Scott Gowens was a selfless man — a man who devoted all of his free time toward helping others, but never accepted an ounce of praise. It’s ironic and fitting that in death Gowens finally received recognition for his caring and generous spirit. On Friday, the Covington Newton County United Way gave out the first Scott Gowens Award for its volunteer of the year to Gail Smith, a long-time Snapping Shoals employee.