[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 6 (Tuesday, January 27, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E52]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    HONORING PAUL AND SHARON ELERICK

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. SAM FARR

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 27, 2004

  Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Paul and Sharon 
Elerick, one of the most active and dynamic couples I have ever known. 
For over 30 years, the Elericks have selflessly donated their time, 
resources and often their home, in hopes of electing laudable 
candidates to represent the community of Santa Cruz. Paul and Sharon 
share their time with many charitable organizations and community 
advocacy groups, but their hearts and souls remain dedicated to 
supporting and promoting the Democratic Party. It is my honor to 
recognize them as the ``Democrats of the Year'' by the Santa Cruz 
County Democratic Central Committee.
  Paul and Sharon have embodied the spirit of the Democratic Party 
since the beginning of their relationship in 1958. Paul's involvement 
with politics started when he cast his vote for President Kennedy. 
Since then, he has steadily risen through the ranks of the local 
Democratic chapters, ultimately serving a successful 5-year term as the 
chair of the Santa Cruz County Democratic Central Committee. Sharon 
began her own political activism by organizing voters for Hubert 
Humphrey's presidential campaign. She has also served on the executive 
board of the Democratic Women's Club of Santa Cruz for several years. 
Both Paul and Sharon deserve enormous credit for securing vital funding 
for important local projects as well as sustaining the successful 
campaigns of many of our current legislators, including myself.
  Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I congratulate 
the Elericks for being rewarded ``Democrats of the Year.'' I would also 
like to express my gratitude for their commitment to the community. The 
fruits of their years of dedication extend far beyond political 
appointments and we are grateful for their extensive contributions.

                          ____________________