WILLIAMSON - As the primary election season approaches the Mingo County Young Democrats are doing more than just electing democrats, they are running themselves. The organization of younger-aged democrats has been active in Mingo County, the State of West Virginia, and American politics since their inception in 2003. Their leadership team headed by Justin Marcum of Williamson, Larry "Yogi" Croaff of Matewan, and Jason Varney also of Matewan are proud to announce they will seek election during the May 2010 primary.

Justin Marcum, the president of the group will seek election to the State Executive Committee which runs thoughout the state. He said this office is important as they are the face of the democratic party. This office meets on a state level, focuses on what is right for the democrats of West Virginia, and if elected, Marcum will be a statewide representative of the democrats of the Southern coalfields. Marcum is a previous chairman of the Labor

Caucus for the statewide group of West Virginia Young Democrats as well as their former 3rd Congressional District Director. In addition, Marcum wrote the "Coal Miner Appreciation Day" resolution which passed the West Virginia House, Senate, and ended with a signature by Governor Manchin. That resolution also went to the United States Congress where a 'National Miner Day' was passed. Furthermore, Marcum has been involved in numerous local, state, and national campaigns. He was a state representative for the West Virginia Young Democrats in Manchester, New Hampshire and has numerous contacts with people on this committee.

Larry "Yogi" Croaff has filed to run for the Senatorial District Committee. This seat is elected by the people of Mingo County to represent the democrats and be a voice for the people stated Croaff. The Mingo County

Vice-President also said he was running to focus on what is best for the people of this area which is primarily composed of democrats. We have a chance to really make a difference during this election and I hope everyone will get out and vote stated Croaff. Croaff has been active in county and state politics for numerous years. In addition, Croaff filed for the Delegate Executive Committee which has not been filed for in past years. Croaff said the people of Mingo County are missing a voice on this committee.

Jason Ryan Varney, the Secretary/Treasurer for the group also filed for another democratic party leadership seat. Varney filed for the Third Congressional District Executive Committee. This seat is composed of and elected by democrats of West Virginia's Third Congressional District. When asked about this campaign, Varney said it was time for the voice of the younger people to be heard. He has been active in state and local politics for years. Varney stated that he appreciates everyone's vote and looks forward working to make sure Mingo County's voice is heard in this committee.

Marcum filed on the state level with Secretary of State Natalie Tennant's office in Charleston. Croaff and Varney filed on the county level at the

Mingo County Clerk's office. In addition, this group of young men have been huge community activists and local volunteers. Each of the young men agreed in harmony that they are always looking out for the best of Southern, West

Virginia and hope to serve the citizens of this area.