[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 124 (Friday, September 21, 2001)]
[Senate]
[Page S9610]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      RETIREMENT OF SHERRY ADKINS

  Mr. HATCH. Madam President, I am grateful for this opportunity to 
recognize and pay tribute to Sherry Adkins, who has worked in my Salt 
Lake City office for 25 years as a Constituent Services Representative. 
Sherry is retiring after many years of hard work to fulfill her dream 
of moving to Alaska with her husband Bruce to spend time with her 
grandchildren.
  Sherry's life has epitomized true public service. She literally 
touched thousands of Utahans' lives by assisting me in helping 
constituents with problems ranging from Social Security issues to 
Veterans Administration benefits. Over the years, I have received 
hundreds of letters from constituents who have praised Sherry's work 
and expressed their gratitude to me for her assistance.
  Sherry has been described as ``a valuable resource,'' ``efficient,'' 
``courteous,'' ``concerned for others' welfare,'' and ``trustworthy.'' 
Many people have been able finally to receive their Medicare benefits, 
resolve their tax problems, or find their missing Social Security 
checks, because of her commitment and concern.
  Sherry's life has been an example of service. She has always 
championed the underdog and looked for ways to help others in need. She 
spent many years volunteering at the Salt Lake City Odyssey House, an 
organization designed to help men and women overcome the tragic disease 
of alcoholism. In fact, she even directed the Odyssey House Choir, 
giving members new hope and experiences, as well as entertaining 
thousands of people through their music.
  I have always known that I could count on Sherry to get her job done, 
and to do it well. In fact, Sherry's work with me didn't start when I 
was a elected to the U.S. Senate. Sherry and I go back even further. I 
was privileged to have Sherry as my personal secretary for a few years 
while I practiced law in Utah. So, Sherry has been my longest serving 
staffer, and I will miss her greatly.
  It has always been a pleasure to work with Sherry Adkins. I am so 
grateful to Sherry for her efforts and the service that she has 
rendered to me, my office, and to all Utahans. I feel blessed to be 
able to call her a friend. I want to wish Sherry and her husband Bruce 
the very best that life has to offer in the beautiful land of Alaska. 
May they find peace and happiness in their retirement years doing the 
things that they love the most.

                          ____________________