[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 15 (Thursday, February 9, 2006)]
[Senate]
[Page S977]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     KETCHIKAN CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

 Ms. MURKOWSKI. Mr. President. I rise today to honor a very 
special person: Sherrie Slick of Ketchikan, AK, who was recently named 
Citizen of the Year by the Greater Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce during 
its annual banquet on January 14, 2006.
  This year's award was given based on community service and 
volunteerism. Before her name was announced, Alaska's Governor 
described volunteers as ``quiet heroes who often are taken for granted 
because they're always there and doing their jobs, and doing something 
for someone else is reward enough for them.'' For those who know 
Sherrie, the ``quiet'' part of that description doesn't quite fit--but 
in every other respect, that was an almost perfect description of one 
of the most energetic and active people I know--a woman who could have 
been the model for the ``Energizer Bunny.''
  I have known Sherrie for many years. I have been the recipient of her 
hospitality and now have the pleasure of working with her in her 
capacity as the community representative for the Alaska congressional 
delegation. When you need to know what is new, what is hot, and what is 
happening in town, she is the woman to know.
  Sherrie is a 32 year resident of Ketchikan with two children who 
attended the local schools. She is now immersed in her role as a 
grandmother and loving it. Her dedication to family, community, and 
career is universally recognized by friends and associates.
  Sherrie served on the local chamber of commerce's board of directors 
for 9 years, including a stint as president, and continues to be active 
on the chamber's transportation committee. She has spent 8 years on the 
Ketchikan Visitors Bureau's board of directors, including a year as its 
chairman, and is a member of the group's marketing committee. She 
served on the Ketchikan Overall Economic Development Committee for 4 
years. She participates each year in the development of Ketchikan's 
legislative priorities and travels to Juneau as a representative of the 
community to lobby the Alaska legislature for support on local 
projects.
  Sherrie put in many hours as the community organized public workshops 
and meetings for the Gravina Access Project. She helped provide 
information that was key to advancing the growth and economic 
development of the Ketchikan Shipyard and remains an active supporter 
of the Ketchikan elements of the southeast Alaska power intertie. She 
helped facilitate the planning and preparation that helped bring the 
NOAA research vessel Fairweather to Ketchikan. For years, she has gone 
far beyond the requirements of her job in counseling and providing 
information to local fishermen on high seas drift net legislation, the 
Pacific Salmon Treaty, and innumerable other issues of concern.
  Sherrie has played active roles with Ketchikan Theatre Ballet, 
Ketchikan Soccer League, Ketchikan Killer Whales Swimming Club, 
Campfire Girls, Boy Scouts, Little League Baseball, and Junior High and 
the KayHi Drill Teams.
  Finally, as the Alaska congressional delegation's ``woman on the 
spot,'' she has been instrumental in assisting local governments, 
businesses, and individuals to prepare and advocate for Federal 
government actions. She is an outstanding liaison between the 
congressional delegation and its constituents, with an unparalleled 
understanding and knowledge not only of Ketchikan, but also of 
surrounding communities; and there is no one better at planning the 
details so that every visit from a delegation member goes smoothly and 
productively.
  Sherrie is wise, energetic, and delightfully entertaining. Ketchikan 
could have picked no finer person for this honor, and I am very proud 
to know this fine Alaskan. Congratulations, Sherrie Slick, ``Ketchikan 
Citizen of the Year.''

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