On Thursday, May 12 a group of Columbia County community members were honored for their commitment to positive youth development in their communities.  The Columbia County Connects Coalition held its 10th annual “Asset Builders Celebration” at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Portage.

The 35 honored community members were from all over Columbia County and were nominated by past Asset Builder award winners and community members. They join a prestigious list of 265 past recipients. Detective Jay Yerges served as master of ceremonies for the event. 

All winners were chosen because of their role in providing programs or activities that relate to the 40 Developmental Assets.  Developmental asset communities and individuals create an environment where youth are valued, can thrive and avoid “at risk” behaviors. Once people have committed to creating a healthy community for children and adolescents, many other issues and needs come into focus.

Following the awards presentation, winners and guests were treated to a dessert reception.  Award recipients from Columbus included: Andy Black, Sharon Bradish, Lee Columbus, Eugene and Phyllis Damm, Paul Genco, Beth Hellpap, Dennis Langfeldt, and Dan Meister.  Gae Seaman from Fall River was honored as well as Megan Dorsey, Karen Halfmann, and Steven Ricks from Lodi.  Pardeeville honorees were: Barb Allen, Amy Brodie, Richard Depies, and Geri Gorman. Portage honorees were: Pam Dodd, Ron Olson, Nancy Schaper, and Tom Shaver. Sallie Spees was the honoree from Poynette. The Rio honorees were: Kacy Falk, Gail Schneider, Tina Stoddard, and Eugene Vangen. The Wisconsin Dells honoree was: Kate Clausius. Honorees who are making an impact on a  Columbia County wide basis are: Travis Clausen, Lauren Falstad, Alexandra Harvey, Lindsay Johnson, Kathy Koenecke, Amy Peterson, Joab Wynn, and Brenda Yaskal.