Larry A. Zavadil

The best part about writing the introduction for the state of the industry of the promotional products sector this year? Not having to expend any more ink writing about the recession.

The board of directors of the National Ethnic Coalition of Organizations (NECO) has named Larry A. Zavadil, founder and CEO of American Solutions for Business (ASB), Glenwood, Minn., as a recipient of the 2005 Ellis Island Medal of Honor. He will receive the award at a ceremony on May 14 at Ellis Island. Established in 1986 by NECO, the Ellis Island Medal of Honor pays tribute to the ancestry groups that comprise the United States' unique cultural mosaic. The U.S. Senate and House of Representatives have both officially recognized the award, which ranks among the country's most prestigious. In addition, recipients are listed in