Fourth Captain Springfield crowned

With more than 7,000 votes cast in the final round, readers have named Michael Underlin the fourth Captain Springfield, an online contest created by the News-Leader in 2016 to highlight local folks. 

This week's contest has been quite a ride, but not one he's unaccustomed to. 

"Ever since my first viral video on the front page of MySpace in 2008, I've always tried to put things into perspective," Underlin said. "Sure, someone out there in Ukraine loves my content, but what does that mean for me here in Springfield?"

This week, he felt the love directly from people in the community, winning rounds against Shanda Trautman, Dan Reiter, Daniel Ogunyemi and Toni Robinson. 

He trailed early Friday morning before voters gave him a late push, and ultimately about 53 percent of the vote. 

On Twitter, he posted a thanks to voters and to his final-round opponent, Robinson. 

"Never in a billion years would I think I could hold the prestigious title of Captain Springfield," he posted. "I want to give a shout out to Toni Robinson for putting up one heck of a fight and I urge everyone to follow her because she is one truly amazing person. Thank you."

While Underlin was born in California, he's been in Springfield since he was a baby, because it's where his mother grew up. He's had a long history in writing and performing, going back to the media and theater departments at Kickapoo High School. 

He got more into filmmaking in college at Missouri State while also going on missions to Mexico and doing other volunteer work with Christian Campus House. 

It wasn't much later that he launched his now-popular YouTube channel, mikeNgary, which he runs with others. 

He continues to be active locally with Springfield Improv, "The Mystery Hour" show, and the satirical Facebook page, "The City of Springfield, Missouri." He also worked on a local award-winning documentary, "Thunderdome."

All that comes outside his day job, when he makes videos for O'Reilly Auto Parts. 

Underlin will soon take over the Captain Springfield Twitter handle and receive the cape. Past captains include Janelle Reed, Crystal Quade and Matt Simpson. 

Each captain has handled the account a little differently. Underlin said he plans to highlight nonprofits and charities, especially those that support LGBTQ communities. 

"I don't want to give it all away, though," he said. "I've got some fun surprises in store."