Folsom City Council hands out first Spirit awards

City of Folsom officials honored six local residents during the new "Spirit of Folsom" awards ceremony last week. The council recognized the first recipients of the annual awards at the regular Sept. 10 meeting. Standout members of the Folsom community were honored with certificates for their exceptional service, dedication and commitment to "making Folsom a better place." Those Folsom folks honored were: Jeff Ferreira-Pro, nominated by Mayor Mike Kozlowski; Brian Smith, named by Vice Mayor Sarah Aquino; Jeff Moore, by Councilmember Anna Rohrbough; Sandy Zaboukos, by Councilmember YK Chalamcherla; DeAnn Wren, by Chalamcherla; and Steve Heard, by Councilmember Rosario Rodriguez. The city accepts applications for the Spirit of Folsom Award, an annual recognition program that spotlights locals who have gone "above and beyond" to serve and improve the community. Each Folsom City Councilmember will nominate one recipient from their district each year, resulting in about five award winners each September. Additionally, their achievements will be displayed at Folsom City Hall and highlighted on the city's website, newsletter and social media platforms. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and reviewed once per year. All nominations must contain sufficient details to be considered. Applicants may nominate themselves or another individual. City council members may select their own nominee. The nominee must have performed, created or developed an activity and/or service that made a significant impact on the quality of life in Folsom. The efforts may include: * Addressing community needs: Improves local neighborhoods or schools with a positive impact. * Promotion of public safety: Assists in promoting public safety and maintaining community well-being. * Environmental stewardship: Supports, maintains and beautifies Folsom's natural environment. * Social and humanitarian contributions: Supports the community at a social and humanitarian level. * Cultural and heritage preservation: Contributes to arts, culture and the preservation of Folsom's heritage. * Commitment to youth and recreation: Demonstrates commitment to sports, coaching and recreation. * Collaboration and partnership: Supports ventures that encourage partnerships in the community. * Health and well-being: Initiatives focused on the health and wellness of Folsom residents. * Economic development: Efforts focused on commerce development in Folsom. Veteran Brian Smith is known for his volunteer work and coaching. Jeff Ferreira-Pro was named for historical contributions to the community as a longtime member of the Folsom Historical Society. Steve Heard is a well-known Realtor and Folsom resident, former chamber ambassador and board president of Choose Folsom. DeAnn Wren is known as the "lost dog finder," reporting lost pets and helping to return them. Jeff Moore was selected for his volunteer efforts, military service and involvement with various initiatives, including his work with the Folsom VFW. Sandy Zaboukos was honored for her animal welfare philanthropy. Zaboukos donates time locating stray pets and working to get them spayed, neutered and in good health. The nominee must be a resident, business, volunteer, business employee or a student in a Folsom school, staff said.