Families, staff connect for recognition banquets Hundreds gather to honor ProAct participants, employers  | |
Eagan consumers Curtis Nacy, left, and Mary Cysiewski enjoy some time with Channel 5 Meteorologist Jonathan Yuhas.
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ProAct's Recognition Banquets are arguably the most anticipated events of the year for many, as consumers and employers are honored for their commitment and service.
Separate events for Eagan/Hudson and Red Wing/Zumbrota each attracted more than 500. The former gathering, held at the Prom Center in Oakdale, was emceed by local celebrity Jonathan Yuhas, a meteorologist with television station KSTP. Red Wing and Zumbrota celebrated at Treasure Island Resort & Casino with retired special eduction teacher Dave Glover. It was the 39th annual event for Red Wing.
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Two years later: key employee helps run farm 
"He has embraced all of it and is very proud, as he should be, of his accomplishments," said Bluff Breeze Farm owner Connie Bodeker, who hired him in 2009. Miller covers many of the daily tasks at the Cannon Falls livestock facility, and has
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Miller, right, carefully holds an alpaca near the ears as farm owner Connie Bodeker injects a medication. The holds are slow and deliberate by design.
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the full trust of its owners.
Responsible for feeding all the farm's animals, including 100 alpacas, Miller operates tractors to maintain the operation. He's also boosted his people skills by giving tours, Bodeker explains. Impressed by his memory, she said he never forgets to close a gate and has a solid knowledge of feed and livestock care.
Alpacas get very used to the same handlers, said Bodeker. Miller uses a special technique with alpaca babies, kissing them on top of the head as they're released back to their mothers. He watches births closely, and could handle it himself, she explains.
"We had no preconceived ideas about Nolan and just asked him and expected him to do whatever we would ask of any employee," Bodeker said. She describes his demeanor as kind, polite, gentle, and considerate. He halter trains baby alpacas, helps with shearing and shows, and requires little supervision. Miller also never complains about the heat or cold.
"I have no doubt that this young man will have an independent life on his own, with a good job and perhaps a family, one day," said Bodeker.
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