PRESCOTT - A packed house of community and business leaders gathered Thursday, May 15, at The Ridgetop in Prescott to celebrate the Pierce County Economic Development Corporation (PCEDC) Annual Awards Breakfast, an event that highlighted the people and projects helping to drive economic success throughout the county.

The morning was filled with celebration, gratitude, and forward-looking enthusiasm. Master of ceremonies Nate Boettcher, CEO of Pierce-Pepin Cooperative Services, welcomed attendees with remarks about the progress Pierce County has made and the importance of continuing to share its success stories.

“Sometimes we’re a little too humble,” Boettcher said. “But we have a great story to tell in Pierce County, and events like this remind us to be proud of the work we do and the communities we’re building.”

The featured speaker, Sidney Laurvick, founder of Metered Mining in Hager City, captivated the crowd with the story of how he turned a garage hobby into a cutting-edge data center focused on cryptocurrency mining and artificial intelligence. Laurvick offered insights into the technology behind Bitcoin and spoke passionately about the future of energy, data, and innovation.

“What started as a side project in my garage has grown into a facility powering part of the blockchain,” Laurvick said. “This isn’t just about Bitcoin—it’s about bringing the future to rural Wisconsin and creating economic opportunities we couldn’t have imagined a decade ago.”

Celebrating success

The heart of the event was the presentation of the 2025 Economic Development Awards, honoring standout contributions from businesses and individuals across the county:

• Small Business of the Year: Udder Hills Meats of Maiden Rock was honored for their entrepreneurial spirit and community-driven approach to sustainable farming. From humble beginnings selling meat from garage freezers, the family-run business has grown into a local favorite offering a wide array of farm-raised meats with a strong emphasis on quality and transparency.
• Tourism and Hospitality Award: The Great River Road Learning Center in Prescott received the award for its impact on local tourism and education. With more than 13,000 annual visitors from 44 states and 30 countries, the center has become a gateway to the scenic Great River Road and a hub for environmental learning and family-friendly events.
• Economic Boost Award: Alcivia of Hager City was recognized for its investment in a new state-of-the-art grain facility, enhancing market access and year-round economic opportunities for area farmers. The terminal is set to ship its first full shuttle train this month, marking a major milestone in agricultural infrastructure.
• Professional Business Award: Brandon Clare of JM Watkins in Plum City earned the honor for his leadership in the local meat processing industry. Though unable to attend, Clare shared his thanks through a written message, noting the steep learning curve he navigated after purchasing the business and expressing appreciation for the recognition.
• Cornerstone Award: A highlight of the breakfast came with the heartfelt tribute to longtime PCEDC Executive Director Joe Folsom, who was honored with the Cornerstone Award and a standing ovation from the crowd. After seven years leading the organization—and a long career in rural development—Folsom was celebrated for his mentorship, leadership, and tireless support of initiatives like broadband expansion and affordable housing.

“I’m grateful for the relationships, the stories, and the chance to be part of your communities,” Folsom said during his remarks. “Helping others pursue their dreams has been the most rewarding part of my work.”

Folsom’s successor, Lauren Highfill, also addressed the crowd, expressing thanks for the warm welcome she’s received in her new role and highlighting the PCEDC’s renewed focus on strategic planning and municipal collaboration.

The breakfast wrapped up with a challenge from Boettcher for the community to keep telling its story.

“We have a bright future,” he said. “Let’s make sure people hear about it. Every business, every community effort, every person in this room has a part in shaping what's next.”

With awards presented, stories shared, and the crowd inspired, the Pierce County Economic Development Corporation’s Annual Awards Breakfast proved once again to be a powerful reminder of the promise and progress rooted in the heart of western Wisconsin.