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March 25th, 2008

Commissioners honor Mirante family with J. Larry Russell Award for contributions to Special Olympics

SKAGIT COUNTY – The Skagit County Board of Commissioners presented the annual J. Larry Russell Award to the Mirante Family for their contributions to Special Olympics during regular session yesterday. Co-Coordinators Tim Holloran and Pauli Mickelson were on hand for the award.

Special Olympics is a year-round program of sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults challenged with developmental disabilities. “Our community-based Special Olympics Program celebrates its 28th year of athletic training sharing courage, joy and friendship throughout the valley,” said Holloran.

Ken and Nina Marante and their children Aaron, Katie and Nathan were present to receive the award. “This outstanding family has been and continues to be very supportive of Special Olympics,” said Holloran.

Holloran commended the family for not only their ongoing support of Special Olympics Programs but also their leadership for championing inclusion for developmentally disabled children in Skagit County. “We know they accept this honor on behalf of their friends, fellow parents, exceptional educators and pro-active coaches devoted to the concept of respecting and including everyone I the school and community setting,” said Holloran.

Nathan Mirante has been active in Special Olympics since grade school. A graduate of Mount Vernon High School, he is employed in food services at “Where the Heart Is,” in Burlington. He has excelled in swimming, basketball, soccer, and track and field.

For further information, contact Tim Holloran at 360-336-9300

Left to right: Commissioner Sharon Dillon, Ken Mirante, Katie Mirante,
Aaron Mirante, Commissioner Ken Dahlstedt, Nathan Mirante, Commissioner Don Munks, and Nina Mirante.