Chamber presents Legacy Award to Rouman family

On a night where numerous organizations, businesses and individuals were honored for business and civic excellence, the Rhinelander Area Chamber of Commerce paid special tribute to the Rouman family in recognition of its more than a century of “truly extraordinary” service to the Rhinelander community.

“This award is not one we will give annually but one reserved for those whose impact on our Chamber and business community is truly extraordinary,” chamber officials explained in a statement posted to the organization’s Facebook page last Friday, along with an array of photos from the annual Chamber Awards Gala and Fundraiser event held Thursday, Jan. 23 at The Pines Event Center. “It is a tribute to individuals or businesses whose contributions have shaped the Chamber and Rhinelander in lasting and meaningful ways. We are privileged to present this legacy award to honor the Rouman Family — George, Michael and the entire Rouman family. Their legacy of service, leadership, and generosity has left an irrefutable mark on our community. Through their unwavering commitment to the business community, the Chamber, and the broader Rhinelander area, the Roumans have exemplified what it truly means to make a difference.”

Family friend Ryan Hetland accepted the award, presented by chamber executive director Lauren Sackett, on behalf of the  Rouman family.

Since 1921, three generations of Roumans have kept the Rhinelander community entertained as proprietors of the Majestic Theatre, the State Theater, the Rouman Drive-in and the Rouman Cinema.

George Rouman was serving as president of Rouman Amusement Company when he was killed in a car accident on June 9, 2024. An enthusiastic community leader, he was also the owner of the Fun Factory Sweet Shoppe on Brown Street and a gelato catering business. 

Mike Rouman passed away in August 2023 at the age of 87.

“The Rouman family has always been community-minded,” the chamber’s post reads. “They represented not only our community, but well beyond that with involvement in the National Association of Theatre Owners. During COVID they worked with state lawmakers to ensure support of the theater industry. And they’ve always supported community events and initiatives, including the Chamber’s Expo event, Forward Rhinelander and many more. Sadly, Rhinelander suffered a great loss with the passing of George in 2024 and Michael just the year before. Their absence is deeply felt, but their remarkable legacy lives on through the profound contributions they have made to our community. We all have stories of the impact the Roumans have had within our own lives. We recognize and celebrate the incredible impact of the Rouman family. Their dedication, vision, and passion have left a legacy that will endure for generations to come.”

Several outstanding businesses and individuals were also recognized during the event. 

The 2024 Chamber Award Winners are:

Small Business Excellence

Heather Collins Photography

Business Excellence

Ripco Credit Union

Community Service Award

Rhinelander Area Silent Trails Association

Community Enhancement Award

• Holiday Inn Express & Suites

Entrepreneurial Achievement

• Cutz with Connection

Company Culture Excellence

• Trig’s

Community Volunteer of the Year

•Amy Vanney

Spirit of the Hodag

• Eric Burke