Dementia is the one disease that can be made better or worse by our actions and reactions.

When a loved one is diagnosed with dementia, we often see them change. We may doubt ourselves, question their actions, or get upset or frustrated. But this pattern is, and should be, familiar to us. Our whole lives are hallmarked by changes in the brain, and with each change — from early on to later in life — we adjust, adapt, and continue to help our loved ones grow.

We invite you to read this short article which offers a fresh perspective on caring for someone with dementia. (Click the title for details…)

November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month. There’s still time to head to the Humane Society of Marathon County to check out their current senior guests awaiting a home.

Think of the GRATITUDE a senior dog or cat would show you this Thanksgiving season if you adopted one of them!

See several of the adorable senior pets (like Samuel & Miley shown above) needing homes in Marathon County right now, and learn a bit about the adoption process (including a special Senior for Seniors discount program) in the full article. (Click the title for details…)

From the 1st annual County Fair in 1868 (which opened with a speech given in German celebrating Marathon County farmers for their “patient toil”) to the annual Diwali “Festival of Lights” events in Rothschild, the Hmong New Year celebrations in Weston, and many more — our local cultural festivals aim to bring people together from all across Marathon County. These events often help us better appreciate our differences, learn new things, challenge some previously held assumptions, and get to know our neighbors better.

See photos and video from some of our most recent cultural festivals and learn about a brand-new cultural festival in store for January 2020 in the full article. (Click the title for details…)

Marathon County is proud to announce that it has 2 graduates of the Wisconsin Local Government Leadership Academy: County Board Supervisor Katie Rosenberg and Marathon County Human Resources Analyst Boly Vang.
A new class is currently being recruited for 2020 and we are hopeful that Marathon County will again be well represented. Learn more about the Leadership Academy, get insights from Katie and Boly, and find out how to register for the next session. (Click the title for details…)

Have you ever thought that a seat on the County Board might be something you’d enjoy? 

It’s a way you can learn about local issues and trends, meet interesting people, and more importantly, help shape the future of Marathon County. 

Nomination papers may be circulated starting on December 1 and must be filed with the County Clerk by 5 p.m. on January 2, 2020.

Learn about County Board Supervisor duties, qualifications, pay, and more in the full article. (Click the title for details…)

County Administrator Brad Karger asks: “Does this year’s Budget Message help you understand the priorities, constraints, and clear connections to the County’s Strategic Plan?” 

The public is invited to read the County Administrator’s Budget Message and to attend this year’s Budget Hearing (8 p.m. on Tuesday, November 12, 2019, at the Marathon County Courthouse in the Assembly Room, B-105). 

Learn more about the proposed 2020 County Budget and how you can weigh in on this initial draft. (Click the title for details…)

Marathon County Government will soon be considering a new employment policy that will allow its 700 County employees 1 paid day (8 hours) off per year to volunteer at an approved non-profit agency.

Local administrators recognize current workforce challenges and are looking for additional ways to help their staff find meaning in their work.

The proposal will be discussed at the County’s Human Resources, Finance, and Property Committee at their October 14 meeting. The public is invited to weigh in and/or attend the meeting. (Click the title for details…)

United Way of Marathon County has the staff and online tools to help you choose from countless volunteer opportunities at nearly 100 local agencies in need to find one that is just right for you or your volunteer group of any size. (Click the title for details…)

In May, the Marathon County Board declared the 2nd Monday in October as “Indigenous Peoples’ Day in Marathon County” and encouraged residents to learn more about the history of Indigenous People and to celebrate their culture.

Join the Marathon County Board at its October 17 Informational Meeting for a special presentation on Indigenous People by Professor Brett Barker. (Or view the recorded video on the Marathon County Board Meetings YouTube channel).

You’re also invited to attend a powwow at the Wausau West Field House on October 12 and 13, 2019. There will be food, music, crafts, dance, and a history of Indigenous People in Wisconsin. Admission is free and the public is invited. (Click the title for details…)