Last Updated on October 5, 2002 by Paulette Brown-Hinds

By Hardy Brown

When people read the slick political mailers mailed during election season, they come to some conclusions about the truth and validity of what they read.

Seldom do we have individuals running for elected office who can truly back up what is written about them. Marion Ashley, candidate for Riverside County Supervisor, has risen to the top in his profession as a certified public accountant and has become a civic leader in his region. But, he started from very humble beginnings in the countryside of west Riverside.

Ashley’s parents migrated here during the Dust Bowl Era. And if you have ever seen the movie The Grapes of Wrath, then you know those migrants who came during that movement west, came on a shoestring, a wing and a prayer. Marion Ashley has taken the gifts God has given him and has made great contributions to his community by serving in various capacities.

He founded the Perris Youth Basketball Program in his hometown and has dedicated his time to a number of community organizations and non-profit entities including Riverside Community Hospital, the March Air Field Museum, and the Rotary Club. He is director of the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, a board member and past president for Eastern Municipal Water District, and member of the Strategic Vision Steering Committee for Riverside County. These experiences in particular have led him to be concerned about our material resources.

His many past experiences have also led him to know that transportation corridors are a major component to alleviate congestion while sustaining growth in our vast county. Some people list organizations they belong to but never participate in. Marion Ashley doesn’t join an organization unless he plans to participate.

Another indicator of a leader’s leadership ability to me is when they can bring together people from various ethnic and economic levels to work toward a common goal. His longtime friend Rev. Marvin Brown of Perris and members of local unions are all engaged in his campaign. Once you meet Marion you are a friend for life. He is an energetic visionary leader who will be an outstanding member of the Riverside County Board of Supervisors.