Blue Ribbon Committee honors mayor

Sedalia Mayor Bob Wasson got a surprise Friday: A first-of-its-kind award.

Wasson was at the Missouri State Fairgrounds for the Blue Ribbon Fireworks when he was called up by the committee to receive the Distinguished Blue Ribbon Award.

The award is in recognition for his efforts and support of the Blue Ribbon Committee and its vision.

Wasson welcomed audience members to the concert and fireworks presentation prior to the award.

“The important thing is we’re here tonight to celebrate the Fourth of July, a great tradition” and a great time to come together as a community, Wasson said in his welcome.

His daughter, Deanna Nelson, performed Lee Greenwood’s song “Proud to be an American” before her father was called back to the front of the grandstand.

Wasson was brought up for the award by committee member Judy Parkhurst, who, with committee chairman Jim Mathewson, presented the award.

Wasson said later he was surprised to receive the award.

“I think it’s a lifetime memory that I’ll treasure,” he said.

Wasson, a member of the committee, said they have worked very hard and he has tried to be supportive of the group’s mission.

Mathewson said the committee decided to honor Wasson at its meeting a few weeks ago, but kept the award a secret.

“We just did it,” he said.

Mathewson said committee members were sincere in the award.

“It was an emotional thing for us today,” Mathewson said.

Wasson underwent surgery to remove tumors twice in the last few months, first in his brain and then in his colon.

“We think he’s been a great asset to our community,” Mathewson said.

The ceremony preceded a concert by the band Sidewinder. The program Friday also included a salute to veterans and military personnel before the fireworks.

The free event was organized by the committee.