Don Wiegand Named 2009 Citizen of the Year

The Chesterfield City Council has named Don Wiegand as the 2009 Citizen of the Year. A Citizens Selection Committee presented their recommendation to the City Council following their review of several nominations. Mayor John Nations presented Mr. Wiegand with the award at the March 15 City Council Meeting.

Citizens of the Year are recognized for their benefit to the City of Chesterfield through volunteerism, working on community projects, and overall civic contributions to the community. Mr. Wiegand is a world-renown sculptor with his studio located in the Chesterfield Valley. He has established the Wiegand Foundation which supports numerous charities throughout the area. One nomination stated, "Anyone who knows Don recognizes his spirit and his generosity to others. His attitude of endless giving is nothing less than inspirational to all who know him." Another stated, "Don's dreams and actions to support his personal mission of giving back to our community have demonstrated so many amazing successes through his personal sacrifices in time and resources."

Additionally, Mayor Nations recognized Mr. Wiegand for his involvement in establishing the Spirit of Hope Award. This award is presented annually for outstanding service to the United States and is awarded to men and women of the United States Armed Forces, entertainers and other distinguished Americans and organizations whose patriotism and service reflects that of Bob Hope. Mr. Hope was designated the first honorary veteran of the United States Armed Forces for his decades of entertaining troops, both in peacetime and in combat zones. This honor was bestowed by the U.S. Congress, and signed into law by President Clinton. The award is a likeness of Bob Hope that was created by Wiegand, who now coordinates and funds the award through The Wiegand Foundation.

Mayor Nations recognized Mr. Wiegand for all he has done over the years to be a good partner with the City of Chesterfield and the many residents in the region who have benefitted from his charitable work. "Thank you for all you do for the City and the Community to enrich all our lives," stated Mayor Nations.

Other nominees for Citizen of the Year were Mary Brown, Mark Leech and Stacey Morse.Don Wiegand Receives Citizen of the Year Award from Mayor Nations