At-a-Kid!

Remember LR grad Cade Egbert. I see him from time to time and he always gives me a big smile. Cade was special as an athlete. He may not have been the most talented, but no matter what year you think of, he would be a starter for any of the Raiders past basketball teams. Cade was always exciting to watch and passionate about the game. He was ultra-competitive and fearless, but most importantly he was having fun. I’ve never seen a high school athlete attack the basket as hard as Cade. He would score, draw a charge or be shooting free throws. I felt for players trying to defend him.

Cade knew that no matter the outcome, I was always there to support the Raiders. Often when the pressure was on, he would flash his big smile at me and yell “At-a-Kid” Mr. A. and I loved it even though I am well over twice his age. He was doing all the work and I appreciated him more than he appreciated me.

In the spirit of Cade, I want to pass on some “At-a-Kid” awards to some community members. There are actually many, but here are a few I appreciate very much for specific things they’re doing that make an impactful difference or get us thinking for the better.

Ramona Hicks – As the CEO of the Coulee Medical Center, Ramona is such a gift as a natural leader. Jobs don’t come harder than oversite of a medical facility. With her leadership, sound human dynamics is a priority and thriving and the organizations fiscal challenges are improving significantly. She is so humble as a servant leader who puts others first with a growth mindset that is amazing.

Kevin Portch – Every time I think of Kevin, I envision a kid I had in school. Now he has kids of his own in school and is successfully running the local family business. His leadership with North Dam Park challenges (along with his wingman Brian Warnecke) shows community service at its best. I remember Coulee Hardware taking the lead for the Skate Park and countless others building and maintaining the ball fields. This reminds me of the tremendous teamwork that led to the local golf course. All of you make our communities the best place on earth to live. Kevin’s unwavering persistence towards securing sustainable funding for the North Dam Park is fabulous and not taken for granted.

Scott Hunter – My dad was a newspaper owner, so I’ve always appreciated Scott. I don’t know how he is able to keep our local paper at a buck. Scott fully understands the importance of a diversity of viewpoints. He made this list because for decades he’s continued to push for unity of services among our small solo communities. As I’ve followed his thinking, over the years, I support the majority of the concepts involved with each town still having its own uniqueness. Without a doubt we can be more efficient and effective if we work together. The EMS district would be a logical place to start this thoughtful process because of the significant importance involved.

I appreciate that we’re surrounded by these and many other people who make our communities and lives better every day.

John M. Adkins