Louisville’s former “mayor for life” was the central figure in a recent rally for the state Democratic ticket during a fun evening for Logan County’s Democrats at the National Guard Armory in Russellville.
Jerry Abramson, who served as chief executive officer of the commonwealth’s largest city for 21 years, is the party’s nominee for lieutenant governor on a ticket headed by incumbent Governor Steve Beshear. Joined by his wife Madeline, he spoke about the positives of Beshear’s first term in office and pointed out what he considers negatives of Beshear’s opponent, State Senate President David Williams.
He talked about Beshear’s ability to keep Kentucky financially stable despite entering office during the “worst financial situation since the Depression.” He also praised Beshear for refusing to make deep cuts to education and public security. He also spoke highly of the service of Attorney General Jack Conway, who is running for another term in that office.
Abramson was the only member of the party’s nominees for state office in attendance, but a variety of representatives spoke on their behalf.
Rosemary Hollenbach told the group about the frugality of her husband, State Treasurer Todd Hollenbach, who is seeking a second term. She also referenced the success his office has in recovering unclaimed money for Kentuckians.
Don Butler, the founding force behind Community Action of Southern Kentucky, spoke eloquently for Alison L. Grimes, the party’s nominee for Secretary of State. He said her platform is to Grow Jobs, Guarantee Every Vote Counts, Get Young Voters Out, and provide a Green Light for Small Businesses.
Jean Marie Lawson, a past president of the Kentucky Young Democrats, spoke for Auditor of Public Accounts nominee Adam Edelen, who promises to promote accountability, transparency and common sense. He has been Kentucky’s director of Homeland Security, chairman of the board for Kentucky Educational Television, and Beshear’s chief of staff.
State Senator Joey Pendleton, who represents Logan County in Frankfort, spoke about a number of issues and for Bob Farmer, the party’s nominee for Commissioner of Agriculture. He said Farmer admits he’s not a farmer but that he is a marketing expert who will surround himself by assistants who are agriculture experts.
Pendleton offered a classic line about Kentucky’s current agriculture commissioner, former University of Kentucky basketball star Richie Farmer, who is Abramson’s opponent for lieutenant governor. “Richie knows a lot about a three-point play but nothing about a three-point hitch,” said Pendleton, a state agriculture leader himself.
State Representative Martha Jane King, who serves the people of Logan and Todd counties in the House of Representatives, was the mistress of ceremonies. She spoke about a number of issues in Frankfort and kept the gathering light and entertaining.
Warren County Representative Jody Richards, who served as Speaker of the House longer than anyone else in Kentucky history, praised King, noting, “Martha Jane is a fireball. If she gets everything she’s asked for, then she thinks she hasn’t asked for enough.”
Among those in attendance were former Representative Nick Kafoglis and his wife Pat of Bowling Green. They maintain a close relationship with Logan County.
Abramson and others called on County Judge/Executive Logan Chick to lead Democrats to a large margin of victory in Logan County.
County Democratic Chairman John Monroe complimented the Logan County ROTC for its service to gatherings like this and spoke about the importance of honoring and supporting veterans. Abramson is a veteran, it was noted. King announced that Monroe is a candidate for constable this fall.
Democratic Women’s Chair Patricia Dauley Raymer conducted drawings for gifts to those in attendance and others who had bought tickets..
A basketball signed by UK Basketball Coach John Calipari was the prize in a fund-raising effort for the Logan County Democrats’ annual support of the Soldiers’ Family Christmas, which is entering its eighth year.