L-R: Senator Patrick Testin, Cliff Gagas, Carole Gagas, Dr. Barb Kasprowicz, Ted Lein, Candace Lein, Kailen Smerchek Jacqueline Wisinski, Alex Brzezinski, Brady Patoka and Representative Katrina Shankland. (Courtesy Portage Co. Business Council)

PCBC honors individuals for contributions to agriculture

March 14, 2020

Metro Wire Staff

Several area residents were honored during a March 9 dinner sponsored by the Agri-Business Committee of the Portage County Business Council.

Keynote speaker for the event was Candise Miller, executive director of Farming for the Future Foundation, and Master of Ceremonies was Ken Schroeder, UW-Extension Portage Co. Agricultural Agent.

The Outstanding Contribution to Agriculture Award was presented to Cliff and Carole Gagas of Gagas Farms, Inc. The two have made an “outstanding commitment to the progress and success of the agri-business industry and for their significant contributions to the agri-business community,” according to a news release from the PCBC.

Recipients of the Agri-Business Scholarship were Alex Brzezinski, son of Renee and Gerald Brzezinski of Stevens Point; and Jacqueline Wisinski, daughter of Jane and Mark Wisinski of Stevens Point.

Outstanding FFA Senior Awards went to Brady Patoka of Amherst High School, son of Jodi and Joe Patoka; Kailen Smerchek from Rosholt High School, daughter of Shelly and Dan Smerchek; and Alex Brzezinski, a student at SPASH, son of Renee and Gerald Brzezinski.

The 4-H Leadership in Agriculture Award was presented to Candice Lein, daughter of Dr. Barb Kasprowicz and Ted Lein. The 4-H Agriculture Leaders of the Year Award was presented to Dr. Barb Kasprowicz and Ted Lein.

The American Agriculture Appreciation Banquet is an annual event that celebrates Portage County individuals for their personal and professional contributions to agriculture in Portage County.