Governor Earl Ray Tomblin joined with Democratic leaders from throughout West Virginia in honoring Michael W. Asbury as one of West Virginia’s Outstanding Democrats of the Year. This Outstanding Democrat was selected by local county leaders for hard work and dedication to the Democratic Party in Clay County. Asbury received tribute from Democrats assembled at the recent Jefferson-Jackson Celebration in Charleston on Saturday, November 2, 2013. This year’s celebration was dedicated to honoring Senator Jay Rockefeller for his 50 years of service to our great state of West Virginia with special Keynote Speaker, Vice President Joe Biden. Karen Coria, a Putnam County Democratic leader and coordinator of the 28th annual awards ceremony indicated that the award was established to recognize local party officials and volunteers whom Democratic leaders feel have contributed most to the party’s efforts. “Our goal is to recognize these special people who have distinguished themselves by contributing to our society, by working within the framework of our democracy and political party system.”
Joining the Governor and Coria in acknowledging the accomplishments of the honoree were Senator John D. Rockefeller IV, Senator Joe Manchin III, and Congressman Nick J. Rahall, (D) 3rd Congressional District. Also recognizing this Outstanding Democrat was State Executive Committee Chair, Larry Puccio and Vice Chair, Belinda Biafore.
The honoree was honored with special recognition and presentations by party officials. “The efforts of the honoree demonstrates the importance of the work of every individual in affecting the outcome of local, state and national races. These people are the truly effective party workers.” Coria said.
