ESPN execs, personalities turn out to celebrate Mike Soltys' run in Bristol

ESPN’s Bill Hofheimer said it best during a going away party for Mike Soltys in Southington, Conn., last Thursday. Interrupting a vacation to attend the event, Hofheimer looked out at the crowd of nearly 100 and remarked that it reminded him of the final scene of “It’s a Wonderful Life,” with Soltys in the role of George Bailey.

He was able to see how he affected so many careers, including Nate Smeltz, who traveled from Atlanta for the event. Chris Berman and George Grande were on hand to recognize Soltys’ 43-career. Today was his last day.