\'A bright light in a time of sadness\': Jayme Closs honored at Capitol

Special recognition tonight for a wisconsin teenager who showed bravery amid a tragedy seen across the nation.

In a rare public appearance... barron native jayme closs came to madison to receive an award at the state capitol today.

That's where our rose schmidt joins us live... to explain this great honor.

Jayme closs did not speak at the event today... but her aunt says she really enjoyed her day here... walking these halls for a capitol tour... and her aunt highlighted the kindness she was shown from everyone around her today... as she awarded for her heroism.

((( , "3:37:50 on october 15th of last year 53 tragedy struck my community of barron 55 "))) after a long seven months for the northwestern wisconsin community of barron... there's a new meaning on what it means to call a place "home."

((( , "3:38:30 but then something miraculous happneed 33 after 88 days in captivity that young lady foudn her way to freedom 39 "))) a journey that led that 13- year-old young lady... to the wisconsin state capitol wednesday..... ((( , "3:39:12 i am so proud to present our hometown hero award to miss jayme closs 18 clapping "))) a recognition state lawmakers agreed was well deserved... as represnentative romaine quinn -- who represents barron... nominated jayme closs.

3:38:52 you're truly an inspriation and a bright light during a time of sadness 57 the hometown hero award is given to those who give back to their communities and make a difference... ((( , "3:40:45 speaking for her entire family, i have to say 50 that jayme is totally deserving of the hero part of this award 54 her courage, her bravery, and her spirit are things that inspire us and make us stronger and better 01 "))) jayme's aunt -- jennifer smith spoke on her behalf... thanking everyone she met for the kindness they showed... and the community that's welcomed her with open arms. ((( , "3:40:34 our hometown, barron, and the surrounding area needs to be recognized for their support, encouragement and their love 42 "))) a home they're all glad jayme found her way back to... with a lesson to us all.

3:38:59 no matter how grave your situation, no matter how dark your days become 04 and no matter how impossible your circumstances may seem, there is always hope 10 the man who held jayme closs the man who held jayme closs captive... jake patterson... has pleaded guilty to kidnapping her and killing her parents in october.

He faces life in prison when