Gov. Joe Manchin III joined with Democratic leaders from throughout West Virginia in honoring Edward Lee Bennett as one of West Virginia's Outstanding Democrats of the Year. Bennett, from Randolph County, received tribute from Democrats assembled at the recent Jefferson-Jackson Celebration in Charleston. He was selected by local county leaders for hard work and dedication to the Democratic Party.

Karen Coria, a Putnam County Democratic leader and coordinator of the 24th 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," she said.

Joining Coria and Manchin in acknowledging the accomplishments of the honoree were U.S. Sen. John D. Rockefeller IV, D-W.Va., U.S. Rep. Nick J. Rahall, D-3rd District, U.S. Rep. Alan B. Mollohan, D-1st District, and state Executive Committee Chairman Nick Casey.

"The efforts of the honoree demonstrated 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.