Welcome to Skagit County
February 13th, 2007
Rick MacGavin, Mike Almvig and Brian Young
ALMVIG, MACGAVIN, YOUNG AWARDED J. LARRY RUSSELL COMMEMORATIVE AWARD
SKAGIT COUNTY – Three Skagit County Information Services employees, Mike Almvig, Rick MacGavin, and Brian Young were presented with the 10th annual J. Larry Russell Commemorative Award yesterday by the Skagit County Board of Commissioners for their work with Special Olympics.
Russell, one the original Special Olympics athletes in Skagit County, passed away 10 years ago. “The presentation of this award is an ongoing celebration of a very special person’s life and tribute to the impact he made in our community and our lives,” said Holloran.
Each year, Skagit County’s Special Olympics Program presents the award to show appreciation to individuals or organizations that show outstanding support the program. Co-coordinators for the Skagit County Special Olympics Program are Tim Holloran and Pauli Mickelson.
Mickelson presented flowers to Larry’s mother, Gladys Buhrow, who attended the presentation.
Almvig was recognized for his dedication as a volleyball and soccer coach for more than 14 years, as well as leading a Leadership Skagit group to create a website for Special Olympics. MacGavin also was recognized for his coaching expertise and style, and his success in leading the Magic Skagit basketball team. Brian Young was recognized as a “stealth volunteer” working behind the scenes to help the organization create clear messages, and providing ongoing technical assistance in making ongoing improvements to the website.
Holloran also recognized Special Olympians Josh Cowan and Joan Good, two athletes who have excelled in the program. Cowan helps maintain the organization’s website and Good is traveling to Shanghai, China this October to represent Team USA at the World Games.
“The award continues to serve as a tribute to Larry’s life,” said Skagit County Commissioner Sharon Dillon. “It’s a wonderful legacy to Larry.”
For further information,
contact: Dan Berentson
360-419-3461