Central Time: 2017-2018 Relocation Guide

CENTRAL TIME 2017-2018 Relocation Guide

PUBLISHED

BY THE

CENTRAL TIME

The Wausau Region’s Guide to Living in the Moment Inside this issue A Place to Play: JoJo's Jungle ......................................................................4 Transplants: Inn Owners Love Area ........................................................... 6 It's Your Move: A 'Best of' List...................................................................... 8 More Than Books...........................................................................................12 River Built: A History Lesson......................................................................14 Entrepreneurial Spirit....................................................................................16 Major Employers.......................................................................................... 20 Outdoor Recreation......................................................................................21 Metro Communities.....................................................................................27 Advertiser’s Index..........................................................................................38 Cover photo by Lemmens Creative Design, LLC

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.

Photos by Tom Mortenson

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

Follow us on social media:

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

CENTRAL TIME www.wausauchamber.com 3

A PLACE TO PLAY

JoJo's Jungle will offer a unique playground setting where children of any ability can play alongside their friends and families.

watch online:

tinyurl.com/jojojungle

4 www.wausauchamber.com

CENTRAL TIME

IMAGES COURTESY OF JO JO'S JUNGLE

P

atrick Hoerter's adopted son Josiah was born in 2012 with a rare genetic disorder that took the boy's life three months shy of his third birthday.

"JoJo’s Jungle came from a promise we made to Josiah. His Make-A-Wish was going to be an accessible playground in our backyard." said Hoerter. "When he passed, however, the wish ended before it began. We made a promise to design the ultimate all-inclusive playground for our community."

JoJo’s Jungle will include separate play areas for children of different ages. The playground will include a 'jungle' for older kids, an open concept design for two to five-year-olds and a shaded area for toddlers. The playground will also include a large natural tree canopy which will support two endangered species; the Monarch and Karner Blue butterflies.

JoJo’s Jungle also will offer a splash pad, accessible zip lines, a quiet chalk drawing area, a music ensemble and two shaded picnic areas.

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

Josiah Hoerter was born with a fatal genetic disorder. His parents were inspired to create JoJo's Jungle based on the need for an accessible playground in the Wausau area.

Over $1.3 million has been raised for the project with another $1.1 million needed. The playground will be built in Brockmeyer Park on Wausau's west side when the fundraising is complete.

Visit jojosjungle.com to view an animated tour of the playground.

KAREN & BRAD HARVEY

RELOCATION SPECIALISTS

CENTRAL TIME www.wausauchamber.com 5

TRANSPLANTS ARCHITECTURE, FINE DINING DREW BUSINESS OWNERS TO REGION

watch online:

tinyurl.com/stewartinnterview

6 www.wausauchamber.com

CENTRAL TIME

Randy and Sara Bangs are the owners of the historic Stewart Inn in Wausau. The Stewart Inn is located downtown at 521 Grant Street, one block east of the City Hall.

W

hen Randy and Sara Bangs were shopping for a new bed and breakfast location in Wisconsin, Wausau wasn't their first choice. The couple wasn't familiar with the region, but understood that whatever location they decided upon would need to be fueled as much by the quality of the community as the quality of the property itself.

The couple had previously run bed and breakfasts near Lake Geneva and in Oconomowoc and had some pretty big misconceptions about the Wausau region, including what the two self-proclaimed 'foodies' would find for dining options.

"We had jokingly thought that Wausau was a place of fish fries and supper clubs." said Randy. "In reality, what we found was that Wausau offered diverse and high-quality restaurants."

"On our first night here, we arrived downtown on a summer Friday night and went to Back When Cafe, the next day we had lunch at the Red Eye Brewing Company and decided to stay another night and had supper at Basil in Weston." said Sara. "We had gone threefor-three in just over 24 hours."

The visit in the summer of 2016 resulted in the purchase of the Stewart Inn, the first Wausau property to be listed in the National Register of Historic Places and perhaps the world's most intact example of architect George Maher's work.

The pair fell in love with the Stewart Inn, but what sold them on a business in Wausau was the vitality of the downtown, the depth

and quality of area restaurants, the historic neighborhoods, the year-round outdoor recreational opportunities and the warmth of the region’s residents.

"After that first visit, we discovered the Woodson Art Museum, the Yawkey House Museum, the Grand Theater and downtown Wausau, which totally blew us away." added Randy.

"I don't know that I've ever lived in an area where you could spend Saturday kayaking and Sunday at the art museum, only separated by 10 minutes of travel time." added Sara.

"We've had quite a number of our business guests who've had such a great experience here in Wausau, that on subsequent trips they bring their spouse along with them." said Randy. "Wausau offers an amazing everday quality of life with extremely affordable, highquality housing, virtually no traffic and a reverence for tradition and history found here."

AHMC Properties CALL FOR DETAILS OR TO SCHEDULE A SHOWING - ASK ABOUT CURRENT SIGN-ON SPECIALS!

NOW LEASING 1 and 2-Bedroom Apartments

Come Join Our 55+ Community!

We offer Short TermFully Furnished Corporate Apartments

Island Place Apartments 400 River Drive, Wausau

715.848.1369

Islandplace@ ahmcproperties.com

Mountain View Estates On the East Side of Wausau 715.383.5472

mountainview@ahmcproperties.com

AHMCproperties.com CENTRAL TIME www.wausauchamber.com 7

IT'S YOUR MOVE The Wausau region is a great place to live.

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!

1

DOWNTOWN WAUSAU: Many cities in Wisconsin that are similar in size to Wausau have struggled to keep their downtowns relevant. With ongoing improvements and unique new features, like the hanging umbrellas along Third Street, Wausau’s downtown offers diverse shopping and dining options, along with indoor and outdoor entertainment options. Many community events, like the annual ChalkFest and weekly Concerts on the Square, are held in the open space offered by the 400 Block, also located along Third Street.

Photo by Kelly Puntney

watch online:

tinyurl.com/wausaumbrellas

8 www.wausauchamber.com

CENTRAL TIME

Photo by Tom Mortenson

2

RIB MOUNTAIN STATE PARK: No trip to the Wausau region is complete without a trip to the top of the 60-foot observation tower at the summit of Rib Mountain State Park. Thousands flock to Granite Peak Ski Area each winter for skiing and snowboarding in the winter. Chair lift rides in the fall offer a birds-eye view of the changing colors of the State Park's hardwoods. A hike to the hidden quarry on Rib Mountain's northwest side is worth the journey.

3

6

FAMILY-STYLE: It seems that you can’t drive more than a few blocks without running into one of the many community parks in the area. All three of Wausau's community pools are newly renovated and Merrill, Rothschild and Weston offer aquatic centers, complete with water slides and concessions, too.

SEE

THE LIST CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

MORE OUTDOORS: Where else can you find world-class skiing, kayaking, hunting and fishing just minutes from your front door. And if that's not enough, adventurers have mountain biking, hiking, boating and snowmobiling options galore.

4

WATER AND MORE WATER: The Wisconsin River runs north to south through Wausau towards Mosinee. Dams along the river have created Lake Wausau, a haven for fishermen, water skiiers and canoeists.

Pterodactyl-like herons fly back and forth between marshy areas along the river and turtles abound early each summer as they find sandy areas to lay their eggs.

5

THE ARTS: One of region's most unique attributes is the area’s strong commitment to the arts. The Center for Visual Arts and the Grand Theater are both located across the street from the 400 Block in downtown Wausau and each offer newly renovated facilities. The Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum has also undergone a recent expansion and offers world-class exhibits. Renovations are underway at the historic Wausau Club which will soon become the home of the Wausau Museum of Contemporary Art. An Artrageous Weekend marks the end of summer.

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 9

Photo by Tom Mortenson

THE LIST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

7

THE REGION: The Wausau region is more than just the City of Wausau. Kronenwetter, Rib Mountain, Rothschild, Schofield and Weston each offer unique neighborhoods and appeal. Those eyeing relocation to the region can find a wide variety of parks, schooling and employment in each. Merrill, Mosinee and several nearby rural communities offer even more alternatives. See pages 27 to 37 for more information on these and other surrounding communities.

8

FESTIVALS: The summer here is filled with live music, farmers markets, fireworks, hot air balloons, the Wisconsin Valley Fair and more. When the snow falls its time to enjoy tubing at Sylvan Hill Park, pond hockey and Winterfest.

9

GINSENG: Marathon County produces 95% of the ginseng grown in the United States due to the unique soil and climate conditions found only here outside of China. You will notice low, covered structures blanketing many of the fields in the area. The shade is a key part of the

10 www.wausauchamber.com

CENTRAL TIME

sophisticated growing operation for the root. Ginseng can never be planted on the same piece of land twice, adding to the complex nature of this industry.

Photo by Tom Mortenson

10

THE DUDLEY TOWER: This highlight of Wausau's skyline stands 241 feet tall, the tallest commercial building in Wisconsin outside of Milwaukee. A quick step inside the lobby of this building, featured on this edition's cover, transports you from the Northwoods into a modern urban setting in a few footsteps.

11

LISTS: Marathon County was recently named the 15th cheapest place to buy a home in the nation! 24/7 Wall Street found that an average of 20.7 percent of monthly wages are spent on housing, with the national average above 30 percent. Rothschild and Weston were both ranked in a top ten list of the healthiest housing markets in the state by SmartAsset.

At QPS, we’ve never been one to shy away from hard work. Light Industrial to Skilled Trades, Office to Professional, we take pride in going the extra mile to match the right candidate with the right job.

2005 Grand Avenue, Ste B Wausau, WI 54403

CENTRAL TIME www.wausauchamber.com 11

MORE THAN

BOOKS

Is there a better place than the library to connect with others, find entertainment, learn about your community or pick up a new skill?

BY DAN RICHTER

MARATHON COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE MARATHON COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY

12 www.wausauchamber.com

CENTRAL TIME

The Marathon County Public Library offers a variety of programs for residents of all ages, including many events tailored to children's interests.

W

hether you’re new to the area or you’ve lived here all your life, the Marathon County Public Library is the place that many people in the community turn to for an array of education, family entertainment, technology resources and, of course, books!

Today’s Library, located on First Street in downtown Wausau, has evolved as the city has grown. Instead of 'shushing' librarians and dusty old card catalogs, the Marathon County Public Library is a bustling hub with events and new technologies for residents of all ages.

For those without access to cable or streaming services, binge watch your favorite TV shows by checking them out on DVD. Skip the stop at Redbox and check out movies for free at the library and keep them for up to seven days. Library cards also allow access to e-books and audiobooks for smartphones, tablets, laptops and PCs via MCPL's digital library. This service allows items to be borrowed whether you’re down the street or on vacation in an entirely different state.

The Marathon County Public Library offers book clubs, writing workshops, story times, arts and crafts programs, visits from authors and presenters, children’s performers and instructional classes on computers and coding. Many of these events are held in the new Wausau Community Room, which can be reserved for free.

And the best part about these events? Admission is always free.

Patrons also have a host of online and job-searching resources at

The Friends of the Marathon County Public Library host quarterly book sales at the library's location in downtown Wausau. their disposal to assist them at any stage in their educational or professional development.

With its main headquarters in downtown Wausau and eight branch libraries spread throughout the county from Hatley in the east to Spencer in the west, you’re never too far away from your local library. Visit www.mcpl.us for more information.

“The new Wausau Community Room gives library users better access to programs and meetings. Its contemporary design allows us to open up our larger programs to more people.”

Ralph Illick, Director of the Marathon County Public Library

KK8630 - 1703

CENTRAL TIME www.wausauchamber.com 13

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE MARATHON COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Logging in the Wausau region led to sawmills built along the Wisconsin River and, eventually, to the emergence of the paper industry.

RIVERBUILT REGION'S HISTORY TIED TO LUMBER, THE RIVER

BY GARY GISSELMAN MARATHON COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

14 www.wausauchamber.com

CENTRAL TIME

I

t was in 1839 that George Stevens traveled up the Wisconsin River to start a sawmill at what would eventually become Wausau. With an influx of settlers from Europe and other parts of the United States, Wausau continued to grow into the 20th Century.

At first, the population centered along the Wisconsin River, a vital source of power that would provide the energy needed to operate early sawmills. In time, the sawmills would diminish in economic relevence and were replaced by other types of manufacturing. As more businesses appeared in Wausau, these establishments moved further from the city center, moving the working people to homes closer to where they would work.

As the region grew in population, residents settled beyond the city limits of Wausau and began to form communities in the surrounding area. One of the first settlements was the Village of Scholfield, incorporated in 1904. Scholfield was the home of the Brooks & Ross Sawmill along the banks of the Eau Claire River as it approached the Wisconsin River south of Wausau. The mill drew people to work in Scholfield and eventually to reside there. Soon other types of commercial businesses would serve the growing population.

Another community south of Schofield would soon develop, with its existence owed wholly to the Marathon Paper Mill.

The mill began operation in 1910 with development in the surrounding area following shortly after. By 1917 there were enough people in this settlement to form a village. One of the biggest attractions in the village would be the Rothschild Pavilion in Pine Park. The pavilion along with the surrounding park and beach would be a popular recreation destination.

A more recent development in the history of the area was the large growth in the population of what originated as the Town of Weston. After World War II, many new industries were beginning to locate in this area. Through the years, these industries would become major employers in the area.

One example is the Greenheck Fan Company. Their continued expansion would contribute to the growth in population of the town. The commercial and industrial economy grew along with the population to provide the workforce needed. By 1996, portions of the Town of Weston were incorporated into the Village of Weston.

For the many years since the first settlement of this part of Marathon County the industrial and commercial development would soon expand beyond the city limits of Wausau into the larger metro area.

Life in Wausau before a series of dams were built on the Wisconsin River included periodic floods, like this one in 1912.

CENTRAL TIME www.wausauchamber.com 15

entrepreneurial

SPIRIT PROGRAM GUIDES STUDENTS ON BUSINESS-BUILDING

watch online: tinyurl.com/yeabreezy

Malia Oluszcyk, left, a student at the DC Everest Idea School, secured an investment of $1,250 at the Young Entrepreneurs Academy's Investor Panel on March 21, 2017. Oluszcyk will use this money to grow her produce company, Breezy Greens. Oluszcyk's mentor was Scott Theiss, right.

Lemmens Creative Design, LLC We make your aerial dreams a reality

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

1025 S. 17th Ave.

Wausau

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

CENTRAL TIME

Specializing in: 

Indoor and Outdoor Aerial Photography & Videography

 

Promo�onal Tour Videos real estate, corporate, & more Contact chad.lemmens@lemmenscrea�vedesign.com for details www.lemmenscrea�vedesign.com Facebook & Instagram: @LemmensCrea�veDesign

Laney Hughes, CEO of Shallocat, developed a fashion line based off of original designs during the 2015-2016 YEA! session.

A

group of 13 young entrepreneurs received a total of $5,250 at an Investor Panel event held in March 2017. These investments helped the students launch the businesses they developed during the school year in the Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) program.

The students created a dozen new businesses – real businesses they plan to continue running after graduation to help them achieve goals like funding college and becoming life-long entrepreneurs.

Blues Fest

Festival n o c a B & Beer

During the Investor Panel event, the YEA! students pitched their business plans to a panel of financial donors in front of a live public audience. Representatives from local businesses made up a panel which determined the amount allocated to each student based upon the appeal and viability of their plans and presentations.

“Helping students to identify their interests, embrace their passions and capture the spirit of entrepreneurship is what YEA! is all about,” said Gayle Jagel, founder and CEO of YEA!. Since launching in 2004 with one class at the University of Rochester, today YEA! has grown to serve students in over 100 communities in 38 states. “We are exceptionally proud of our more than 6,000 graduates who have launched over 4,000 businesses across America,” Jagel added.

The Young Entrepreneurs Academy teaches middle and high school students how to start and run their own businesses. Throughout the class, students develop business ideas, write business plans, conduct market research, pitch their plans to a panel of investors for startup funds and launch and run their own, fully formed companies and social movements. The project-based program empowers students to take charge of their futures. YEA! was brought to the region in 2015 through a partnership between the Wausau Region Chamber of Commerce and the DC Everest Area School District.

The inaugural YEA! class of 2015-16 created 11 businesses. The students' presentations from both Investor Panel events are available on the Wausau Region Chamber of Commerce's YouTube channel.

st Harvest Fe

Rib Fest Balloon &

the Square n o s t r e c Con

wausauevents.org CENTRAL TIME www.wausauchamber.com 17

You find strength in community.

Visit churchmutual.com/jobs for career opportunities.

Š 2017 Church Mutual Insurance Company

Follow us

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

WAUSAU

EAU CLAIRE 15 MILES

GREEN BAY

50 MILES

100 MILES

MADISON

Wausau Whitewater Park Photo by Kelly Puntney

CENTRAL TIME www.wausauchamber.com 19

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

250+

LOCATION

EMPLOYEES

Marathon Cheese Corp

Marathon

1,000+

Aspirus

Various 1,000+

Marathon Electric

Wausau

1,000+

Church Mutual Insurance Co

Merrill

Marshfield Clinic

Various

2,000+

Crystal Finishing Systems Inc

Schofield

500+

North Central Health Care

Wausau

500+

Domtar Paper Co LLC

Rothschild

250+

Northcentral Technical College

Various

1,000+

Expera Specialty Solutions

Mosinee

250+

Sierra Pacific Windows & Doors Merrill

250+

Graphic Packaging

Wausau

250+

Sterling Building Systems

Rothschild

250+

Footlocker.com/Eastbay Inc

Wausau

1,000+

Terra Form Products

Rothschild

250+

Greenheck

Schofield 2,000+

UMR

Wausau 1,000+

Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork

Wausau

Walmart

Merrill, Rib Mountain

L & S Electric

Schofield

250+

Wausau Homes Inc

Rothschild

Liberty Mutual

Wausau

750+

Wausau Window & Wall Systems Wausau

Linetec

Wausau 250+

West Corp

Wausau

Lincoln Wood Products

Merrill

WPS Health Insurance

Wausau

1,000+

1,000+

250+

250+ 1,000+ 1,000+ 250+ 1,000+

Source: worknet.wisconsin.gov

Wausau School District Our Mission... to advance student learning, achievement, and success.

Our Shared Key Interests... serve as our guide to the future and our filter for decision making.

We Invite You to Experience a Partnership With Us Today! facebook.com/WausauSchDist twitter.com/WausauSchDist instagram.com/WausauSchDist

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

20 www.wausauchamber.com

CENTRAL TIME

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

Outdoor Recreation More on Recreation in the Wausau Region

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

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 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.

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.

Looking for a place to call home?

Check out our exciting communities in the Wausau & surrounding areas Blue Stone Estates • Pine View Estates • River Trail Estates • Westwood Estates Plus other locations in the surrounding areas & throughout Wisconsin.

401 Ranger St.,Mosinee, WI 54455 | 715-693-9522 | Fax: 715-693-9523 | www.scswiderski.com 22 www.wausauchamber.com

CENTRAL TIME

Meet Jordan.

Jordan has always loved sneakers.

Jordan turned his love for sneakers into a career at footlocker.com.

You can be like Jordan.

Join the footlocker.com/eastbay team. Apply at sneakerjobs.com

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

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

Affordable.

Employable.

Transferable.

• 170+ program options, with transfer opportunities to Wisconsin’s four-year colleges • Flexible learning options, including Virtual College and late start courses • Customized training, professional development and continuing education opportunities • Exceptional job placement (nine out of ten graduates are employed or continuing their education within six months of graduation) without extensive debt Northcentral Technical College 715.675.3331 | www.ntc.edu

24 www.wausauchamber.com

CENTRAL TIME

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

Marathon County population: 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

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

More on jobs and rentals: wausauchamber.com/list/ category/rentals-storage-50 and wausauchamber.com/jobs Photo by Tom Mortenson

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

CENTRAL TIME www.wausauchamber.com 25

YOUR PATH, YOUR PRICE.

Accelerated Bachelor-Completer Degrees

With our accelerated Bachelor-Completer degrees, you can save money and finish at your own pace, in as few as 18 months.*

www.rasmussen.edu *Completion time is dependent on transfer credits accepted and courses completed each term.

For information on our graduation rates, median graduate debt levels and other student investment disclosure information, visit rasmussen.edu/SID. Program costs can be reduced by completion of Flex Choice courses.

See rasmussen.edu/tuition for complete cost details.

Wausau: 715-841-8099

COMMUNITY

Kronenwetter

PROFILES

715-693-4200 | kronenwetter.org Population: 7,619 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.

CENTRAL TIME www.wausauchamber.com 27

COMMUNITY

Marathon City

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

Experience the Difference WHAT WE HAVE TO OFFER • 500+ slot games • Over 100 progressive machines • Free valet parking • RV & Semi parking space availability • Whitetail Crossing Convenience Store • Scheduled motorcoach trips • Full service bar with daily specials • Snack bar with daily specials

N7198 US HWY 45, WITTENBERG, WI 54499 866.910.0150 | 715.253.4400

28 www.wausauchamber.com

CENTRAL TIME

COMMUNITY

PROFILES

Merrill 715-536-5595 | ci.merrill.wi.us Population: 9,661 The City of Merrill is located along the scenic Wisconsin River at its confluence with the Prairie River in Lincoln County. Merrill is known as the ‘City of Parks’ because of the numerous parks in or near the city.

Lincoln County Courthouse

Wikipedia photo

Merrill is home to the River Bend Trail along the Wisconsin River and a new aquatic center. The historic Lincoln County Courthouse in the center of Merrill is over 100 years old and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

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

Schools: Merrill is home to the Merrill Area Public School District.

900 S. 17th Ave., Wausau 715-842-2900 or 800-205-0914

www.timefederalsavings.com

CALL OR VISIT US TODAY!

Great Rates Great Options Great Service!

Checking Accounts Online Banking & Bill Pay Savings- Retirement- HSAs Visa® Credit/Debit/Gift Cards Safe Deposit Boxes ATM & much more

We’re Your Home Loan Specialists!

Home Loans - Construction Loans - Home Improvement Loans Home Equity Line of Credit - Investment Property Loans

CENTRAL TIME www.wausauchamber.com 29

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

30 www.wausauchamber.com

CENTRAL TIME

MEET ME DOWNTOWN AT

VISIT THESE SHOPS AND RESTAURANTS ON THE 300 BLOCK OF THIRD

COSMETICS | SPA | WIGS

Washington Square | MerleNormanWausau.com 715.842.3450

COLOR | CUT | STYLE Washington Square 715.845.5185

Center for the Visual Arts Gift

o

p

ABSOLUTE HAIR

Sh

LOCALLY MADE ART FOR GIFTS & HOME

FUN & RELAXING | DINING & BAR

Washington Square | cvawausau.org 715.842.4545

Washington Square | jalapenosrestaurante.com 715.842.9206

Formerly Allister Deason’s

CLASSY, TRENDY, WOMEN’S BOUTIQUE Washington Square | isaacsapparel.com 715.842.8038

COFFEE & TEA | BAKERY | SPIRITS AllisterDeaconscoffeehouse.com Washington Square | 715.845.5888

ALL LEVEL DROP IN | HEATED STUDIO

METAPHYSICAL ODDITIES, REIKI & MORE

Washington Square | CommunitySoulYoga.com 715.218.5240 (text or call)

Washington Square|facebook.com/Eccentric-Co-Emporium 715.393.4493

UPSCALE LADIES’ CONSIGNMENT

CAJUN CREOLE | FULL BAR | LIVE MUSIC

HEALTH SPA

21 YEARS OF EXQUISITE SPA SERVICES Washington Square | DayspringHealthspa.com 715.849.3772

CLASSIC | CONTEMPORARY | FORMAL 350 N. 3rd St. | campbellhaines.com 715.842.9520

Washington Square | secondpeekboutique.com 715.849.3338

316 N. Third | JGumbos.com & Facebook 715.848.6267

Cheryl’s Framing & Gallery HAIR SALON | COLOR & STYLE blondeandbeyondsalon@gmail.com 315 N. Third | 715.843.9300

The Lamplighter UNIQUE GIFTS | UPS SERVICE 300 Third Street • 715-845-8161

CUSTOM DESIGNS | IN-HOUSE REPAIRS 301 N. Third | wausaudiamond.com 715.845.4227

CRAFT BEER & WINE | SMALL PLATES 307 N. Third | crostinibar.com & Facebook 715-298-3551

DOG PILLOWS | FRAMING | GIFTS 325 N. Third Street 715.848.0467

Shop. Dine. Stay. Play!

Washington Square - The Shops on 3rd Street - The Palladian

715-849-8480

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.

Photo by Brittany Blunt

32 www.wausauchamber.com

CENTRAL TIME

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

CENTRAL TIME www.wausauchamber.com 33

COMMUNITY

PROFILES

Rothschild 715-359-3660 | villageofrothschild.org 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

WPS is proud to serve and support the Wausau region.

170083

34 www.wausauchamber.com

CENTRAL TIME

COMMUNITY

Schofield

PROFILES

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

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

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

Mount View Care Center

Skilled Nursing, Short-term Rehabilitation & Dementia Care

Outpatient, Inpatient and Community Treatment Services

North Central Health Care has a deep history and relationship with our Central Wisconsin community. We are 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.

Mental Health & Substance Abuse Treatment, Recovery & Support

24/7 Crisis Center Crisis Prevention, Care & Recovery

Residential Services

Group Homes & Supported Apartments

Developmental Disabilities Services

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.

Adult Day Services Prevocational Services Birth to Three Children’s Long-Term and Family Support

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 communities.

Partnering Together to Provide Compassionate and Specialized Care for Our Community

Aquatic Physical Therapy Adult Protective Services

www.norcen.org | 715.848.4600

Serving Our Residents of Marathon, Lincoln and Langlade Counties 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: Apogee Wausau Group, Aspirus, Eastbay, Graphic Packaging, Liberty Mutual, Marathon Electric, North Central Health Care, United Healthcare, Wausau School District 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.

36 www.wausauchamber.com

CENTRAL TIME

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

#1 Sales Team in the entire Wausau area

146 properties sold in 2016!

We specialize in relocation services

Action Realty Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

715-846-1300

CENTRAL TIME www.wausauchamber.com 37

Advertiser’s Index Church Mutual Insurance Company................................................18 City of Wausau.....................................36 Cloverbelt Credit Union....................32 Coldwell Banker Action Realty...........2 Coldwell Banker Action Realty........25 Compass Properties............................. 31 CoVantage Credit Union......................9 DC Everest School District..............34 Ear Nose & Throat Associates..........20 Featherstone Cabinetry and Design.............................................38 First Weber Group - Karen Harvey...5 First Weber Group - Pam Larkin.....35 footlocker.com/Eastbay.....................23 Ho-Chunk Gaming Wittenberg......28 Intercity State Bank.............................27 Island Place Apartments.......................7 Lemmens Creative Design.................16 MCDEVCO......................................... 15

38 www.wausauchamber.com

Marathon County Animal Hospital.....................................16 Marathon County Public Library........5 Marathon County Solid Waste.........30 North Central Health Care...............35 Northcentral Technical College........24 Peoples State Bank............................. 40 Pizza Ranch............................................ 13 QPS Employment Group................... 11 Rasmussen College.............................26 Riverview Monuments.......................38 SC Swiderski LLC................................ 22 Sun Printing..........................................38 Time Federal Savings Bank................29 Town of Rib Mountain........................33 The UPS Store #6619........................29 Waraksa Group......................................37 Wausau Events Inc................................17 Wausau School District......................20 West Corporation................................39 Wisconsin Public Service...................34

CENTRAL TIME

715-675-3553 4012 N. 6th Street Wausau, WI 54403 rvm4012@gmail.com

Cabinetry and Design

10606 Tesch Lane, Rothschild 715-359-5616 9433 Hwy. J, Minocqua 715-356-4544 For nearly 40 years, we've been

helping customers' dreams Rothschild become 10606 Tesch Lane, a custom reality. For any room in

your home, from cabinets to 715-359-5616 countertops and everything in

between - with superior quality at

9433 Highway an affordable price - J, letMinocqua our cabinetry inspire you to create a

715-356-4544 look that's all yours, but is

unmistakably Featherstone.

Please visit one of our showrooms or check us out online at www.featherstonecabinetry.com www.Houzz.com www.facebook.com/FeatherstoneCabinetry

www.featherstonecabinetry.com

West Corporation Time Off

Over 1 month paid time off per year

Careers with reach.

WEST IS CURRENTLY HIRING: Customer Service Representative

Balance

90% of our positions are Monday through Friday day shift

Opportunity

85% of leaders promoted internally

Benefits Account Management Sales Associate

Generous 401k, full suite of benefits, and tuition assistance

Referrals

40% of new hires are referred by current employees

Find out more at west.com/careers or call 715-848-0323.

1800 Westwood Center Blvd, Suite 300 Wausau, WI 54401

we connect. we deliver.

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