BELLOWS FALLS — The Windham Democratic Committee will honor one of the state's longtime legislators and public servants Saturday, Dec. 12 with the first Obie Awards dinner at the American Legion in Bellows Falls.
Bellows Falls native Michael J. “Obie” Obuchowski, currently serving as Vermont Commissioner of Buildings and General Services, was a representative to the Vermont Legislature for almost four decades, representing Windham 3 district that includes Rockingham, Athens, Grafton, Brookline, Windham and part of Westminster. He also served three terms as Speaker of the House.
He will be recognized at the dinner for his lifetime of public service.
Also honored will be the WCDC's choice for Legislator of the Year, Rep. Tristan Toleno, D-Brattleboro, Activist of the Year Ann Braden, and Windham County Democrat Volunteer of the Year Sharry Manning. The honorees were selected and approved by a regionally diverse committee, including WCDC Chair Brandon Batham, Sen. Becca Balint, D-Windham, Rep. Emily Long, D-Newfane, and WCDC members Louise Luring and James Valente.
Toleno is being recognized for his leadership in sponsoring and passing legislation for paid sick leave in the Vermont House.
Braden will be cited for her work with Gun Sense Vermont, an independent, grassroots organization of Vermonters who support stronger laws to ensure that guns stay out of the wrong hands.
Manning is being recognized for her volunteer work for the Vermont Democratic Party during the 2014 election cycle, as well as her work on the WCDC.
The doors open at 6 p.m., with a buffet-style dinner served at 6:30 p.m., catered by Entera.
Congressman Peter Welch will be in attendance and speak during the program. Also attending will be Democrats running for statewide office.