PORT TOWNSEND — The state Democratic Party has recognized Bill Miller, a Port Townsend activist, as its male volunteer of the year as a tribute to his support of the party’s candidates and mission.
Miller — a state committeeman recognized in Port Townsend by his trademark long white beard — will be among those honored at the 19th annual Warren G. Magnuson Awards banquet at 7 p.m. Oct. 6 at the Washington State Convention Center in Seattle.
“I’m flattered, although I’d be doing what I am doing no matter what,” Miller said.
“It’s nice when people tell you that you are doing a good job. It always makes you feel good.”
U.S. Rep. Norm Dicks will receive a lifetime achievement award at the banquet.
Dicks is retiring this year after 18 terms as representative of Washington’s 6th Congressional District, which includes the North Olympic Peninsula.
Former House Majority Leader Dick Gephardt will be the event’s keynote speaker
Gephardt, who represented Missouri’s 3rd Congressional District, and Dicks entered the U.S. House in the same year: 1977.
Other top awards will be presented to 32nd Legislative District Chair Carin Chase as chair of the year and 43rd Legislative District Sen. Ed Murray as elected official of the year.
Antonia Gonzalez, a King County party member, will be honored as female volunteer of the year.
Uncle Sam
Miller, 73, who is often seen at public meetings observing or commenting, is perhaps best recognized for his portrayal of Uncle Sam at local parades.
He fits into this role because of his long white beard, which he’s had for about 13 years.
After Miller retired as a security analyst for federal agencies, he moved to Port Townsend in 2000.
He served on the Jefferson County Planning Commission for eight years and ran unsuccessfully for a Port of Port Townsend commissioner seat in 2004.
He is also an election observer who has represented the Democrats at every primary and general election for several years.
Miller is the third Jefferson County recipient of the Magnuson Award in recent years.
Teri Nomura was honored for her service as party chairwoman in 2009, and County Clerk Ruth Gordon was recognized as elected official of the year in 2010.
“Bill cares deeply about Jefferson County, and it shows,” Nomura said.
“He has worked very hard for systemic change, and he has helped us during the elections.”
Said Miller: “I’m a partisan Democrat, and I support the party’s candidates because I think they represent the best choice.
“There are a lot of really smart people in Jefferson County, and I’ve found that every one of them has something intelligent to say even if I don’t agree with them.”
For more information about the banquet or to make reservations, visit www.wa-democrats.org/maggies.
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Jefferson County Reporter Charlie Bermant can be reached at 360-385-2335 or at charlie.bermant@peninsuladailynews.com.
