Modesto Junior College swim coach Kurt Olson received the Kerry O'Brien Coaching Award from the U.S. Masters Swimming Organization. The award recognizes coaches throughout the United States who are building membership in communities and who embody the passion, dedication and heart that master swimming coaches bring to the pool deck. Olson was one of seven recipients named for the award at the U.S. Aquatics Sports Convention that was held Sept. 16 in Greensboro, N.C. He also is the founder and head coach for Modesto Area Aquatic Club, a master's swim club.

Stanislaus Consolidated Firefighters Local 3399 this week sent a check for $6,545.87 to the Firefighters Burn Institute in Sacramento. The local firefighters raised the money through their "Fill the Boot for Burns" drive. The Institute uses the money to improve burn care and help burn survivors in their recovery.

Beyer High's Heidi Pagani will be recognized Oct. 1 by Stanford University, which honors K-12 teachers through its Teacher Tribute Initiative. Incoming freshmen are asked to select one former teacher or mentor who "played a significant role in their intellectual, academic, social, and personal development." Liana Yates, a Beyer graduate and current Stanford freshman, nominated Pagani for the honor.

Modesto resident Michele Durante received a $25,000 tuition scholarship to attend the Art Institute of California in San Francisco. The scholarship is given by Military Families United, a national coalition of Gold Star and Blue Star families, veterans and patriotic Americans.

Durante lives here with her husband, David Zuehlke, a National Guard reservist based in Fresno.

Silkwood Wines, owned by John and Judie Monnich and made with Modesto-area grapes, racked up several medals at recent competitions.

The 2007 Satin and Silk Vintners Select petite sirah won double gold at the Florida State Fair, gold at the Orange County Fair and gold at the Consumer Wine Awards at Lodi.

The 2007 petite sirah won class champion at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Wine Competition, best of class and double gold at the Indianapolis Wine Competition, gold at the Sunset International Wine Competition, gold at the Orange County Fair and platinum and best of class at the Lodi event.

The 2008 syrah and Red Duet received gold medals in Lodi.

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SUCCESS & SERVICE: U.S. Masters honors MJC swim coach