WHEREAS, Michael D. Salster, a brilliant writer who served as the former director of communications for the Virginia Department of Human Resource Management and was the co-owner of the Amelia Bulletin Monitor, died on October 4, 2011; and

WHEREAS, originally a speech therapy major at Ohio University, Michael Salster interrupted his studies to enlist in the military, eventually serving at the German headquarters of the United States Army in Europe; and

WHEREAS, while stationed in Germany, Michael Salster developed a deep appreciation and passion for the written word, gaining invaluable editorial experience as he oversaw community relations at his post; and

WHEREAS, upon completion of his military service, Michael Salster resumed his studies, this time in journalism at Ohio State University, while also working as a reporter for the Columbus Dispatch, where he won several awards; and

WHEREAS, Michael Salster provided invaluable guidance to businesses and organizations through his work in public relations and corporate communications, building a reputation that extended beyond Ohio; and

WHEREAS, in 1988, Michael Salster joined the Republican Party of Virginia as director of communications, helping the party and, later, individual candidates, effectively communicate with voters through a variety of media; and

WHEREAS, a recognized leader in media relations, Michael Salster shared his wealth of experience and expertise with future political leaders at the Sorensen Institute for Political Leadership at the University of Virginia; and

WHEREAS, in 1990, Michael Salster returned to his roots in journalism as the co-owner of the Amelia Bulletin Monitor; he served as editor from 1990 to 2000 and, throughout his tenure, took great delight in being a part of the local community; and

WHEREAS, Michael Salster retired in 2010 as director of communications for the Virginia Department of Human Resource Management, where he had helped the agency provide key information to the employees of the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, a consummate professional, Michael Salster will be remembered for his many contributions to his community and the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, Michael Salster will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by his wife, Ann; daughter, Jennifer, and her family; stepchildren, Bekki and Sam, and their families; and other family members, friends, and colleagues; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the Senate, the House of Delegates concurring, That the General Assembly hereby note with great sadness the loss of a remarkable Virginian, Michael D. Salster; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the family of Michael D. Salster as an expression of the General Assembly's respect for his memory.