Manatee County Emergency Medical Services took time to recognize the finest in their field recently when awarding several paramedics with major annual awards. 
The top honors went to Charge Paramedic Kelly Spires who was awarded Manatee County’s Paramedic of the Year and EMT Keith Hall who was named Emergency Medical Technician of the Year. Both healthcare providers were praised for their consistent contributions to the organization over years.   
“Professional, compassionate, and dedicated are the best words to describe our Paramedic and EMT of the Year,” said EMS Chief Ron Koper, “Kelly and Keith represent the best we have to offer.  They bring tremendous stability to our organization.” 
Other award winners included: 

• Jason Winget received the Meritorious Service Award presented to individuals who displayed exemplary and highly unusual accomplishment toward the betterment of the Public Safety Department; who performed a highly credible accomplishment or service bringing public acclaim or appreciation to the member, the Department, or the profession as a result of training, devotion to duty, or service to the public.
• Gary Wortman received the Chief’s Commendation Award given by the Chief of the department to recognize an outstanding achievement that causes a positive and dramatic change in the department or the community.   
• Michelle Ware received the Volunteer of the Year Award, presented to the volunteer who has shown superior motivation, participation and dedication to the community.
• Florida Highway Patrol Trooper John McGrede received the Life Saving Award, presented to individuals who have saved a life through prompt and alert action under some degree of hazard. 

The awards were presented on May 23 as part of Emergency Medical Services Week. To learn more, or to schedule interviews with any of the award winners, call Manatee County Information Outreach Coordinator Nicholas Azzara at (941) 745-3771. For more information on Manatee County Government, visit online atwww.mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501.