May 15, 2019
Posted at 2:15 p.m. on May 15, 2019
The Brillion News
MADISON – The Wisconsin State Assembly recognized Jayme Closs from Barron, Wisconsin
as an Assembly “Hometown Hero” at its floor session on Wednesday, May 15.
Closs made national headlines last fall after she was taken from her home in Barron without a
trace. After 88 days in captivity, she escaped and sought help.
Closs was nominated for the Assembly Hometown Hero award by her State Representative, Romaine Quinn, R-Barron, for her extraordinary resilience and bravery in the face of tragedy and adversity at just 13 years old.
“Jayme’s bravery, resilience, and strength is truly amazing. She has taught us all that no matter
how dark your circumstances may be, there is always hope,” said Rep. Quinn. “I can’t think of
anyone more deserving of our Hometown Hero award than Ms. Closs, and the entire State of
Wisconsin wishes her the best on her future endeavors.”
Closs joined her aunt and family members at the day’s floor session to receive the award after
having been largely out of the public eye since her escape.
“The things this young girl has gone through, to still be standing here strong today, is nothing
short of inspiring,” said Assembly Majority Leader Jim Steineke, R-Kaukauna, who selects
Hometown Hero recipients. “We in the Assembly and the entire state of Wisconsin are behind
Jayme, her family, and her community as she pursues what I’m sure will be a bright future.”
The Wisconsin State Assembly sees giving back to the community as one of the most valuable
characteristics one can have. The Assembly Hometown Heroes program seeks to identify and
recognize individuals from around the state who give of themselves to make a difference in our
communities and in the lives of those around them.
Hometown Hero Award winners are invited and introduced as a special guest at an Assembly floor session and given the opportunity to speak.
Note: The photo of Jayme accompanying this story is a file photo. The family asked that no photos be taken or used by the news media. We respect that, even though other members of the news media do not.