Spirit of America winner, nominees announced

Today the Southeast Missourian announced the winner of the 2015 Spirit of America Award. This year's recipient is Jerry Ford, a longtime member of this community who has served at the Cape River Heritage Museum, in musical performances -- his band, the Cape Girardeau Municipal Band and at military funerals -- and in other ways.

Read more about Ford in a story that appears in today's newspaper and online at semissourian.com.

Ford will be given the annual award on Saturday as part of the city of Cape Girardeau's Great America Fourth of the July activities, which will take place at Arena Park this year because of the high river. The event begins at 7:15 p.m. with a naturalization ceremony. Twenty candidates for citizenship will be sworn in. At 8 p.m. the Cape Girardeau Municipal Band will play patriotic music. The Spirit of America Award will begin at 8:30 p.m. The fireworks end the event and are set to start at 9:15 p.m. Parking is free throughout the park, but there are some reserved areas.

We had several outstanding nominees this year for the annual award presented by the newspaper, which recognizes an individual for patriotism and community involvement. In addition to Jerry Ford, the nominations for four other candidates are printed in the paper and online. Here is the background of these candidates:

* Dr. Kenneth Dobbins. Dr. Dobbins recently retired as president of Southeast Missouri State University. The president for 16 years, Dobbins served Southeast since 1991 in various positions. His leadership helped the university grow enrollment, expand facilities and bring distinction to academic programs. His list of accomplishments is lengthy, including civic involvement on area boards.

* Wayne Wallingford. A current state senator, Wallingford's military record alone qualifies him for this award. He retired from the military as a lieutenant colonel and earned many medals of service, including the prestigious Silver Star for bravery and the Distinguished Flying Cross.

* Doug Austin. Having served in his church, community and state, Austin regularly challenges others to be "visible and measurable" in their work. He's done this through involvement with Seniors and Lawmen Together, the Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, the Missouri Baptist Convention executive board and other organizations.

* Charlotte Craig. The former executive director of the county health department, Craig's connection to the area goes beyond her employment. According to her nomination, she was a founding member of the local Humane Society. She's been active with the shelter and provided leadership, financial and volunteer support.

The Southeast Missourian editorial board decided current elected office holders would not be eligible to receive the award until after they leave office.

Congratulations to each of the nominees for the Southeast Missourian Spirit of America Award and thanks to all the individuals who daily go about their business in support of this country and community.

We wish each of you a safe and happy Fourth of July.