The presentation of this award is a celebration of a very special person's life and a tribute to the impact he made in our community. Larry Russell passed away in March of 1996 at the age of 40. Larry Russell was one of the original members of Skagit Valley Special Olympics. He was a true ambassador for our program. Larry always took it upon himself to inform everyone about Special Olympics and became our official spokesperson through his formal training in the Athletes For Outreach public speaking program.

Larry was a friend with many special qualities and served as a role model for others, living life through strong values and beliefs. He was always the gentleman and showed respect for others. Larry's loyalty was unwavering. You knew he treasured his friendships. He was a young man with a pure heart and a penchant for forgiveness.

This award is all about inclusion. Larry saw himself as an equal. Inclusion is one of the greatest gifts one can give to an individual challenged with a disability. It becomes our choice to see one's similarities and abilities not differences and limitations.

The annual presentation of this award serves as a wonderful legacy to Larry and his ideals. It truly honors the achievements of a Special Olympian. The J. Larry Russell Award is proudly displayed in the halls of the Skagit County Commissioners Administrative Building. The people of Skagit County are to be commended for giving it such prominence.

His leadership, personality and presence is missed.

ALMVIG, MACGAVIN, YOUNG AWARDED J. LARRY RUSSELL COMMEMORATIVE AWARD - 2006

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.”

J. Larry Russell Award Recipients: