The Agri-Business Committee of the Portage County Business Council (PCBC) presented several awards including the Outstanding FFA Seniors, 4-H Agriculture Leader of the Year, Outstanding Contribution to Agriculture and Agri-Business scholarships during the annual American Agriculture Appreciation Banquet held March 14 in Stevens Point.

Jeremie Pavelski, president of Heartland Farms, was awarded the Outstanding Contribution to Agriculture Awards for his outstanding commitment to the progress and success of the agri-business industry, for his significant contributions to the agri-business community.

“It is clear that Jeremie is an active community leader and highly respected by many. He is an advocate of the agri-business industry and has shown outstanding commitment and passion towards agri-business in our community. We are pleased to have Jeremie and his family choose our community as the place to ‘make a difference’ because indeed, he has,” said Karen Schanock, director of programs and events for the Portage County Business Council. “It is an honor to present him with this award.”

The Agri-Business Scholarship recipients included Natasha Kowalchuk, daughter of John Kowalchuk and Debra Skupien; and Eric Wuthrich, son of Julie and Craig Wuthrich.

Outstanding FFA Senior Awards went to Eric Wuthrich, Amherst High School; Breanna Yenter, Rosholt High School; and MacKenzie Betro, Stevens Point Area Senior High School.

The 4-H Agriculture Leader of the Year Award was presented to Carrie Wierzba.

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

The PCBC focuses on business retention and attraction and employee retention and attraction to enhance the economic vitality of the region.