Making tracks

By Bill Clow
Rhinelander Area Chamber Director

It should come as no surprise to anyone who has visited Rhinelander in the last four weeks that the downtown construction project is well underway. While there are streets that are closed to car traffic, the whole downtown can be accessed by parking in nearby parking lots or on adjoining streets and walking to your destination. We strongly encourage you to visit these retailers and restaurants!

Several fun events are planned for downtown including a scavenger hunt, a concert and much more. Watch for more information coming out about these and other events.
Through the eyes of a newcomer
We had a family come into to the Chamber offices recently who reminded me of how lucky we are in Rhinelander. This young family had just moved to town from a southwestern state and stopped by the Chamber to get information about what was available in Rhinelander. They had just driven around town some and were excited that Rhinelander has “so many stores!”
They are right! Rhinelander has the best shopping and the best restaurants in the Northwoods! With scores of unique stores and shops throughout the Rhinelander area, and some of the best restaurants in the Northwoods, the Rhinelander area really is a retail and diner’s paradise. Whether you are planning a day of shopping or an evening out, make sure to consider the many options right here in Rhinelander.
Chamber office hours
The Chamber Office, during the month of May and for a week or two into June, will be closed on Tuesday mornings as the Chamber staff takes the time to go visit with some of our resort members in order to familiarize ourselves more with their amenities and attractions. Also, starting on Memorial Day, through Labor Day, the Chamber Offices will be open from 9 to 1 on Saturdays. We will also be open from 9 to 1 on Memorial Day, 4th of July and Labor Day.
Summer is coming!
Despite the chilly morning temperatures we’ve had for most of this week, summer really is around the corner. In the next month, the calendar will start to fill with summer activities, festivals, fishing, biking, hiking and so much more! So it is great timing that the new Oneida County Travel & Trail Guide is now available at the Chamber office. This free publication has information about communities in and around Oneida County and maps and information about 24 trails throughout the county. The guide features 162 miles of hiking trails on 20 trails, 112 miles of biking trails on 13 trails, 115 miles of ATV trails, not to mention trails for fatbiking, horseback riding, winter trails and other activity information including golf courses, lakes, rivers and fishing. Come get your Oneida County Travel & Trail Guide, as well as a variety of materials about places to stay, things to do and restaurants to enjoy, at the Chamber offices.

Upcoming community events
May 7
The Elcho Community Pavilion’s Women’s Spring Fashion Show featuring wine, cheese and chocolate
The Hodag Water Show Rummage Sale

May 18
Business After 5 at Big Daddy’s with Let’s Go Fishing

May 21
Iron Mike 5K Run/Walk at Rhinelander High School
YMCA Denim & Diamonds Gala

May 25
Elcho Community Pavilion’s Roast Turkey Dinner

May 28
The Rhinelander Farmer’s Market opens

June 11
Art Fair on the Courthouse Lawn
Rhinelander Car Show

June 15
Business After 5 at Pinewood Country Club

June 25
Boom Lake Log Jam

If you have any questions, comments or ideas about anything in this column or any other aspect of the Rhinelander Area Chamber of Commerce, please contact us at 715-365-7464, email me at director@rhinelanderchamber.com or visit our website at www.ExploreRhinelander.com.