[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 175 (Tuesday, October 24, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1005-E1006]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 NORTHWEST DOUGLAS COUNTY CHAMBER & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION--
                           ``WOMEN WHO SOAR''

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. KEN BUCK

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 24, 2023

  Mr. BUCK. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, it is my honor today to recognize 
the accomplishments of three outstanding women. Ashley Ferris, Yvette 
Marquez-Sharpnack and Alice Jackson who will be honored by the 
Northwest Douglas County Chamber & Economic Development Corporation as 
``Women Who Soar.''
  Ashley Ferris, a law enforcement officer, left an indelible mark in 
Denver from 2018 to 2023. Even before her tenure as a dedicated law 
enforcement officer, her background as a United States Army 
Intelligence Analyst and project manager showcased her remarkable 
skills.
  Ashley's heroic efforts were exemplified during the critical incident 
on December 27, 2021,

[[Page E1006]]

where she confronted and took down the Lakewood, CO mass shooter, 
despite sustaining injuries herself. This act of bravery earned her 
accolades, including the Law Enforcement Officer of the Year 2022 by 
the National Police Hall of Fame and the Valor Award. Her unwavering 
determination and resilience, even in the face of adversity, make her 
an inspiration.
  Yvette Marquez-Sharpnack, a celebrated cookbook author and Emmy 
Award-winning creator and chef, blends her Texan roots into culinary 
masterpieces. Drawing inspiration from her grandmother's Mexican 
traditions and her mother's home-style dishes, she crafts delectable 
creations showcased on MuyBuenoBlog.com. Besides her blog, Yvette, 
based in Colorado, is a sought-after brand ambassador and recipe 
developer, engaging her audience on social media.
  Alice Jackson is a trailblazer in the energy sector, shining as Xcel 
Energy's Senior Vice President of System Strategy and Chief Planning 
Officer. Her leadership in this male-dominated field has been 
transformative. With a decade of contributions, Alice has redefined the 
standards of excellence in executive leadership. Her success story is 
not just inspiring but a testament to her resilience, making her an 
inspiration for aspiring professionals in the industry.
  From saving lives during a mass shooting to Emmy winning inspiration, 
this year's recipients have made a lasting impact on those around them 
and in our community. It is leaders like these women who will allow us 
to achieve a more prosperous and inclusive future and I congratulate 
them all on being recognized as ``Women Who Soar.''

                          ____________________