Last February, Minnetrista resident Bruce Martinson and Mound resident Paul Berg saved a man's life after the man drove his car into thin ice on Lake Minnetonka. Martinson used a ski pole to pull the man out of the water, and Berg drove the man to safety on his snowmobile. 

Last April, Kari Hawkinson and Simone Simpson rescued a 4-year-old child who almost drowned in the pool at the Maple Grove Community Center. Simone could see that the child was in danger and Kari assisted with CPR.

These lifesaving efforts were rewarded this week when residents attended a Tribute to Extraordinary Citizens hosted by the Hennepin County Sheriff's Office.

In total, 13 citizens were recognized at the event on Oct. 10, which was held at the Golden Valley Golf and County Club. Hennepin County Sheriff Rich Stanek presented awards to the following citizens for their lifesaving acts and contributions to the community:

Citizen Commendation Award

• Jane and Robert Hansen
• Kari Hawkinson and Simone Simpson
• James Keefe
• Bruce Martinson and Paul Berg

Sheriff’s Award of Merit

• David Hartig
• Will Connell
• George Soule
• Steve Wallack
• Sam Grabarski
• Reverend Ian Bethel