty to see in the heart of downtown. Stroll between awardwinning museums and exhibits including the Leigh-Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, the Wausau Museum of Contemporary Art, the Marathon County Historical Museum and the Center for Visual Arts. They’re free and open daily.

SEE TOP TWELVE CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

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TACKLE THE OBSTACLE COURSE AT RIVERLIFE PARK Located along the Wisconsin River, this newer park is packed with free family entertainment, including an interactive playground, paved paths and a workout area with cardio and static weight stations for adults. Top off your visit with an ice cream cone at the concessions building.

SOMETHING FOR SENIORS Seniors are invited to explore new passions and join programs that feed their spirit, mind and body at The Landing located at the Woodson YMCA north of downtown Wausau. The facility is undergoing an expandion project due to the popularity of the space and it's programming.

CATCH THE ACTION AT WHITEWATER PARK There’s nothing quite like Wausau’s Whitewater Park where paddlers from around the world make their way through the kayaking course. Wausau Whitewater hosts events and releases throughout the summer. Walk along the River’s Edge Trail paved path by the Wisconsin River and you might get a glimpse of a paddler.

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DANCE THE EVENING AWAY Kick back with some friends on Wednesday evenings for great free concerts on the 400 Block. Bring your lawn chairs or picnic blankets and get ready for a good time. Carry-ins are allowed, and food trucks are on-site.

MORE ON THE 400 BLOCK Find a spot on the green space of The 400 Block to enjoy your lunch under the open air. On the annual ChalkFest weekend, consider walking and eating as most seating is removed to make way for the sidewalk artists. Later in the fall, the Block is home to the annual pumpkin-filled Harvest Fest hosted by the Wausau River District.

The downtown Wausau branch of the Marathon County Public Library offers programming for kids of all ages, as well as adults.

The children's section of the library offers a vibrant setting to browse books and features a large fish tank.

WALK THROUGH HISTORICAL NEIGHBORHOODS

SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP

Download a self-guided walking tour map or pick one up at the Woodson History Center and stroll by the homes of the 1800s.

View various architectural styles and learn about the prominent citizens who built them. Discover why the area was first called Big Bull Falls.

Downtown Wausau offers an ever-expanding list of shops. including the previously mentioned Janke Book Store, Downtown Grocery and The Chocolate Shop and Cafe. Evolutions in Design promises a unique visit every time by changing up the floral and home décor store on a frequent basis.

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INAUGURAL IGNITE

NEW TEAM FUELED

BY GREAT CULTURE

BY SPENCER GONZALES, WAUSAU IGNITE SOFTBALL 10

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n 2024, it was announced to the softball world that a new team in Wausau would be coming to the Northwoods League. In the months that followed the announcement, the organization went to work on all the necessary preparations, the uniforms, the branding, the merchandise; everything that goes into physically making a team its own entity.

Leveraging the success of the Northwoods League, Wausau Ignite Softball plays in the Northwoods League, the first forprofit summer collegiate softball league. The purpose of the League will be to develop players for their college, Olympic and future professional play. The team is associated with the Wausau Woodchucks, a member of a developmental league for college baseball players.

What makes a team isn’t the colors worn or the name across the front of the jersey: it’s what all of these symbols represent. All of the tangible identifiers and visual styles mean nothing without a culture that backs them. For organizations in their first year, it’s this intangible, complex idea of culture that proves to be the most elusive thing to obtain. Yet, for the Ignite, their team identity came as naturally as a game of catch.

Day one on the practice field prior to the start of the 2025 season was as normal as it could be for a new group of players. A lot of eagerness, excitement, but also awkwardness.

“I remember we were all playing catch and everyone was a little mute,” said Riley Stiles about that first day.

The silence continued for a moment, but all it took was a little nudge from Coach Estrada and her staff to get the conversation going.

“They were like ‘Hey, you can talk,'” said Stiles. “It’s okay to talk.”

LEARN ABOUT THE WAUSAU IGNITE SOFTBALL TEAM

And talk they did for the rest of that first practice. New teammates talking like old friends in the outfield, playful jeering and chirping with coaches and players alike.

“It kind of just came naturally.

[The coaches] allowed us to have that space to grow and learn about each other,” said Hannah Trzinski.

“I think that we honestly just got lucky and blessed to have a group of girls who all get along really well and play the same kind of softball. I love it. It’s really unique.”

SEE IGNITE CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

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closeness that allows them to lean on each other for anything.

While it was easy for the players to create a strong bond with one another, they understand that it was the coaching staff, Jasmine Estrada, Olivia Richardson, and Maclai Branson, that fostered the growth of the Ignite’s culture.

“Not only are they here for us as coaches, but they’re here for us as people,” said Stiles. “If I ever needed something, I know that all three coaches would be there for me. I think that’s an aspect that just brings the team together.”

IGNITE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 By the end of the session, there was a palpable buzz in the air at Athletic Park in Wausau. The groundwork for that ever-elusive culture, that teams sometimes spend a season or more building, was already laid out.

It didn’t take long for the Ignite's 2025 roster to start building upon it on the field, as they triumphed in their first-ever game with a run-rule victory over La Crosse.

The words 'sisters' and 'family' get thrown around quite a bit in sports. For Wausau, the weight of those words is fully realized and fully meant when used by players. It‘s this genuine sense of

And so, after their first season in the Northwoods, the Ignite already have something as unique to them as the logo on their visors. Wausau’s culture of softball is one built on unity. The trust, effort and hustle on the field are equally important as the genuine care these players and coaches have for each other off of it. A true sisterhood, where success is measured not just in wins and losses, but in their growth as athletes and as human beings.

These players and coaches came to Wausau just two months ago as different people, from different states, all with one thing in common: a love for the game of softball. In early August, when they all say goodbye to continue their journeys elsewhere, they will leave sharing much more than the game; they will all have shared a part in building a culture with the Ignite that will last for years to come.

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COPING WITH CHANGE STRATEGIES FOR MANAGING STRESS

L

ife transitions can be exciting, but they can often feel extremely stressful. Even positive change can throw off your routine, leaving you feeling overwhelmed. It is important to validate and recognize that stress is a completely normal response to adapting to new situations. However, it is also necessary to find ways to manage these emotions and support your mental health during life’s inevitable changes.

Dealing with change can sometimes take a toll on our mental health.

Our brains are naturally wired for routine, so even good change that throws off your routine can leave you feeling unbalanced.

Routines are a part of our lives that often go unnoticed until they are no longer there. Change can often bring a lot of uncertainty, and that shift from known to unknown can be scary. So, what can you do when stress starts to take over your mind during a big life change? Let’s look at a few strategies that can help you stay grounded.

PLAN AHEAD Carving out time to plan ahead can often reduce the uncertainty that tends to cause stress. Even small preparations can help you feel more in control during a big transition. Some preparations include making lists, organizing tasks, or setting a timeline. When planning ahead, it can also help to split tasks into smaller steps.

This can help you feel like you are getting things done and help ease that worry.

SELF-CARE During stressful times, it is easy to let self care fall to the bottom of the aforementioned to do list. However, caring for yourself, even in small ways, is essential for stress management. In times of distress, ensuring that you are eating, sleeping, exercising, and letting your mind rest is essential to keeping yourself going. Take time to do some deep breathing or take a walk. Whatever you need to do will still be there when you get back.

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SOCIAL SUPPORT It is often difficult to remember that you are not alone during a life change, even if it may only be affecting you. Reaching out to friends, family, or a counselor can provide relief and reassurance in the fact that you do not need to carry everything by yourself.

There is always someone for you to lean on.

BE PATIENT As a counselor at BHC, I often remind people that, “patience is a virtue, but it is often one we tend not to have for ourselves. It is important to allow yourself time to adjust.” This is a reminder that being patient with and kind to yourself, especially when things may not go the way you planned, can allow room for you to grow.

FOCUS ON WHAT YOU CAN CONTROL Finally, when life feels chaotic, anchoring your energy in what is within your control can help re-establish a sense of stability.

Letting go of what you cannot control frees up mental space for things you can.

Change is never easy, but with the right tools and mindset, it can be manageable. By taking care of yourself, leaning on those you can count on, and focusing on what you can control, you can navigate these transitions with more confidence and resilience.

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LIVING THE

URBAN LIFE Foundry on 3rd completion signals beginning of new era

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"E

ach day the Foundry moves closer to welcoming residents eager for a dynamic urban lifestyle,” said Dave Eckmann, president of Wausau Opportunity Zone.

The mixed-use development is the first of its kind in downtown Wausau, with the potential to reshape urban living through 153 residential apartments, modern amenities and commercial spaces.

Danielle Barthels, assistant property manager for T. Wall Enterprises, said the Foundry has launched a corporate leasing program for local employers who want housing options for new employees and interns.

pedestrian-friendly roads will significantly enhance accessibility and connectivity.

“It’s a major change that will yield long-term advantages such as greater visibility and direct access to shops and services,” said Wesolowski.

“Businesses will benefit from increased visibility as drivers traveling in both directions will be more inclined to stop and shop along the way,” said Eckmann.

SEE DOWNTOWN CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

“Our office will strive to meet their needs, whether they require studio apartments or two-bedroom units,” said Barthels.

With the opening of the Foundry on 3rd, the transformation of Washington Street in downtown Wausau is nearly complete.

“The reconstruction of Washington Street is making significant progress, with all roadway pavement now completed,” said Allen Wesolowski, city engineer. Contractors are finishing the surrounding landscaping, irrigation, sidewalks and lighting as the opening of the Foundry on 3rd arrives.

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DOWNTOWN CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17 T. Wall Enterprises is working with WOZ for the mall redevelopment project, with a projected $44 million investment from the developer going into the initial plan of Block 4.

The dynamic mixed-use plan includes development of the 7.5acre plat that once housed the Wausau Center Mall. In addition, the five-part development will ultimately include close to 500 units of affordable market rate housing, as well as small retail, restaurants, dining areas, bike paths and green spaces.

“The opportunity before us is incredibly unique and will create a place where people will be drawn to live, work and create

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memories for generations to come,” said Chuck Ghidorzi, managing director of WOZ. “In order to attract people to our community, we must invest in creating spaces and places such as this that will act as a magnet for the entrepreneurs, major employers, and others who will fuel the economic and also the cultural growth of the Greater Wausau area.”

The initiative to reimagine the site was organized and funded by the Dwight & Linda Davis Foundation and Judd S. Alexander Foundation in a partnership with the City of Wausau.

WOZ collaborated with the City of Wausau, local businesses, downtown stakeholders, and community members to ensure that the demolition went smoothly, and downtown storefronts and summer events were still accessible.

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“Labor shortages are plaguing the employers in our region and some won’t survive if they can’t fill job openings,” Eckmann said.

“This is why we must focus on placemaking to create quality places that people want to live, work and play in. We want to create a quality environment that’s culturally rich, visually attractive and socially inviting."

“The incredible commitment and partnership thus far from public and private entities has positioned our community for success,” said Ghidorzi. “This collaboration will be imperative as we take the next steps to get this project across the finish line.”

He added that demographics and needs are changing in central Wisconsin. “Transforming downtown Wausau will draw people in and attract greater innovation and economic activity,” said Eckmann.

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HO-CHUNK GAMING WITTENBERG

THE FUN STARTS HERE

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 about 150,000 residents. This area is made up of Marathon County, Wisconsin’s largest county at more than 1,500 square miles, and southern Lincoln County.

MADISON.............143 MILES (2 h 16 min) MILWAUKEE........188 MILES (2 h 54 min) MINNEAPOLIS...185 MILES (2 h 56 min) MINOCQUA.......... 69 MILES (1 h 10 min)

MINOCQUA

WAUSAU

EAU CLAIRE

15 MILES

The largest of the communities located within this area are profiled on the following pages.

GREEN BAY 50 MILES

100 MILES

MADISON

Wausau Whitewater Park Photo by Kelly Puntney

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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.

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.

Explore • Discover • Imagine in the heart of downtown Wausau

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COMMUNITY

PROFILES

Dog Parks in the Region 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.

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RIB MOUNTAIN: Sandy's Bark Park can be found along Highway R at Oriole Lane. The park offers gravel trails and water and has expanded to a second, connected and fenced area.

WAUSAU: A dog park can be found behind the downtown post office on Fourth Street. Also, a pool party for dogs is held after the community swimming pools close each 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.

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COMMUNITY

Kronenwetter

PROFILES

715-693-4200 | kronenwetter.gov Population: 8,435 Flourishing neighborhoods, expansive homesteads and low tax rates shape Kronenwetter.

Located in northcentral Wisconsin, this community has become a haven for families looking for safe neighborhoods with room to grow, along with quick access to neighboring city amenities. The Village is located approximately five miles south of the City of Wausau and 20 miles north of the City of Stevens Point.

Known as the largest village by land area in the United States, Kronenwetter’s 52 square miles are bordered on the west by the Wisconsin River and surrounded to the east by over 10,000 acres of county forest land.

Major employers: American Asphalt, G3 Industries, JX Truck Center and Wisconsin Kenworth Schools: Kronenwetter is split between the Mosinee School District and DC Everest School District. It’s also home to the private Northland Lutheran High School.

Parks: The Village provides seven recreational parks, including one dog park. These parks feature baseball fields, athletic courts, play equipment and shelters available for rent. A 20-mile bike path meanders along Old Highway 51 and throughout the Village's northern neighborhoods.

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COMMUNITY

Marathon City

PROFILES

715-443-2221 | marathoncitywi.gov Population: 1,576 Located at the intersections of Highways 29 and 107, Marathon City sits along the banks of the Big River combining the best of rural living with the advantages of urban access. Located just west of Wausau, Marathon City is centrally located in Marathon County providing easy access to Highways 29, 51 and 39 making travel throughout the region and state easy.

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 High School was named the best school in the region in 2022.

Marathon City is an employment center for the region resulting in a vibrant local business community providing goods and services in the agricultural, automotive, construction materials, dental, dining, financial, health, hospitality and personal care segments.

Major employers: Aluminum Fabricated Products, Channeled Resources, County Materials Corporation, Marathon Cheese Corporation, Marathon Industrial Finishing, Marathon School District, Menzner Hardwoods, Miller Bradford & Risberg Northview Window and Door.

Photo by Keith Paul

Schools: Marathon Area Elementary School, Marathon Venture Academy, St. Mary’s School and Marathon High School Parks: Riverside Park, Veteran’s Park and Tower Park are complimented by playground equipment at the elementary school and at St. Mary’s School. The Marathon City Baseball & Softball Complex will be completed in 2024.

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900 S. 17th Ave. Wausau, WI 54401 Pursue what’s possible.

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GREATER WAUSAU

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, S.I., Lincoln Wood Products, Aspirus Health Care, Sierra Pacific Windows, Russ Davis, InterFlex Group, Walmart, Weinbrenner Shoes, Agra Industries, and Mitchell Metals.

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 1,030 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 at the Merrill Area Recreation Center.

JOIN A TEAM POWERED

BY PURPOSE Our customers serve and inspire others — and we share their commitment to making the world a better place. Church Mutual® specializes in

Offering counseling, psychological assessment, and other mental health services to individuals, families, and professionals.

protecting purpose-driven organizations.

If you’re looking for a career where you can Stand for Good, visit churchmutual.com/careers or scan the QR code today.

Follow Us: ©2025 Church Mutual Insurance Company, S.I. 1 Church Mutual is a stock insurer whose policyholders are members of the parent mutual holding company formed on 1/1/20. S.I. = a stock insurer. CM0752

Contact us for openings for in-person or telehealth appointments.

WWW.TALLPINESBH.COM | 715-301-0267 GREATER WAUSAU WausauChamber.com 27

COMMUNITY

PROFILES

EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY AND CHARM

Greater Wausau:

Your Next Destination Basecamp: Close to the adventure while providing creative comforts to recharge!

Wausau/Central Wisconsin is the perfect place to basecamp your adventure.

Photo by Brittany Blunt

Four seasons of outdoor recreation, thriving arts, festivals, events, diverse shopping, and dining.

Mosinee 715-693-2275 | mosinee.wi.us Population: 4,578

VISITWAUSAU.COM

With its friendly residents, vibrant history, expanding business community and inviting small-town charm, Mosinee is the ideal place to live, work and visit. At the heart of the city lies its historic downtown district, beautifully nestled along the scenic Great Pinery Heritage Waterway of the Wisconsin River, which was recently designated a National Recreation Trail and it's undergoing an exciting transformation.

From unique dining experiences to lively entertainment, downtown Mosinee is buzzing with new energy. Enjoy a craft beer at the popular Mosinee Brewing Company, catch live performances at the Lamplight Sessions music venue or unwind in style at the new 54-room Cobblestone Hotel & Suites.

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

The Leader in Comprehensive Counseling, Assessment & Psychiatric Services in Wisconsin

OUR SERVICES:

Saturday &

Assessment Services for ADHD, Autism, and Learning & Emotional Concerns

Speech, Language & Communication Therapy & Assessments Individual and Family Counseling for Kids, Teens, and Adults Psychiatric/Medication Management Services

CONTACT US

Evening Availability!

BHClinic.com

855.607.8242

appointments@bhclinic.com ONLINE & IN-PERSON OPTIONS

28 WausauChamber.com

GREATER WAUSAU

WAUSAU

FORT ATKINSON

MERRILL

MADISON

EAGLE RIVER *

STEVENS POINT

MARSHFIELD

SHEYBOGAN

GRAFTON

ONLINE

Steve & Jacki LaCerte

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

715-551-6427 or 715-551-6567 Lacerteteam@coldwellaction.com

Each office is independently owned and operated

Proudly serving Wausau and the surrounding communities through: Speech therapy Occupational therapy Feeding therapy Physical therapy Aquatic therapy and so much more!

Making Therapy Fun & Functional 608. 819.6394 www.citherapies.com

Scan to learn more and schedule a free consultation

@citherapy GREATER WAUSAU WausauChamber.com 29

Stay Active & Connected

WOODSON YMCA WAUSAU & ASPIRUS BRANCH

Every Age, Every Stage, Every Season - Join a Community That Grows With You Health & Wellness

Youth Programs

The Landing 55+

Group Exercise & Yoga Classes Cardio & Strength Centers Personal & Small Group Training Indoor Walking Tracks Pickleball & Basketball Courts Pools & Water Exercise Classes Steam Rooms & Saunas Massage Therapy Services

Gymnastics Classes & Team Karate Classes & Team Swim Lessons & Team Open Family Swim Youth Sports Preschool Age Activities Mini-Care & Youth Lobby Child Care, Camp & 4K

55+ Group Exercise Classes Engaging Programs Social Gatherings Health & Wellbeing Classes Hobby, Game, and Book Clubs Weekly Lunches Day Trip Adventures International Travel Groups

Wellness Center & Gym 24/7 Access at the Aspirus Branch in Weston

It’s all on our website!

WoodsonYMCA.com

Rib Mountain

COMMUNITY

PROFILES

715-842-0983 | ribmountainwi.gov Population: 7,313 The Village of Rib Mountain 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 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 offers newly expanded pedestrian and bicycle facilities and improved 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, as well as Faith Christian Academy's middle and high schools.

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

MCDEVCO, Inc. Educate. Incubate. Finance.

ABOUT US MCDEVCO is your local resource for entrepreneurial assistance in Marathon County, WI. Our services include entrepreneurial development programming, affordable co-working space, and small business financing.

Become a Member of the GEARS Center, Wausau’s only low-cost and flexible co-working space!

MICRO LOAN

DROP IN FOR ONLY $10 A DAY “If you are an entrepreneur or are thinking of starting a business, connecting with MCDEVCO is a must!”

- Denise L.

$5,000 - $25,000 3% interest Favorable terms

APPLY ONLINE

100 N. 72nd Avenue, Wausau, WI 54401 www.mcdevco.org | 715.298.0084 | info@mcdevco.org

The Chamber recently moved into a new home at the entry to Wausau’s downtown.

Drop in and say hello!

THE DEPOT

209 W WASHINGTON STREET, WAUSAU

WAUSAUCHAMBER.COM 715-845-6231 INFO@WAUSAUCHAMBER.COM

GREATER WAUSAU WausauChamber.com 31

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.

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

apartments

ROTHSCHILD, WI.

WAUSAU’S NEWEST GYM WITH A FOCUS ON QUALITY AND SMALL GROUP TRAINING

EASY LIVING

Photo by Brittany Blunt

THE MEMORIES YOU DON’T FORGET Book your next event at bantr Hotel

LEASE TERMS FROM 1-12+ MONTHS

24/7 GYM, POOL, AND HOT TUB ACCESS SMALL AND LARGE GROUP CLASSES

Furnished Options Pet-Friendly Units Premium Appliances + Finishes Add-On Kitchen + Bath packages 24/7 gym, pool & hot tub access Shared amenities like our rooftop lounge + free concert tickets

WWW.BANTRROTHSCHILD.COM/GYM

32 WausauChamber.com

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GREATER WAUSAU

WWW.BANTRROTHSCHILD.COM

Scalable internet and mobile solutions built to move your business forward, wherever work takes you.

High-speed internet & Wi-Fi that scale with your needs Mobile plans built for teams on the go Responsive, local customer support Solutions tailored for retail, construction, healthcare & more GPS Asset Tracking and Fleet Management

Schedule a free business consultation today Call: 844.882.0074 Email: solutions@cellcom.com Visit: cellcom.com/business

Schofield

COMMUNITY

PROFILES

715-359-5230 | cityofschofield.org Population: 2,155 The City of Schofield is a vibrant and serene community nestled alongside the Eau Claire River and Lake Wausau, just south of Wausau. With a population of 2,155, the community takes pride in its peaceful and inclusive environment.

Schofield boasts a successful Business Park, and for visitors, Grand Avenue and Schofield Avenue present an array of specialty stores, restaurants and cozy lodging options.

One of the community's gems is the picturesque Brooks and Ross Dam. There are a pair of boat landings nearby, offering easy access for canoes, kayaks and excellent opportunities for those hoping to catch a variety of fish.

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: Spring Street Park, Radtke Park, Schofield Park and Grace Street Park.

BUILD SOMETHING YOU

BELIEVE IN. CONSIDER A CAREER AT

34 WausauChamber.com

GREATER WAUSAU

COMMUNITY

Wausau

PROFILES

715-261-6500 | wausauwi.gov Population: 40,262 Wausau serves as the economic, transportation, healthcare and cultural heart of central Wisconsin. The city is proud of its vibrant downtown, flourishing arts scene, strong local businesses and a growing urban waterfront along the Wisconsin River.

A long-standing tradition of successful public-private partnerships has helped drive significant investment and redevelopment throughout the city. Wausau offers the most diverse housing options in the region, ranging from homes in nationally registered historic districts to scenic new subdivisions, new downtown apartments and modern urban townhomes.

The ongoing redevelopment of the former Wausau Center Mall site is revitalizing the heart of downtown. Phase 1 of the project, a 153-unit mixed-use building, is set to be completed in fall 2025 and will serve as a catalyst for continued growth and investment in the area.

CONNECTIONS

Major employers: Aspirus, Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork, UMR, Marathon

Schools: The Wausau School District operates eleven elementary schools, two charter schools, two middle schools and two 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 awardwinning 400 Block and Riverlife Park, along with three renovated neighborhood pools totaling 27 city and neighborhood parks and over 7 miles of River’s Edge Trail along the Wisconsin River.

LOCALLY FOCUSED FINANCIALLY TRUSTED COMMUNITY DRIVEN

OPPORTUNITIES

Locations in Wausau, Athens, Edgar, Hatley, Marathon City, Mosinee, Rothschild, Spencer and Stratford

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715-261-7200

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INSPIRATION INFORMATION

Electric, North Central Health Care, Marshfield Clinic, Wausau Window & Wall Systems, Apogee Linetec and Northcentral Technical College

5/22/2024 4:09:39 PM

BANKPEOPLES.COM I 888.929.9902 I MEMBER FDIC

GREATER WAUSAU WausauChamber.com 35

Settle for nothing less than incredible.

Visit us!

WAUSAU 17TH AVE

ROTHSCHILD

327 North 17th Ave Wausau, WI

1130 East Grand Ave Rothschild, WI

WAUSAU GRAND AVE

WESTON

101 Grand Ave Wausau, WI

4107 Barbican Ave Weston, WI

incrediblebank.com • Member FDIC

COMMUNITY

Weston

PROFILES

715-359-6114 | westonwi.gov Population: 15,837 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, J & D Tube Benders Inc, Marshfield Medical Center-Weston, Pick ‘n Save, 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. Notable features include the area’s most popular aquatic center and disc golf course.

Ice Arena- hockey, figure skating Field House- basketball, volleyball Before/After school care Summer Camp Family programming Birthday parties 6400 Alderson Street, Weston, WI 54476

Photo by Brittany Blunt

Youth REC sports Turf- soccer, baseball/softball, lacrosse Sports Simulator Meeting Rooms Practice space, clinics, tournaments, camps Fitness Center, walking lanes 715-359-6563

http://gtcc.dce.k12.wi.us

GREATER WAUSAU WausauChamber.com 37

ADVERTISER'S

INDEX Aspirus Health...................................................... 2

Harvey Sierk Realtors........................................16

RE/MAX Excel - Lora Bladow.......................23

bantr......................................................................32

Ho-Chunk Gaming-Wittenberg..................20

Summit Credit Union.......................................24

Behavioral Health Clinic..................................28

IncredibleBank....................................................36

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

Buska Retirement Solutions............................12

Larkin Real Estate Group at First Weber.....25

Sure-Dry...............................................................9

Cellcom................................................................33

Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum...........24

Tall Pines Behaviorial Health...........................27

Chase Outdoors.................................................17

Marathon County Health Department.......26

Valley Communities Credit Union................23

Children's Imaginarium.....................................22

Marathon County Public Library...................35

Wausau Area Builders Association.................17

Church Mutual Insurance Company............27

MCDEVCO.......................................................31

CI Pediatric Therapy Centers.........................29

Medical College of Wisconsin...........................5

Wausau/Central Wisconsin Convention & Visitors Bureau........................28

Coldwell Banker Action Realty - Lacerte....29

Merrill Steel........................................................ 34

Connexus Credit Union....................................13

The Neighbors' Place..........................................13

Design Theory 19...............................................39

Nicolet Bank........................................................19

Eye Clinic of Wisconsin.......................................7

Peoples State Bank............................................35

Greater Wausau Chamber of Commerce....31

Performing Arts Foundation..........................40

Greenheck Turner Community Center.......37

Prevail Bank........................................................26

38 WausauChamber.com

GREATER WAUSAU

Wausau Conservatory of Music......................18 Wausau School District.....................................15 Wausau Woodchucks/Ignite Softball..............11 Woodson YMCA..............................................30

Designing Dreams, Building Reality Luxury Home Construction + Renovation Kitchen and Bath Remodeling Commercial New Construction + Renovation Window Treatments

Serving Northern + Central Wisconsin

Mindy Hoppe Owner/Principal Designer www.DesignTheory19.com

715.849.5925 632 N 3rd Street Wausau WI, 54403 hello@designtheory19.com

MARCH 3-4

MANIA THE ABBA TRIBUTE OCT 21

PEKING ACROBATS FEB 19

DALLAS STRING QUARTET APRIL 16

MOLLY TUTTLE NOV 13

JAN 13-14, 2026 iLUMINATE OCT 18

GRAND THEATER Downtown Wausau

grandtheater.org • 715.842.0988

AUGMAY

World-class artists, touring Broadway musicals, popular music, & more

DEC 11

OCT 23

FOLSOM PRISON EXPERIENCE OCT 3 JUDY COLLINS FEB 24

NOV 25-26

FEB 7

HELP US CELEBRATE 100 YEARS!

The Grand has always been the heart of Wausau, where memories are made, community thrives, and the arts come alive.

As The Grand’s centennial in 2027 approaches, we are launching a $17 million revitalization of this beloved historic theater, to ensure it continues enriching our community for generations to come. Help preserve this legacy with a donation that will allow The Grand’s second century to shine as brightly as its first. Visit grandtheater.org/secondcentury.