VIN'S PEOPLE: For Manatee County deputy, a deserving salute for lifesaving action
A salute to Manatee County Sheriff’s Deputy Robert Wildt, who responded to a call about a person sitting on the ledge of the Linger Lodge Road bridge over I-75 in September.
Sure enough, Wildt and his recruit deputy arrived there to find a distraught woman peering over the ledge. Speaking calmly while cautiously approaching her, he finally lunged for the woman and pulled her to safety.
Deservingly, Wildt received MCSO’s Life Saving Award.
• Grace Cacciapuoti is 90 years young.
• A bow to Alex Mollanazar and Ray Morris, who got engaged in unique fashion.
The Pirates director of Florida Operations, Ray and Alex, a pharmacovigilance scientist for Bristol Myers Squibb, were en route to a supposed dinner with friends when he said he had something to show her at LECOM Park.
He did, indeed.
A path of roses led to center field where Ray dropped to a knee and popped the question. Alex said yes. The happy couple were then joined by their elated family members, who’d watched the proposal from the Mayor’s Box, for a joyous toast.
• And Tommy Jomisko, who’s sung the national anthem at LECOM Park, is 43.
• Southeast High seeks head coaches for girls flag football, girls beach volleyball and boys track and field. Candidates may email resumes and cover letters to Athletic Director Kevin Lynum at lynumk@manateeschools.net.
• Charge Paramedic Sasha DeAngelis is Manatee County EMS Employee of the Month.
• Project Light of Manatee’s fundraiser, “Bubbles, Beats & Bites; An International Experience,” is Friday, 6-9 p.m, at Art Avenue On Palm, 1289 N. Palm Ave., Sarasota.
Opera singers Olga Orlovskaya and Peter Slutsky, accompanied by Tatiana Loisha, will perform. Project Light students will also perform. Refreshments will be provided by KOJO and Sarasota Wine Company.
For more details, visit projectlightofmanatee.org/fundraiser. Or contact Cheryl Evans at cherylevans1015@gmail.com.
• Greg Dalglish is 39. Yet again.
• So is Eddie Starling.
• Kiwanis of the Gulf Coast, a Spanish speaking Kiwanis chapter focused on supporting Latino families, hosts a Master Chef Teen competition Saturday, 10 a.m., at the Oneco Farmers Market, 5108 15th St. E., Bradenton.
Teams of two – one participant must be 12-18 years old – will cook at the event, which is emphasizing nutrition and healthy cooking habits.
Call or text 941-600-8936 to register. Registration is $15.
Chapter officers are Rebeca Forero, president; Cassandra Decker, vice-president/treasurer; Wilmer Giron, secretary; and board members Rebeca Dussan, Gabriela Rodas and Saul Vazquez.
Vin’s People runs Sundays. Email Vin Mannix at vinspeople@gmail.com Or call 941-962-5944. Twitter: @vinmannix.
This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: VIN MANNIX: Manatee County deputy saluted for lifesaving action
