By Taylor J. Hale 

 Staff Writer

STEVENS POINT – Local humanitarians are receiving recognition for their goodwill, kindness, and dedication to the community.

Mayor Mike Wiza kicked off his latest project, the “Good Deed Doers” on Aug. 5.  Recipients receive a heart-shaped keychain with an engraving reading “Mayor Mike’s Good Deed Doers,” a plaque, and a personal thank you from Wiza.

“I wanted to do something to recognize all of the great volunteers and the great people in the community that are willing to step up and help out when it’s needed,” Wiza said. “That’s something that’s impressed me with this community for my whole life.”

Nora Ammel

The first recipient was Nora Ammel. The young Portage County local delivered cookies to people doing storm cleanup work during this summer’s severe weather outbreak.

“I got those people cookies,” Nora said to Wiza while receiving her award on Aug. 5.

Jason Laffe

Another recipient, Jason Laffe, helped plow over 100 driveways when the city saw late-season snowfall in the early part of the year. The Stevens Point local announced on social media he was willing to help residents plow their driveways during the troubling weather.

Curt Ashbeck

Curt Ashbeck also received a “Good Deed Doers” award for his volunteer maintenance work at the Stevens Point Dog Park.

The mayor noted that he hopes to award a resident every several weeks. He sees the program as a way to encourage community spirit and acknowledge the goodwill of others.

“I think it’s contagious a little bit,” Wiza said. “Everybody knows there are excellent people out there.  It’s like yawning — I’m hoping that being able to put a spotlight on some of these people inspires other people.”

Do you have a friend or family member that you feel is a “Good Deed Doer?” Send a short letter to Mayor Mike Wiza explaining what they have done for the community at 1515 Strongs Ave., Stevens Point, WI, 54481, or email [email protected]