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GREATER WAUSAU

PUBLISHED BY THE

2026-2027 Relocation Guide

Through all stages of life, what we see...is YOU.

Health care is a lot of things, but the best care is human. Passion for excellence. Compassion for people. Find an Aspirus provider.

call 800.847.4707 visit aspirus.org

GREATER WAUSAU

2026-2027 Relocation Guide

Inside this issue Community Cornerstone............................................................4 Housing Help.................................................................................8 Build Your Basecamp...................................................................12 New City, New Skin................................................................... 14 Growing for the Future.............................................................. 16 What a Welcome.........................................................................22 Community Profiles...................................................................27 Larger Landing.............................................................................40 Advertiser Index.......................................................................... 42 Cover photo by Michael Tattman 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 a fresh outlook. 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

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

Photo by Dave Kallaway

GREATER WAUSAU WausauChamber.com 3

BY TAMMY STEZENSKI | PERFORMING ARTS FOUNDATION INC

CELEBRATING A CENTURY AS A

COMMUNITY CORNERSTONE

Built in 1927, The Grand continues to bring world-class performances to Wausau.

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The Grand Theater’s 2026/27 season reopens the historic theater after a $17.5 million renovation

The Arts in Education Series brings seven nationally touring children’s theater performances to The Grand for weekday matinees attended mainly by school groups.

ausau has long been home to the finest entertainment and performing arts center in this region of the state. For nearly 100 years, touring shows and community arts groups have attracted audiences from near and far to The Grand, an iconic theater and historic cornerstone of downtown Wausau. Even more than an entertainment venue, The Grand is the beating heart of Wausau’s cultural and LEARN ABOUT THE community life. Since 1927, it has SECOND CENTURY housed generations of memories, PROJECT AT THE from heartwarming celebrations GRAND THEATER: and children’s dance recitals to the thrill of witnessing legendary performers like Frank Sinatra, Aretha Franklin, Martin Short, and Willie Nelson. The Grand is a symbol of shared civic pride, and deservedly so, because the community makes it possible. For six months in the summer and fall of 2026, The Grand was under construction to complete the $17.5 million Second Century renovation project. The project addressed aging building

infrastructure, necessary technology upgrades, and areas in need of restoration, such as interior work in the theater itself and new seats, all 1,200 of them! Donations from local charitable foundations, businesses, and hundreds of individuals are funding this important work to ensure The Grand remains a vital asset for generations to come, while honoring and restoring the theater’s history. Second Century is the latest in a decades-long tradition of the Wausau area community rallying behind The Grand, which is operated by the nonprofit Performing Arts Foundation. SEE CORNERSTONE CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

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CORNERSTONE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 The mid-1980s saw millions raised to restore the historic theater into a fully-fledged performance venue after decades of operating mainly as a movie theater. In 2002, the community funded the $13.2 million ArtsBlock project to create, among several new spaces, the Great Hall and spacious new lobby areas, as well as expand the backstage and loading docks, which finally allowed The Grand to bring in larger touring Broadway musicals and spectacular productions. The current Second Century project builds on that expansion by modernizing the theater’s framework and technology to handle the fantastic lighting, staging, and sound of today’s most thrilling shows. More than 75,000 people a year visit The Grand for a show, concert, community event, or celebration. It remains a Pollstar Top 200 Theatre Venue worldwide for ten consecutive years, and ranks among the top five for market size. The 2026/27 Season brings 40+ mainstage shows and concerts, plus a series of nationally touring children’s performances, and seven cabaret-style concerts in its 10x10 Series. For a full lineup of events, visit www.grandtheater.org.

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The new paint work on both ceilings and walls was completed by the renowned historic restoration company Conrad Schmitt. This work highlights the theater’s features with an array of colors more reminiscent of the 1927 original design.

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HOUSING HELP

LOCAL BUSINESS ADDS APARTMENTS

BY LIZ REYNOLDS | KOLBE & KOLBE MILLWORK CO INC

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olbe Windows & Doors celebrated the opening of its new multifamily, workforce housing development in 2026. The Evergreen Landing Apartments on 8th features a quartet of three-story buildings offering 44,000-square-feet of residential space in 102 new, affordably priced rental units on Wausau's west side.

Located in a quiet neighborhood near the business's manufacturing facility, the apartments are close to LEARN ABOUT childcare, public parks and transit, THE EVERGREEN and other community amenities.

LANDING PROJECT:

“We’re proud the development provides an affordable, high-quality living option for individuals and families within our community, including for current and future team members at Kolbe,” said Mike Tomsyck, Kolbe Windows & Doors’ Vice President of Transportation and Risk Management, who oversaw the project’s development. SEE EVERGREEN CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

Two colleges. One location. Expanded Opportunities.

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EVERGREEN CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9 More than 170 bedrooms are housed in the development. Rents, which include heat and internet, started at $975 for a one-bedroom, $1,410 for a two-bedroom and $1,850 for a three-bedroom unit. “Since housing costs ideally should not exceed 30% of family income, rental rates for Evergreen Landing Apartments on 8th were priced to be affordable for the area’s manufacturing employees who earn $20/hour,” said Tomsyck. Built on land owned by Kolbe, no public money funded the development or construction of the Evergreen Landing Apartments on 8th. “This is an investment in our community and our future,” said Jeffrey DeLonay, President of Kolbe Windows & Doors. “We appreciate the encouragement we’ve received from the City of Wausau and the support we’ve received from everyone involved in the project’s development.”

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Counseling & Assessment Nearly all of the companies who provided materials and services to this project were based in Wisconsin. Property manager, Bantr Living, plans to be on site after the development is fully occupied. Every unit has premium fixtures, stainless steel appliances and quartz countertops. In-unit washer/dryer, on-site storage, garage parking and pet-friendly options also are offered. In the community center, tenants have access to a fitness center, game room, mail room, laundry and event

space. “While the apartments will be open to all who qualify, we expect it will be an attractive option for our current and future team members,” said Tomsyck. “Kolbe recruits from a large geographical area. Some prospective associates have expressed interested in working for us and relocating here, but have told us it wasn’t feasible due to the high rents in the Wausau metro area.”

Mental health services for individuals, groups, families & professionals.

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BY RENAE KRINGS | GREATER WAUSAU PROSPERITY PARTNERSHIP

BUILD YOUR BASECAMP New initiative is more than a relocation program, it offers a starting point for what's next.

Photo by Photopoulos Family Photography

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asecamp Greater Wausau is a workforce relocation and long-term residency program designed to introduce outof-state professionals and their households to the career opportunities, lifestyle and community that make the Greater Wausau area a great place to build a life. Supported by a Talent Recruitment Grant from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation and powered by regional partners, Basecamp Greater LEARN MORE Wausau takes a distinctive approach ABOUT BASECAMP GREATER WAUSAU: to relocation. The program helps you discover what life in Greater Wausau could look like and begin making the connections that can turn a new address into a home. “Relocating is a big decision, and we want those considering a move to Greater Wausau to know they won’t be making it alone," said Renae Krings, Senior Director at the Greater Wausau Prosperity Partnership. "The Basecamp program is designed to support individuals and households throughout their move, from exploring careers and housing opportunities to building connections and feeling at home in the community.” SUPPORT TO GUIDE YOUR NEXT CHAPTER Choosing where to live is about more than finding a job or a

place to live. It’s about finding a community that fits the life you want to build. Greater Wausau offers ample career opportunities across growing industries, attainable homeownership, four-season outdoor recreation and a quality of life that makes it possible to pursue your ambitions without giving up the things you enjoy most. Eligible participants receive $10,000 in cash relocation support, plus additional lifestyle and residency benefits designed to help you experience the community, make connections and begin putting down roots. That could mean buying a home or settling into a new neighborhood, starting at a new school, building professional and social connections, or discovering the places and experiences that make Greater Wausau feel like home. A COMMUNITY BEHIND YOU Basecamp Greater Wausau connects you with people who know the region and what makes it a great place to build a life. For participants, that means you're not exploring your next move alone. Through a network of local organizations, employers, business leaders and community partners, you’ll gain access to career opportunities, community experiences and meaningful connections with people who recognize the value you can bring to Greater Wausau. Your next chapter is yours to build. Basecamp Greater Wausau provides the resources, experiences and connections to help you grow your life here.

Curl

with Us!

Join us at the Wausau Curling Center, one of the finest curling facilities in the U.S., to enjoy this exciting winter sport. Don’t know how to curl? We’ll teach you! Learn-to-Curl sessions Recreational curling Competitive leagues Junior and Senior curling Season runs late October through mid-March.

www.WausauCurling.org @WausauCurling

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BY ANDREW DUNCANSON, DO, FAAD | FOREFRONT DERMATOLOGY

NEW CITY, NEW SKIN

HOW MOVING CAN AFFECT YOUR SKIN HEALTH

elocating to a new city is an exciting milestone filled with fresh opportunities, neighborhoods to explore, and boxes to unpack. In the midst of all the excitement of setting up your new home, you might notice your body reacting to the move in unexpected ways, particularly your skin. It’s not uncommon for new residents of central Wisconsin to experience sudden dryness, unexplained breakouts or heightened sensitivity during their first few months here ... and that’s ok. It’s simply a direct response to a changing environment and the stress of a move. Understanding our local climate and environmental factors will help you keep your skin healthy, glowing and resilient year-round. THE STRESS OF RELOCATION It’s important to recognize the internal toll of moving. Relocation is a major life event that can trigger elevated levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Cortisol induces systemic inflammation, compromises your skin's natural moisture barrier, and increases oil production. That often results in what we dermatologists refer to as 'stress breakouts.' Prioritizing consistent sleep, proper hydration and a stable, familiar skincare routine during your first few weeks in town can significantly mitigate those initial flare-ups. NAVIGATING WAUSAU’S SEASONAL CLIMATE CHANGES Wausau features a beautiful but distinct humid continental climate. This means your skin has to adapt to substantial environmental shifts as the seasons change. THE BRACING WISCONSIN WINTERS We have beautifully snowy winters here, but there are also subzero temperatures and biting winds. Cold outdoor air doesn’t hold a lot of moisture and indoor heating systems also strip humidity from the air. This dual environment causes rapid transepidermal

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water loss that leaves the skin dry, itchy and prone to eczema flare-ups. One way to prevent that type of discomfort is to transition from a lightweight lotion to a thick ceramide-rich cream that locks in moisture. You might also consider placing a humidifier in your bedroom to counteract the drying effects of indoor heating. SUN-DRENCHED SUMMERS In contrast, summers in our region are warm and significantly more humid. The surge in humidity triggers your sebaceous glands to produce more sebum, which can trap sweat, dust, and dead skin cells and lead to clogged pores. Additionally, active outdoor days at spots like Rib Mountain State Park or on the Wisconsin River mean a substantial increase in ultraviolet (UV) exposure. Try switching to a gentle, foaming cleanser to manage excess oil. Most importantly, apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily—even during overcast winter days, to protect against premature aging and skin cancer.

THE BRIGHT SIDE OF WAUSAU WATER One of the hidden environmental factors affecting skin health after a move that most people don’t consider is water chemistry. Many regions of the United States rely heavily on 'hard' water, which is packed with calcium and magnesium. Hard water leaves a mineral film on the skin that clogs pores, alters natural pH levels, and exacerbates conditions like rosacea and acne. Fortunately for new locals like you, Wausau boasts some of the softest municipal water in Wisconsin, so if you moved from a hard-water metro area, you’ll quickly notice your cleansers lather much more easily. And because soft water rinses away products effortlessly without stripping your skin's natural oils, your skin barrier will likely become stronger and more hydrated over time. Give your skin a few weeks to adjust to the local environment, and if any symptoms continue, see your dermatologist and start the annual skin checks that are critical to maintaining healthy and radiant skin.

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. 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

1900 Westwood Drive Wausau, WI 54401

715.870.0900 askmcwcw@mcw.edu

GREATER WAUSAU WausauChamber.com 15

GROWING FOR THE

ARTICLE BY ASPIRUS HEALTH

FUTURE

ARTICLE AND PHOTOS ORIGINALLY APPEARED ON DOWNTOWNREFRESH.COM 16

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Aspirus Wausau Hospital Expansion Supports Regional Growth

s the Greater Wausau area continues to grow, Aspirus Health is making one of the largest investments in regional health care infrastructure in its history through a major expansion project at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE HOSPITAL EXPANSION:

The multi-phase project reflects Aspirus Health’s long-term commitment to strengthening access to high-quality care for communities across northcentral Wisconsin and the broader region. Located in the heart of Wausau, Aspirus Wausau Hospital serves as the flagship hospital for Aspirus Health and is a critical hub for advanced medical services throughout northern Wisconsin, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and northern Minnesota.

In addition to the new patient care areas, several renovation and infrastructure projects are occurring across the campus. Updates to the Entrance A lobby are creating a more welcoming and modern experience for patients and visitors, while additional utility and parking improvements are being completed to support future growth. A new dual helipad has also strengthened the hospital’s ability to support emergency and critical care

Construction is now underway on a new addition that will expand inpatient capacity and modernize key areas of the hospital campus. The project includes 48 new intermediate care beds and a 16-bed observation unit designed to support growing patient volumes and evolving care needs. The expansion will also include

updated patient care environments, improved operational efficiencies, and enhanced access to advanced medical technology.

SEE FUTURE CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

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FUTURE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17 transportation throughout the region. For individuals and families considering relocation to the Wausau area, access to comprehensive health care remains an important factor in quality of life. Aspirus Wausau Hospital provides a broad

range of specialty and tertiary services that are not commonly available in many rural communities, including cardiovascular care, cancer services, trauma care, neurology, orthopedics, and advanced surgical procedures. The expansion project also reflects the broader economic and community strength of the region. Large-scale investments in

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health care infrastructure help support workforce recruitment, attract specialized medical professionals, and reinforce Wausau’s role as a regional destination for both care and career opportunities. Hundreds of construction and support jobs are tied to the project, while long-term growth in clinical services will continue to support employment opportunities across multiple disciplines.

Volunteer Opportunities Personal Shopper

The Babies’ Stock Place Support The Market

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Catherine Wollenzien | Volunteer Manager 715-803-6984 | catherine@neighborsplace.org

Aspirus Health leaders have emphasized that the project is designed not only to meet today’s needs, but also to prepare the organization and the community for the future. As patient populations grow and health care continues to evolve, the expansion positions Aspirus Wausau Hospital to continue serving the region for decades to come.

360 Grand Ave | Suite 200 | Wausau, WI 54403

The project is expected to continue through 2028, with construction occurring in phases designed to minimize disruption while maintaining uninterrupted patient care operations. For Greater Wausau residents, businesses, and future community members, the expansion represents more than a construction project. It is a visible investment in the future of health care, regional growth, and the long-term vitality of the communities Aspirus Health serves.

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215 N 3RD ST, WAUSAU WI 54403

NOW LEASING in Downtown Wausau Studio, 1, 2, & 3 Bedroom Apartments

Amenities Movie Theater Membership to Peter Kraus Fitness Game Room Community Room - Featuring Coffee Bar Underground Parking Pet Wash Conference Rooms Outdoor Plaza with grilling stations, fire pits, bar & kitchenette

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Located in The Heart of Wausau Steps away from local dining & lively nightlife. Enjoy immediate access to scenic Wisconsin River trails, farmers markets, and year-round festivals.

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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WHATAWELCOME Group connected through leadership program develops video series

BY TAYLOR THELEN | PHOTO BY KELLY PUNTNEY

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

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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

he Greater Wausau Chamber of Commerce’s annual Transformational Leadership program helps participants develop personal growth strategies, equipping them with the ability to create and inspire change in themselves, their organizations and the community. Each year, participants create a final project with other members of their program cohort. The projects are intended to allow program participants to work with various community non-profits and initiatives in a productive and engaging way. A group in the program made up of Frank Kruszka, Justin Bruech, Leanne Matz and Jacob Schraeder, created the Central Wisconsin Welcome YouTube channel for their final project in the 2025-2026 session.

VIEW THE CENTRAL WISCONSIN WELCOME SERIES:

The channel shares short interviews with local community groups to help viewers discover what's happening across Central Wisconsin and find places they can connect, belong, and get involved.

"When developing our project, it became pretty clear that we didn’t necessarily need a new resource," said Frank Kruszka. "What we needed was to shine a light on all the resources we already have. We learned quickly that there's quite a diverse community here and an array of resources many people probably don’t know about.” Videos created for the channel have focused on clubs like the Bull Falls Homebrew Club, cultural institutions like the Center for Visual Arts and local businesses like Fall Line Outfitters. Whether viewers are new to the community or long-time residents, there is something on the Central Wisconsin Welcome YouTube channel for everyone.

GREATER WAUSAU WausauChamber.com 23

Photo by Kelly Puntney

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.

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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. 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. ROTHSCHILD: Gaska Park offers a small dog section and a larger dog area, totaling almost three acres. A gate allows passage from the park to nearby trails.

FIND YOUR CAREER AT kolbewindows.com

Kolbe Windows & Doors is dedicated to innovation, craftsmanship and thoughtful design. For 80 years, we’ve built artisan quality products in the heart of Wisconsin. Investing in our team members’ work-life balance and wellbeing, Kolbe provides an onsite health clinic, local daycare access, and affordable housing at its own apartment complex just down the road.

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.

Apply online or in person at

1323 South 11th Ave. | Wausau, WI 54401

PLAY. DINE. WIN. REPEAT Take a break from the ordinary and discover why Ho-Chunk Gaming Wittenberg is one of the area's favorite destinations for fun, excitement, and great prizes. 26 WausauChamber.com

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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.

GREATER WAUSAU WausauChamber.com 27

Marathon City

COMMUNITY

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 and Northview Window & 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.

From first keys to future projects... We’re here to help you make it happen.

The Chamber recently moved into a new home at the entry to Wausau’s downtown. Drop in and say hello!

THE DEPOT

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

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SummitCreditUnion.com 800-236-5560 | 608-243-5000

Insured by NCUA. *See SummitCreditUnion.com

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.

David Cooper, Agent David J Cooper Agency Inc (715) 359-5055 152136 Fiddlehead Ln, Wausau

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COMMUNITY

PROFILES

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

.00 APY

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 is 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 Group and Kafka Granite Schools: The Mosinee School District’s buildings are all located in the city.

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511 S 28th Ave, Wausau, WI 715.845.8680 NicoletBank.com Real Rewards Checking (Real Rewards) is available for consumer deposits only. Annual Percentage Yield (“APY”) is accurate as of 3/1/2025. Real Rewards is a variable rate account. Your APY may change at any time after your account is opened, at the discretion of Nicolet National Bank. Real Rewards is a tiered rate product. If qualifications are met for the qualification cycle, Tier 1: The portion of your balance that is equal to or less than $25,000 will earn 3.00% APY. Tier 2: The portion of your balance that is over $25,000 will earn APY in the range of 0.61% to 3.00%, depending on the balance in your account. If qualifications are not met for the qualification cycle, your entire balance will earn APY in the range of 0.03% to 0.15%, depending on the balance in your account. You must enroll in online banking and e-statements in order to qualify. Transactions required each qualification cycle: At least ten posted and cleared debit card transactions (ATM-processed transactions do not count as qualifying debit card transactions), and at least one posted and cleared direct deposit of payroll or social security. Disclosed APY assumes all interest remains on deposit. Fees and withdrawals of interest will reduce earnings and APY. All Nicolet National Bank checking accounts are subject to credit approval. Additional terms and conditions apply. See Nicoletbank.com for details. Member FDIC.

CONNECTIONS

Start your business here. Grow it anywhere.

Low-interest Loans Workshops & Events Co-working Space

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

/W A

www.mcpl.us

-5 -2 6

715-261-7200

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

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INFORMATION

INSPIRATION

OPPORTUNITIES

Launch your business with MCDEVCO!

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WE MAKE MORE THAN PRODUCTS W E C R E AT E O P P O R T U N I T I E S

FIND YOUR FIT, BUILD YOUR SKILLS, AND GROW WITH A TEAM THAT INVESTS IN YOU.

J O I N JOOUI R N T OEUARMT AT EAM G RAT E EG NR HE EE CN KH GE RC OKUGP.RCOOUM P./C CO AM REERS

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. 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 and Granite Peak Ski Area. 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. 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

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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. Major employers: Domtar, Imperial Industries, Krueger Wholesale Florist, LignoTech, 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.

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Schofield 715-359-5230 | schofieldwi.gov 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.

Steve & Jacki LaCerte

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

Each office is independently owned and operated

715-551-6427 or 715-551-6567

Lacerteteam@coldwellbankeraction.com 36 WausauChamber.com

GREATER WAUSAU

COMMUNITY

PROFILES

COMMUNITY

Wausau 715-261-6500 | wausauwi.gov Population: 40,262 Wausau serves as the economic, transportation, healthcare and cultural heart of central Wisconsin. The city offers a 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. Major employers: Aspirus, Kolbe & Kolbe

PROFILES

Millwork, UMR, Marathon Electric, North Central Health Care, Marshfield Clinic, Wausau Window & Wall Systems, Apogee Linetec, Northcentral Technical College and Wausau School District Schools: The Wausau School District operates nine elementary schools, two charter schools, two middle schools and two high schools. Additional local educational institutions include: Faith Christian Academy, Trinity Lutheran School and Newman Catholic Schools. Parks: The city offers the award-winning 400 Block and Riverlife Park, along with three neighborhood pools and two nature conservancies, totaling 38 city and neighborhood parks and over 4.5 miles of River’s Edge Trail along the Wisconsin River.

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Wisconsin’s Full-Stack Connectivity & Digital Infrastructure Partner We design, build, maintain, and protect the technology foundations that keep businesses connected, secure, and ready to grow.

Set up your complimentary connectivity & systems audit Scan or Call 920-617-7590

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 Transport 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.

Photo by Brittany Blunt

A comprehensive approach to retirement planning Experience our proven five-step retirement planning process built on three hallmarks of our firm: fiduciary guidance, full transparency, and smart technology. From income and risk management to tax-efficient strategies and legacy planning, we help bring clarity and confidence to every stage of retirement. Schedule a complimentary consultation today. 715.355.4445 | www.RetireWithBuska.com

SCAN TO BEGIN YOUR JOURNEY Advisory services are offered through Buska Wealth Management, LLC, an SEC Investment Advisor. Insurance products and services are offered through Buska Retirement Solutions, Inc., an affiliated company. Tax services are offered through Legacy Tax Solutions, LLC, an affiliated company.

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BY TRACI WISZ | WOODSON YMCA

LARGER LANDING

MORE THAN 6,000 ARE A PART OF COMMUNITY

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or more than 135 years, the Woodson YMCA has evolved alongside the Wausau community, responding to what people need to live healthier, happier and more connected lives. One of the best examples of that today is The Landing, the Y’s community for adults 55 and better. When The Landing opened in 2019, it filled a need that had existed in the Wausau area for years. It offered a dedicated place for older adults to stay active, continue LEARN MORE learning, build friendships and ABOUT THE simply enjoy being together. LANDING: It didn’t take long to realize just how much that kind of place was needed. The Landing welcomed more than 1,000 members in its first year and continued growing, even through the pandemic. Today, nearly 6,000 people are part of The Landing community. With that growth came an exciting challenge: The Landing needed more room. Thanks to generous donor support and investment from the

Woodson YMCA, an expansion completed earlier this year created more space for everything members already loved, and opened the door for even more. The expanded Landing includes a full kitchen, dedicated areas for billiards and table tennis, additional gathering spaces, a beautiful outdoor courtyard and a new Fourth Street entrance with convenient nearby parking. New education and program rooms on the YMCA’s third floor provide space for larger presentations and multiple activities at once. “I love the new sitting areas both inside and outside that are conducive to relaxing and getting to know people," said one member. And there is plenty happening in those spaces. In a typical month, The Landing can offer as many as 90 different programs and activities. Members might attend an educational presentation, take a cooking class, meet friends for cards, enjoy Wednesday lunch, participate in a fitness class or head out on a local excursion. Sometimes it’s a workout. Sometimes it’s lunch, a card game or a cup of coffee. Sometimes it’s simply being around other people. The Landing isn’t simply a senior center. It’s a place to keep moving, keep learning, find new adventures and build friendships. Most importantly, it’s a place to belong.

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ADVERTISER'S

INDEX Alpine Insurance Brokers.................................23

Greater Wausau Chamber of Commerce...28

PGA Inc................................................................18

American Family Insurance - David J Cooper Agency.................................................................29

Greenheck...........................................................32

Performing Arts Foundation..........................44

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

Greenheck Turner Community Center.......22

RE/MAX Excel - Lora Bladow.......................27

Health In Motion...............................................36

SC Swiderski...................................................... 34

Ho-Chunk Gaming-Wittenberg...................26

Summit Credit Union.......................................28

IncredibleBank.......................................................7

SUN Printing......................................................42

Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co Inc......................26

Sure-Dry.............................................................29

Larkin Real Estate Group at First Weber......31

T Wall Enterprises - Foundry on 3rd............20

Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum.......... 43

Tall Pines Behaviorial Health.............................11

Marathon County Public Library....................31

Valley Communities Credit Union................25

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

Wausau Conservatory of Music......................41

Medical College of Wisconsin..........................15

Wausau Curling Club Inc..................................13

Merrill Steel..........................................................17

Wausau River District........................................19

The Neighbors' Place..........................................19

Wausau School District....................................33

Nicolet Bank......................................................30

Wausau Woodchucks/Ignite Softball............24

Northcentral Technical College........................9

Woodson YMCA................................................16

BA & Esther Greenheck Foundation............19 bantr........................................................................11 Behavioral Health Clinic..................................23 Buska Retirement Solutions...........................39 Cellcom................................................................38 Chase Outdoors............................................... 34 Children's Imaginarium.....................................35 Coldwell Banker Action Realty - Lacerte....36 Design Theory 19...............................................37 Eye Clinic of Wisconsin....................................25 focus on energy..................................................10 Forefront Dermatology - Wausau...................5

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LEIGH YAWKEY WOODSON ART MUSEUM

ENHANCING LIVES THROUGH ART Since 1976

Always FREE Admission 700 North Twelfth Street Wausau, WI 54403 | 715.845.7010 | lywam.org

GRAND THEATER Downtown Wausau grandtheater.org • 715.842.0988

– NOV JUNE

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

TARTAN TERRORS For 100 years, The Grand has been the heart of Wausau, where memories are made, community thrives, and the arts come alive. The 2026/27 Season opens after a $17.5 million, facility-wide renovation of this beloved historic theater. Please join us for a great night out!

VIENNA BOYS CHOIR BUY TICKETS Online at tickets.grandtheater.org. ` Scan to see full ticketing calendar. Call or visit The Grand’s Aspirus Ticket Office at 715-842-0988 • 401 N. Fourth Street. Interim office location at 115 N. Sixth Street during construction summer/fall 2026.