Please join the Chippewa Valley Council, Scouting America at the 2026 Leaders of Character Banquet as we honor Barb and Bob Lorkowski with the Good Scout Award and hear stories from Dalton Hessel aka "The Northern Nerd" on Social Media & local teacher.
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Event Highlights
- 5:30 PM: Cocktails
- 6:00 PM: Dinner, Honoree Recognition, Guest Speaker, and Auction
- Presentation of the "Good Scout Award" to Barb and Bob Lorkowski
- Special guest speaker: "The Northern Nerd" Dalton Hessel
- Live auction
- Three-course dinner and drinks
About Our Honoree: Barb and Bob Lorkowski
Barb and Bob have dedicated decades of service to their community, demonstrating a life long commitment to leadership, volunteerism, and Scouting. Barb enjoyed a distinguished 40 year career in education before retiring. Bob grew up in Chicago and was actively involved in Scouting, earning the rank of Eagle Scout. Bob is a self-taught fabricator, welder, mechanic, designer, body and paint technician and is the owner of L'Cars Automotive Specialties. Together they own and operate Gateway Gourmets & Gateway Inn & Suites in Bruce.
Two of Barb and Bob's greatest passions are supporting America's veterans and strengthening Scouting opportunities in rural communities. In recognition of his exceptional service to Scouting youth, Bob received the Silver Bea ver Award in 2007. More recently they were awarded the State of Wisconsin Legislative Citation for Volunteer Service to Scouting. They have also served as the hosts and chairs of the beloved Bites & Blooms fundraiser. Beyond their involvement in Scouting, Barb and Bob have been active supporters of Wreaths Across America, their church St. Mary's Catholic Church in Bruce and the Rusk County community at large.
Featured Speaker: "The Northern Nerd" Dalton Hessel
Dalton is an internet personality and second-grade teacher from Hayward, Wisconsin. With nearly quarter of a million followers across social media platforms, Dalton shares positivity, connection, and hu mor while highlighting life in northern Wisconsin and his experiences as a teacher. Dalton grew up in Hayward and was active in Cub Scouts as a youth.
In recent years, Dalton's passion for connecting with others led him to create his Northern Nerd social media platform. He has gained a large following by show casing unique northern Wisconsin traditions and events, including the Birke and the Lumberjack World Champi onships, sharing humorous stories from the classroom, and promoting kindness and positivity. Dalton has also had the opportunity to interview and highlight remarkable individuals from Wisconsin, including NASA engineers, Olympic medalists, fellow educators and local small-business owners.
Reserve Your Spot
Reserve Now! Don't miss this inspiring evening of community, leadership, and support for Scouting!
- $150 per person
- $1,000 per table of 8
If you would like to reserve a seat, please call 715-598-9719.
